How long should a client be advised to avoid hair washing after a perm?

After receiving a perm, it is recommended that clients avoid washing their hair for at least 48 hours. This period allows the hair to fully set and stabilize the curls created by the chemical process of the perm. Washing the hair too soon can disrupt the curl pattern and cause the perm to lose its effectiveness. The specific duration of 48 hours helps ensure that the chemical bonds formed by the perming solutions have adequately formed and locked in the new curl structure. Additionally, this timeframe minimizes the risk of frizz and maintains the integrity of the curls, leading to a more satisfactory outcome for the client.

Choosing a shorter duration, like 24 or 36 hours, may not give enough time for the perm to fully take, while suggesting a longer time, such as 72 hours, may be unnecessary and could lead to client dissatisfaction due to the extended wait before they can wash their hair.