Trendy Perm Hair Treatment Styles to Try for a Fresh New Look
Perm hair treatments have had quite a comeback recently, transforming from their big, bouncy ‘80s look into a variety of modern styles that add texture, volume, and personality to any hair type. Whether you’re craving loose waves, tight curls, or something in between, a perm could be your perfect hair solution. Thanks to updated techniques and options that can be customized to your hair’s texture and your lifestyle, a perm today is all about subtlety, sophistication, and self-expression.
Ready to give your hair that extra oomph? Let’s dive into some of the most popular perm styles, plus the pros and cons of each to help you make the best choice for your hair.
TLDR – Quick Guide
- Beach Wave Perm: Perfect for loose, carefree waves with an effortlessly chic look.
- Body Wave Perm: Adds volume and soft curls that frame the face beautifully.
- Spiral Perm: Defined curls that give you that bouncy, full-bodied look.
- Digital Perm: For a customized curl pattern that looks natural and is easy to maintain.
- Root Perm: Adds lift at the roots for anyone who wants extra volume without the curls.
Detailed Breakdown of Popular Perm Hair Treatment Styles
1. Beach Wave Perm
The relaxed wave look, like you’ve been sunbathing on the shore.
- What It Is: This perm gives you loose, flowing waves that mimic natural beachy hair.
- Ideal For: People with longer hair, anyone seeking effortless, tousled texture.
- Maintenance Level: Medium. Regular conditioning is key to keep waves smooth and prevent frizz.
- Style Tips: Great for people with fine hair who want a little texture without too much bulk.
Pros: Casual yet stylish; requires less product to maintain.
Cons: Doesn’t last as long as tighter perms; may need frequent touch-ups for the full effect.
2. Body Wave Perm
Soft, cascading waves that add volume without full curls.
- What It Is: A loose, soft perm that creates larger waves, giving a natural, voluminous look.
- Ideal For: Anyone who wants more volume and texture without tight curls.
- Maintenance Level: Low. Easy to style and maintain with a quick blow-dry or air dry.
- Style Tips: Perfect for people with long hair looking to add volume and movement.
Pros: Adds gentle volume and texture; suitable for most hair types.
Cons: Not ideal for short hair or those seeking defined curls.
3. Spiral Perm
Classic tight curls that add lots of bounce and volume.
- What It Is: A tight curl pattern created by wrapping hair around small, cylindrical rods. The curls tend to be well-defined and bouncy.
- Ideal For: People with medium to long hair who want a dramatic, voluminous look.
- Maintenance Level: High. Requires more care, especially if you want curls to remain frizz-free.
- Style Tips: Use a lightweight curl cream to keep spirals defined without weighing them down.
Pros: Long-lasting curls with lots of volume.
Cons: Can be high maintenance; not ideal for those who prefer a low-maintenance style.
4. Digital Perm
Controlled curls that mimic natural hair texture, created with specialized heat tools.
- What It Is: This perm uses digital heat rods to create a customized curl pattern that looks natural and soft.
- Ideal For: Those with medium to long hair who want natural-looking curls.
- Maintenance Level: Medium. Easy to manage as curls often stay in place with minimal styling.
- Style Tips: Great for creating more subtle waves or curls that can be styled with minimal effort.
Pros: Looks very natural; customizable curl shapes.
Cons: May be more costly due to the high-tech process; not always suitable for very short hair.
5. Root Perm
Adds volume only at the roots for a fuller look.
- What It Is: A perm that targets the roots rather than the full length of the hair, providing lift and volume without altering your natural hair texture.
- Ideal For: Those with limp or flat hair who want more volume at the roots.
- Maintenance Level: Low. The volume will fade as your hair grows out, but no special care is needed.
- Style Tips: Great for pairing with other treatments like blowouts for even more volume.
Pros: Adds volume without changing natural curl pattern; ideal for short or fine hair.
Cons: Volume gradually fades; may require re-treatment as hair grows.
Key Takeaways
- Perm Styles are Versatile: From loose waves to tight spirals, there’s a perm style to suit every hair type and personality.
- Consider Maintenance Needs: Some styles, like the Spiral Perm, require more upkeep, while others, like the Root Perm, are fairly low-maintenance.
- Consult a Professional: A stylist can help determine which perm suits your hair’s natural texture and your lifestyle.
FAQs
1. How long does a perm last?
Most perms last around 3 to 6 months, but this depends on your hair type and the specific perm style. A body wave may start to loosen after a few months, while tighter curls can last longer.
2. Are perms damaging to hair?
While modern perms are gentler than past treatments, there is still some chemical impact on your hair. Regular deep conditioning and professional care can help mitigate potential damage.
3. Can I get a perm on color-treated hair?
Yes, but caution is needed. If your hair is color-treated, especially if it’s bleached, discuss it with your stylist to determine if a perm is safe. They might suggest waiting or using specific treatments to protect your hair.
4. How much does a perm cost?
Costs can vary widely depending on the salon and the type of perm. Generally, you can expect to pay between $100-$300, with digital perms often on the higher end due to the equipment and expertise required.
5. Can I style my hair with heat tools after a perm?
It’s best to limit heat styling to avoid extra stress on your permed hair. If you need to use heat, always apply a heat protectant, and use lower temperatures to preserve your curls.
