Perms: Your Guide Perm Types and More

Choosing the best hair perm is necessary if one dreams of soft waves and voluminous curls. There are numerous perm varieties in the market, and every type has its styles and benefits, making it very confusing to choose the best one. People use various types of hair perms and occasionally need help selecting the right fit for their lifestyle. 

So, we decided to intervene and suggest the best perm types. We acknowledged the need for proper guidance in this field. Thus, we compiled this data to allow the readers to make the right choice and choose the ideal perm type according to their lifestyle and health and avoid making unnecessary compromises. Continue reading to explore the world of new ideas related to hairstyling. 

Perming is different from routine hair care, which is always necessary under all conditions. For this purpose, check out hair styling products in our collections. We also have numerous hair care products for our clients. 

What is hair perm?

A hair perm or permanent wave uses chemical treatment to disrupt the hair bands and break disulfide bonds, creating curls and changing hair structure. The perming solution relieves the hair from tight hair bundles during this process. 

The hair threads thus formed are wrapped around the rods to give them the new desired shape, and a neutralizer is used at the end to reset these bonds and place the rods in place. This treatment causes waves or curls according to the desired choice that lasts for months, keeps the hair shape intact, and adds more texture and volume to the hair. 

Types of perms 

Eleven different types of perms suit various people and other lifestyles. These types are unsuitable for all, and one must select the best type that suits one's needs. A brief overview of multiple types of perms is; 

Cold perm 

Cold perming is an old perming technique. This technique, also known as alkaline perming, involves applying an alkaline solution (pH range: 12-13) to dissolve the disulfide bonds in the hair structure. The hair strands are wrapped around a rod and fixed in a given position. 

Finally, the neutralization solution is applied to reform the bonds and establish the curves. This process generates more defined and tighter curls than a hot perm. These hair perms are long-lasting and remain tightened for months to come. They require little daily styling, allowing a person to continue their routine life uninterrupted.

Hair types

This perming style is fine for medium-textured hair. They are unsuitable for very curly hair and work best for straight and slightly wavy hair to create more textured curls. 

Pros & cons

These are well-defined, tight curls that are long-lasting and suitable for various hair types. Some hair types can be dry, and proper aftercare and maintenance are needed for appropriate curls.  

Body wave perm 

With large rods, body waves are created in a looser or curled pattern. This perm adds movement, life, and body to the hair without causing tight curls. Unlike other types, this perm creates natural and soft waves that add texture and body to the hair threads.

These are popular choices among those looking to boost their natural hair while maintaining hair length. 

Hair types

They are perfect for flat-textured and thin hair and help keep hair volume. These perms work for all body types and add more texture. 

Pros & cons 

They add more movement and volume to the hair, creating a natural wave pattern, and need low maintenance. However, they last less than the other types and create less defined curls. 

Digital perm 

It is a hot perm involving a different curling procedure. It requires a different chemical solution and digital heat rods. These rods are heated to a defined temperature for curling and create natural curves. This perm looks natural and soft compared to the cold perm, as the digital heat pattern used in this perm creates more voluminous and looser curves. 

Hair types

It works best on thick and coarse hair and is ideal if one needs a believable wave pattern compared to a cold perm and prefers less tight waves. 

Pros & cons 

It causes better, natural-looking curls in a loose, soft wave pattern. It is particularly suitable for thicker hair. However, it is more expensive than cold perm and takes longer to complete. 

Root perm 

This perm focuses on just the roots of the hair and offers more volume and lift at the base. It works best for people who want fullness in the hair without perming the entire hair. This technique creates a perming texture at the root and boosts the volume at the crown to create the illusion of fuller and thicker hair. It refreshes the hair and causes loose curls.

Hair types

It is best for lifeless and flat hair that needs a bit of lift. It is ideal for those who want more fullness without changing the leftovers as the rollers are removed. 

Pros & cons 

It adds more volume and lift to the roots and causes less damage to the hair. The application process is quick. However, it reduces volume during hair growth and is unsuitable for those seeking full-headed curls. 

Spiral perm 

It employs various small rods in a vertical technique to produce springy and small curls that create voluminous and defined curls and a dramatic statement. This perm creates actual, even curls. If done appropriately, spiral perms last for months.

Hair types

They work best on long hair and create a swirling wave effect by offering a lot of length. These hairs are easy to move and develop unkempt waves and many bends. 

Pros & cons 

It creates well-defined and tight curls, adds significant volume, and offers long-lasting results. Nevertheless, the application is time-consuming and requires extensive aftercare to maintain that shape. 

Miscellaneous types

Besides the main types of perms mentioned above, various lesser-known types are in the styling market and are known only to the veterans. These types are;

Volumizing perm 

It is suitable for all lengths and types of hair and lives up to its name by adding significant volume. Various rod sizes are used throughout the hair to improve volume and a relaxed wave. 

Multi-textured hair 

This type creates the most natural-looking curls that are not obvious or uniform. It makes curls of different textures by combining rods and rollers of various sizes. The results are a mixture of loose waves and tight curls for better natural-looking curls that resemble natural, wavy hair. 

Stack perm 

The stack perm causes a more shaggy wave, and most of the texture runs from the middle of the hair to the ends. This perm uses wooden sticks on the hair that start from the bottom and continue until the ends. The hairstylist can apply it near the hair root for added volume or keep it alone for a straighter look. 

Relaxer 

It reverses the curly and frizzy pattern and uses a chemical solution without rollers, pins, or rods to smooth the textured and curled hair. Its application process is highly different from curl-inducing perms and is a much lengthier hair treatment. The only downside is a lot of hair damage, particularly for those with weak hair threads.  

Spot/ partial perm 

Partial perm treats a particular section or area of the hair, mostly on the top. This perm helps make natural curls that look more symmetrical from a specific location or section of the hair, usually at the top. It creates natural curls that appear symmetrical from one side of the head to the other, and everything blends better. 

Pin-curl perm 

It works for all hair types but is better for shorter hair and creates a loose and soft wave by wrapping the hairpins and not the rods for springy curls and bouncy. The larger and longer rods in this perm cause a tighter curl pattern, while smaller and shorter rods create a tighter curl. 

Choice of right perm 

Hair regularity, texture, and maintenance routine influence choosing the best type. However, there is no definite answer to the choice of perm, and it is advised to consult a reputable hairstylist. Professional hair stylists evaluate hair types and recommend the appropriate hair perms. These professionals guide people to achieve the best results according to hair texture and help preserve the integrity and look of the hair. 

Perms are not suitable for everyone, and some need a protective hairstyle. Visit us to read our article about the best protective hairstyles.

Aftercare tips 

A strict aftercare routine is necessary to maintain the health and longevity of the hair perm. Here are some general tips for the best look and long-lasting curls. 

Use of gentle hair products: Choosing shampoos and conditioners designed specifically for permed hair is necessary. These products must be hydrating and gentle and help maintain the curls' moisture and shape. 

Schedule regular trimming: Regular trimming is necessary to keep the hair healthy and prevent split ends. Trimming is essential for permed hair, as damaged ends make the curls look unkempt and fizzy. 

Gentle detangle: Detangle the hair thread using the following process.

1. Use fingers or a wide-toothed comb to detangle the hair.
2. Start from the ends and work to the roots.
3. Avoid brushing the curls to prevent frizzing and breakage. 

Use Moisturizers regularly: Use a leave-in moisturizer or a healthy hair oil to keep the curls frizz-free and hydrated. If heat application is necessary, apply a heat protectant spray well beforehand. Deep conditioning treatments help maintain the moisture balance in the hair. 

Avoid heat styling as much as possible: Reduce hair styling, e.g., curling wands and flat irons, as heat treatment causes frizzing and damages the curls. If heat is necessary, a heat protectant spray should be used beforehand. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Are perms a permanent hair treatment? 

A perm is a chemical or thermal treatment that alters the natural hair structure. It lasts anywhere from a few months to a year but is considered permanent in the short term. Their median duration is around 3-4 months.

How expensive is the perm? 

It is a somewhat expensive procedure. For medium-length hair, it costs around $60-200$, and for longer hair, it reaches $80-400$. The cost also depends on whether it is natural or digital, as the digital type costs more than the natural one. For a better cost analysis, consult the local hairstylist.

Does perm look natural? 

The multi-textured perm is a natural-looking option for a better body and wave. However, it is not so sexy if not properly cared for and requires extensive aftercare to look more natural. 

How does perming influence sleep? 

Keeping the permed hair safe overnight is a difficult task. The cotton pillows sometimes cause friction that damages the hair. Sleeping on a satin pillowcase keeps the hair free of damage. 

Is it okay to wet the hair after a perm? 

It is recommended that you wait at least three days before washing the hair after perming. Nevertheless, avoid direct rain on the scalp. Alternatively, wait for at least 48 hours before washing. 

Does perm cause hair loss? 

A professional and well-executed perm doesn't cause hair loss or damage. A poorly performed perm does, however, cause damage, causing hair loss and hair thinning. 

Bottom-line 

Choosing a perming type is a great way to add volume, create texture, and live up to your style. The choice of hair perm depends upon factors such as root volume and types of waves and curls. Experienced and well-versed hair stylists help people choose the right perm. 

It is necessary to offer excellent aftercare for gorgeous and healthy hair according to personal health needs and preferences. Remember to book your appointment with the hair stylist and enjoy the waves.