Should I get a regular perm or digital perm?

Author: Grant Effertz MD  |  Last update: Wednesday, October 1, 2025

The best choice for you depends on various factors, including your natural hair type, desired curl pattern, and preferred amount of upkeep. But with that in mind, those with longer hair may see better results from a digital perm, as the length can showcase the full shape of the waves.

Is digital perm better than regular perm?

In summary, digital perms offer softer, more natural waves with lower maintenance, while hot perms provide tighter curls that may require more styling effort. The choice between the two often depends on the desired look and the amount of time you're willing to invest in maintenance.

What are the disadvantages of digital perms?

Disadvantages of Digital Perms
  • Not Good at Making Volume on the Top: Heat is applied during the perming process, so it is dangerous to perm too close to the roots. ...
  • Lengthy Process: ...
  • Initial Fragility: ...
  • Not Suitable for All Hair Types: ...
  • Potential Damage: ...
  • Specialized Aftercare Required:

Which perm is least damaging?

If you're worried about hair damage or have fine, brittle hair, opt for Japanese airwave or cold perm, as they are the least damaging perm techniques across all types of perm. Both methods are quick and affordable to retain the look and subtlety of natural curls without the use of heat.

How long should a digital perm last?

The perm will usually last 3-6 months if the hair condition is good. Over time, curls will slowly begin to drop due to the unavoidable effects of gravity. We recommend a maintenance session when you feel your curls need a boost.

The New Digital Perm Trend Explained | Beauty School | Hair.com

What is the most natural-looking perm?

The most natural-looking perm is the beach wave perm which creates loose waves throughout the hair.

How to sleep with digital perm?

To maintain the shape and longevity of your digital perm, it's best to sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction and frizz. You can also loosely tie your hair in a low bun or a loose braid to keep the curls in place. Avoid sleeping with wet hair, as this can affect the curl pattern.

What is the healthiest type of perm?

All-Natural Perms are better for you, your hair and the environment, since they are void of toxic and harmful chemicals and toxins. Caring for the environment while caring for your hair will leave you feeling great and looking just as stunning with your Natural Perm look.

Is Korean perm a digital perm?

It's important to note the distinction that the style of the perm shown in the video (loose, natural-looking waves) is considered to be a Korean Perm while the technique of using the machine is called a digital perm, thus making this a Korean Digital Perm.

What type of perm lasts the longest?

Digital Perm

The addition of heat makes this technique a bit longer-lasting than other types of perms—you can expect the results to hold for three months up to a year with proper care. While anyone can get a digital perm, it's especially well-suited for those with ultra-thick, straight strands.

Why is my hair falling out after a digital perm?

A perm can result in dry hair that is weak, brittle, and prone to breakage. As strands of hair break, you may experience thinning hair or temporary hair loss while new strands begin to grow back.

Who should get a digital perm?

If your flat, pin-straight strands won't hold a curl, a digital perm may be just what you need to enjoy long-lasting waves—without emptying a can of hairspray.

Can you get tight curls with digital perm?

Digital perms are also a good choice for people who want more natural-looking waves and curls, rather than big, bouncy ringlets. Although stylists can create tighter curls using digital perming strategies, digital perms are often ideal for a subtler look.

What is the most popular type of perm?

Looser perms or beach waves as they are more commonly known by are by far the most popular choice for clients looking for a natural look curl. They offer clients versatility, ease of maintenance, and the ability to add volume and texture to much finer hair.

What is Korean magic setting perm?

Magic Setting involves rebonding and setting perm. It smoothens the top of the hair and adds C curls/ S curls at the ends. It is recommended for those with frizzy hair and those who want natural smooth curls and more volume, like Korean celebrities.

Are digital perms worth it?

Consistent appearance: With a digital perm, you'll have consistent volume, even in thin hair, making your locks look healthier and fuller. Long lasting: Digital perms typically aren't as fragile as traditional perms, so you can retain the same look for a little longer (depending on your hair).

How long will digital perm last?

Even though this perming method is not new to the industry, it has already given a delightful hair experience to many with its long-lasting results. Generally, a perfectly done digital perm lasts between 3 to 9 months. However, if you keenly follow a healthy hair routine, the results may last even longer.

What is normal perm vs digital perm?

To put it simply, Cold perm (regular perm) is often used for men's hair and women's short hair that is shorter than the shoulders. On the other hand, Digital perm which heats the hair at 40 to 70 degrees is often used for long hair that is longer than the shoulders.

What hair cannot be permed?

Tip 1 - Bleached/Pre Lightened hair cannot be permed

Thus before each color, always be sure to ask your stylist what goes into your hair. Inform your stylist that you intend to perm your hair in the near future, thus your hair cannot be bleached or pre lightened.

What is the most gentle perm?

Pin curl perm

This type of perm doesn't use harsh chemicals—but this also reduces how long the style lasts. Pin curl perms typically last about 3-6 months.

Is it bad to get a perm every 3 months?

Wash your hair first with shampoo, add leave-in conditioner, and blow-dry it before straightening it. Is it bad to get a perm every 3 months? Most perms last 3-6 months, so if you need a touch-up at month 3, it may be safe to do so.

How much should a perm cost?

Perms for short hair can cost $30 to $150, medium-length hair can cost $60 to $200, and perms for long hair can cost $80 to $400. Short hair is the least expensive since it uses the least amount of product and the least amount of time to prep and install the perm rods.

Why is my perm so frizzy?

After your curls dry, they're essentially stuck in that curl pattern until the next time you wash and condition it. When you mess too much with that curl pattern, your hair is going to look frizzy and out of control. Never brush through your dry hair with a hairbrush.

What is a hippie perm?

Photo by AMOS PROFESSIONAL. Photo of the Korean actress, HAN Jimin. The hippie perm is a hair perm that goes from the root to the tip, like the hippies who protested against materialism in American society in the 1960s.

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