What is the difference between a cold wave perm and a digital perm?

Author: Perry Treutel Jr.  |  Last update: Monday, May 12, 2025

Unlike the traditional cold perm, which uses a liquid solution and indirect heat, Digital Perm utilizes a cream solution and a professional machine to heat the rods before applying them to the hair. This modern process results in longer-lasting curls or waves. The beauty of Digital Perm lies in its versatility.

Is digital perm better than cold perm?

To decide which hair perm method to choose, consider the type of curls you want to achieve. Generally, a digital perm is more suitable for those with naturally straight hair or for those who have previously had a rebond, while a cold perm works well for most hair types.

What perm looks the most natural?

Multi-textured perm

This style is a great way to create natural-looking curls that vary in texture. Like a stack perm, your stylist can use different-sized rods and rolls to create a combination of tight and loose curls. This results in a layered style that closely resembles natural curls that vary in tightness.

What are the disadvantages of a cold perm?

Cons. Aftercare: Cold perms might require more aftercare and styling than a digital perm or hot perm. You might need to invest in special treatment serums and lotions too. Subtlety: If you're looking for a subtler look, such as soft waves, cold perms usually aren't the best option (try a digital perm instead).

How long does a cold wave perm last?

A perm typically lasts three to six months, depending on the type of perm you get, your hair type and how well you take care of it. A traditional perm that produces a uniform curl pattern can last 3-6 months, depending on how fast your hair grows and how you treat it.

Q&A WITH A HAIRSTYLIST ep.2 | Cold Wave Perm vs Digital Perm? Inner Colour? Straightening & Keratin?

What is the least damaging perm?

Cold perms, also known as acid perms, are often considered gentler on the hair compared to traditional heat-based methods. The process uses a milder acidic solution, which is less damaging to the hair's structure.

How long does a 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.

Is a cold perm better than a hot perm?

Digital Perm is a heat activated perm that lasts longer. It's recommended for clients who are looking to get big curls and has a longer hair. Cold Perm is a kind of perm that does not require heat to process. It's recommended for tighter curls also clients with short hair.

Can cold perm cause hair loss?

Perms can damage your hair over time. If you don't take care of your scalp health, you could get hair loss. Scalp health is important because once a hair follicle gets damaged, you can't grow new hair from that follicle.

How to get curly hair without a perm?

From foam rollers and rag rollers to braids, buns, and pin curling, there are plenty of no-heat methods for creating curls. To enhance curls and ensure the style lasts longer, gently work in a curl-defining gel, spray, or mousse before rolling or pinning small sections of your hair into coils, buns, rags, or rollers.

What is the most popular perm?

Spiral Perm. A spiral perm is one of the most common perm types, giving you tight, bouncy curls. The process: Your hair is wrapped vertically around the perm rods during the perm process, and you can choose the size of spiral curls you want by increasing or decreasing the perm rod size.

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.

Are perms still a thing in 2025?

As we step into 2025, the world of hairstyling is witnessing a resurgence of perms, with modern twists that cater to diverse hair types and personal styles. At Charles Ifergan Salons, our expert stylists are embracing this trend, offering a variety of perm styles designed to enhance texture, volume, and individuality.

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:

What kind of perm is best for thin hair?

Chemical Type

There are two types of chemical root perms solutions: acidic and alkaline perms. The acidic perm solution, also known as a hot perm, is ideal for thin, damaged, and delicate hair. It produces more natural-looking curls. An alkaline one, known as a cold perm, is ideal for coarse and textured hair.

What is Japanese cold perm?

Cold perm, sometimes referred to as the traditional perm, only involves chemical restructuring and curling rod. Different salons uses different types of curling rod, but most often used are the small and medium plastic curlers.

Why is my hair falling out after a perm?

In most cases, hair loss from a perm is not permanent. With proper care and treatment, the hair can regrow and regain its strength over time. Post-chemical treatments, the hair loss is usually due to breakages in mid shaft, as cuticle is weakened.

Is it bad to get a perm every 3 months?

The normal time period between perms is three to four months for short to medium-length hair as long as hair is trimmed or cut two or three times within this period. Your stylist can help you make this decision.

Can you get a soft wave perm?

Body wave perm

Adds volume and soft, loose waves to hair, creating a natural, fuller look. This technique uses larger rods to create a gentler curl pattern. The process typically takes 2-3 hours and results can last 3-5 months. Body wave perms are ideal for those wanting movement and volume without tight curls.

Should I get cold perm or digital perm?

Hair Type and Condition: Your hair type and condition play an important role in determining the success of your perm. As mentioned, cold perms generally work better on thicker, coarser hair, while digital perms are often preferred for finer, straighter hair.

What is the least damaging way to perm your hair?

However, heat can be damaging to some, causing split ends, especially to those with fine hair. 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.

Which perm lasts the longest?

Multi-Textured Perm

This technique involves wrapping the entire head with different-sized perm rods to mimic that natural wave pattern. The result: effortless supermodel waves that last up to six months.

How to sleep with digital permed hair?

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 average price of a digital perm?

Digital Perm: Digital perms use specially designed hot rods that create long-lasting, natural-looking waves. Digital perms are typically more expensive than traditional perms and can cost between $150 to $300 or more, depending on factors such as the salon's location and stylist's expertise.

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