So if you want curls that are a little loose, you can grow your hair for some time, at least to the ear, and then get a perm. The smallest size rod can fit in hair with a length of as little as 2 inches, while the largest rod, giving loose curls, can require a length of up to 5-6 inches."
To get a perm, your hair typically needs to be at least 6 to 8 inches long. This length allows for enough hair to wrap around the perm rods properly and achieve the desired curl.
The minimum length of hair suitable for a perm is typically around 2 to 3 inches. Hair shorter than this may not hold a curl well, as there isn't enough length for the curl to form properly. Additionally, very short hair can make it challenging to get an even curl pattern.
Ideally your hair should be shoulder-length or longer for a perm to look its best, but you can perm hair that's up to 2 inches long - this is the minimum hair length for a perm, because it's just long enough to be wrapped around a perming rod.
Transform your style with a perm on 1 inch hair or a very short hair perm for a bold, clean look. Watch as I craft a sharp men's slick back perm or a loose wave perm tailored to perfection. From a balanced fringe to a clean hairline, even 4c hair perm on men achieves smooth results.
Unlike tight, traditional perms, a soft curl perm focuses on creating relaxed texture, making it ideal for short hair. This modern take on perming offers a low-maintenance solution for adding volume and movement without requiring lengthy daily styling routines.
The most natural-looking perm is the beach wave perm which creates loose waves throughout the hair.
Fact #4: Avoid perming your hair if they are exceptionally thin or coarse. On the one hand, when the hair is too fine, it lacks the elasticity and strength to hold the curls in place. Consequently, the curls either don't last, or they tend to have lots of flyaways.
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.
At Kimage Salon, a digital perm by Senior Stylists ranges from $230 to $290, while a digital perm by Junior Stylists costs between $140 and $180.
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.
The biggest difference is that while other perms focus on all of your hair, from root to tip, a root perm is concentrated on the roots alone. It won't change the shape of the rest of your hair, so you can still maintain your natural waves, curls, or pin-straight style.
So if you want curls that are a little loose, you can grow your hair for some time, at least to the ear, and then get a perm. The smallest size rod can fit in hair with a length of as little as 2 inches, while the largest rod, giving loose curls, can require a length of up to 5-6 inches."
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.
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.
Ongoing Perm Maintenance
Don't use products that contain parabens, sulphates, or alcohol as these can ruin your 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.
A: Yes, it is possible to perm short hair, but the results may vary depending on the length and texture of the hair. It is best to consult with a professional stylist for guidance and to determine the best approach for your specific hair 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.
Similarly, if your hair is already very dry or breakage prone because of frequent heat-styling, a dry climate, your genetics, or even illness, this may not be the best time to think about perming your hair. The best time to have a perm—rather, when the perm is most successful—is when you have healthy hair.
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.
Luckily, there are ways to get bouncy curls, soft waves, or gorgeous waves without causing any harm. If you've been wanting a head full of gorgeous curls without the damage, using rag curlers, foam curlers, a curling iron, or scrunching your hair could be the perfect options for you.
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.