What type of perm is gentler to the hair?

Author: Dr. Javier Muller  |  Last update: Saturday, January 3, 2026

Low pH Perms: Low pH perms generally are non-damaging and contain fewer harsh chemicals. An example of this is an acid-balanced perm, which is particularly gentle and helps control the swelling of the hair shaft during the perm process.

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.

What type of 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.

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.

What is the softest perm?

A digital perm creates softer, more natural-looking waves and curls than a cold perm because the digital heat pattern creates looser and more voluminous curls.

The Best Perm Rods for Thin & Fine Hair : Perm Solutions

Is there a mild perm?

Natural and gentle, the mild permanent service offered by MILD TECH is ideal for hair which is too sensitised to be permed the usual way. MILD TECH products are dermatologically tested and approved; a perfect balance between technology and nature for colouring, bleaching and perm-waving hair.

What is Korean soft perm?

A Korean perm creates soft, natural-looking waves inspired by Korean celebrities. Unlike traditional perms that can look stiff and tightly coiled, Korean perms are designed to add life and volume to your hair without going overboard. One of the biggest reasons people love this hairstyle is its low maintenance.

What is the most natural-looking perm?

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

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.

Should I get a regular perm or digital perm?

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 there a gentle way to perm hair?

Hot perms: The acidic chemical glyceryl monothioglycolate breaks down the disulfide bonds in your hair, while heat is added to create the shape of your curls. Although this method takes longer to set, it's gentle compared to alternatives and is best for finer hair.

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.

What perm is best for weak hair?

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 type of perm is best for gray hair?

Gray hair is usually very resistant, so your stylist will probably use an alkaline type perm, either a cold perm or an "exothermic" perm. Alkaline perms give a well-defined curl to coarse, resistant hair.

Can you get a non 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.

What is an alkaline perm?

Alkaline perms, known for their strong, long-lasting curls, use an ammonium thioglycolate solution, which opens up the hair cuticle and allows the perm solution to effectively restructure the hair. This type is particularly suited for coarse or resistant hair types, ensuring that the curls hold firm.

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.

How to remove perm from hair naturally?

If you want to undo the results of a perm, or relax a perm, wash your hair with Color Protecting Shampoo and Conditioner to cleanse and hydrate your hair, and to help relax your curls. Apply a deep conditioning treatment or hot oil treatment, cover your curls with a shower cap, and leave on for several hours.

What is a cold perm?

The Cold Perm, or Cold Wave Perm, is a classic approach to curling hair that relies solely on chemicals without the use of heat. It's a process that might remind you of the traditional perms from decades past, but with a modern twist.

Is there a perm that looks like beach waves?

Beach wave perms, also known as beachy perms, are a type of perm solution that creates loose, natural-looking waves.

Is there a healthy perm option?

Modern, Healthy hair perms are much softer on your hair than perms of the past. While women were looking for bold, voluminous shapes in the 80's, today, most women are looking for more natural results and our modern hair perm is formulated with that in mind.

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 is Grace perm?

Grace Perm is a layered perm style that focuses on the richness of S-curls. The curls cascade from the roots and add a sense of body, giving you a feminine and opulent appearance.

What shampoo to use after perm?

Look for a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner with nourishing ingredients like shea butter or coconut oil. Look for products that contain proteins and oils, as these will help to nourish your hair and keep it hydrated. Avoid using any products that contain alcohol, as this can dry out your hair and damage your perm.

What is Japanese perm?

The Japanese Digital Perm. This technique creates distinct and well-defined curls, making a noticeable change to your hair's texture. It's perfect for those seeking a more dramatic transformation. The key difference is that Japanese digital perms use lower temperatures, resulting in less hair damage.

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