Body wave perms are a popular choice for people who want to add volume and a natural wave to their hair. The body wave perm creates a relaxed look with larger, looser waves using large rollers. This is a great option for people with straight hair that doesn't typically curl.
Another perk of getting a perm is that curls or waves can create the illusion of volume in your hair. Finally, perms are long-lasting, so their upkeep is relatively low. A downside of getting a perm is that they can severely damage your hair. This is because the chemicals used to create a perm break hair's bonds.
A perm can be an effective way to create the appearance of fuller hair, especially for thin or fine hair. The process involves chemically altering the hair's structure to create curls or waves, which can add volume and texture. Here are some considerations:
Perms can give thin hair more volume. But they aren't good if your hair is weak or unhealthy.
No. A perm only affects the strand itself. If you were to cut your perm out, then the new growth would be straight.
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.
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.
The most natural-looking perm is the beach wave perm which creates loose waves throughout the hair.
This type of perm, also known as a volumizing perm, focuses on creating body and lift at the roots, giving your hair a fuller appearance. It works well for individuals with fine or thin hair who are looking to add some oomph to their locks.
Skin and eye burns. Skin irritation and dermatitis. Severe irritation of mouth, throat, and stomach if swallowed. Not all perm solutions contain these chemicals, and some may contain harmful chemicals not listed above.
Keeping your permed hair safe overnight might be the most difficult task yet. Regular cotton pillowcases can cause friction that damages your hair. Sleep on a satin pillowcase instead to give your hair the freedom to move without damage. You could tie your hair up in a loose bun, braids, or do the plop method.
While nothing can truly make the diameter of your hair thicker, a hair perm can help to boost the look of volume and fullness—making your strands instantly appear more dense!
The spiral perm is your go-to if you're after bold, voluminous curls. This style uses long perm rods to create tight, corkscrew curls that add volume and drama to your hair. Achieve bold, corkscrew curls with a spiral perm—the perfect style for adding volume and flair to long hair.
The Positives of a Hair Perm
Rather than constantly curling and styling your hair every time after washing your hair, a perm lasts several months, regardless of how many hair washings occur. Additionally, a hair perm gives your hair more volume and fullness, creating that added look of density that so many of us crave.
Thin hair is already delicate, and subjecting it to the chemical solutions and heat involved in perming can potentially lead to additional damage. The stress caused by the perming process may result in breakage, frizziness, and overall compromised hair health.
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.
A beach wave perm is exactly what it sounds like — it creates waves that resemble the “just came back from the beach” look without the hassle of saltwater and sand. This look is popular because the loose waves are the perfect embodiment of minimal and slightly messy (in a good way) hair.
Ongoing Perm Maintenance
Don't use products that contain parabens, sulphates, or alcohol as these can ruin your perm.
Spiral perm
Creates tight, corkscrew curls using long vertical rods. The hair is wound around the rods from scalp to tip, creating a spiral pattern. This style usually takes 2-3 hours to complete and can last 4-6 months. Spiral perms work best on longer hair and create a dramatic, voluminous look.
Co-washing is short for "conditioner-only washing." It means skipping shampoo and relying solely on conditioner, whether you're a daily or a weekly washer. Most conditioners contain trace amounts of detergents called cationic surfactants, or "quats" for short.
Does the Curly Girl Method make hair curlier? The Curly Girl Method doesn't change straight hair into curls, but it enhances and defines natural curls. By promoting hair health and avoiding damaging practices, it can improve curl definition and texture for those with natural curls or waves.