Considering a perm? Look to K-beauty first
IMAGE VIA @RYO_JISU/INSTAGRAM
AS TOLD TO MARYEL SOUSA
K-beauty does it better.
After learning the first cardinal rule of perm maintenance from the great Elle Woods, how many times have you considered getting a perm in the last two decades? Until recently, most of us have likely thought of perms only in the context of Legally Blonde or wild ’80s layers à la Stevie Nicks. But thanks to the inescapable and incredible influence of K-beauty over the past few years, the perm has returned on the heads of idols, determined to reclaim its place on the throne.
The word ‘perm’ is short for ‘permanent wave’ because, well, it’s literally permanent. Unlike curling irons or the sock curl method, a perm sets patterns by breaking and restructuring your hair’s internal protein bonds with a chemical called ammonium thioglycolate. In the past, the process left hair feeling frizzy and fried, but modern perm formulas often include buffers that slow the chemical reaction and reduce damage.
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According to Ryo Kawashima, a Melbourne-based veteran hairstylist of seven years, modern perms make styling easier. With advancements in both products and techniques, the texture of hair after a perm now feels soft, natural and workable.
“Perms can add a lot of volume, which is especially helpful for people who struggle with flat or fine-looking hair, and depending on the type and strength of the perm, the results can also last a long time,” she explains. “This makes perms a great low-maintenance option for people who want their hair to look good without spending too much time styling it every day.”
So, who’s a good candidate for a perm? Ryo says perms work best on hair in good condition with minimal damage. People with stronger, thicker hair also tend to see better results from their perm, but your mileage may vary depending on the look you’re after.
As a stylist at Melbourne’s Jisu Salon, Ryo tells me you can ask for several K-beauty perm styles, whether you want pin-straight locks or a head full of volume. Here’s what she says to expect from each when you’re ready to take the leap into idolhood.
Cold perm
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A cold perm is a good choice for people who want curls from the roots or a stronger, curlier look rather than soft waves. It’s probably what most people imagine when they think of a traditional perm.
Digital perm
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A digital perm is ideal for people who want curls mainly around the mid-lengths and ends, with soft, natural-looking waves. It’s also a good option for people who struggle to get good, long-lasting curls with a cold perm. With a digital perm, heat is applied after the perm solution to help create and set the curl pattern.
Permanent straightening
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Permanent straightening is a treatment that straightens hair and creates a sleek, smooth look. It’s ideal for people who want less volume and a flatter, more controlled style.
Fringe perm
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A fringe perm is ideal for people who want a soft, loose curl in their fringe. It’s also a good maintenance option for people who have a perm throughout their hair but whose fringe has lost its curl.
Root perm
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A root perm adds volume only at the roots and helps keep the volume in place. It’s ideal for people who want more lift at the roots without adding too much volume to the rest of their hair.
Rope perm
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A rope perm creates relaxed, effortless waves rather than a very structured look. It’s ideal for people with a heavily layered haircut, especially a high-layer style. The volume is mainly created around the roots and mid-lengths, without adding too much volume to the ends. I think it gives the hair a natural, slightly undone look with a soft, moody feel.
For more on perms, head here.
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