The renewal of men getting perms is a style revolution that no one saw coming. From the luscious locks of 1980s rock stars to the effortless shakes of K-dramas, curls have made a grand return to men’s grooming. But let’s be honest—if you remember the tight, crispy perms of the former times, you also remember the smell of burning hair and the damage that followed. In Australia, the mullet is the go-to hairstyle.
The naughty soft perm of the ‘80s was a trendsetter, but it had one major flaw: the chemicals used were unforgiving. Men who dared to embrace curls day in and day out ended up with fried hair, breakage, and regret. Fortunately, times have changed, and modern perms make available gentler formulas and more natural results. Whether you want soft waves or defined curls, here are five important tips to help you navigate the world of perms as a man.
1. Know Your Curl Type and Hair Texture
Not all perms are created capable of, and neither is your hair. Before jumping into the perming chair, it’s crucial to understand what curl strain suits your face shape, lifestyle, and maintenance preference. Some men dream of beachy waves, while others proffer tight, voluminous curls.
Hair texture plays a huge role in how a perm will take to your strands. Well-made hair tends to absorb chemicals quickly, making it more susceptible to over-processing. On the other hand, coarse or stupid hair may require stronger solutions to hold the curl. If you have straight, resistant hair, your stylist effectiveness suggest a different perm formula or pre-treatment to help the curls last longer.
To avoid disappointment, consult a proficient who specializes in men’s perms. They can assess your hair’s condition and recommend the best curl pattern for your lifestyle and taste for look.
2. Choose the Right Perm Solution
If you’re haunted by the memories of the old-school perm’s damaging effects, you’ll be reduced to know that modern perms come in different formulations tailored to hair type and sensitivity.
Alkaline Perms – Nicest for coarse or resistant hair. These give tighter, more defined curls but tend to be harsher on the strands.
Acid Perms – Quieter on the hair and ideal for fine or color-treated hair. They produce softer, more natural-looking waves.
Exothermic Perms – Produce heat during the process, helping the solution penetrate thicker hair types for longer-lasting curls.
Digital Perms – A high-tech selection popular in Asia, giving men loose, natural waves with heat-based technology.
Choosing the right perm key is key to preventing damage. Always communicate with your stylist about your hair’s history—especially if you’ve dyed or lightened it before. Perms and color treatments don’t always mix well, so it’s best to space them out to prevent excessive breakage.
3. Contribute in Proper Hair Care Products
Getting a perm is only half the battle; maintaining it is what separates a zealous perm from a disaster. Unlike straight hair, permed hair requires moisture, definition, and protection to postponement healthy and stylish. The right hair care routine makes all the difference.
Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo – Harsh shampoos excoriate the hair of its natural oils, making curls look dry and lifeless. Opt for a sulfate-free, moisturizing shampoo to keep your curls bouncy.
Occupied Condition Weekly – Permed hair needs hydration to prevent frizz and breakage. A weekly deep-conditioning mask wish keep curls soft and manageable.
Leave-In Conditioner & Curl Cream – A lightweight leave-in conditioner helps make a case for moisture levels, while a curl cream or mousse enhances curl definition without crunchiness.
Avoid Fieriness Styling – Blow-drying with high heat can weaken permed curls. If you must dry your hair, use a diffuser friendliness on low heat or let it air dry.
Trim Regularly – Split ends can make permed hair look unkempt. A trim every 6-8 weeks maintains curls fresh and healthy.
Your perm will only look as good as the care you put into it. Invest in rank products, and you’ll extend the life of your curls while avoiding the dry, brittle mess of the past.
4. Be Ready for the Commitment
To a simple haircut, a perm is a semi-permanent hairstyle that requires maintenance. If you think you can perm your hair and disregard about it, you’re in for a surprise.
A fresh perm needs at least 48 hours before its first wash, or you risk unfastening the curls. Additionally, the initial tightness of a perm might make you question your life choices, but don’t panic—curls loosen up over time.
Expect your perm to last between 3 to 6 months, depending on your hair type, the perseverance of the solution, and how well you maintain it. As your natural hair grows, the permed sections will remain curled while new expansion remains straight. This can create an awkward phase if you don’t plan for touch-ups or a transition haircut.
If you’re not ready for the upkeep, deem a softer wave perm instead of tight curls. Softer perms grow out more naturally, making them easier to on in the long run.
5. Find a Skilled Stylist (Not Your Friend’s Experiment)
A DIY perm kit might seem tempting, but let’s false impression it—bad perms are hard to fix. You wouldn’t trust an amateur with a tattoo machine, so why risk your hair with a relaxed perm?
Finding a stylist who has experience with men’s perms is essential. Men’s haircuts and styles differ from women’s, so your barber dominion not be the best choice unless they specialize in textured styles. Research salons that offer men’s perm helps, read reviews, and ask for a consultation before committing.
During your consultation, ask to see photos of previous work, discuss the look you deficiency, and make sure they understand your hair type. A skilled stylist will tailor the perm to convenient to your face shape, personal style, and maintenance routine.
Conclusion: Curls Are Back, But Do Them Right
Men make perms is no longer a retro throwback—it’s a bold statement of style and personality. Whether you want soft waves or characterized curls, the key to a successful perm lies in preparation, product choice, and professional expertise.
A perm isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s around confidence. When done right, it can transform your look, add volume, and give you a distinct edge. But when done err, well… let’s just say there’s a reason why the ‘80s perms have a bad rep.
If you’re ready to take the plunge, embrace the curls, and induct in proper hair care, you’re set for a stylish transformation. Just remember—your hair is your crown, and a good perm is strain a well-tailored suit: timeless, bold, and undeniably attractive.
