What Is a Perm?
A perm—short for permanent wave—is a professional hair service that reshapes your natural texture to create long-lasting curls, waves, or added volume. Modern perms are far more advanced than the old-fashioned ’80s perms: today’s techniques create soft waves, natural curls, Korean-style waves, textured movement, and even permanent straightening.
Whether you want loose body waves, tight spirals, shiny digital curls, or a soft men’s perm, there is a perm technique for every hair type and style.
This guide explains everything: what a perm is, how it works, the full range of perm types, cold vs digital, modern variations, men’s perms, and how to choose the right style.
Table of Contents
How Does a Modern Perm Work?
A perm reshapes your hair by changing the internal bonds inside each strand. The process is safe when done professionally and gives results that last several months.
Step 1: Perm Solution (formerly called Waving Lotion)
Your hair is first wrapped around perm rods, and the perm solution is applied.
This solution softens and opens the hair’s internal structure, allowing it to take on a new curl or wave pattern.
Step 2: Neutraliser
A neutraliser “locks in” the new curl or wave pattern permanently.
Treatment Duration
A perm takes 2–4 hours, depending on:
length
density
technique
rod size
desired curl pattern
How Long It Lasts
Most perms last 6–9 months.
Tighter curls last longer; looser waves relax sooner.
Cold Perm vs Digital Perm (Hot Perm)
Modern perms use two main techniques. Understanding them helps you choose the right style.
Cold Perm (Traditional Method)
No heat
Works for tight curls or strong wave patterns
Suitable for short, medium, and long hair
Curls are most defined when wet
Ideal for classic curl patterns or traditional perm styles
Digital Perm (Hot Perm / Korean Perm Machine)
Uses heated, digitally controlled rods
Creates soft, natural-looking waves
Curls look best when dry
Great for Korean-inspired styles (C-curls, S-curls)
Perfect for medium to long hair
Key Differences
| Feature | Cold Perm | Digital Perm |
|---|---|---|
| Heat | No | Yes |
| Curl appearance | Tighter, defined when wet | Soft waves, defined when dry |
| Ideal hair length | All lengths | Medium–long |
| Best for | Traditional curls | Natural, loose waves |
All Types of Perms (Complete Breakdown)
Below is an exhaustive list of the main perm styles used today in professional studios across the UK and internationally.
Body Wave Perm
Creates soft, loose “S-shaped” waves that add natural body and volume without looking overly curly.
Best for: Straight or fine hair needing movement
Results: Gentle waves, subtle texture, airy volume
Vibe: Natural and low-maintenance
Spiral Perm
Produces tight, corkscrew curls using small, vertical rods.
Best for: Medium to long hair
Results: Springy curls, big volume, dramatic transformation
Vibe: Defined curly look
Multi-Textured Perm
Uses multiple rod sizes to mimic natural curl patterns. This avoids uniform, overly structured curls.
Best for: Medium–long hair
Results: Mixed curl sizes, natural appearance, soft movement
Vibe: Realistic and effortless
Beach Wave Perm
Creates loose, tousled waves resembling natural, beachy texture.
Best for: Medium to long lengths
Results: Relaxed, casual waves; lived-in movement
Vibe: Light, airy, modern
Pin Curl Perm
Instead of rods, curls are formed by pinning sections of hair into loops.
Best for: Short and mid-length hair
Results: Soft, classic curls or vintage waves
Vibe: Gentle, feminine, retro or soft modern waves
Root Perm
Targets only the first few inches of hair near the scalp to add lift.
Best for: Fine or flat hair
Results: Fuller roots, more volume
Vibe: Natural lift without full curls
Partial / Spot Perm
Only specific areas of the hair are permed — for example:
the crown
the fringe
the ends
sections needing curl matching
Best for: Hair with uneven curls or specific styling needs
Results: Customised curl placement
Vibe: Strategic and subtle
Digital Perm (Style Result)
Even though digital perm is a technique, the resulting style is recognizable on its own.
Best for: Medium to long, straight or coarse hair
Results: Soft, shiny curls that look like they were styled with a curling wand
Vibe: Korean-inspired waves
Straight Perm (Permanent Straightening)
The opposite of a curl perm. Restructures curly or wavy hair into permanently straight hair.
Best for: Curly, frizzy, or unruly hair
Results: Sleek, smooth, permanently straight texture
Vibe: Silky and polished
Korean Perm Styles (C-Curl & S-Curl)
Korean salons popularised digital perm techniques to create:
C-Curls
ends curl inwards or outwards
soft, elegant shape
S-Curls
gentle waves through mid-lengths
flowing movement
Best for: Modern, soft, fashionable looks
Results: Tailored shape based on face structure
Vibe: Stylish and polished
American Wave Perm
A modern, gentle perming system designed for soft, natural, lived-in waves.
Best for: Straight or limp hair
Results: Touchable waves, healthy appearance, flexible styling
Vibe: Modern, effortless, and editorial
Perms for Men
A modern, gentle perming system designed for soft, natural, lived-in waves.
Best for: Straight or limp hair
Results: Touchable waves, healthy appearance, flexible styling
Vibe: Modern, effortless, and editorial
Wavy Top (Short Sides, Curly Top)
Perming only the longer hair on top while keeping faded or tapered sides natural.
Textured Men’s Perm
Loose, natural curls that add movement.
Fringe Perm
Soft waves or curls added to the front/top.
Why men love it:
Wash, apply product, scrunch, and go. Quick, stylish, and long-lasting.
How to Choose the Right Perm
Choosing the right perm depends on several factors.
Your Hair Health
Healthy, strong hair accepts perming best. Compromised or heavily bleached hair may need preparation first.
Your Desired Curl Pattern
Loose waves → beach wave, body wave
Medium waves → digital perm, Korean perm
Defined curls → multi-textured, spiral
Dramatic curls → tight spiral
Hair Length
Short → pin curl, partial perm, root perm
Medium → digital, body wave, beach wave
Long → spiral, beach wave, multi-textured
Maintenance Level
Low maintenance → loose waves, digital perm
Higher care → tight curls (spiral, multi-textured)
Professional Consultation
A perm specialist evaluates:
hair integrity
curl goals
rod sizes
technique
aftercare needs
A proper consultation ensures the safest and best result.
Final Thoughts
Modern perms offer almost endless possibilities — from subtle waves to bold curls, sleek straightening, men’s textured styles, and Korean digital waves. With the right technique and professional care, you can enjoy beautiful, long-lasting texture that fits your lifestyle and your look.
Adiba Studio specialises in modern perm techniques, customised to your hair type and your desired results.
Have Questions or Need Personal Advice?
If you’d like help choosing the right perm, need guidance for your hair, or simply want personalised advice, feel free to get in touch anytime. You can also explore my TikTok gallery (@adiba.uk) to see my real perm work and transformations.
You can reach me easily via WhatsApp, our contact form or email. I’m always happy to help you find the best option for your hair.
- Perm Services in London (Main Page)
- Spiral Perm in London
- Spiral Perm on Long Hair
- Men’s Hair Perm in London
- What Is a Perm? Your Complete Modern Perm Guide
- How Much Does a Perm Cost in London?
- How Long Does a Perm Last? A Guide to Perm Longevity
- Perm Aftercare Guide – Caring for Your New Curls
- Hair Strand Test Guide