As much as we love rugged man buns and neatly shaved buzz cuts, perms for men are a styling technique worth keeping on your radar. Perms are often associated with women’s curly hairstyles, but they’re not exclusive to one gender-the chemical treatment can also give men a fresh way to switch up their looks and express their individuality. A perm is a chemical process that alters the internal structure of the hair to manipulate the hair into a specific shape (usually, wavy or curly).
Perms are ideal for guys with straighter hair types looking to add fullness and texture without daily hot tool use or excessive styling. While it’s easy to assume that perms are, well, permanent, that’s not exactly the case. The first step in getting a perm starts with a thorough consultation with your stylist. During this time, you’ll discuss your hair type, desired curl pattern, and any concerns you may have.
Then, the actual perming process begins. It kicks off with a hair wash to help remove any impurities that can interfere with the perming solution. Once clean, your stylist will divide your wet hair into sections and wrap each around a perm rod. After your hair is securely wrapped, a chemical solution is applied with a targeted nozzle. This solution is key because it helps break down your hair bonds, allowing your strands to take on their newfound shape. Once the allotted time is up, your stylist will rinse the chemicals from your hair (with your perm rods still intact) before applying a neutralizer. This formula helps re-form your hair bonds and locks in your new pattern, giving you that long-lasting texture change.
There are many types of perms for guys to choose from, from tight spiral perms to looser, more natural-looking wavy perms. If you’re new to perming or don’t know what type of perm to get, the spiral perm is the most classic choice. A wavy perm for men creates loose, natural-looking waves. If you want your perm to look like it grew right out of your head, try a textured perm. Instead of manually wrapping hair in rods, a digital perm uses a machine to create soft waves after applying a chemical solution.
1. If you want a low-maintenance style that can save some time in the morning, the loose wave perm is just what you need. Perfect for all hair lengths, it’s true no-fuss, wash-and-go styling.
2. Long, tight curls make your texture the star of your look, highlighting the voluminous finish of your mane.
3. A drop fade lets you experiment with sharp angles for a total standout look.
4. Add a punk-rock vibe to your look with the help of a faux hawk.
5. Put aside your notions of a middle school bowl cut-this contemporary take on the style is on-trend, flattering, and super easy to style.
6. Get acquainted with slicked-back curls for a polished and sophisticated look that’s fit for special events.
7. The short and shaggy perm allows you to play with length and highlight your texture.
8. Stunning on medium to long hair, this perm style shows off the definition of your curls with a modern touch thanks to its rounded shape.
9. The side part perm creates an effortlessly angled look that shapes your face with little to no styling intervention. Plus, it helps lift your roots off your head for a full-bodied effect.
10. Combine two trendy hairstyles in one with a curly man bun. It’s a functional yet easy way to keep hair out of your face and can be dressed up or down.
11. Curly, face-framing bangs are a great way to showcase your new permed texture.
12. For something edgy and experimental, the layered mullet with permed curls is hard to beat.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), the best way to care for permed hair is to limit the amount of chemical services you get, protect your hair from the sun, and use a conditioner to restore lost hydration. Arming yourself with the right haircare products can also ensure your permed strands look and feel their best. As such, you’ll want to reach for formulas designed specifically for curly hair. Consider starting your routine with the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Curls Moisture Push Shampoo and Moisture Seal Conditioner, a duo that’s suitable for all types of waves and curls. After washing, complete your routine with the complementary L’Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Curls Leave-In Conditioner for added definition.
A perm for men can typically last anywhere from three to six months, depending on your natural hair texture and aftercare routine. Keep in mind that regular haircuts or trims can make you lose your curl faster because you’re essentially snipping off the permed lengths and ends.
Any type of chemical service can make your hair more susceptible to damage. As mentioned earlier, perms rupture the chemical bonds of your hair to create a new texture, which is why your hair can go from stick-straight to spiral coils after a single treatment. This change in structure can make your strands more prone to dryness, breakage, and split ends. Another way to help minimize damage, per the AAD, is to opt for one chemical service at a time: bleaching, dyeing, or perming.
You can absolutely shower after a perm service, but it's generally recommended to wait at least 48 hours before washing your hair (so get that shower cap ready). This window gives your perming solution time to settle into the fibers of your hair for maximum longevity. Once that period ends, you can wash your hair freely with gentle shampoo and conditioner. Similar to washing your hair, you should avoid wearing a hat for at least 48 hours after perming to prevent flattening or distorting your curl pattern.
The cost of curly perms for men can vary based on the salon's location, the stylist's experience, the length of your hair, and the type of perm chosen. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $60 to upwards of $200. Specialty perms, like spiral or digital perms, may cost more, potentially reaching $300 or more.
