Getting a perm can add new volume and texture to your hair, giving it a fresh look. Not only does it change your style, but it can also make daily styling easier.
However, have you ever wondered what kind of perm would suit you and your hair?
Or having a fear of getting a perm and going it wrong?
-If so, you are not the only one. We have many customers like you and contact us for the consultation.
In this article, Kei, the owner and director of THREE DEGREES SALON, will explain in detail how to find the perfect perm style for you and how to order it at the salon so you can find the perfect perm styles for yourself without causing any misinterpretation, even if this is the first time to do a perm.
All the style photos in this article were created at THREE DEGREES SALON.
Who wrote this article?
Kei Hirata
Owner/Creative Director
Three Degrees Salon
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Table of Contents:
1. How to Find the Right Perm for You
2. Step-by-Step Guide to Ordering Your Perm to Avoid Any Unexpected Outcomes
3. Why the Base Cut is Important
4. How to Maintain Your Perm
5. Conclusion
1. How to Find the Right Perm for You
When you decide to get a perm, do you have a clear image of what style would suit you?It might feel a little difficult to figure out if you haven't done any perm yet. Let's brainstorm a little bit to help you find the right perm for you - In this section, we will go over key points that you should consider.
1.1 Understand Your Hair Type and Condition
Your hair’s texture and condition have a big impact on the result of your perm. There's some characteristics per hair types you want to keep in mind.-If you have a Fine Hair...
- Aiming for a little bit more wavy or tighter curls than what you desire.
- Best for adding layers or texture to get more volume.
- Perm last longer.
- Perm adds softness to the hair texture, but it can add too much volume.
1.2 Consider Your Lifestyle
What is your lifestyle like?Consider the below as examples:
- Morning Styling Time
- If you want to keep styling quick and easy: Having a good enough wave/curl that you can manage with your fingers.
- If you enjoy styling: Bouncy big curls or a mix of curls, spiral perm for glamorous arrangements.
- If you need a style that stays in place and allows freedom of movement, a natural perm with some texture is ideal.
1.3 Imagine the Vibe or Impression You Want
This is is one of the most fun and important step to decide the direction of your style!
There's countless perm types and styles out there and you somehow need to narrow it down to figure out what kind of look you would like to get, especially if you don't know where to start with. Deciding the direction of the mood or the impression you want to acheive typically helps to clear your vision. Here's some examples of the moods and styles.
<Feminine and Soft Vibe>
- Airy Perm: Adds gentle movement for a light and soft look.
- S-Curl: Gentle waves for a feminine impression.
<Casual and Natural Vibe>
- Beach Wave: Natural movement for a relaxed look.
- Natural Curl: Soft curls that blend well with your hair.
- Mix Curls: Different sizes or different direction of curls for a random, playful movement.
<Cool and Stylish Vibe>
- Twist Perm: A twisted, 3D affect that gives dimension.
- Spiral Perm: Spiral curls for volume and individuality.
<Glamorous and Elegant Vibe>
- Glamorous Wave: Ridge waves for a luxurious look..
<Sophisticated and Mature Vibe>
- Classic Curls: Round curls from mid-lengths to ends for a calm impression.
- S-Curl: A more restrained and sophisticated curl.
<Unique and Artistic Vibe>
- Mullet Perm: A retro and trendy style combining mullet hair with a perm. Works for both men and women.
- Spiral Perm: Soft, tight curls that bring out individuality.
1.4 Find your Hair Inspiration Photos
Once you visualize your desired vibes, you can extend your research and browse photos online or on social media platforms like Pinterest or Instagram so you can have some photos ready to show to your stylist as references during your perm appointment. Also, check some trends or popular styles that catches your eye!
You can also explore more perm styles from our blog :
The Essential Guide to Digital Perm & Hottest 7 Styles for Every Length
32 Stunning Permed Hair Style Ideas
1.5 Consult with Your Stylist
After considering all the above, it’s essential to consult with your stylist in prior or during your hair appointment.By sharing your preferences and lifestyle that discussed above, your stylist can suggest a customized perm style that suits your hair and vision.
However, depending on your hair type, length, and damage, certain styles may not be possible. If you have concerns or questions before your treatment, some salons offer online consultations, so it’s worth reaching out.
Three Degrees Salon offers email consultations. Please send an email with photos of your hair’s condition, color, and perm history, as well as the style you want to achieve. If you have a preferred stylist, include their name.
2. Step-by-Step Guide to Order Perm to Avoid Any Unexpected Outcomes
Now that you have clearer visions of what kinds of perm styles you want to acheive, but you may still feel anxious especially if you are getting a perm for the first time - we completly understand where this comes from - it is a new look for you, and you don’t want it to be a failure.
By being as specific as possible about the style you want, you can avoid miscommunication with your stylist and ensure you get the results you’re imagining. This section will explain how to order a perm at the salon effectively without causing any misinterpretation or unexpected surprise, so you can relax and enjoy your treatment.
This is the step-by-step points to discuss with your stylist.
- Discuss your hair condition and history.
- Share your lifestyle, the vibe you’re aiming for, and your preferences so the stylist understands your ideal look.
- If you have a specific perm style in mind, order as follows:
- Show reference photos of the hairstyle you want to acheive.
- Mention your desired final hair length after curling.
- Indicate the size of curls you want.
- Specify where you want the curls to start (e.g., only at the ends, mid-lengths, or all over).
- Tell them if want more volumes on top.
- Discuss your hair thickness and whether you want to reduce or maintain it. (e.g. how much % you want to reduce from the current hair, etc)
After these discussions, your stylist should be able to suggest the best perm and haircut that suits your hair type and face shape. If you're unsure about any of the points listed above, you can only tell them the points you care about and listen to your stylist’s recommendations.
Also, some salons may only offer cold perms, while others offer both cold and digital perms. At Three Degrees salon, we offer both cold and digital perm and the stylist will help you choose the best perm to achieve your desired look during the consultation process.
If you want to learn the difference between Digital Perm and Cold Perm, please read the below article!
The Essential Guide to Digital Perm & Hottest 7 Styles for Every Length
3. The Importance of the Base Cut
At Three Degrees Salon, our perm service includes a haircut.
However, we occasionally receive requests to do the perm only, without a cut.
It’s important to know that a proper base cut is essential when getting a perm. A base cut done with the perm in mind will enhance the curls created and make styling easier. Haircut also contributes a big rule when you are looking into a tranformation, just as these below before/after make-over photos!
4. Aftercare for Your Perm
Proper aftercare is crucial for maintaining your perm. Be sure to ask your stylist how to dry your hair, which styling products to use, and other maintenance tips to ensure your perm lasts.
This article and Reel also covers how to care and style your hair after getting digital perm. (A lot of parts can be applied to those who get cold perm!)
The Essential Guide to Digital Perm & Hottest 7 Styles for Every Length
With the right care and styling, you can enjoy creating different hair styles based on your mood or outfits.
5. Conclusion
A perm is a great way to add new movement and texture to your hair, but it's important to choose a style that suits you and to clearly communicate with your stylist.
In this article, we covered how to find the perfect perm for you, how to order it at the salon without mistakes, and the importance of a base cut. By understanding your hair type, considering your lifestyle, and discussing your preferred vibe, you can get closer to your ideal perm style.
Consulting with your stylist using reference photos and discussing specifics like curl size and hair length will help align your expectations. A good base cut will make your perm easier to maintain, and proper aftercare will keep your perm looking great for a long time.
Follow these steps, and you'll enjoy your perfect fresh, long-lasting perm style!
I hope this helps you to take a step on to your perm journey.
At Three Degrees Salon, we have experienced hair stylists who are specialized in both perms. If you have any concerns about your hair condition, length and hair treatment history, we offer a complimentary online consultation.
*We charge $30 + for the In-person consultation if only the consultation is booked by itself. However, if you decide to move forward with any of our services, we will deduct the same amount from any service fees at the check-out on your service appointment date.
Ready for getting Perm?
Read these tips and tricks to have your hair perfectly primed for the amazing curls and waves before your hair appointment from the links below!
How to Prepare Your Hair for a Digital Perm
Three Degrees Salon
204 E6th Street
New York NY 10003
Instagram ＠Threedegreessalon
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