Alright, fellas—let’s talk about getting a perm. Yeah, I know. When I first thought about it, I imagined tight grandma curls and 80s vibes too. But trust me, perms today are on a whole different level.
I got my first perm last year, and it was a game-changer. My flat, boring hair suddenly had volume, waves, and style—even when I barely tried. But it’s not just about sitting in a chair and walking out a new man. There are a few things I wish someone had told me first.
So, here are 15 real-deal tips to help you get the perfect perm and rock it right.
1. Know Why You Want It
Don’t just get a perm because your favorite K-pop idol did. Know the look you’re going for—loose waves, tighter curls, that “I just woke up like this” texture? Your goal will help your stylist pick the right type of perm.
2. Pick the Right Stylist
Not every barber or salon knows how to do perms—especially for guys. Look for someone with legit experience. Check their Instagram, read reviews, or straight-up ask to see before-and-afters. Your hair’s not worth guessing.
3. Bring Reference Photos
Show your stylist exactly what you want. Pictures help more than words. “Loose waves with volume” might mean something different to you than it does to them.
4. Start With the Right Haircut
The perm only hits right if your haircut supports it. I got mine with a wolf cut (shorter layers up top, longer in the back), but you can go classic, mullet, fade—just make sure it’s shaped for curls or waves to live their best life.
5. Don’t DIY Your First Perm
Please, for the love of hair, don’t buy a box perm kit and try it in your bathroom. It’s not worth the damage or uneven curls. Go to a pro, at least for the first time.
6. Get a Test Strand If You're Nervous
If you’ve got colored or damaged hair, or just have no idea how your hair will react, ask for a test strand. It’s a small section they perm first to see how it holds up. Could save your whole head.
7. Be Patient During the Process
Perms take time—anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours depending on the style and your hair. It’s boring, yeah, but it’s worth the wait. Bring earbuds or scroll TikTok while you sit.
8. Don’t Wash Your Hair Right After
After the perm, you’ve gotta wait at least 48 hours before shampooing. Let those curls lock in. I waited 3 days just to be safe. Totally worth it.
9. Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo
Perms change your hair structure, so treat your hair right. Sulfate-free shampoo is gentler and helps your curls last longer. Also, don’t overwash—2 to 3 times a week is plenty.
10. Moisture Is Your Friend
Permed hair gets dry, fast. Use a light leave-in conditioner or hair oil to keep your curls soft and defined, not crunchy or frizzy.
11. No Brushing (Seriously)
Brushing ruins the curl pattern. If you need to detangle, use a wide-tooth comb while it’s wet with conditioner in it. Otherwise, hands only.
12. Learn to Scrunch
Scrunching = the move. After showering, I scrunch in some curl cream or mousse and let it air dry. It defines the curl without killing the volume.
13. Sleep Smart
Sleeping can flatten or frizz up your perm. I switched to a satin pillowcase (judge me later) and sometimes loosely tie my hair up in a “pineapple” to keep the curls from getting smushed.
14. Don’t Overdo Product
A little goes a long way. Too much mousse or gel and you’ll look like you dipped your head in glue. Start light, then add more if needed.
15. Know When to Refresh
Most perms last 2–4 months, depending on your hair type and care. Once it starts growing out, the top can go flat while the ends are still curly. At that point, you can either cut it, re-perm, or switch it up completely.
Final Thoughts
Getting a perm was one of the best hair decisions I’ve made. It gave me texture, shape, and a style that actually sticks—without needing a 30-minute routine every morning.
Just remember: it’s not a one-and-done deal. You’ve got to care for it a bit. But honestly? Once you learn how to treat it right, it basically styles itself.
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