The Modern Perm
The perm has had a real renaissance. If “perm” still brings to mind the tight, uniform curls of decades past, today’s version will surprise you — modern perming is far gentler and far more versatile, used to create everything from soft beachy waves to defined curls. It’s become a genuine option again for anyone who wants lasting texture without reaching for heated tools every morning.
The benefits of a perm
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Volume and texture: A perm can add real body to fine or flat hair, giving it movement and fullness it doesn’t have naturally. If volume is something you’ve always chased with products and heat, a perm offers a more permanent answer.
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Less daily styling: This is the big draw for most people. Once permed, your hair holds its shape — so your everyday routine becomes far quicker, with less reliance on straighteners or curling tools.
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Versatile to wear: Permed hair isn’t one-note. You can wear it loose, or still tie it up, braid it and style it — the texture just gives whatever you do a bit more dimension.
Popular perm styles
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Beachy waves: The softest, most relaxed option — a loose, tousled wave rather than a curl. It’s the most natural-looking modern perm and a popular first choice.
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Loose curls: A defined but soft curl that adds glamour and movement — a good middle ground between a wave and a tight curl.
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Spiral curls: For those who genuinely want defined, tighter curls, a spiral perm creates spiral-shaped curls from root to tip for a fuller, bouncier look.
An honest word before you book
A perm is a chemical process, so it’s worth going in informed. It won’t suit every hair type or condition — hair that’s been heavily lightened, for example, needs careful assessment first, which our post on perming bleached hair covers. There’s also a minimum length the hair needs to be for a perm to take properly — more on that in how short hair can be to perm. And a perm does need the right aftercare to look its best and stay kind to your hair. We’d always assess your hair honestly at consultation and tell you if a perm is the right choice — or if it isn’t.
A modern perm can be a brilliant, low-effort way to get lasting texture and volume. If you’re curious, take a look at our perms service, or book a consultation and we’ll talk through the technique and style that would genuinely suit your hair.
