@sammyyhelms
There are many curl pattern options for medium-length hair because you have enough length to achieve tight or loose curls. If it feels too heavy around your face, you can pin curly bangs back and show off your facial features.
When asked, “What is a perm?” many of us recall some very specific memories. This is usually asked by a younger person who has not had a chance to experience permed bangs, big hair, and Aqua Net, which are better left in the ’80s. Instead, let’s say “hello” to cool, modern hairstyles for permed hair!
@em_kymichaelssalon
Curls are anything but regular and symmetrical. In fact, the thing that makes curly hair so mesmerizing is that it’s never the same anytime you style it. Because of this irregularity, you can enjoy completely new hairstyles every day!
These bouncy shoulder-length curls don’t look like outdated hairstyles at all. This mane is healthy and free of frizzies, and the subtle highlights add definition and texture, contributing to the overall sense of volume and thickness.
@jewelssims
Loose curls are voluminous and flattering on most women. They frame the face and neck and add height, giving your appearance an overall lift. The side part, face opening layers, and peek-a-boo bangs also do an excellent job in this department.
@soraverly
There are many curl pattern options for medium-length hair because you have enough length to achieve tight or loose curls. If it feels too heavy around your face, you can pin curly bangs back and show off your facial features.
@sammyyhelms
Don’t be afraid of too much volume or texture in short hairstyles. As long as you have a great shape with your cut, you don’t have to worry about it feeling “too curly.” This is a great way to keep your perm looking current.
@channiespink
This modern cut is very wearable, and it can be styled with a deep side part. This parting helps soften features and complement your look, plus it can give a narrow illusion to your face shape. Go for spiral curls to get these classically curly tresses.
@dogancammm
Nothing says boho beach babe like long blonde waves! This wavy glam is perfect for someone wanting a low-maintenance, natural-looking coif that’s full of volume and personality. Pro tip: Layers throughout will help cut down on any poof!
@mirkatarvainen
There are many different types of perms, so you are not restricted solely to super kinky ringlets. You may opt for a wavy look that sits nicely when kept at shoulder length. Part your hair a little off-center to let those loose curls fall where they may.
@lucyjacobi
If you’re looking for a short hairstyle with a big curl, you can find it in this pretty, slightly tousled, chin-length bob. Shapely tendrils float around the face and add a sassy edge to this feminine hairstyle.
@nastyazu_hairdresser
These days, women with perm hairstyles are showing off new ways to rock them, keeping current trends in mind. These skinny, bright blonde curls add movement, giving volume, depth, and body to this shoulder-length hair, and accentuate your whole face.
@salon_grace
It’s every girl’s dream to have permanent waves that look natural. So why not give these beachy waves a try? Perms for long hair ooze shaggy ’70s vibes, perfect for hair with a bright blonde balayage. With this style, don’t be afraid to let your natural roots show.
@hairbytk
This curly style boasts bouncy curls with a bit of texture at the top. The dark roots are broken up by blonde highlights, which add depth and make these spirals pop.
@muratkumaruhairartist
Wavy perms can offer an exciting twist to straight hair, adding extra body and life to otherwise flat strands. These locks look natural and shiny and can be parted on the side or in the middle, depending on your mood. This hairstyle is also long enough to pull up into a bouncy ponytail or a loose curly updo.
@magiccitybeauty
Loose spiral perms aren’t for the faint-hearted – you’ll have to wear this hairdo with all the confidence of an ’80s pop star! To make your look natural, run your fingers lightly through your locks to separate your curls.
@hairbysharonbreault
A short hairstyle like this is a great way to amp up the natural volume in your hair. Finding the right length when dealing with perms can be tricky, but as a general rule of thumb, you should anticipate at least half an inch of shrinkage.
@moxiehairsalon
This medium shag creates cute, shaggy ringlets that extend down to the collarbone. Golden blonde highlights add definition to each tendril, while curly bangs frame the face. Tighter curls look great on medium-layered hair.
@susanleestylist
Silver hair already makes a bold statement but you can take it to even greater heights (literally) with a mountain of giant curls! This look was achieved using a large rod, resulting in big curls that bounce gorgeously throughout the head.
@hairbypaulahouston
Great for medium-length hair, these spiraled curls start loose and become tighter towards the ends. The subtle blonde highlights create depth, which helps make it look like you have twice as much hair as you actually do… yes, please!
@simondale.salon
This gorgeous hairstyle retains a youthful appearance. The white strand swept to the side frames the face and creates a flattering extra height to elongate the face. Lowlights add a natural touch of color and contribute to an overall appearance of fullness and depth.
@lamastre
A perm hairstyle with spirals immediately makes fine hair look voluminous. If the result you want to achieve is a shorter look — go for bouncy curls. Beach waves will be a better fit for those who like more casual and effortless looks.
@beautiful_by_natalie
The modern bob is rather waved and tousled than sleek and perfectly straight. A body perm provides a natural root lift that won’t fall throughout the day. Keep layers simple with this style, for your new curls will give you all the volume you need.
@vitoanthonysalon
Not into huge, thick ringlets? Thin, abundant curls can provide you with the same amount of volume as the typical large chunky curls do. You can achieve this ‘do with a diffuser attachment or with a perm. The latter option is for low-maintenance girls.
@studio106hairsalon
If you have naturally fine hair that needs a bit of lift, consider a body wave to provide extra texture and volume. If you’ve ever had your straight hair in a tight spiral, you know you lose a lot of length in the process due to curls springing up. Choose to perm your hair in looser, wider curls to maintain length without sacrificing bounce and visual interest.
@jlm_hairsalon
A bob haircut is a great foundation for a perm. Whether you opt for waves or loose curls, you’ll get a cute hairstyle that doesn’t need additional styling, unless you have a favorite product that makes your hair even more beautiful! Apply a dab of your styling solution and be ready to shine throughout your day.
@sabrinafunz
Do you look in the mirror at your long, wavy hair and feel like it’s missing that extra oomph? That’s because styles for long hair usually focus on the length instead of emphasizing bounce and overall shape. A light perm enhances your natural curl pattern without sacrificing the length you’ve achieved.
@rodrigovizu
Women with thick, wild hair should go with the flow and embrace their independent nature. Let your curly ringlets be your crown and tumble to the front in a peek-a-boo fashion. The ash-brown color is enhanced with beautiful white-blonde highlights that ribbon through each loopy curl.
@mahrithemaven
Looking for a carefree style to match your free-spirited nature? Part your hair deeply to the side and let some curls fall into your face for a sassy peek-a-boo effect. Don’t worry about your curls being perfectly shaped because the messier, the better!
@mrsnickjonas716
This style has a more natural appearance than other styles, so if you’re a fan of big, curly hair, it’s a great way to add volume without looking too structured. Although many people dread frizz, with gentle cleansers and moisturizing conditioners, a natural-looking perm hairstyle is easy to manage and maintain. Plus, it suits all face shapes.
@sharm.de.familia
If you’re old enough to have gray hair, you’re probably old enough to remember the time when getting perms meant a head full of super-tight curls. Things have changed over the years. Now it’s possible to try a look that leaves your hair with textured loose waves and none of the unwanted kinks.
@capellisalon280
It’s no surprise that people with loose natural texture tend to go for perms. The treatment allows your hair’s texture and natural definition to really shine through. Leaving a gel cast on small, thin curls gives you a wet look without ever touching water.
@segroshairport
Short styles are super cute when they are curly. Since you get to choose your curl pattern, be sure to opt for large curls and get regular trims so your ends don’t look wiry or thin. Also, don’t forget to incorporate layers — especially around the nape of the neck — to provide shape and definition.
@cpmanyhatsstylist
Not into huge, thick ringlets? Separated, abundant curls can provide you with the desirable level of volume and definition. This style is quite low-maintenance: just dry your hair with a diffuser attachment for a sassy wash-and-go style.
@susanleestylist
A short bob is effortlessly cute by itself, but there is a fine line between tousled chic and downright messy. Use this idea as inspiration for your own style, and stun everyone with your beautifully styled hair.
@dipietrotodd
A good makeover can change your appearance for the better and can even make you look younger. Have doubts? Then check out this gorgeous side-parted bob with a natural-looking curl pattern! It is stunning how textured locks and the mahogany color revived this high porosity, fine hair. The curling process will make your locks look shorter than it is, so it’s best not to cut them until after getting a perm.
@megmdoeshairs
Traditional perms perfectly match blonde highlights or balayage. However, we highly recommend you be careful with color-treated or bleached hairstyles, as they may cause hair woes if done the wrong way. Ask your hairstylist about the best strategy to repeat this beautiful pixie bob without damaging your locks.
@muratkumaruhairartist
Here’s another fabulous hairstyle for adding volume to fine hair! With the spiral starting at the roots, this neck-length round bob looks extremely voluminous. Defined ringlets always have a timeless charm.
@muratkumaruhairartist
Perming is all about making the hair look full and voluminous while also enhancing hair texture. This style is an ideal example of a classy, flattering look for thin tresses. Also, it’s a great proof that curly bangs rock.
@yeninesilpermaankara
For medium-length hair, you may not want to go with tight curls when choosing a perm hairstyle for your texture. With hair of this length, it’s best to opt for a loose wave rather than tightly coiled curls to keep maintenance down and avoid shrinkage.
@chelseavowell
Looking for a way to add gloss and dimension to your copper locks? Try this modern glam and gorgeous golden copper hue. If you feel tired of using a curling iron to create loose waves and bring extra volume and shine to your lob, soft waves can be a great solution.
@curlcult
This style, enhanced with a warm copper tone, could pass for natural. Soft spiral curls that go from root to tip provide a delicate, natural impression. Warning: people will ask to touch your hair!
@malloryonhair
At the core, loosely curled hairstyles help create more defined locks, and this doesn’t always mean tightly coiled curls. Here, we have a naturally wavy hair texture that has been enhanced with a perm from the mid-length down. The ‘do looks relaxed yet stylish and elegant.
@aoi_ofhair
If you are not a fan of straight locks but don’t want super curly hair either, consider loose, natural-looking waves, like in the photo. It’s a great way to add texture and body to fine hair. You’ll walk away with perfect beach waves without the use of a sea salt spray.
@susanleestylist
These curls look gorgeous and natural, so no one will be able to take their eyes off you! Make your style even more zealous by adding red highlights to your dark strands. This is a perfect hair idea for thick hair.
@hairlekiini
Tight curly styles are very popular among those with thick, coarse textures. This technique can soften the coarse texture of your hair, so you aren’t fighting with it. If you’re also looking to spice up your color, opt for blonde highlights and let some of your darker roots show through.
@dena_miranda
If you’re crazy about curls, consider this look. Hair is wrapped around the rod, creating a specific s-shape that is guaranteed to texturize your coif. For black hair with chocolate balayage, this style is a beautiful way to show off the dimension of your color.
@lamagiehairsalon
Soft spiral curls that go from root to tip provide a delicate, natural impression. Flip your hair over your shoulder to accentuate the organic free flow of the curls.
@bianca.lux
Sometimes fine, shoulder-length hair requires some extra pizazz. A light, wavy glam is a great way to achieve this. Ask your stylist for a few layers to avoid too much weight at the bottom and to keep the look current.
@opop66
It can be scary to use harsh chemicals on your hair. If you are in search of less harmful perms for medium hair, then an acid perm may be the best option for you. Those who are new to this procedure should try it first because it lets you achieve loose s-shaped waves with less damage to hair than with alkaline styles.
@hairbyanaelisa
This loose curly look is natural and suits many face shapes as well as different hair colors. By letting the curls float around the bottom, you can create some texture without committing to all-over curls.
@siocleo
Perm hairstyles can also produce trendy “disheveled” curls. If you want something on the softer side, choose well-blended, subtle ringlets that work great with a bob. Opt for long side bangs that flow beautifully into the rest of your hair.
@ritualsinhairandskin
Is your mind racing with ideas? Then, grab your phone and make an appointment with your hairstyling expert today! A fresh perm hairstyle might just become your new signature look.
A curly perm gives you a low-effort way to build volume into your routine, without chasing curls that disappear by lunch. So, if flat hair feels like a daily styling battle you didn’t sign up for, this guide might just be what you need. Read on!
Modern perms are refreshingly different. They ditch the stiff, overly uniform curls in favor of a pretty, natural-looking texture. No more ultra-crunchy texture and rigid ringlets. Nowadays, the process is gentler, with more options, allowing stylists to tailor everything from loose waves to tight spirals, depending on your hair type and objectives. Whereas old-school perming often results in dry, brittle, and over-processed hair, modern-day perming techniques aim to foster hair integrity for long-term shape and volume.
Rather than chasing trends, perms in 2025 concentrate on reworking texture to suit real life. The latest styles blend structure with spontaneity for curls that look like they have naturally formed that way.
Unlike traditional perms that use hard rods, this perm is done on soft, spongy rollers for the post-ocean wavy look. Start with a trim and add some textured layers to bring out the natural flow. Our favorite part? These lived-in waves grow out like a dream!
@ondasalon
Straight hair or an inconsistent wave pattern? Try this one if you’re looking to add body and texture to blowouts that actually last. Bigger rods and a gentler solution make all the difference in getting effortless volume and movement.
@haciendahaircare
Want a lasting perm that doesn’t loosen so fast? This type of perm can last 6 to 12 months, with touchups for the grown-out areas every three months. A digital perm uses a special cream and a heated machine to prep the rods before wrapping the hair. With heat-styled enhancement, you get prominent curls that are quick and easy to style.
@number76_chunson
A vertical perm gives you a tighter, more defined curl pattern that holds up longer, thanks to the smaller rods placed upright. The curls wrap in a spiral, which means you get a nice boost of volume, anywhere from medium to full, depending on how thick your hair is.
@siobahn_scissorhands
A root perm is applied just at the roots to blend seamlessly with the rest of your hair. Its main job? Boosting volume right at the base. If your grown-out perm needs a pick-me-up or you just want more root volume, this treatment gets the job done.
@sayahirata56
Shaped by K-beauty influence, this treatment prizes natural movement and customized waves or curls. Korean perms are a great choice for long thick hair because thicker strands naturally hold curls better. While they can add volume to finer hair, dense, healthy strands help the waves stay defined for longer without extra styling effort.
@greemhairsalon
Social media perm trends may steal the spotlight, but they’re not the only option on the table. If you’re after a different kind of texture or just curious about what else is out there, it’s worth exploring the full perm lineup.
Master hairstylist Nick Arrojo, the inventor of the American wave perm, describes his service as the one that “gives wave after wave.” The gentle formula, combined with foam rods, creates loose waves with a subtle beachy effect that will last 3 to 4 months. A great choice if you’re looking for seasonal perm variations.
@liz.colorology.okc
Best for short to medium hair, this treatment uses pins and curlers to create a retro perm with a bouncy finish. It skips the harsh chemicals, which is great for your hair, but it also means the curls won’t last very long.
@hair_done_by_roshae
For an effortless tousled texture and a moderate maintenance commitment, go for a braid perm. Instead of using rods, your stylist will braid your hair prior to applying the solution. This treatment takes way less time, making it a much easier process than older methods.
@hearthandhairstylingboutique
This technique creates soft, S-shaped curls and waves. It adds volume without locking into rigid curls. It gives you a more natural look compared to the tight, uniform pattern of the traditional cold perm.
@hairtagstudiosg
If you’re after a style that frames your face and adds some structure, a C-curl perm is a solid pick. The curls curve inward, mostly at the ends, creating that soft, polished finish. It looks great with a layered lob, hug cut, or butterfly cut.
@catherine_choi_beauty
Instead of lifting at the roots, this partial perm focuses on the lower half of your hair. Using different rod sizes and placement, it builds a stacked spiral, letting the new curls blend seamlessly with your natural texture.
@frank_f.stop
If delicate waves are not your thing and you want your curls to walk into the room before you do, jumbo perm rods will give you the large, dimensional curls of your dream.
@averys_alternative_beauty
After an organic and free-feeling look with texture enhancing from the roots? This kind of progressive perm curls the hair so that the waves start loose at the roots and get tighter and more defined toward the ends. The effect is best seen on medium to long hair.
@beautyby_meg_
No one will believe these curls are man-made! What makes them feel so natural is the mix of different sizes – there’s just enough variation to keep it looking wholesome instead of stiff or overly styled.
@envyhairnailsstudiohermitagepa
Need more texture and lift in specific areas? Instead of perming every strand, a partial or spot perm uses customized curl mapping to target specific areas of the head. It adds subtle movement and balances uneven curl patterns.
@chesneys_chair
Thinking about a perm? Your hair length matters more than you might think. Short, medium, or long, each one changes how curls form, fall, and feel day to day.
If you think a short cut can’t hold a few curls, think again. A short pixie-length perm instantly adds character, giving definitive structure and texture to the hair, which can sometimes feel limp and lifeless. It’s a smart way to get that air-dried look with basically no effort.
@chella_friseurakademiesuessel
A bob haircut pairs surprisingly well with perming, especially when you go for softer waves or structured coils. Try a beach wave bob for a tousled finish, or a permed lob if you want more length to play with.
@hair_by_keiko
With the right layered cut, the shag becomes a playground for curls. A middle part works well here, letting the curls fall naturally around the face. It’s a laid-back style that benefits from texture and movement, especially if you like a bit of edge without the high maintenance.
@kennyandthesunshinegirls
Got length? Go for long spiral curls, loose or tight, if you love a fuller curl pattern from roots to ends. These celebrity-inspired curls strike a balance between glam and low-maintenance. Just scrunch and go!
@shearartistkc
Some curls barely bend, others bounce sky-high. The beauty of a perm is how flexible it can be, depending on the look and level of curl you’re after.
Craving volume without obvious curl? A very subtle, fluffy perm adds body and bounce without changing your whole texture. Think of it as a quiet curl upgrade – ideal for fine or limp hair.
@hairby_anna_secret316
A loose wave perm gives your hair that perfectly undone feel without needing a curling wand every morning. It is beloved for its gentle waves and subtle movement.
@hairsalonlondon
Not sold on the idea of tight curls? Try a softer take with delicate flow and movement. It’s great if you want structure without stiffness. Go for ribbon curls if you’re craving gentle definition without hard lines.
@jennybrucehair
Low-maintenance lovers, meet your match. A light, low-key perm adds quiet texture – just enough to boost flat strands without daily heat styling.
@dothacheystudio
This perm gives you structured curls with a consistent pattern, so there’s no guesswork, only reliable texture. Great with bangs or layers, it adds dimension right where it counts.
@shiraz_fer
For more drama, take one from the tight coil recipe. Statement-making and perfect for thick hair. Go bold with vintage revival techniques for a timeless curly outline.
@mykaylasmagictouch
Coarse, fine, wavy, or pin-straight – every hair texture plays by its own rules. The trick is matching the right perm method to your strands so the curl actually sticks and stays.
Got fine strands that fall flat by noon? A perm with a little lift, like a root-boosting body perm, can add structure without weighing your hair down. Opt for a horizontal perm that adds a subtle natural wave.
@lucie.nevrelova.hair
Adding texture to thin hair isn’t as much about volume as it is about the right curl intensity. A soft wave can do more than tight spirals here. Try partial perms for touchable texture. A quick strand test helps gauge how much your hair can handle.
@harfagre
Naturally straight hair gets the best of cold perms or beach wave styles. Depending on your desired levels of curl, a curl goal visualization with your stylist can guide product and rod choices.
@kaixhair
If your hair is already thick and curly, perms can reshape or loosen the pattern. Ceramic perms work well for adjusting curl types without making your hair feel heavy or puffy.
@beautyyybybrenda
Curling this kind of texture isn’t about forcing change but rather about working with it. Choose softening perms or texture-release techniques, and focus on moisture retention to keep the definition and shape intact.
@ornicshairandbeautysalon
Customize your perm, dialing in what suits your hair’s flow – volume, shape, curl tightness – it’s all adjustable if you know the right tricks.
Well-placed curls around the face can do wonders for your hairstyle. Different kinds of curl directions or rod sizes can soften features, especially when paired with a face shape analysis.
@chunhina_mey
Want some lift or bounce in the front? Try perming just the fringe or crown area to add shape to your cut. It’s a quick way to revive flat roots or awkward grow-outs.
@rina__Matsuoka
Perming bangs isn’t off-limits; you just need to consider your head shape and texture. Soft waves or tighter coils both work if you factor in a proper hair texture assessment and choose the right rod size.
@beyondraum_hera
Mid-length hair gives you enough room for movement without high maintenance. A stacked curl pattern with some root lift can add flow and shape, especially if your goal is effortless styling.
@rogueshairandbeauty
A layered perm style lets curls fall in a more natural pattern. Ask for staggered rod placement to avoid harsh lines. The rods are placed in a bricklay pattern for a natural-looking outcome.
@jenncurtishair
If you wear your hair in the middle part, keep symmetry in mind. Use slightly looser curls near the part line for balance. Also, think about lifestyle considerations: middle parts show root regrowth more.
@missiehairstudio
So, you’ve done it – you’ve got your hair permed! As you can imagine, a new hair care and styling routine comes with a new hair texture. Start with post-perm care that respects your new curl pattern. Skip harsh sulfates and reach for a perm-safe shampoo – something gentle that keeps your hydration balance in check without messing with your hair structure. A quick hair thickness assessment can help tailor your routine, too – thicker hair usually needs heavier moisture, while finer textures benefit from lightweight styling.
Styling-wise, lean into tools that love curls. Ditch rough towels and go for a microfiber towel to gently blot, not rub, your hair dry. Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle when it’s wet. A curl-enhancing mousse helps define curls, especially when used with a diffuser attachment. A curl refresher spray will effectively perk up second-day hair. Try the scrunch method while drying to add body without creating frizz. Sleeping on a silk pillowcase or using the pineappling technique will keep your curls from flattening overnight.
Conditioning is a must. A weekly deep conditioning treatment restores softness, especially after chemical services. If your curls feel weak or stretched out, include a bond rebuilder or something that supports cuticle protection and maintains protein-moisture balance in your routine. This is key for damage prevention and keeping curls resilient.
And don’t forget to consider your hair history. Virgin hair perming is more forgiving, but color-treated or bleached hair needs extra TLC. Always ask for a pre-perm treatment if you’ve had color services. This little step can make or break your results.
Still got questions? Totally fair – perms today aren’t what they used to be. Here’s a rundown of the stuff people most often want to know.
How long should my hair be before getting a perm?
You’ll want at least 2 inches of hair to work with. It’s enough for the rods to grip and form a visible curl pattern. Longer hair just gives more styling flexibility. Pixies also can be permed, but the result will be very tight curls or texture rather than defined waves.
Can I get a perm if I have damaged or previously colored hair?
You can, but proceed with care. Color-treated considerations matter big time. Talk to your stylist about the health of your hair and whether it can handle both chemicals without breaking or frying.
Should I perm my hair before dyeing, or dye before perming?
Always perm first, then dye. The perming process can mess with color, so it’s better to let your curls set before adding dye. That way, you avoid uneven tone or extra damage. It’s generally recommended to wait at least 7 days after getting a perm before dyeing your hair.
Are perms suitable for very fine or thinning hair?
They can be, but it depends on your hair’s condition. A gentle perm can add volume, but if your strands are super fragile, it’s best to consult a professional first.
Will perming make my hair fall out?
Not directly, no. But overprocessing can weaken strands and cause breakage, which might look like shedding. If your hair’s already stressed, talk to a stylist before jumping into chemicals.
Do perms require hours of daily styling?
No, that’s the beauty of it! Most perms are low-effort – just a bit of curl-friendly product and maybe a quick scrunch or diffuser blast, and you’re good to go.
Is it possible to remove or “undo” a perm?
You can relax the curls with a chemical relaxer or straightening treatment to break the curl pattern. Just know that reversing a perm can stress your hair, so go gentle and get advice. As an alternative, keratin treatments or smoothing systems can soften the curl pattern and add shine—without fully straightening your hair.
Modern perms come in more shapes, sizes, and curl levels than ever. If you’re after bounce with personality, there’s probably a perm out there that fits you better than you think.
Perms are a great way for everybody to jump on curly hair trends. They’ve certainly come a long way! Ask your stylist for curl specific products to maintain your perm at home and keep your new curls shiny and frizz-free.”