Want to add some extra oomph to your hair? We’ve got you covered with the best Korean perms that can beautifully complement your natural features.
Korean perms have taken the world by storm, and for good reason!
With their ability to enhance one’s natural features and transform their look, Korean perms are the perfect way to add some sass and personality to your hair.
Whether you have long or short hair, a Korean perm can add volume and texture to your locks while maintaining a subtle and elegant appearance.
By the end of this post, you’ll be ready to rock a fabulous Korean perm and turn heads wherever you go.
Get ready to fall in love with Korean perms!
In this post, we’ll explore the different types of Korean perms, how to choose the right one for you, and showcase the best Korean perm styles and ideas.
Types of Korean Perms
Before we dive into the different styles of Korean perms, it’s important to know that there are three main types: traditional perms, digital perms, and setting perms.
1. Traditional Perm (Cold Perm)
A traditional perm, also known as a “cold perm,” is a perming technique that doesn’t use heat.
To create this style, the hair is wrapped around rods and a reduction lotion containing ammonium thioglycolate is applied.
This technique enhances the wave when the hair is wet and loosens it when it’s dry.
Best for those with finer hair who want more volume and waves from their roots, traditional perms are a quicker service, taking between 1.5 and 2 hours with a cut.
They are also less damaging to the hair than hot perms.
2. Digital Perm (Hot Perm)
A digital perm combines chemical restructuring and heating treatment for a more defined perm than a cold perm, emphasizing waves when dry and loose when wet.
It’s suitable for any hair length and creates natural-looking soft and large curls that are easier to style and last longer.
However, the hot treatment may cause damage to your hair, despite leaving it feeling softer, smoother, and shinier.
3. Setting Perm (Hot Perm)
A setting perm, also known as a hot perm, is a type of curling procedure that uses a combination of heat and chemical restructuring to create tight and voluminous curls.
Unlike a digital perm, a setting perm uses higher heat, which requires less processing time, making it ideal for longer hair.
While it can create longer-lasting curls, the high heat used in the process can also cause damage to the hair.
How to Choose the Right Korean Perms
When it comes to choosing the right Korean perm, there are a few factors to consider:
- Hair type: Your hair type is an essential factor to consider when choosing the right perm. Different types of perms work better on certain hair textures. For example, a traditional perm is best suited for those with fine hair, while a digital or setting perm is better for those with thicker hair.
- Desired look: Think about the kind of look you want to achieve. Do you want tight, voluminous curls, or do you prefer loose, natural-looking waves? Knowing your desired look will help you choose the right type of perm.
- Hair length: Some types of perms work better on specific hair lengths. For instance, a digital perm works well on medium to long hair, while a traditional perm is ideal for short to medium hair.
- Maintenance: Consider how much time and effort you are willing to put into maintaining your perm. Certain types of perms require more maintenance than others. For example, a digital perm may require more styling time than a traditional perm.
- Damage: Finally, keep in mind that all types of perms involve some degree of damage to your hair. However, some types of perms are less damaging than others. A traditional perm is typically the least damaging, while a setting perm can cause the most damage due to the high heat involved.
By considering these factors, you can choose the right Korean perm that suits your hair type, desired look, maintenance needs, and level of damage you are willing to accept.
Our Top Picks for Permed Hair Styling Products
Best Korean Perms for Women
Ready to be inspired? We’ve rounded up the best Korean perm styles and ideas for you to consider.
1. Rounded Bob With C Curl Ends (Bonnie Perm)
Recreate the Look
If you’re looking for a hairstyle that adds volume and a lovely vibe to your hair, you’ll want to try a rounded bob with large c-curl ends. This style, also known as the Bonnie Perm, is ideal for those who want a playful and youthful look. Pair it with Korean wispy bangs (see-through bangs) or curtain bangs for an extra touch of cuteness.
2. Chin-Length Bob With Waves (Miro Perm)
Recreate the Look
You’ll love these natural, chic waves of a chin-length textured bob! The razored ends and tousled top with bangs add lift and volume to flat hair, making it a great option for those looking to add some oomph to their locks.
3. Chin-Length Bob With Waves (Miro Perm)
Recreate the Look
4. Shoulder-Length Hair With C Curls (Wind Perm)
Recreate the Look
As its name implies, the wind perm is reminiscent of being blown away by the wind. This hairstyle creates a lot of volume with c-curls for a layered, shoulder-length cut. The layers help to give your hair a natural, soft, and light appearance, making it ideal for growing out your bob.
5. Layered Medium Hair With Side Bangs (Build Perm)
Recreate the Look
The natural waves in this perm beautifully complement the layered medium hair with side bangs. This Korean perm uses two different types of curls—c curls on the sides and s curls on the back—to create an effortlessly voluminous hairdo.
6. Medium to Long Wavy Hair (Flower Perm)
Recreate the Look
What a stunning and feminine look the flower perm creates on medium hair! If you want to try something fun and playful, these voluminous curls are the way to go.
7. Layered Medium Hair With C Curls (Border Perm)
Recreate the Look
For those who prefer a more subtle perm, the border perm is a great option. It works wonders on layered medium hair and wispy bangs, giving off a soft and feminine vibe. Although we typically think of perms as a way to add curls or waves, this Korean perm is all about creating a chic, classy look with c-curled ends on straight hair.
8. Korean Hush Cut With C Curls (Hug Perm)
Recreate the Look
The Hug Perm is another variation of the Border Perm, but with more layers added to the style! This trendy style features a hush cut, a layered cut that’s popular in Korea, with “C” curled ends. It gives your hair a sleek and chic texture with long layers, providing a natural shine. The Hug Perm is especially popular during the summer, as it creates a soft and light appearance.
9. Medium to Long Loose Waves (Smooth Perm)
Recreate the Look
If you prefer a chic and effortless hairstyle, the smooth perm is a perfect choice for medium to long hair. It features loose waves that are sleek and soft, and the subtle layers add body and movement to your hair. Side bangs complete the look by effortlessly framing your features. It’s important to keep in mind that the shortest layers should only be around your face, while the majority of the layers should be mid-length for the best result.
10. Straight Long Hair With Sleek Bangs (Sleek Perm)
Recreate the Look
While many may associate perms with curly or wavy hair, the sleek perm proves that it can work wonders on straight hair as well. This volume magic straight perm is particularly stunning on long hair with sleek bangs. The best part? Whether you’re in a rush and opt for a simple, straight look or put your hair up in a bun, it will still look effortlessly smooth and sleek with little to no effort required.
11. Long Hair With Soft Layers (Eaffle Perm)
Recreate the Look
The soft layers in this long, wavy hairstyle blend seamlessly together, and the wispy bangs add the right amount of modern touch. This is one of the least-maintenance Korean perms on the list, and it is appropriate for any occasion, from a formal meeting to a casual brunch with friends.
12. Long and Voluminous Waves (Grace Perm)
The Grace Perm has become a popular choice among Korean women, and it’s not hard to see why. It features long, voluminous waves that are directed outwardly, creating a free and gorgeous appearance. The result is a “Goddess” look that effortlessly frames your facial features while adding length and volume to your hair.
13. Layered Long Hair With Side Bangs (Elizabeth Perm)
Long hair with soft, layered waves and side bangs is effortlessly stunning, and the Elizabeth perm takes it up a notch. The longer lengths in this perm allow for loose, voluminous waves that add sophistication and femininity to your look. While it may seem like a lot of work, styling is a breeze with some face-framing bangs and light layers that only require a quick blow-dry.
14. Subtle Layered Long Hair With Loose Waves (Sand Perm)
A soft, natural-looking hairstyle is always in style, and the layered haircut with loose waves achieved through the Sand Perm is an excellent example of this. The addition of lovely Korean bangs only enhances the effortlessly framed face shape. One of the best things about this style is that it’s easy to maintain and works well with any look.
15. Fluffy Long Waves (Cloud Perm)
Love the look of big, bouncy curls? Then the cloud perm is the perfect style for you. With voluminous waves that resemble fluffy clouds, this perm can be paired with side bangs for added texture and femininity.
16. Korean Jelly Perms
You’ll want to try the Korean jelly perm if you’re looking for a fun and youthful hairstyle! This long, curly hairdo features thicker curls that begin at the roots and extend to the ends, giving off a playful and bubbly vibe. It’s a great way to switch up your look and add some personality to your long hair without too much effort.
17. Korean Rain Perms
Similar to the jelly perms, the Korean rain perm features curls that begin near the roots and extend all the way to the ends, creating gorgeous waves with the s-curl perm. This technique results in a natural and seamless look that complements any face shape and adds volume and texture to long hair.
18. Long Hair With C Curls (Rash Perm)
If you’re going for a simple and chic look, adding some texture and dimension to just the ends of your hair can do wonders. A great way to achieve this is by adding curls only to the tips of your hair. You can keep the top straight while concentrating the curls at the bottom for an effortless, easy-to-style appearance.
Korean Perms: FAQs
Still have questions? No worries! Here are some frequently asked questions about Korean perms to help answer any additional concerns or queries you may have:
1. How to Maintain and Aftercare Korean Perms?
Taking care of your perm is essential to keeping it looking fabulous. Here are some tips to help maintain and care for your perm:
- Give it time before washing: To allow your curls to set and hold better, avoid washing your hair for at least 48 hours after getting a perm.
- Use the right products: Choose shampoos and conditioners specifically formulated for permed hair. These products help keep your curls intact and prevent frizz.
- Stay away from heat styling: Heat styling tools like curling irons and straighteners can damage your permed hair and make it lose its curl. So, it’s best to avoid using them or use them at a low heat setting.
- Moisturize with hair essence or oil: Applying a small amount of hair cream or oil to your wet curls helps keep them shiny and healthy.
Remember, taking care of your perm doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few simple steps, you can keep your curls looking their best and feeling healthy.
2. How to Style Korean Perms?
Styling your perm can be a blast and a perfect way to express yourself. Here are some simple tips to make your Korean perm look its best:
- Embrace the natural texture: Your perm will have its own unique texture, so don’t try to fight it. Use a curl-enhancing product to define and enhance your curls.
- Twirl and scrunch: While applying curl-defining products, twirl your curls with your fingers to add definition and bounce. You can also flip your head forward and scrunch it upside down to add volume to your Korean perm. However, avoid twirling or scrunching your curls too often during the day as this may cause frizz.
- Don’t overdo the products: Using too many styling products can weigh down your hair and make it look oily. Use them sparingly and remember that less is more.
By following these tips, you can keep your perm looking amazing and get creative with your style!
Wrap Up
So there you have it!
Korean perms are a fantastic way to elevate your hair game and accentuate your natural features.
With the different types of Korean perms available, there’s a perfect match for everyone.
Use our tips and advice to choose the right Korean perm for you, and be inspired by our roundup of the best Korean perm styles and ideas.
And remember, Korean perms are not just a hairstyle; they’re a statement!
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