Japanese Air Perm: The Secret to Effortless, Natural-Looking Waves

ByDr. Celestine (Certified Trichologist)

Hair trends are evolving rapidly, and achieving effortless wavy hair without excessive styling has become every woman’s goal. The Japanese Air Perm has recently gained popularity as an innovative hairstyling technique that offers a natural and elegant look.

The technique provides an effortless yet gorgeous style while ensuring long-lasting waves without causing deep damage to your hair.

What is a Japanese Air Perm?

A Japanese Air Perm is designed to create waves that look incredibly natural, as if untouched by styling. What makes this technique special is its approach to achieving a more subtle transformation, resulting in a relaxed finish instead of structured curls.

The Japanese Air Perm is one of various Japanese perm techniques, including digital perm, cold perm, and airwave perm, all dedicated to providing natural yet elegant curls.

From fine to frizzy hair, the Japanese perm technique can create personalized and sophisticated looks—all you need is skilled hands and precision.

How Does the Japanese Air Perm Work?

How does such a skilled technique effortlessly offer natural waves? The answer lies in the innovative technology and methods used in the treatment. Here’s a breakdown of what happens in the salon when you get this treatment:

Hair Preparation

The process begins with your stylist shampooing your hair to remove any buildup, ensuring it is ready to absorb the perm solution. After washing, the hair is sectioned into parts for even distribution of the solution.

Application of the Perm Solution

 A set of chemical solutions and products is applied to the sectioned hair to break down the protein bonds, only to rebuild them later. While the mention of chemicals may sound alarming, the solution used in the Japanese Air Perm contains proteins and keratin that restructure and repair the hair molecules.

Molding and Setting

The next step involves wrapping the hair around large, flexible rods or rollers, guiding the broken bonds to mimic the shape of the rods.

Unlike traditional perms, which rely on harsh chemicals or heat to create tight and structured curls, the Japanese Air Perm solution works gently, rebuilding the hair bonds and creating soft, natural-looking, airy waves.

Neutralizing

After setting the hair in rollers, a neutralizing agent is applied. This step is crucial for restoring the hair molecules while locking in the newly formed shape, ensuring long-lasting waves.

Rinsing and Styling

The final steps include rinsing the hair thoroughly, followed by the application of leave-in conditioner and other styling products to enhance the finished look, revealing light and bouncy waves.

This entire process generally takes 2 to 3 hours. Depending on hair length and thickness, it can take longer.

Benefits of Japanese Air Perm

There are numerous benefits of the Japanese Air Perm treatment. If you want casual, low-maintenance, yet soft, natural waves, then this is a great choice for you:

Soft, Natural-Looking Waves

 Traditional perms often result in tight and structured curls that demand daily upkeep. The Japanese Air Perm produces gentle, loose waves that mimic naturally airy hair, creating a relaxed and casual look.

Less Damage than Traditional Perms

Unlike traditional perm treatments that use harsh chemicals or excessive heat, the Japanese Air Perm technique relies on a gentler perm solution. This makes it a less damaging alternative for those who want long-lasting waves without harming their hair.

Long-Lasting Results

Thanks to advanced and innovative methods and products, the Japanese Air Perm offers effortlessly bouncy waves that last for 3-6 months, depending on hair type and proper maintenance. Not only do they offer longevity, but they also require minimal care and maintenance, with a promise to last at least three months.

Low Maintenance

Since the Japanese Air Perm is designed to deliver casual, natural-looking yet elegant waves, one major advantage is its unbelievably low maintenance.

There’s no need to curl your hair daily or juggle multiple styling products. A simple air-dry or light scrunching is enough to refresh your waves.

Who is it Best Suited For?

The Japanese Air Perm is a revolutionary hair trend, but it works best for certain hair types and lifestyles. Here’s who it is best suited for:

Hair Type

  • The Japanese Air Perm works best on medium to thick hair, creating more defined, long-lasting waves.
  • Fine or thin hair lacks the same holding capacity, making the perm treatment less effective.
  • Similarly, pin-straight strands face the same holding issue, whereas naturally textured hair is ideal for this treatment.

Lifestyles

  • Since this perm is easy to manage, it is ideal for those with busy schedules who want a low-maintenance hairstyle.
  • If you prefer natural-looking styling over artificial or overly styled looks, then the Japanese Air Perm is a great option.
  • People who travel often or don’t have time for daily heat styling can also benefit from this perm treatment.

Hair Goals

  • If you want to add volume and movement to your hair, then this perm treatment is perfect for you.
  • The treatment is suitable for those who want waves without excessive frizz or tight curls.
  • It works best for those who want a salon-style look without the daily hassle of styling.

Aftercare: How to Maintain Your Japanese Air Perm

To extend the longevity of your waves, follow these simple aftercare steps:

Post-Treatment Care

  • Do not wash your hair for the first 24-48 hours after the treatment—this helps the perm set properly.
  • Use sulfate-free, perm-friendly shampoos to prevent dryness and maintain your waves.
  • Avoid tying your hair too tightly for the first few days, as it can misshape the waves while they are still setting.

Daily or Weekly Care

  • Use moisturizing hair products like leave-in conditioners or lightweight oils to prevent dryness or frizz.
  • Stay away from heavy styling products that can weigh down the waves, causing them to lose shape.
  • Instead of using heat, consider air drying your hair—this helps refresh your waves naturally.
  • Get regular trims every few months to keep your waves looking healthy and fresh.

By following these steps, you can maintain soft, bouncy, and long-lasting Japanese Air Perm waves. Keep loving your hair!

Celestine Gitau is a Certified Trichologist, Trichology tutor, Hair and scalp health enthusiast, and Blogger. She was Certified by the International Association of Trichologists(IAT). She has been extensively involved in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of hair loss on all hair types while majorly on afro ethnic hair. She has been actively involved in over 450 hair transplants and hundreds of other treatment therapies including PRP, supplementation, and stem cells over the past several years. As an enthusiastic blogger, she has written numerous articles on hair and scalp health in my quest to create awareness.