Male Perm Styles – Types of perms for guys – Mens perm cost

Men’s hair styling is more popular than ever. Gone are the days when perms were just for women. Today, guys are embracing textured, curly, and wavy looks to change up their style.

A perm, or permanent wave, is a chemical treatment that changes your hair’s structure. It can turn straight hair curly or add volume and definition to naturally wavy hair.

This guide covers everything you need to know about men’s perms. We’ll look at popular styles, how the process works, what it costs, and how to care for your new curls.

What Is a Perm and How Does It Work?

A perm uses chemicals to break and reform the bonds inside your hair. This creates a new, lasting wave or curl pattern. The basic process has three steps:

1. Wrapping: Your hair is wrapped around perm rods. The size of the rod determines the curl size.
2. Applying Lotion: A perming lotion is applied. This breaks down the hair’s internal bonds so it can take the new shape.
3. Neutralizing: A neutralizer is applied. This re-hardens the hair bonds, locking in the new curl pattern.

The result is hair that stays curly even after washing. A perm lasts for several months, until new, untreated hair grows in.

Choosing the Right Perm for Your Hair Type

Not all hair reacts the same to a perm. Your results depend on your hair’s health, thickness, and natural texture.

• Fine or Thin Hair: Can be easily damaged. A gentle, “body wave” perm adds volume without tight curls.
• Thick or Coarse Hair: Holds curls very well. You can achieve tighter, more defined curls.
• Previously Colored or Damaged Hair: Needs extra care. Perming can cause breakage. Always consult with a professional stylist first.

Popular Male Perm Styles and Types

Modern men’s perms are natural-looking. They add texture and style without looking dated. Here are the most popular types of perms for guys.

1. Medium Length Tight Curl Perm

This style gives you a head of tight, natural-looking curls. It’s perfect for an adventurous, rugged look. Pair it with a well-groomed beard for a balanced style. It’s great for travelers, musicians, or anyone who wants a low-maintenance, textured style.

2. Side Part Perm

Add a classic side part to your curly hair. This style looks polished and professional. It works well for the office or formal events. You can style it with a bit of hair gel or pomade to keep the part clean.

3. Perm with a Beard

Curly hair and a beard are a strong combination. A body wave or loose curl perm looks great with facial hair. Keep your beard trimmed and shaped. This style is popular for a mature, stylish look.

4. Highlighted Curl Perm

Add dimension with color. Getting highlights after a perm makes the curls stand out. Important: coloring and perming are both harsh treatments. Space them out by a few weeks to avoid severe damage. Use a deep conditioner regularly to keep hair healthy.

5. Wavy Perm

This is one of the most natural-looking options. A wavy perm gives you loose, beachy waves, not tight curls. It’s easy to style and looks great on most men. Ask your stylist for a “disconnected fade” on the sides for a modern touch.

6. Loose Perm

If you want just a bit of texture, a loose perm is the answer. Stylists use large rods to create soft, relaxed bends in the hair. It adds volume and a “lived-in” look without being obviously curly. This is a very low-commitment style.

7. Tight Curly Perm

For defined, bouncy ringlets. This style uses small rods to create a head of tight curls. It requires more styling product and care to keep the curls defined and frizz-free. This look was made famous by characters like Jon Snow.

8. Short Hair Perm

You can perm short hair! On short cuts, a perm adds incredible texture and volume. Small rods create a spikey, piecey look. It’s a great way to make thin hair look much thicker. The styling options are endless.

9. Body Wave Perm

The body wave is the gentlest perm. It uses the largest rods (about 2 inches wide) to create soft, flowing waves, not curls. The main goal is to add body and movement to straight, flat hair. It’s a perfect first perm.

Perm Types: Comparison Table

Perm Type	Rod Size	Result	Best For	Maintenance Level
Body Wave	Very Large	Soft waves, lots of volume	Fine, straight hair needing body	Low
Loose/Wavy	Large	Beachy, loose waves	A natural, textured look	Low
Standard Curl	Medium	Defined, bouncy curls	Creating a clear curly pattern	Medium
Tight Curl	Small	Tight, springy ringlets	Maximum curl definition	High

The Men’s Perm Process: What to Expect

1. Consultation: Talk with your stylist. Bring pictures of the style you want. They will check your hair’s health and discuss the right perm type.
2. Wrapping: Your hair is washed and sectioned. It is then wrapped around perm rods. This takes the most time.
3. Applying Solution: The perming solution is applied to break the hair bonds.
4. You wait for the solution to work. The stylist will check the curl development.
5. Rinsing & Neutralizing: The solution is rinsed off. Then, the neutralizer is applied to lock in the new shape.
6. Final Rinse & Style: Rods are removed, hair is rinsed again, and then styled. The whole process can take 2 to 4 hours.

Mens Perm Kit: At-Home vs. Salon

You can buy a men’s hair perm kit to do it yourself. Kits are cheaper but riskier. A professional stylist knows how to assess your hair and apply chemicals evenly to avoid damage or patchy results.

Tip: If you have never permed your hair before, go to a salon. It’s worth the cost for a good result and healthy hair.

How Much Does a Men’s Perm Cost?

The cost of a perm varies widely. It depends on your location, the salon’s reputation, the stylist’s skill, and your hair’s length and thickness.

On average, a men’s perm costs between $30 and $150.

• Basic Salon: $30 – $60
• Mid-Range Salon: $60 – $100
• High-End Salon: $100 – $150+

Longer, thicker hair costs more because it uses more product and time. Always get a consultation and price quote before you commit.

Perm Aftercare and Maintenance Routine

Taking care of your perm is crucial. Chemicals dry out your hair. Follow this routine to keep your curls healthy and defined.

1. Wait 48 Hours: Do not wash your hair for at least two days after the perm. This lets the curls set completely.
2. Use the Right Shampoo: Wash with a sulfate-free, moisturizing shampoo. Sulfates strip natural oils and dry out curls.
3. Condition Every Time: Use a rich conditioner or a leave-in conditioner every time you wash. Focus on the ends of your hair.
4. Dry Gently: Don’t rub hair with a towel. Scrunch dry with a soft t-shirt or microfiber towel to prevent frizz.
5. Style with Creams, Not Gels: Use curl-defining creams or mousses. Avoid heavy gels that can make hair crunchy or dry.
6. Get Regular Trims: Trim your hair every 6-8 weeks to prevent split ends from traveling up the curly hair shaft.

Pros and Cons of Getting a Perm

• Pros:
  • Adds volume and texture to flat hair.
  • Low-maintenance styling once it’s done.
  • Can make thin hair look much thicker.
  • Lasts for several months.
• Cons:
  • Chemical process can damage hair if done incorrectly.
  • Requires specific hair care products.
  • If you don’t like it, you must grow it out or cut it off.
  • The grow-out phase can look uneven as straight roots come in.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does a men’s perm last?

A perm lasts until your hair grows out. The curls themselves are permanent. Typically, you’ll see new straight roots after 3 to 4 months. Most guys get a re-perm or a touch-up every 4 to 6 months.

Can I perm my hair if it’s colored?

You can, but you must be careful. Perming colored hair increases the risk of severe damage and breakage. It’s best to wait at least two weeks between services and to see a stylist who is experienced with both processes.

What’s the difference between a perm and a body wave?

A “perm” usually refers to curly results. A “body wave” is a type of perm that uses very large rods to create waves and volume, not defined curls. It’s a subtler, more relaxed look.

Can I straighten my hair after a perm?

Technically yes, but it’s very damaging. Using heat to straighten permed hair breaks down the curl structure and can cause extreme dryness and breakage. If you think you’ll want straight hair often, a perm is not for you.

Are perms bad for your hair?

Perms are a chemical process and always cause some level of stress to the hair. However, when done correctly by a professional and followed with proper care, the damage can be minimized. Healthy hair to start with is key.