15 Types of Perms We Love For a Temporary Texture Change

Perms have come a long way since the super teased spiral curls of the ‘80s. Here are 15 different types of perms, plus tips for choosing the right one.

By Dana Oliver & Powered By L’Oreal Professional Products Division

Update Date: 21 Mar 2024

What Is a Perm?

A perm (also known as a permanent wave) is a chemical treatment that alters the texture and appearance of your natural hair. Although the name suggests they’re permanent, most perms actually last around three to six months, depending on the type of perm you get, your natural hair texture, and how you care for your mane.

What Are The Different Types of Perms?

As we mentioned, there are several types of perms, each of which yields different results. Keep reading to learn about some of the different options available and see what they look like.

Root Perm

If your type 2 hair falls flat without the right cocktail of curl products, then a root perm might be worth looking into. Unlike other perm hairstyles where the perming solution is used throughout the entire head, a root perm focuses on the strands closest to the scalp. Short to medium hair lengths will see results that last two to six months.

Partial Perm

A partial perm (also called a spot perm) is a perfect option when you want to add texture to specific sections of hair. This option is great for those with an inconsistent curl pattern seeking a more harmonious look. It can also help create the illusion of fuller hair. Expect this type of perm to last anywhere between two and six months.

Body Wave Perm

Add texture and definition to pin-straight strands with a body wave perm, which utilizes medium-to-large perm rods to create soft, natural-looking waves.

Digital Perm

Digital perms are similar to traditional perms, only with one caveat: the rods used are electric and heated to a high temperature before being placed in the hair. The addition of heat makes this technique a bit longer-lasting than other types of perms—you can expect the results to hold for three months up to a year with proper care. While anyone can get a digital perm, it’s especially well-suited for those with ultra-thick, straight strands.

Spiral Perm

A spiral perm will give you gorgeous ringlets with minimal styling effort. Expect the results to last between three and six months, depending on your natural texture, care habits, and how quickly your hair grows.

Modern Perm

What keeps this style fresh is the expert cutting, shaping, and styling that a professional does to customize it just for you. Results from this technique can last anywhere from three to six months.

Stack Perm

If you want to experiment with a layered haircut but aren’t quite ready to make the chop, consider a stacked perm.

Multi-Textured Perm

This technique involves wrapping the entire head with different-sized perm rods to mimic that natural wave pattern. The result: effortless supermodel waves that last up to six months.

Beach Wave Perm

The beach wave perm creates summery beach waves and lasts much longer (up to six months). Opt for this perm if you have long, thick hair in need of texture and volume.

Pin-Curl Perm

The pin-curl perm is designed to give those with long, straight hair looser S-shaped curls. The technique adds bouncy volume and texture to straighter strands for a sleek, fresh-from-the-salon effect that lasts up to six months.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Choose the Right Perm?

The first step in getting a perm is scheduling a consultation with a stylist. They’ll assess your hair to confirm whether you’re a good candidate and offer a recommendation based on your hair type, length, and desired result.

Are Perms Damaging?

Brown says that, much like any other chemical treatment for hair (color, relaxer, or texturizer), perms “can be potentially damaging.” The risk of damage may be higher if you have lightened hair.

How Long Do Perms Last?

Most perms can last between three to six months when cared for properly. However, your hair texture, length, and even the weather can affect how often you return to the salon.

How Do You Care For Perms?

You will need to change your haircare routine to better care for a perm hairstyle. Claybough suggests working a curl-enhancing product throughout your hair while it’s damp, then scrunching to define your curls. Once you’re happy with how your waves or curls look, set your perm hairstyle in place with hairspray.

Types of Perms: The Bottom Line

If you want to add texture to your mane, a perm is a great way to do so. But determining which type of perm is best for you requires assessing your current hair type, texture, care routine, and goals.