Want beautiful curls without the hassle of curling? Get yourself a perm at these salons in Singapore.
New to perms? Don’t panic if what comes to mind are ’80s-style, frumpy, tight curls – those frizzy fuzzbombs are a thing of the past. Thanks to modern hair innovations, perms are now gentler and more natural-looking. You can achieve anything from beachy waves to large and loose ringlets. Chuck those curlers aside; we promise those hours spent creating perfect mermaid waves are now over. Plenty of salons in Singapore offer an array of perms, so you’re in for a treat. Just remember to do your research. Our guide to different types of perms and where to perm your hair in Singapore will get you started.
Where to perm your hair in Singapore
1. Goddess perm
For anyone that’s thinking about swapping out their usual hairdo for something new, check this out. This is perfect for anyone with long hair that’s looking to add volume without going too crazy. The goddess perm style perfectly frames your face while adding dimension and volume to your locks. These loose and airy curls give you a feminine flair that’s perfect for any occasion. Now you too can look like a walking goddess with perfectly bouncy hair.
Where to get the ‘do: Picasso Hair Studio, multiple locations including Bugis and Novena
2. Hippie perm
For a modern spin on the popular 80s hairdo, try the hippie perm. It’s an homage to the big hair of yesteryear. This style involves curling multiple sections of your hair and then smoothing it out. And once you blow dry it, it’s quite the look. It gives you a mysterious vibe and goes well for anyone that’s a fan of a slightly messier ‘do. A big bonus is that it can be done on any length of hair!
Where to get the ‘do: Koinonia Salon, #01-47, 71 Seng Poh Road, Singapore 160071
3. Cold perm
Also known as a creep perm, this is the most traditional of the lot. The age-old process begins with dry hair divided into sections, then curled around perm rods. A cold solution is then applied before a neutraliser is used to further lock in the curls. Small to medium rods are used in cold perms for extremely defined curls that are usually more prominent when wet.
This is the most affordable, and least damaging to the scalp. Plus, no heat damage! But, do expect very tight curls with cold perms. These will loosen over time, but won’t be for you if you’re looking for natural-looking waves. The process usually takes longer, with an average time of two hours or more.
Where to get the ‘do: Art Noise, 38A Lorong Mambong, Singapore 277694
4. Digital perm
The main difference between a cold and digital perm is heat. Both methods involve sectioning the hair and applying a hair chemical to it. But for digital perms, curlers will be attached to a machine with a timer and temperature control. A digital perm usually involves a shorter time to process. The curls are looser, more natural-looking and require less styling and maintenance. That said, digital perms are more expensive, and don’t work on all types of hair – it’s best for thicker, coarser Asian hair.
Where to get the ‘do: ChezVous: HideAway Hair Salon, #14-04, Ngee Ann City, 391B Orchard Road, Singapore 238874
5. Rebonding perm
This one’s our fave if you’ve got frizzy hair but still want lustrous waves. As its name suggests, the treatment involves two services in one. A straightening solution is applied to hair, usually from the roots to ear length or longer. A flat iron is then used to reset the structure of hair and make it straight before a neutraliser is applied and washed out. Once done, a digital perm will be carried out on the ends of the hair for natural-looking waves.
Where to get the ‘do:Picasso Hair Studio, multiple locations including Bugis and Novena
6. Root volume perm
If your hair’s looking too limp or is naturally flat, a perm from the roots may be exactly what you need. Curlers will be added only to sections of your crown to give roots additional height, body and va-va-volume. Other variations do exist, where hair ends are also curled for additional volume. Either way, you’ll come out of the salon with voluminous tresses, no matter if it’s long or short.
Where to get the ‘do: Vintage Studio, multiple locations including Bugis+ and Plaza Singapura
7. S-curl or C-curl perms
If you’re a fan of natural waves, this is the style for you. The S-curl is more suitable for longer hair (chest length). It involves tighter curls for a wavier appearance, and layers of volume with S-shaped swirls. It’s the perfect way to add a little pizzazz to your usual hair. C-curls inward are curls at the ends for a gentle, bob-like appearance. This is perfect for anyone with slightly shorter hair for a bouncy effect.
Where to get the ‘do: Kimage, multiple locations including Plaza Singapura and Parkway Parade
8. Japanese perm
Those permanent beachy waves you’ve always wanted? Perm your hair right here. Using a cold perm, this method creates lighter, relaxed, tousled waves throughout the mane. Japanese perms are subtle and aren’t obvious. This will give you a naturally classy hairdo that’ll make you look effortlessly stylish.
Where to get the ‘do: Xquisite Hair, #01-04, 420 North Bridge Road, Singapore 188727
9. Korean wave perm
If you dream about channelling your fave K-drama stars, this is the answer. Unlike the gentler Japanese curls, the Korean wave perm features more defined curls and volume for a sophisticated appearance. This gives you effortless style and is naturally stunning. To keep your curls defined, scrunch up your hair while blow-drying.
Where to get the ‘do: Dusol Beauty, #03-73/76, 10 Sinaran Drive, Singapore 307506
Now you know where you spruce up your locks and where to perm your hair in Singapore!
