Want permanently wavy hair? We break down the difference between types of perms and the top salons in Singapore to get them...
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 you spend attempting to create perfect mermaid waves are now over. Plenty of salons in Singapore offer an array of perms, so you’re in for treat – just remember to thoroughly research first. To help you get started, here’s our guide to the different types of perms, and where to get them.
TYPES OF PERM TECHNIQUES
Cold perm
The most traditional of the lot is the cold perm. The age-old process begins with dry hair divided into sections, then curled around perm rods. A cold solution is then applied to soak hair before a neutraliser is used to further lock in the curls. Small to medium rods are typically used in cold perms for extremely defined curls. Curls from a cold perm are usually more prominent when wet. This is the most affordable, and is less damaging to the scalp since rods are usually applied on the ends of hair. But, do expect very tight curls with cold perms. These will loosen over time, but if you’re looking for natural-looking waves, this isn’t for you. The process usually takes longer, with an average timing of two hours or more.
Digital perm
The main difference between a cold and digital perm is the use of heat. Like the former, hair is sectioned and curled with medium to large perm rods. A chemical will then be applied to break down hair structure. Next, curlers will be attached to a machine with a timer and temperature control. Curls from a digital perm are most noticeable when dry. A digital perm usually involves a shorter time to process. Curls are looser, more natural-looking and requires 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.
TYPES OF PERMS
Cinderella perm
Walking On Sunshine is an Instagram-worthy salon and cafe in the heart of Orchard that specialises in amazing Korean perms. Try the Cinderella perm that spruces up your tresses with natural waves. This is one of the top keratin perms in Korea. It uses natural oils to prevent cuticle damage and loss of protein, helping to lock in moisture. Choose between a S or C curl to revamp your locks!
Perks: Use the code “honeycombers” to get $100 off any hair and scalp treatments (except add-on services); for first time customers only.
Head to: Walking On Sunshine
Rebonding perm
This one’s our fave if you’ve got frizzy hair but still want lustrous waves. Like its name suggests, the treatment involves two services in one. A straightening solution is applied to hair, usually from roots to ear length or longer, depending on your preference and stylist’s recommendations. 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 hair for natural-looking waves.
Head to: Leekaja Beauty Salon, Picasso Hair Studio, H+ Hair Plus
S-curl, C-curl or J-rebonding
The S-curl, C-curl or J-curl rebonding involves the same process as above, except with different types of curling effects. The first is more suitable for longer hair (chest length), and involves tighter curls for a wavier appearance, and layers of volume. The second refers to inward curls at the ends for a gentle, bob-like appearance, while the last involves curls at the ends which fan outwards.
Head to: The Comb, Dusol Beauty Salon, Koinonia Salon
Root volume perm
If your hair’s looking too limp from too much rebonding, or is naturally flat, a perm from the roots may be exactly what you need for added va-va-volume. Curlers will be added only to sections of your crown to give roots additional height, body and volume. Other variations do exist, where ends of hair are also curled for additonal volume.
Head to: Chez Vous, H+ Hair Plus Korean Hair Salon
Japanese perm
Those permanent beachy waves you’ve always wanted? This one’s your answer. Using a cold perm, this method creates lighter, relaxed, tousled waves throughout the mane. Unlike a digital perm, you don’t have to twist your hair while styling – simply apply products and blow dry as usual.
Head to: Flamingo Hair Studio, Naoki Yoshihara by Ash, Blanco Michaela
Korean wave perm
Similar to a Japanese perm, this one similarly uses a cold perm method. But unlike the former, the Korean wave perm features more defined curls and volume for a sophisticated appearance. To keep curls defined, scrunch up hair while blow-drying.
Head to: Apgujeong Hair Studio, Pro Trim Salon, Hari Mori Salon