Everyone’s talking about perms right now, but how do you know what to ask for at the salon? Are there different kinds of perms? The great news is that modern perms can be completely customized to create different looks, so it’s not just one specific look you have to get with a perm. Whether you’re looking for subtle, beachy waves, or tight, hippie-like curls, your stylist can design a perm specifically tailored to you. The S-Curl Perm is one of the hottest perm trends right now, famously worn by K-drama leads and celebrities.
“An S-Curl Perm is a natural-looking perm where the curls flow and connect along the shape of the body,” says Nova, one of our stylists at PERFECT X HAIR. “The overall design creates an ‘S’ shape, which is why we usually call it an S-Curl Perm.”
Before you book your next appointment at the salon, here’s everything you need to know about the S-Curl Perm.
What is an S-Curl Perm?
The S-Curl Perm is defined by the flowy, S-shaped waves gently placed around the body of your hair. It typically begins at the mid-length of the hair and runs through the ends of the hair, creating soft, romantic waves that gently curve in alternate directions. The results are flowy and natural, which is perfect if you’re looking to achieve a more subtle look that still looks intentionally styled.
The S-Curl Perm is one of the most popular perm styles in Korea, highly sought after by those who prefer a more natural, effortless everyday look. Other popular Korean perm trends include the C-Curl Perm, which creates C-shaped curls at the ends of the hair, and the J-Curl Perm, which is a slightly more structured version of the S-Curl Perm. The C-Curl Perm also flicks curls inwards, while the J-Curl Perm flicks curls outwards.
Who would you recommend an S-Curl Perm for?
Can’t decide whether an S-Curl Perm is the right move for your hair? The great thing about S-Curl Perms is that they flatter most face shapes and hair lengths. It’s a feminine, effortless style that’s very easy to maintain, which is excellent if you’re someone who prefers low-effort hairstyles.
“We recommend an S-Curl Perm for anyone with flat or fine hair who wants to add more volume, as well as for those who prefer a style where the curls aren’t too strong or defined,” says Nova. The S-Curl Perm creates soft, less-structured curls, which gives off that effortless, natural look. If you’re looking for more defined curls, a J-Curl Perm might be the preferred option.
In general, S-Curl Perms are best suited for those with medium to long hair, as it gives more length for the stylist to work with to create the signature cascading waves. However, S-Curl Perms aren’t just for those with longer hair.
“These days, S-Curl Perms also look really good on shorter hair and have become quite trendy. We recommend it for anyone who wants to add more overall volume to their hair,” says Nova. For those with shorter hair, you just need to have enough length for the stylist to be able to create two bends for the “S” shape.
In terms of hair texture, S-Curl Perms work best on those with straight or wavy hair, giving it new shape and texture.
There are some cases where we wouldn’t typically recommend an S-Curl Perm, such as for those with naturally curly hair.
“Because their natural curl pattern is already quite strong, adding an S-Curl Perm can make the curls look too intense and potentially make the hair look a little messy,” says Nova.
We also don’t recommend perms for anyone with previously bleached, very damaged, or very fine hair. As perming is a chemical process, it can be harsh on already-damaged hair and cause even further breakage or dryness. If you’ve had colour done recently, your stylist may recommend waiting some time before getting a perm.
What happens during the S-Curl Perm appointment?
So, what exactly happens during your perm appointment? It usually begins with a consultation, followed by the actual perming process, and then your stylist will style your new perm and share tips for aftercare.
During the consultation, the stylist will assess your face shape, hair type, and desired results to design the perfect perm to suit your specific look. The S-Curl Perm usually begins at the mid-length of your hair, but the stylist may adjust the starting point depending on your face shape.
The stylist will begin by cleansing and preparing your hair for the digital perm. If necessary, they may also give your hair a trim.
Next is where the actual perming process begins. The stylist will apply the perming solutions directly onto sections of your hair, before rolling and securing them into rods in alternate directions to create the signature “S” shape.
There are actually multiple ways to create a perm, and the S-Curl Perm specifically uses the digital perming method because of its versatility. Digital perms typically create more natural results than traditional perms, and they’re also much more customizable. A traditional perm, also known as a “cold perm”, uses a combination of perming solutions and rollers to create the curls, while a digital perm uses heated rods to assist in creating the shape.
All perming techniques involve resetting and reshaping the structure of your hair strands, which helps to create new curl patterns that last even after you wash your hair. Even though digital perms use heated rods, the process is actually gentler and generally less damaging to your hair than traditional or cold perms.
If you’re worried about heat damage, this is why it’s crucial to visit a salon that specializes in perms. A skilled stylist will know how to carefully adjust the heat settings of the curling instruments, as well as the concentration of the perming solutions, according to the condition of your hair. This way, they’ll be able to minimize any damage done to your hair during the perming process.
Once all of the rods have been placed into your hair, the stylist will plug each of them into a digital perming machine that applies controlled heat. You can just sit back and relax, and the stylist will periodically check on your curls to ensure they’re forming well and evenly.
When the stylist determines your curls have formed perfectly, they’ll unplug each of the rods and remove them from your hair. Your hair may look a little wild once the rods are out – think one of the Founding Fathers – but don’t worry, your perm is almost ready! The stylist will gently wash the perming solutions out of your hair, before finally blow-drying and styling it.
The overall process for the S-Curl Perm takes about 3 hours from start to finish, depending on the length of your hair. It’s on the lengthier side when it comes to perms, but the results are beautiful and long-lasting. Plus, it’ll save you a lot of time when it comes to styling your hair in the mornings – no more having to fight with the curling iron!
How long does an S-Curl Perm last?
“How long an S-Curl Perm lasts depends on your hair type, but it usually lasts around 6 months,” says Nova. The better you take care of your perm after your appointment, the longer your results will last. During your appointment, your stylist will also recommend the best aftercare products depending on your hair type and condition.
It’s crucial not to wash your hair during the first 24 hours after your perm is completed, as you want the perm to fully set first. Afterwards, you’ll be able to wash your hair normally. However, it’s also important to keep in mind that your washing routine can affect how long your perm will last.
In order to maintain your perm’s shape and style for as long as possible, you may want to do the following:
Wash your hair less often
The more frequently you wash your hair, the quicker your curls will relax and loosen. We recommend washing your hair every few days and refreshing with dry shampoo when necessary. This way, your perm will last for much longer.
In addition, we recommend only washing your hair using cold water. Hot water opens up the hair cuticle, which makes it drier and more susceptible to damage. On the other hand, cold water seals the cuticle, which is much better for your hair and helps to keep moisture in.
Use a gentle, hydrating shampoo and conditioner
Perming is a chemical process that can be stressful on your hair. Your hair might even feel drier and frizzier after getting the perm, which is why it’s important to use gentle and hydrating products to revive and strengthen your hair.
Weekly hair masks can also help to keep your hair hydrated and moisturized. If you feel like your hair needs something more, you can book a hair treatment at the salon for deeper conditioning and strengthening. The Milbon Damage Repair Treatment is excellent for helping your hair recover after a perm.
Avoid using heat styling tools
The perming process already weakens the hair bonds, and adding additional heat can cause further damage and breakage. For this reason, we strongly recommend avoiding using any heat styling tools.
If you do decide to use heat styling tools, be sure to use a heat protectant spray to minimize as much damage as possible to your hair.
Book regular trims
The longer your hair gets, the more your curls will be weighed down, so you’ll want to book regular trims to help maintain the curls for longer. It’s also very important to remove any split ends, as they can travel up the hair shaft and cause further damage.
Your perm will naturally loosen over time as you wash it and as your hair grows out, and your waves will still continue to look effortless and natural even as they become more relaxed. You can always go back to the salon for a touch-up, or even try a different perm style.
“You can come back for a touch-up anywhere from around 6 months to a year, depending on how long the perm lasts for you,” says Nova.
How do you style an S-Curl Perm at home?
If you’re someone who likes to style your hair in a variety of ways, then you’ll be happy to hear that the S-Curl Perm is very versatile when it comes to styling. Nova says: “You can create different looks depending on how you style your S-Curl Perm.”
“If you like a more rough, textured look, you can simply tousle your hair as you dry it. If you prefer a more feminine look, dry your hair almost completely, then lightly twist sections of the hair to create a soft, natural finish.”
You can let your hair air-dry if you prefer a low-maintenance, natural finish, or gently diffuse on a low-heat setting with a blow-dryer for more defined waves.
One key product to have on hand is a curling lotion or cream, which helps to define and smooth out your new curls. While your hair is still slightly damp after towel-drying, simply apply a generous pump of the product into your hand and gently scrunch through the ends and mid-length of your hair.
Get your dream perm at PERFECT X HAIR
The S-Curl Perm is perfect if you want those cascading, romantic waves that look both effortless and natural. It’s very low-maintenance and easy to style, and helps to add volume and texture to flat or fine hair. It’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular perm styles in Korea.
Not all stylists know how to perform digital perms correctly, which is why choosing the right salon is so important. Our stylists at PERFECT X HAIR are experts in Korean perming techniques, and are always on top of all the hottest hair trends.
Whether you’re considering an S-Curl Perm, or want an opinion on the best perm style for your hair, our stylists are here to help you achieve your hair goals. Book a consultation at one of our salons in Toronto and get the perm you’ve been dreaming about!
