Korean hair salons have experienced a massive surge in popularity over the last few years. It’s not just locals in Seoul who rely on Korean stylists to help them recreate the look of their favorite K-Pop idols. All over the world, men and women are prioritizing Korean stylists for their skills, commitment to exceptional customer service, and ability to create amazing looks.
If there’s one thing that Korean stylists excel at, it’s the perm. Korean perms offer a unique alternative to the traditional perm, as stylists focus on creating specific “shapes” rather than just curls.
The Korean down perm is one of the most appealing perm options for men struggling with stubborn, unmanageable hair. Here’s everything you should know about this hair styling trend.
What is a Korean Down Perm?
A Korean down perm is a salon styling technique designed to reduce the volume and root lift of a man’s hair. Unlike traditional perms, which usually focus on creating curves and waves, the down perm aims to give men a smooth, natural look, that’s easier to manage.
Like most Korean perms, Korean down perms are highly customizable. Your stylist will flatten and lift different parts of your hair based on the exact look you want to achieve.
The down perm has become a popular option for many men across Asia, who frequently have trouble keeping their hair looking tidy and well kept, due to a high level of natural root lift. In fact, many Korean celebrities use this grooming technique to flatten unruly hair.
So, how does it work?
Any perming process involves applying specific solutions to hair to break the existing bonds in your hair’s proteins, and reform them in a new shape. With a traditional perm, the focus is usually on creating waves or curls. With a Korean down perm, the perming serum is applied, and a stylist shapes your hair to create a sleeker, more refined look.
The Benefits of a Korean Down Perm
The main reason men love Korean down perms, is that they make their hair more manageable. In Korea, where the humidity levels in various regions can often be high, this reduces the need for men to constantly restyle their hair to fight back against frizz and cowlicks.
However, in any part of the world, a Korean down perm can give you more control over your look, with less effort. Since the perm scientifically alters the structure of your hair, it gives you a more consistent appearance, without the need to spend hours drying your locks into the perfect shape.
With a Korean down perm, you benefit from:
- More manageable hair: Forget daily battles with constant cowlicks and frizz, down perms instantly make your hair more manageable. You’ll end up with a sleek mane that maintains its perfect appearance, even in the face of unpredictable weather conditions.
- Improved face framing: When you get a Korean down perm, your stylist will work with you to design the new “shape” of your hair. You can customize the results of the look to perfectly frame your face, and give yourself a massive confidence boost.
- Sleek style: The Korean down perm is perfect for recreating the sleek, sophisticated look of your favorite Korean celebrities. If you’re looking for a sophisticated, clean finish with your hair cut, a down perm could be the perfect choice.
Are Korean Down Perms Bad for Your Hair?
Although Korean perming techniques have grown increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to their ability to deliver various shapes and finishing looks, there are still a lot of myths out there.
That’s definitely the case for perming options that are lesser known to people in the Western world, like the down perm. For instance, a lot of our clients assume that all perms are damaging to their hair. However, the reality is that Korean perms are generally a lot gentler than other perming options.
Our team knows how to apply perms professionally to minimize damage to your tresses. Plus, because down perms can make hair more manageable, they can improve the health of your hair over time, by reducing your reliance on heat-based styling products and chemicals.
Of course, down perms aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution for every person. While these perms can be adapted to suit different hair types, whether you have straight, curly, or frizzy hair, different types of hair can react differently to various treatments. That’s why it’s so important to have a consultation with your stylist, before you invest in a down perm.
The Korean Down Perm: What to Expect from your Stylist
While every Korean salon takes its own unique approach to offering different perm services, most of the top stylists will follow a similar process when giving a client a down perm. Here’s what you can generally expect from a down perm appointment.
1. The Initial Consultation and Assessment
A good stylist knows that certain hair types are better suited to specific perming and styling options than others. The best stylists won’t give you a one-size-fits-all experience. They’ll discuss your hair goals with you, assess your current hair condition, and help you determine whether a down perm is actually the right option for you.
For instance, the Korean down perm can be an excellent option for high-volume hair with a lot of root lift, and diverse textures. If you want a sleeker look, and more manageable hair, a down perm can be customized to suit virtually any hair type.
However, if you’re looking for increased volume, or a specific shape, your stylist might suggest a different type of perming service. Additionally, if your hair has undergone significant chemical treatments, your stylist might suggest putting a full perm on hold until your locks recover.
2. The Application Process
As mentioned above, Korean down perms require stylists to apply a specially formulated serum to your hair. This serum breaks down the keratin bonds in your hair so they can be reshaped and molded into the perfect style. Based on their assessment of your hair, your stylist will apply this serum in specific quantities, throughout your hair.
They’ll be able to adjust the application process to ensure certain parts of your hair can retain volume if necessary (such as your bangs). Prepare to spend a while relaxing in the salon while the serum works, as the perming process can take a couple of hours, depending on the length of your hair.
After the serum has fully taken hold, your stylist will neutralize the serum and remove any lingering chemicals, leaving your locks ready for styling.
3. Styling and Aftercare
Finally, your Korean stylist will work with you to create the look of your dreams, adjusting the positioning of your hair, drying it, and making sure it’s protected against the elements with the right serums and sprays. During this time, or after the treatment session is over, they’ll usually give you some advice on how to maintain your new look.
While Korean down perms are known for their low maintenance, you’ll still need to ensure you’re following a few best practice tips to ensure your results last such as:
- Avoiding exposure to liquid and dyes: While you can dye and wash your hair after a perm, you probably shouldn’t do this straight away. Washing your hair immediately after a perm can prevent the hair from setting properly. Additionally, applying a color straight after a perm can cause unnecessary stress to your hair, leading to increased dryness or damage.
- Updating your hair care routine: There are specially crafted shampoos and conditions designed for people to use after a perm. Your stylist may be able to give you tips on which products to use to improve the longevity of your perm, and protect your locks. They could even suggest some new oils and serums you can use.
- Managing Styling techniques: Your perm should help you to maintain a consistent look with minimal styling. However, if you need to spruce up your appearance from time to time, your stylist can give you advice on which serums, creams, and products to use (such as round brushes and flat irons).
- Booking touch ups: Korean down perms can last for a long time, but eventually you will need a touch up, or a new appointment. Your stylist should be able to inform you of when you’ll need to make your next appointment to maintain your look.
Is a Korean Down Perm Right for You?
A Korean down perm is a highly versatile and appealing styling option for any man who wants to achieve a sleek, well-managed look with minimal effort. This type of perm is suitable for people with a range of hair styles, whether you have classic Asian hair, Caucasian hair, or African hair.
However, your hair history and styling goals will help your stylist to determine whether a Korean down perm is right for you. Our advice is to find some hair inspiration online, take it to a professional Korean salon, and ask for a stylist’s opinion.
They’ll be able to tell you (based on experience), whether a down perm is a good option for your hair, or whether you should consider an alternative treatment. Contact us to book a consultation appointment with one of our professional stylists, and start your down perm journey.
FAQs
How long does a Korean down perm last?
A Korean down perm can last between two to three months when it’s applied correctly. However, the longevity of your style will depend on a number of factors, including your hair’s condition, the length of your hair, and how well you look after your down perm.
How do you take care of a Korean down perm?
Follow your stylist’s instructions carefully and remember to:
- Avoid washing your hair for up to 24 hours after the perm.
- Use recommended shampoos and conditioners for permed hair.
- Apply heat protection before styling your hair.
- Place minimal strain on your hair when possible. For example, do not wear a baseball cap or other headwear for the first week after a down perm.
- Ask for styling advice from your salon expert.
How much does a Korean down perm cost?
The price of a Korean down perm can vary depending on the length of your hair, it’s condition, and various other factors. Our services for Korean down perms and cuts start at around $96. Check out our full services page for insights into the prices of other services.
