Perming Trends For Men 

Thinking about a perm but not sure what style would suit you? Men’s perms have come a long way from the tight, uniform curls you might remember. Today, different perm techniques and rod sizes can be used to create everything from soft waves and natural-looking texture to more defined curls.

At Gavin Ashley Hairdressing in Bury St Edmunds, we’ve been looking after our clients’ hair for 48 years, so we know that getting the right result starts with understanding your hair and what you actually want to achieve.

Whether you’re looking for a subtle change or want to add plenty of curl and movement, a consultation with your stylist is the best place to start.

Book your complimentary colour consultation with our team online today, or call us.

What Is a Men's Perm?

A perm uses a chemical process to reshape the natural structure of the hair, creating a new curl or wave pattern that lasts for several weeks. The finished result depends on several factors, including your hair length, thickness, condition and the size and type of rods used. This means a perm can be tailored to your individual hair rather than creating the same curl on everyone.

For men, perms are often combined with a shorter haircut through the back and sides, with the length left on top to create texture, volume and movement.

There are lots of different ways to wear a modern men’s perm. Your stylist can adjust the technique and curl pattern depending on your hair and the finish you're after.

The Permed Top

The permed top is a popular choice, particularly with shorter cuts. The back and sides can be kept relatively short while the longer hair on top is given added curl, texture and movement.

You can go for a softer, more relaxed finish or a more defined curl, depending on your personal style.

Permed tops are also popular with younger men and boys who want to add texture and shape to a shorter haircut without having to create the curl with styling products every day.

Body Wave Perm

A body wave perm creates softer, flowing waves rather than tight curls. It's a good option if you want additional volume, movement and texture while keeping the finished look relatively natural.

A body wave can work particularly well when paired with a shorter haircut, adding some interest to hair that might otherwise sit quite flat.

Natural Wave Perm

If you like the idea of a perm but don't want a very structured or obvious curl, a natural wave perm could be worth considering.

The aim is to introduce movement and texture while keeping the finish relaxed. Your stylist can select a suitable rod size and technique depending on your existing hair length and the result you're hoping for.

Short Hair Perm

You don't necessarily need long hair to have a perm. A short hair perm can add texture and movement to cropped styles or shorter cuts with more length left on top.

The key is having enough hair to wrap around the rods and create the desired shape. Your stylist will be able to advise whether your current length is suitable and whether a small amount of growth would help achieve the result you want.

Your Perming Consultation

A good consultation is an important part of getting a perm you’ll be happy to wear.

Your stylist will look at your hair in person, including its history, thickness, porosity and overall condition. They'll also talk through how much curl or wave you want, how you normally wear your hair and how much styling you're prepared to do at home.

If you've seen a style you like, bring along screenshots of male celebrity permed hairstyles you love. They can be really helpful when discussing the type of curl, length and overall finish you're looking for.

It's also worth being realistic about what your hair can achieve. Previous colour, chemical treatments, heat damage and the natural characteristics of your hair can all affect the final result. Your stylist can explain what's suitable and recommend an approach that works with your hair.

What Is The Process  Of A Perm?

While the exact process will vary depending on your hair and the result you're looking for, your appointment will generally involve several stages.

1. Preparing the hair
Your stylist will assess your hair before shampooing and preparing it for the perm. The hair is then divided into sections and wrapped around rods chosen to create the appropriate curl or wave pattern.

The haircut may also be adjusted before or after the perm so that the finished shape works with the new texture.

2. Creating the curl or wave
Once the hair has been wrapped, the perming solution is carefully applied. This allows the hair to take on the shape of the rods.

The processing time isn't necessarily the same for everyone. Your stylist will consider your hair type, condition and the level of curl you're aiming for before deciding how long the solution needs to work.

3. Setting the new shape
After the hair has reached the desired stage, the perming solution is removed and a neutralising treatment is applied.

This helps stabilise the newly formed curl or wave so that your hair retains its new shape once the rods are removed.

4. Looking after your new perm
Your stylist will explain exactly how to look after your hair after your appointment. As a general guide, it's important to avoid washing the hair immediately after a perm and to minimise anything that could disturb the new curl pattern while it settles.

You may also be advised to avoid wearing tight hats, tying the hair back or repeatedly touching and manipulating the curls during the initial period. Like any change to your hair's texture, a perm needs the right aftercare to keep it looking its best. Your stylist can recommend products based on your hair type and the finish you've chosen.

Book Your Men’s Perm Appointment in Bury St Edmunds

Thinking about trying a men’s perm? Book a consultation with the team at Gavin Ashley Hairdressing in Bury St Edmunds.

We'll look at your hair, talk through the style you're considering and help you understand what can realistically be achieved before going ahead.

Contact Gavin Ashley Hairdressing to arrange your consultation and talk to us about your new look. Call us on 01284 754066, or book online.