Perm Hair: Things You Need To Know

1. What is hair perm?

Hair perm is a process that uses chemicals to create natural-looking, soft, loose, or defined curls, adding volume and texture to your hair. As mentioned, we offer two hair perm types: S curl and C curl.

To achieve these styles, our hairstylists use various hair perming methods based on customer preference:

A. Cold Perm

As the name suggests, a cold perm is a method that does not require heat. Strands of your hair are wrapped in curlers or rods, and alkaline is applied. This results in tighter and more voluminous curls.

B. Digital Perm

A digital perm, on the other hand, uses heat and chemicals to create nicely defined loose curls. Our body and texture stylists at our hair salons in Singapore use a machine to heat your hair while it is wrapped in rods. If you previously had a rebond and now want a perm, a digital perm is suitable for achieving those loose curls.

C. Airwave Perm

Airwave perm uses an airwave machine to create curls, which can range from loose to tight, depending on the desired effect. This method causes the least damage to your hair compared to other techniques. It is ideal if you have thin or dry hair and want a perm that causes the least damage to your hair even after your appointment.

D. Fringe Stitching (Kimage Salon Exclusive!)

If you want to keep your fringe intact and avoid gaps, this is an ideal perm method for you. Fringe stitching also reduces hairstyling time. This Kimage Salon exclusive is available at all our hair salons in Singapore.

E. Cushion Perm

While most perm hairstyles feature curls starting from the middle section of the hair downwards, the cushion perm method is different. With a cushion perm, curls are not visible and are done from the roots. This technique is perfect if you have thin hair and want to add volume.

2. How long does perm hair last?

For full transparency, perm hairstyles can last up to 8 months, but this still depends on how you care for it. We recommend getting a trim after 4 to 5 weeks and using hair care products specifically designed for permed hair. A regular trim will help maintain the overall structure of your perm.

3. Do perms damage your hair?

If you’re not using the right hair care products, hair perms can damage your hair. We recommend hair care products such as Lucicare Styling Mist C, Lucicare Styling Mist S, or Kerastase’s 8H Magic Night Serum to moisturize your hair. These products are all available at the Kimage e-Shop.

Refrain from using deep cleansing shampoos, such as anti-dandruff or oily scalp shampoos, as these can strip moisture from your hair and cause your curls to wear out.

4. Can my hair go back to normal after a perm?

Yes, your hair can still return to its normal state after a perm. Over time, as your hair grows out, the permed hair will wear down. There are salon services for curl removal such as the Brush Straightening service.

5. What hair cannot be permed?

If you have previously bleached your hair, we don’t recommend getting a perm. Doing so will cause your hair to become frizzy, and the curls from the perm will not form as expected.



If you really want to get a perm but have bleached hair, we will need to trim the parts of your hair that have been bleached. If you have short hair, it’s best to grow it out a bit first to make room for a perm.

6. Can frizzy hair be permed?

If you have frizzy and poofy hair, we recommend getting a hot perm or digital perm. We don’t recommend a cold perm if your hair is frizzy.

7. Can I rinse my hair after a perm?

You may rinse your hair 24 hours after getting a perm. If you feel the need to rinse your hair immediately after the perm, we suggest gently drying it and avoiding the use of a comb, as this could alter the structure of your curls.



If you plan to swim after your perm, we recommend using a swim cap to protect your hair from chlorine or saltwater.

8. Can a perm look natural?

Yes, it is definitely possible to get natural-looking perms (think: beach waves). If you're aiming for more natural-looking waves, be sure to tell your hairstylist before your appointment and have an inspiration photo on hand. This way, our body and texture stylist can recommend a perm method that is best suited to achieve your desired result.

9. Can I straighten my hair after perm?

Generally, using a hair straightener on permed hair will not permanently remove the curls. However, using heat styling tools like a hair iron on permed hair may cause split ends and frizz. We suggest using a heat protectant before using a hair straightener.

10. Can I cut my hair if I have a perm?

Yes, you can cut your hair before or after getting a perm. If you choose to get a haircut before the perm, our hairstylists in our hair salons in Singapore will adjust the length of your hair to suit the type of perm you want to achieve. You may also opt to get a haircut after your perm.

Ready to get a perm hair at Kimage Salon?

If you're looking to get a hair perm in Singapore and a personalized experience, our hairstylists are here for you. Established in 1994, we are a boutique hair salon chain renowned for enhancing individual personalities through expert hairdressing. With nine outlets across Singapore and a team of skilled hairdressers, we offer a wide range of services, including hair perming, colouring, treatments, and straightening.

At Kimage, our experienced stylists take the time to understand your preferences and skin tone to recommend the perfect hair colour for you. If you’re looking for a subtle change or a bold new look, we provide a comfortable and professional environment to help you achieve your desired style. Plus, we often have some of the best hair colour deals here in Singapore, so you get top-notch quality without breaking the bank.

Visit Kimage Salon to schedule an appointment here and discover the perfect hair colour that complements your skin tone and personal style.