The K-wave has taken the world by storm, from K-pop to K-dramas, making Korean beauty trends an inevitable influence on global beauty standards.
Beauty and fashion enthusiasts are drawn to Korean perms, which offer effortless waves and curls seen on Korean celebrities.
This unique method transforms hair into an effortless look full of charm and elegance, captivating hearts. To achieve perfect Korean perms in a salon, learn the 7 essentials for bouncy, healthy curls.
What is a Korean Perm?
A Korean perm is a chemical hair treatment that uses heat and chemicals to break down the inner structure of the hair shaft, making it more pliable and easier to style.
The treated hair is rolled onto perm rods and heated again to set the new shape. After cooling, a perm solution is rinsed out, and a neutralizing solution is applied to restore the pH balance and lock in the new shape.
How is it Different From Other Kinds of Perms?
The Korean perm stands out due to how the hair is rolled. Unlike a traditional perm where hair is rolled away from the face, creating a helmet head look, the Korean perm rolls hair toward the face.
This technique, combined with thinner perm rods, creates softer, natural-looking waves and curls compared to other perms.
What Are the Benefits of Using Korean Perms?
Softer, More Natural Curls
The Korean perm offers benefits like softer, more natural-looking curls. Unlike a traditional perm with harsh, artificial results, Korean perms use a milder solution and different perm rod size to create gentle, flowing curls that mimic nature.
Lower Maintenance
One benefit of Korean perms is lower maintenance compared to other types of perms. Unlike a traditional perm that requires special products and styling techniques, a Korean perm lets your hair air dry into soft, beautiful waves with little effort.
Many women even ditch curling irons after getting a Korean perm.
Longer Lasting Curls
Korean perms offer longer-lasting curls compared to a regular perm. With proper care and styling, your Korean perm can last from 3 to 6 months.
This means you can enjoy beautiful, hassle-free curls all season without worrying about your hair returning to its natural state in just a few weeks.
Maintenance And Longevity Of The Curls
To keep your Korean perm looking its best, understanding the work needed to maintain it is essential.
Use specialized hair products and plan regular salon visits. Adjust your daily routines by reducing washing frequency and minimizing heat styling to prolong your curls’ longevity, keeping them vibrant and defined for months.
Understand The Condition Of Your Hair
Before getting Korean perms, assess whether your hair is healthy, damaged, or chemically treated. Healthy hair can hold curls better, while damaged or chemically treated hair may need additional care.
Consulting a professional stylist helps determine your hair’s compatibility with the perm treatment, ensuring the best results and minimizing potential risks.
What is the Process for Getting a Korean Hair Perm Done?
Getting a Korean perm should be done by a professional stylist. While possible at home, it’s best left to experts who can ensure better results and keep your hair healthy throughout the entire process at a salon.
Step 1: Consultation
Your stylist will begin the hair treatment with a consultation. They’ll discuss your desired results, check for allergies or sensitivities, and assess your hair type and condition. This step is crucial, just like understanding how long do balayages take for optimal results.
Step 2: Preparation
After gathering all the information, your stylist will start prepping your hair for the perm by shampooing and conditioning with products specifically designed for perming.
These products help open up the cuticle so the solutions can better penetrate the hair shaft. Just like when choosing between balayage vs foilyage, preparation is key for the best results.
Step 3: Wrapping
Once your hair is prepped, your stylist will divide it into sections and wrap each around hot rollers. The number and size of rollers depend on your desired results, length, and thickness of hair. After wrapping, setting lotion or mousse is applied and allowed to sit for 10-15 minutes.
Step 4: Processing
After the setting solution has worked its magic, it’s time for processing. Your stylist will remove the rollers and apply one of two processing solutions: thioglycolate or ammonium thioglycolate.
These solutions break down the disulfide bonds in your hair so they can be reshaped. Processing times vary, but usually take 5-15 minutes. For added smoothness, consider a Brazilian blowout after the perm to enhance your hair’s texture.
Step 5: Neutralization
After processing, neutralization is the next step to stop the chemical reaction and set your new curl pattern. Your stylist will apply a neutralizing solution to your hair, let it sit for 5-10 minutes, and then rinse with cool water. This step is crucial, much like choosing between babylight vs highlight to achieve the perfect look, as it helps restore moisture levels and repair damage.
Step 6: Styling
In the final step of your Korean perm, your stylist will trim any damaged ends, apply a leave-in conditioner, and style your hair into its new curled state. Depending on your desired curl, they may use hot tools like curling irons or diffusers.
How to Take Care of Your Hair After Getting a Korean Perm?
- Avoid washing your hair for 48 hours after the perm to allow it time to set.
- When you wash, use lukewarm water and mild shampoo; avoid hot water and harsh shampoo that can strip away the perm solution.
- Condition your hair to keep it hydrated and healthy-looking.
- Don’t tie your hair in tight styles like ponytails or buns to prevent breakage and damage.
- Minimize the use of heat-styling tools such as curling irons and straighteners; always use heat protectant spray.
- Get regular trims every 6-8 weeks to keep split ends away and maintain your perm’s best look.
Invest In The Right Hair Products
To maintain your Korean perm, use hair care products specifically for chemically treated or permed hair.
Opt for moisturizing shampoos and conditioners to keep your hair hydrated and nourished. Styling products like curl-enhancing creams and serums help define and prolong your perm’s lifespan while minimizing frizz and flyaways.
Have A Realistic Expectation
Korean perms can create stunning waves and curls, but the outcome can vary based on factors like hair type, texture, and existing chemical treatments. Understanding the limitations of the perm process is key.
Consulting with a skilled hairstylist and discussing your desired look helps manage expectations and ensures satisfaction with the final result.
Conclusion
Korean hair perming offers a unique way to achieve beautiful, long-lasting curls that are both natural-looking and easy to maintain. With proper care, such as using the right hair products and minimizing heat styling, your perm can last for months. Consulting a skilled stylist ensures the best results while protecting your hair’s health. Understanding the process and aftercare is key to enjoying the full benefits of a Korean perm.
FAQ’s
How long does Korean perm last?
On average, a Korean Style Perm can last three to six months. However, the effects may wear off after just one or two months. To prolong the life of your Korean Style Perm, use appropriate hair products and avoid heat styling tools.
Is A Korean perm good for your hair?
The good news is that if done correctly and with proper aftercare, a Korean perm should not cause significant damage to your hair. Minimizing damage involves choosing a reputable salon with experienced stylists who specialize in Korean perms.
What is the difference between a Korean perm and a regular perm?
Korean hair perms create softer, natural-looking curls and can be customized to fit your individual hair type and desired look. In contrast, traditional perm methods produce springy curl patterns that follow the shape of the curling rods used.
What is a Korean perm procedure?
The Korean perm is often called the natural perm because of its loose curls that start from the middle of your hair. This style exudes femininity and a cozy, cloud-like atmosphere with Mul-Gyul waves, meaning watery waves in Korean.
