10 Wavy Perm Styles for a Stylish Beach Look All Year Round

When you think of a perm, your first thought is probably the 80s curls from your parent’s old photo albums. We are happy to share that the perm has recently seen what is probably the biggest rebrand since the midi skirt. The cool thing about perm styles is that they can be tailored to your particular style and what’s currently trending in the hairstyle scene. Right now, that looks like a wavy perm for long hairstyles.

Wavy Perms 101

Here’s everything you need to know about wavy perms:

What’s the difference between a regular perm and a wave perm?

Traditional perms produce defined spiral curls by wrapping the hair around smaller individual rods for tight, uniform curls. With a wave perm, the hair is wrapped around larger rods to produce looser waves for a more relaxed result. This wavy perm style can work for both male perms and female perms! 

Wavy Perm Maintenance: How long do wavy perms last?

Wavy perms last anywhere from 3-6 months, depending on how well you care for your hair, the curl pattern you choose, and how quickly your hair grows. It’s important to remember that perms only affect the hair that has been treated so that any new growth will remain in your natural hair texture pattern.

Wavy Perm Do’s and Don’ts

After getting your perm, it’s essential to wait before washing and shampooing your hair. You want to give your hair time to set in its new curl pattern, and washing too early can alter the work your stylist has done. If you can, wait 2-3 days before washing your hair after you get your perm done.

You will also want to avoid brushing your hair, using hot tools on your strands, or having your hair colored immediately after the process. Essentially, leaving your hair alone as much as possible will help you maintain the integrity of your new texture and ensure a longer-lasting perm.

Can I get a wavy perm?

One of the pros of wavy perms is that they can work well on hair of different lengths and textures. While coarse or thick hair is generally seen as best suited for perming, that’s not to say that those with fine hair can’t also try them – we recommend talking to your hairstylist before booking in to discuss your hair’s suitability.

However, it’s important to note that as getting a perm is quite an intensive chemical process, it’s not recommended for those with hair that has already been dyed, bleached hair, or chemically straightened hair. In fact, many salons will actually refuse to carry out the treatment on processed hair because of the risk of damage, so it’s best to do it on virgin (aka untreated) hair.

10 Wavy Perm Styles for Different Occasions

Thinking about trying out a wavy perm for long hair? Read on to get inspired:

1. Wavy Perm for Long Hair

True to the origins of the perming hair method, this soft curly hairstyle sits right in between curly and wavy strands. These soft curls are mid-sized, and the length of the hair weighs the curls down into a wavy pattern. You’ll notice some shorter layers around the front of the style! Talk to your stylist about using layers to create some subtle dimension and volume.

2. Subtle Permanent Waves

Similar to the previous style, these subtle waves are an understated variation of the classic perm. Natural-looking and chic yet undeniably trendy, this permanent wave style instantly boosts your natural hair with more movement and texture.

3. Loose Wavy Perm

It doesn’t get more low maintenance than this loose waves style. If you are one of those women who can never seem to get a curl to hold when styling with a curling iron, this understated style might be for you!

4. Classic Curls

Fake a natural curl pattern with a perm! Make sure to bring an inspirational photo or two to your stylist during your consultation. Your stylist will alternate the direction of each curl during the perming process, giving your strands a natural, chic look.

Dove

Dove Hair Therapy Hydration Spa Hydrating Shampoo

Dove

Dove Hair Therapy Hydration Spa Hydrating Conditioner

Keep your perm hydrated and healthy by washing and conditioning your hair with Dove Hair Therapy Hydration Spa Hydrating Shampoo and Dove Hair Therapy Hydration Spa Hydrating Conditioner.

5. Mega Volume on Big Wave Perm

A wavy perm is a really great way to add some volume to finer and thinner strands. Strategically placed curling rods will add some lift to your roots and the strands that frame your face for an overall more voluminous look, calling to mind a body wave perm.

6.  Long Hair Perm: Soft Bend Perm

If you aren’t quite ready to dive into a long hair perm completely, this is a subtle way to dip your toe into the technique. Soft-bended waves add just a touch of movement to otherwise straight strands without making a dramatic change to your hair texture.

7. Wavy Hair Perm: Beach Waves

Suave

Suave Simply Styled Flexible Definition Wave Mousse

Looking for a hair treatment that cuts down on your styling time and gives you that effortless, ‘I woke up like this vibe’? Then the wavy hair perm might be for you. These soft beachy wavy perms are super understated yet impactful at the same time.

Mousse helps to amp up wavy perms; we recommend the Suave Simply Styled Flexible Definition Wave Mousse.

8. Long Waves

Long voluminous waves are the hallmark of healthy and strong strands. Focus the perm treatment on the bottom two-thirds of your hair to mimic the bottom-heavy volume pictured above.

9. Brushed-Out Curls

Give classic perm curls a modern twist by styling your strands in a brushed-out curls style. This look requires a standard perm with spiral perm curls, and the twist is really all in the styling. Once your perm has set and you have washed and conditioned your new texture, use your fingers to pull apart the curls and gently brush through them!

10. Voluminous Waves

Finally, consider these on-trend long voluminous waves. This super-symmetrical style depends on a layered haircut to offer even volume in your waves!

Are you thinking about getting a wavy perm for long hair? Be sure to share the results with us over @AllThingsHairUS!