20 Looks that Prove a Body Wave Perm is Worth the Commitment

A body wave perm is a looser type of wave that is created by using a larger curling roller for the perm. This type of perm is perfect for anyone with a naturally straight hair type wanting loose curls but not wanting to use a styling tool every day to achieve the look. Fans of the body wave perm love it because it is used to create loose waves in your hair—perfect for those that have hair types that won’t hold a curl.

The process of the perm can take 2 to 4 hours, but, if cared for properly, this chemical treatment can last 6 to 8 months. The decision-making process is rather difficult when it comes to committing to any chemical treatment. No one wants to be stuck with a style they end up disliking or spend hundreds of rands on something that they hate. If you’re thinking about getting permanent waves via a body wave perm, we’ve found some looks that will help you come to a decision. Ahead are 20 looks that prove body wave perms are for all ages and all seasons:

Body Wave Perm: 20 Looks to Love

1. Ash Brown Body Wave

Pair up a body wave perm with a muted tone of brown. This creates a beautifully understated look for our low-key girls out there.

2. Loose Waves

Add a subtle hint of waves to super straight hair. A loose body wave blends nicely with a subtle layer of long, face-framing strands.

3. Defined Body Waves

The tighter the wave, the more defined it will be. And goes well with definition? Va-va-volume!

Use a lightweight mousse, like VO5 Extra Body Mousse to help with styling.

4. Auburn Body Waves

For a fun, flirty look, keep the wave soft at the root and tight at the ends. This creates a semi-curled effect that is simply to die for.

Give your auburn locks a gorgeous shine with the Toni&Guy Finishing Shine Spray.

5. Barely-There Body Wave Perm

If you want just a touch of waves, you can totally go for that look. This helps add a slight touch of body to your hair, which looks especially great on a wispy, chin-length bob. Combine that with a striking colour for max effect.

6. Bright and Blonde

Give your blonde hair a fun update with voluminous waves. Seal the deal with a strong hold hairspray that also adds shine.

7. Honey Blonde with Highlights

We love the vibrant, smooth and silky look of this style. The honey blonde hue adds softness, while the highlights give dimension and volume to the look.

To achieve this vibrant kind of result on your body wave perm, use a hair care system like Dove Colour Care Shampoo and Conditioner.

7. Wavy Dark Brown Hair

If you’re looking to achieve a mix of waves and curls, you can definitely achieve the look with a wavy perm. Add to that a rich dark brown hue, and you’ve got an effortless ‘do to take you from day to night anytime.

8. Dusky Blonde with Waves

If you have naturally straight hair and want waves, there’s nothing a body wave perm can’t fix. Go for this smooth wave texture on dirty blonde hair.

9. Body Wave Perm with Babylights

Finish off a fresh look with blonde babylights with a touch of waves throughout your hair. To achieve this look communicate to your stylist where you want your babylights to fall. Personally, we love this subtle face-framing look. Pop on a broad-brimmed hat to set off your features even more.

10. Body Wave Perm Lob

Update your lob haircut with a hint of waves. To style go for the side part to frame your face and to create a more contemporary look.

11. Long Waves

Not sure what to do with your long hair? Give it an update with long sultry waves with a body wave perm.

Keep your long locks looking shiny and healthy with the Toni&Guy Finishing Shine Spray.

12. The Tousled Body Wave

If there’s one look that totally having a moment, it’s the tousled style. Style your new body waves into this look.

13. Body Wave Perm with Lowlights

Want to go all-in with a fresh new look? Complement your body waves with rich, copper-brown lowlights. This is especially great as it adds depth to your hair without being too OTT.

14. Season-less Body Waves

If you’re afraid to commit to a body wave perm, don’t be! This caramel wave look is perfect for anybody, during any season.

15. Voluminous Body Waves

It’s true that wash and care systems that are formulated to increase volume can help the limpest of hair. You know what else can do that? A body wave perm, of course! Use this method to get the waves and volume you crave.

16. The Bed Head Body Wave

Going for the slept-in look? This bedhead body wave is the answer to your quest. This sultry hue and subtle auburn lowlights adds to the effect.

To encourage a long-lasting style with lots of movement, use a hair spray like Toni&Guy Tousled Texture Creation Hairspray.

17. The Body Wave Fringe

Wavy hair and a fringe? We say yes! Put these two elements together for a truly sultry, irresistible look.

18. The Braided Body Wave

Two things we love right now: wavy hairstyles and braids. Get this look by creating a half-up rope braid with the top section of hair. Secure with a hair tie, then create a fishtail braid with the excess.

19. Icy Blonde Body Waves

If you’re looking to add the illusion of extra volume to your body wave perm, consider your hair colour. A good mix of light and dark colours add depth to your tresses. We love this icy blonde look with darker roots and subtle buttery blonde lowlights.

20. Vintage Bob

Who said your vintage waves need to be neat? This lived-in look adds so much life to this classic style. Rough dry your hair and apply a good medium-hold mousse to achieve the look.

We love the TRESemmé Volume & Lift Mousse. It also has a built-in UV filter, so you don’t have to worry about your tresses getting harmed by the South African sun this summer.