Korean Hair Perm: Styles, Care Tips, and Must-Have Products
Korean perm has gained strong attention in recent years, especially among those drawn to soft waves, natural volume, and long-lasting shape. With the widespread influence of K-pop and K-dramas, the Korean-style perm has gone from niche to mainstream.
This guide aims to cover the most popular Korean perm styles, hair care tips for permed hair, essential products, and what to know before booking a session, especially if you’re thinking of getting a Korean perm in Singapore.
What Is a Korean Hair Perm?
A Korean hair perm is a chemical treatment designed to create smooth, flowing waves or soft curls that mimic naturally styled hair. Unlike traditional Western perms that can be harsh and produce tight curls, Korean perms aim for a more effortless, everyday look.
There are two main types:
- Digital perm (also known as a hot perm): Uses heat to create bigger, looser waves, ideal for ends of the hair.
- Cold perm: Produces tighter curls and more volume near the roots, typically without heat.
The choice between the two depends on your desired curl style, hair texture, and how much maintenance you're prepared for.
“Korean perms aren't about changing your hair completely. They’re about enhancing it in a natural, low-effort way.”
Popular Korean Perm Styles
Korean Hair Perm for Women
-
C-Curl Perm
Adds soft inward curls at the ends. Great for shoulder-length cuts or layered hair. -
S-Curl Perm
Creates gentle waves from mid-length down. Ideal for medium to long hair, giving volume and body. -
Digital Wave Perm
Best for thick hair. Produces loose curls that bounce when dry, looks better the less you do to it.
Korean Hair Perm for Men
-
Comma Hair Perm
A neat curl at the fringe shaped like a comma. Adds flair while keeping it professional. -
Two-Block Perm
Popular among K-pop idols. Undercut sides with soft curls on top. -
Down Perm
Keeps side hair flat and neat. Often combined with fringe perms for balanced structure.
Choosing the Right Perm for Your Hair Type
| Hair Type | Recommended Perm | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Straight, fine hair | C-Curl, Down Perm | Adds volume without frizz |
| Thick or coarse hair | Digital, S-Curl | Handles weight, creates movement |
| Short hair (men) | Comma, Two-Block | Keeps shape and easy to style |
| Frizzy or damaged | Avoid strong perms | May worsen condition |
How Long Does a Korean Perm Last?
On average, a Korean perm can last 3 to 6 months, depending on:
- Hair care routine
- Hair texture and porosity
- Frequency of washing
- Type of perm (digital tends to last longer than cold)
Digital perms tend to look better the less you manipulate the hair, whereas cold perms may require more styling products to maintain the look.
How to Care for Korean Permed Hair
After getting a perm, how you treat your hair determines how long the curls stay soft and defined.
Post-perm care tips:
- Wait 48 hours before washing to let the curls settle.
- Avoid tying hair tightly, especially within the first few days.
- Use lukewarm water for washing to prevent weakening the curl structure.
Essential care habits:
- Use sulphate-free shampoo to reduce drying.
- Apply moisturising conditioner or mask regularly.
- Pat dry hair with a towel, do not rub roughly.
- Use a diffuser when blow-drying to retain curl shape.
- Comb with fingers or a wide-tooth comb only.
Must-Have Products for Korean Permed Hair
Using the right hair care products after getting a Korean perm can make a big difference in how your curls hold up over time. The goal is to keep your hair moisturised, maintain the shape of your waves, and avoid ingredients that strip away natural oils or disrupt the perm structure.
Here are some tried-and-tested product types and popular brand suggestions for maintaining your Korean perm.
1. Sulphate-Free Shampoo for Curl Protection
Recommended:
L'Oreal Paris EverCurl Hydracharge Shampoo
Mise en Scène Perfect Serum Shampoo
Key Benefits:
- Protects curl structure
- Prevents dryness and frizz
- Ideal for frequent use
2. Deep Moisture Hair Masks
Recommended:
Aussie 3 Minute Miracle Moist Deep Conditioner
Kérastase Nutritive Masquintense
Key Benefits:
- Restores moisture to brittle hair
- Prevents split ends
- Adds shine and elasticity
3. Curl-Enhancing Creams or Lotions
Recommended:
Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream
Ouai Curl Crème
Key Benefits:
- Defines curls and waves
- Reduces frizz
- Adds natural bounce
4. Lightweight Repair Serums
Recommended:
Innisfree Camellia Essential Hair Oil Serum
Briogeo Farewell Frizz Rosarco Oil
Key Benefits:
- Smooths flyaways
- Heat-protective barrier
- Adds softness without weight
“Always apply styling or leave-in products when your hair is damp, not dripping wet. This helps your hair absorb moisture better and hold its curl pattern throughout the day.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Washing too soon after a perm (before 48 hours)
- Brushing dry curls with regular brushes
- Skipping conditioner, thinking it flattens curls
- Using alcohol-heavy styling sprays
Korean Perm in Singapore: What to Know Before You Book
It's worth taking a few thoughtful steps before making that salon appointment to get the best result for your hair and of course, your money.
Not All Salons are the Same
It’s important to choose a stylist who is trained in Korean perm techniques or has clear experience working with Asian hair types.
Look at Client Reviews
Before booking, take a look at feedback from people with similar hair length and type.
Consider Proper Consultation
Stylists who take time to assess your face shape, routine, and current hair health tend to give better results.
Pricing Varies Greatly
On average, Korean perms in Singapore range from around SGD 150 to SGD 450 or more.
Bringing Out the Best in Your Perm
Korean hair perms aren’t just about aesthetics, they offer a practical, long-lasting way to achieve hair that looks styled with minimal effort. But the real difference comes in how you care for it afterwards.
A well-maintained perm doesn’t just hold its shape, it stays soft, defined, and healthy-looking for weeks, even months!
At Top Secret, we’ve developed a dedicated range of perm-safe hair mask to support every stage of the process. From gentle, sulphate-free shampoos that help maintain curl definition, to deep moisture masks that replenish hydration in dry ends, each product is formulated to work with chemically treated hair.
If you've invested in a Korean perm, the right aftercare can make a noticeable difference. We're here to help you keep those curls looking their best!
Frequently Asked Questions About Korean Hair Perms
-
How Long Does a Korean Perm Typically Last?
- Most Korean perms last between 3 to 6 months, depending on your hair type, aftercare routine, and how often you use heat styling tools.
-
Can I Colour My Hair After Getting a Korean Perm?
- Yes. But it’s best to wait at least 2 to 3 weeks to avoid over-processing and drying out the hair.
-
What’s the Difference Between a Digital Perm and a Cold Perm?
- A digital perm uses heat to create loose, voluminous waves, while a cold perm relies on chemicals alone and produces tighter, more uniform curls.
-
How Soon Can I Wash My Hair After the Perm?
- You should wait at least 48 hours before washing to allow the curl pattern to fully set.
-
Will My Natural Hair Texture Return After the Perm Fades?
- Yes. The treated hair remains permed until cut off, but new growth will come in with your natural texture.
-
How Often Should I Trim My Hair After a Korean Perm?
- A trim every 8–10 weeks helps remove dry or split ends and keeps the curls looking fresh and manageable.
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