Perming adds curls to your hair, making them look more glamorous. Depending on the style of perm you choose, you can rock soft, natural curls or big, voluminous ones. Perming is a hair treatment requiring the use of various chemicals. To get lasting results, it’s important to get this treatment from a qualified professional.
It goes without saying that high-quality perms are not cheap. Perms for short hair can cost anywhere from $40 to $160. Those for medium hair length usually begin at $70 and can go up to $250. For longer hair, the cost can range anywhere between $90 and $500.
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Factors Affecting the Cost of Perm
Different factors affect the cost of perm. Generally, the price is determined by the following things.
Perming Technique Used
There are various types of perming techniques depending on the kind of style you are going for. For example, a spiral perm creates corkscrew-like curls while a beach wave gives tousled waves.
Length of Hair
Whether man or woman, hair length directly influences the cost. The longer your hair, the cost will be higher. More hair requires the use of more chemicals. It also requires more effort and time on the part of the stylist.
Type of Salon and Location
The price will be higher if you go to a reputable salon in an upscale area. However, if you get the treatment from an affordable or recently established salon, you can get away with paying less. Salons with highly experienced stylists will charge more for perming treatment. In addition to experience, they also charge more because they use premium perming products.
Cost of Different Styles and Types of Perm
There are a variety of perm styles with varying costs. Here is a general overview of the standard prizes for each type of style.
| Perm Style | Cost | Perm Type | Cost | |
| Partial Perm | $40 – $ 150 | Hot Perm | $50 – $200 | |
| Root Perm | $50 – $100 | Cold Perm | Up to $200 | |
| Body Wave | $50 – $300 | Digital Perm | $200 – $400 | |
| Volumizing | $50 – $200 | Exothermic Perm | $50 – $100 | |
| Multi-Textured | $50 – $300 | |||
| Beach Wave | $50 – $250 | |||
| Straight | $50 – $500 |
What Is the Best Type of Perm for Your Hair?
You can get the most out of perming if you get one suitable for your hair type. The type of perm that looks good on straight hair might not suit someone with naturally curly hair. Here are some expert tips and recommendations for the best type of perm according to your hair type.
Thin, Straight Hair
People with thin, straight hair need more volume to prevent the look of flat hair. For them, root perm, which provides volume at the roots, is recommended. Another option is a digital perm, which creates soft, wavy curls. If you have long, thin, and straight hair, body wave perm may be the best option. It gives loose curls that add volume.
Wavy Hair
Wavy hair that lacks volume can benefit from beach wave perm. It gives you effortless waves and is suited for medium to long wavy hair. Another good option is pin curl perm. It gives you beautiful, soft, bouncy waves. If you are in the mood for tighter curls, opt for a stack perm. It gives the appearance of layered curls and also has a volumizing effect.
Thin, Curly Hair
Thin, curly-haired people should opt for a straight or reverse perm. Instead of curling, it straightens your hair, making it look more polished. However, if you want to retain your curls, a partial perm may be the right choice. In this, the stylist only curls a section of your hair. This type of perm also adds volume to your roots.
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How Long Does a Perm Last?
The time duration of a perm depends on three major factors. First is your hair type and texture. If your actual hair is coarse, it will hold tight perms for a long time. But if you have thin, straight hair naturally, your hair will hold perms for a lesser time. However, generally, a perm can last for about three to six months on all types of hair.
The perm technique used by your stylist also plays a role in their longevity. The more skilled a stylist is, the better their know-how of the best technique for your hair. Finally, how you care for your hair post-treatment also impacts the duration of the perm. Getting regular trims and avoiding using heat tools will increase the lifespan of your perms.
How to Maintain Your Perms?
Post-perm care and maintenance are crucial for making them look as stunning as they did at the salon. Here are some helpful tips.
- Do not wash your hair 48 hours after the treatment. It will allow the perms to settle properly.
- Use a gentle cleansing shampoo to wash your hair. Follow it up with a moisturizing conditioner. This will keep your hair hydrated.
- Do not overuse heat tools to keep the look of your curls intact. They will only damage your hair, making it less likely for the curls to stay. If you have to use a heat tool, put some heat protectant in your hair first.
- Avoid contacting your hair with chlorine, sun, and saltwater.
- Get your hair trimmed regularly. It is essential to prevent split ends and maintain the defined patterns of the curls.
Can You Perm Your Hair at Home?
Going the DIY route with hair perming is not advised. This is because the process involves the use of various hair chemicals. Only a professional hair stylist knows the quantity and the right type of chemicals for different types of hair. Also, they have the right size of rollers and know the right technique for placing them in the hair. You can seriously damage your hair if you try to do all of these things yourself. Worse, there is an increased chance of the finished perm not looking the way you want it to. You don’t want to end up with a look that you hate!
Summing Up
Perms are a great choice for those wanting to spice up the look of their hair. The specific cost of the treatment depends on various factors, the most noteworthy ones being your hair length and the perm style. Hopefully, you now have a good idea of the standard cost associated with this treatment. Always get perms done in a reputable salon and follow the aftercare procedure diligently to rock your gorgeous curls for a long time.
