Modern perms have evolved far beyond the tight, crunchy curls of decades past. At The Refinery Hair Lounge, we specialize in creating customizable curl patterns that enhance your natural beauty and complement your lifestyle. Whether you’re seeking beachy waves, added body and volume, or defined spirals, our advanced perm techniques deliver natural-looking results that are anything but old-fashioned.
Today’s perm technology uses gentler formulations and innovative wrapping techniques to create texture that looks lived-in and effortless. We work with EVO professional hair care products specifically designed to maintain the integrity of permed hair while keeping curls soft, bouncy, and hydrated. Our stylists assess your hair type, texture, and desired outcome to customize the perm process—from rod size and wrapping pattern to processing time—ensuring results that feel authentically you.
Perms are an excellent solution for those looking to add lasting volume to fine or flat hair, create low-maintenance styling routines, or transition from straight to textured hair without daily heat styling. Modern perms work beautifully on various hair types and lengths, and yes, men can absolutely get perms too! The key to gorgeous permed hair is proper consultation, expert application, and a commitment to using quality products designed for chemically treated hair.
Whether you want subtle wave enhancement or dramatic curl transformation, our perm specialists will guide you through the process, set realistic expectations, and provide comprehensive aftercare instructions to keep your new texture looking fresh and healthy for months to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Modern perms typically last 3-6 months, depending on your hair type, growth rate, and how well you maintain them. The curls will gradually relax over time rather than disappearing abruptly. As your hair grows, you'll notice new growth at the roots, which can be addressed with root perms or touch-ups. With proper care using sulfate-free products and regular deep conditioning treatments, you can maximize the longevity of your perm and keep curls looking their best.
When performed by an experienced stylist using quality products, modern perms are much gentler than those of the past. However, perming is a chemical process that does alter your hair's structure. We use EVO professional products and customize processing times to minimize damage while achieving beautiful results. Pre-perm conditioning treatments and post-perm care routines help maintain hair health. If your hair is already compromised from previous chemical treatments or heat damage, we'll assess whether perming is appropriate or recommend alternative texturizing options.
Plan for 2-4 hours depending on your hair length, thickness, and the type of perm you're getting. The process includes consultation, shampooing, rod wrapping, processing time (which varies based on your hair), neutralizing, and styling. Beach wave perms on shorter hair may take closer to 2 hours, while full-head spiral perms on longer, thicker hair can extend to 4 hours. We'll provide a time estimate during your consultation so you can plan accordingly.
Generally, we do not recommend coloring and perming on the same day, as combining chemical processes can overstress your hair. The ideal approach is to color first, wait at least two weeks, then perm. If you must do both, permanent color should come first with adequate recovery time between services. Semi-permanent or demi-permanent color can sometimes be applied after perming with less risk. During your consultation, we'll create a treatment plan that achieves your color and texture goals while maintaining hair health.
Perm types vary based on rod size, wrapping technique, and solution strength. Beach wave perms use larger rods and loose wrapping for soft, tousled waves. Body perms focus on adding volume and movement rather than defined curls, perfect for fine hair. Spiral perms create corkscrew curls using vertical rod placement. Root perms add lift only at the crown without curling the entire length. Digital or hot perms use heated rods for smoother, shinier curls. We'll recommend the best perm type based on your hair's current condition, desired look, and maintenance preferences.
Proper aftercare is essential for maintaining beautiful permed hair. Wait 48 hours before shampooing to allow the curl pattern to fully set. Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners specifically formulated for chemically treated or curly hair—EVO offers excellent options. Deep condition weekly to maintain moisture and elasticity. Avoid heat styling when possible, and always use heat protectant if you do. Scrunch in leave-in conditioner or curl cream while hair is damp, then air dry or diffuse on low heat. Sleep on a satin pillowcase to reduce friction and frizz. Trim regularly to remove dry ends and maintain curl shape.
Absolutely! Men's perms have become increasingly popular as more men embrace textured, low-maintenance hairstyles. Modern men's perms can create anything from subtle volume and movement to defined curls, depending on your hair length and desired look. Shorter hair typically requires smaller rods for visible curl, while medium-length hair offers more styling versatility. Men's perms are perfect for adding dimension to fine or straight hair, creating beachy surfer vibes, or achieving a modern curly hairstyle without daily styling effort. The process and aftercare are the same as women's perms, customized to your specific hair needs.
Our Perms Specialists
4 stylists
