Perm (Curl / Wave)

A modern perm is a long way from the tight, uniform curls the word brings to mind. Depending on the rod size and technique your stylist chooses, the result can be anything from a soft, loose beach wave to defined, springy curls.

The process chemically reshapes the hair around rods, so the new texture is permanent — it grows out rather than washing out. That means the consultation matters: your stylist will assess your hair's condition and history before agreeing to proceed.

• Consultation about the curl or wave you want and your hair's condition
• Sectioning and winding onto rods sized to the result you want
• Perm solution applied and processed with monitoring
• Neutralising to lock in the new texture
• Conditioning treatment and styling to show the new texture
• Aftercare instructions for the critical first 48 hours

Allow around three hours. Your stylist assesses your hair, then chooses rod sizes and winds your hair section by section — this takes the bulk of the time.

The solution is applied and processed with regular checks, then neutralised to set the new shape. Your hair is conditioned and styled so you can see the texture.

The first 48 hours are important: your stylist will tell you not to wash or tie your hair during that window while the texture settles.

Anyone who wants curl or wave in naturally straight hair, or wants more body and movement. It suits hair in reasonable condition — heavily lightened, previously relaxed or fragile hair may not be suitable, and your stylist will tell you honestly at the consultation.

Do not wash, tie or clip your hair for the first 48 hours — this is the single most important rule. Afterwards, treat permed hair as you would curly hair: sulphate-free shampoo, plenty of moisture, minimal brushing, and scrunch rather than rub when drying.

A perm is permanent, so as your hair grows you'll have your natural texture at the roots. Most people re-perm after around four to six months if they want to maintain it throughout.

• Bring photos — 'perm' covers everything from beach waves to tight curls
• Don't wash, tie or pin your hair for 48 hours afterwards
• Tell your stylist about any lightening, relaxing or previous perms, however long ago
• Switch to a wide-tooth comb and stop brushing when dry
• Ask about a conditioning treatment beforehand if your hair feels dry