With the Hallyu wave taking over the world, it is safe to say that the biggest beauty trendsetters hail from Korea. It is no different when it comes to hair. Enter Korean perms, the closest thing you can get to achieve that Korean actress dramatic hair-look. Unlike the old-fashioned, frizzy curls perms used to give, the Korean perm focuses on giving gentler, more natural curls. So say goodbye to flat hair and hello to bouncy, natural curls!

Beauty Insider has got you covered on the tips to help you keep that Korean perm looking fly!

Cold perm vs Digital perm?

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Cold perms go way back to the ‘80s. This traditional perm technique involves soaking the hair with a cold solution and neutraliser before locking in the curls with a small to medium rod for extremely defined curls. With cold perms, you can expect much tighter curls that are more defined when hair is wet. Cold perms are still a popular choice for many as it is the most affordable and it is the less damaging to the scalp.

Unlike cold perms, digital perms — or the ‘Korean perm’ — involve curling the hair when it is dry. This perm technique uses a medium to large perm rod to create looser curls. Digital perms often leave hair with natural-looking curls that are more prominent when dry. Plus, digital perms are famously known for being low maintenance! However, digital perms do not work on all hair types and are more suitable for people with thick hair.

How much do Korean perms cost?

In Singapore, the price of Korean perms starts from $250. Although Korean perms tend to be a little pricier than cold perms, Korean perms are the way to go if you are looking that instant volume while having natural-looking, bouncy curls! 

For affordable digital perm services, we recommend TEAM Salon at The Star Vista. Digital perms at this salon start at the price of $185.

How long do Korean perms last?

Just like the rest of other perms, Korean perms typically last between 6 to 10 months. Longer if you apply proper care. Make sure you follow these basic tips to keep your korean perm in place. It’s actually a lot easier than you think. First step, avoid water getting in your way! We know your hair tends to get greasy by the day especially for Asian hair where we are exposed to a sunny and humid environment. 

But consistency is key in order to take care of your korean perm!

Tips on How to Take Care of Your Permed Hair

1. Wait At Least 48 hours before Washing Your Hair

Although it is tempting to wash your hair, especially with the humid weather in Singapore, your perm needs time to set. By washing your hair, you run the risk of making your curls fall apart faster. It will flatten and mess up your locks altogether. The ingredients along your hair needs to be absorbed completely—so you have to wait at least 48 hours to do so. Thus, we recommend skipping the shampoo for two days after getting your perm. If you could wait further to 72 hours, the better. 

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2. Use Hair Products Made For Curls

If you want to keep your C-Curl digital perm in place, use curl-enhancing products and crunch your curls upwards to keep them in place. When choosing the right shampoo and, or conditioner make sure they’re targeting specially for curly hair. We know some of you might be tempted to use a moisturizer or serum to hydrate your curls, go ahead if that’s what makes your hair feel healthier but we suggest to avoid using cream-based formulas as they weigh down the curls and flatten your hair instead of volumising it. Stay away from anything that contains Silicone, SLS and alcohol, they will dry out your hair and cause frizziness. Instead, find something that can help hydrate your locks.

3. Ditch Your Usual Cotton Towel

If you haven’t already, this is your sign to invest in buying the plush microfiber towel. Microfiber towels are famously known around the professionals—this is due to the fact that they feel 100 times finer and softer than actual human hair. Making them the most gentle fabric when it comes to hair care. Using a regular cotton towel can damage your strands and cause more frizzness. It leads to dryness which scratches the hydration between your strands that you once installed during your korean perm procedure—so it is time to say goodbye to drying your hair with a cotton towel. 

Avoid Heat-styling Tools

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4. Avoid Heat-Styling Tools

You got the korean perm treatment for a reason: for curling your hair. So, please simply put down any curing tools. You don’t need to use any curling irons right after getting the korean perm because they will break down the strands further and lead to damangeness. If you aren’t satisfied with your curls, make sure to let the stylist know beforehand. Do not curl them by yourself. If you must use a hairdryer, coat your hair with a thermal-protectant conditioner before applying any heat to your hair. 

5. Trim regularly

When your hair gets longer over time, it weighs down the curls, causing your curls to lose their bounce. In order to combat this, get a trim regularly to spring those curls up. Plus, you can get rid of those pesky tangles to keep your curls looking fresh! 

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6. Ditch The Comb

A comb can loosen the curls or in the worst-case scenario, it can straighten the hair. So ditch the comb and just gently run your fingers through your hair. Careful not to touch your scalp—the dirt around your fingers may cause clogging pores which leads to itchiness and oil build-ups. One of the tips is that you can comb your hair after shampoo as it will help prevent tangles and ensure that the hair product is evenly distributed on your scalp and hair.

7. Avoid Touching Your Hair 

We know that the best way to maintain the curls is to run your finger smoothly around your hair but make sure not to excessively touch them. As mentioned earlier, the dirt around your fingers can cause oiliness and pore clogging. Imagine all the stuff you have touched throughout the day transferring onto your locks, that’s a no-no. If you have a problem with your hair always getting on your way, use a headband or a loose clip. Careful not to ruin the curls! 

Photo by Element5 Digital on Unsplash

Best Hair Salons for Korean Perm in Singapore

1. Chez Vous

https://www.instagram.com/p/CNEMIy1Hapj/

With 4.8 star ratings on Google, Chez Vous is an award-winning hair salon in Singapore that is known for its impeccable treatments and service. Their team comprises highly trained and dedicated hair stylists with a minimum of 10 years of experience under their belt. Furthermore, they offer a wide range of services like a haircut, perm, hair treatments, and color transformation. Equipped with blankets, a food and treats menu, as well as high-speed wifi, you can unwind while they pamper you. If you opt for digital perm the estimated cost is about $251.45 to $433.35.

Click here for more information or to book an appointment.

Location391 Orchard Road, Ngee Ann City Podium, 05-05, S238872
Opening hoursWeekday: 11 am – 8:30 pm. Saturday: 10:30 pm – 7 pm. Sunday: 11 am – 6 pm
Contact details+65 67329388

2. BeDeBon Korean Fashion Salon

https://www.instagram.com/p/CHh1WcrHiBW/

BeDeBon Korean Fashion Salon is a one-stop center that features a photo booth, cafe, and retail section all under one roof, making them the perfect place for K-pop enthusiastic. Moreover, they also offer treatment spas as well as manicures and pedicures. The price range of perm depends on the hair length and for extra long hair, the estimated cost can reach up to $300.

Click here for more information or to book an appointment.

Location04-72 Plaza Singapura 68 Orchard Road, Singapore 238839
Opening hoursWeekday:11 am – 8 pm. Weekend:11 am – 7 pm.
Contact details+65 62388083

3. Apgujeong Hair Studio

https://www.instagram.com/p/CMn-aNpnS0G/

If you’re looking for the best hair salon for Korean perm, look no further because Apgujeong Hair Studio is the one for you. Plus, they also offer makeup services for those who want a complete transformation from hairdo to makeup. With their highly experienced stylists, they will ensure that you obtain the desired results. On top of that, they offer different types of Korean perm such as cold perm, Mucota digital perm, and Mucota omega digital perm, in which the starting price is from $155.

Click here for more information or to book an appointment.

Location9 Bishan Place, #02-18 Junction 8 Shopping Mall, Singapore 579837
Opening hoursOpen daily: 10.30 am – 9.30 pm
Contact details+65 62509937

4. TEAM Salon

https://www.instagram.com/p/B-jhSAVnK6a/

Founded by Jean Tong in 1985, TEAM Salon has six branches throughout Singapore and they are the preferred hair salon due to their top-notch service. Plus, with their relaxing ambiance and highly trained specialists, they will ensure that you obtain first-class treatment. The estimated price for a digital perm and ceramic perm is between $265 and $450.

Click here for more information or to book an appointment.

Location1 Vista Exchange Green, #B1-21 The Star Vista, Singapore 138617
Opening hoursWeekday: 11 am – 9 pm. Weekend: 10 am – 7.30 pm
Contact details+65 66596656

5. REDS Hairdressing

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5ujmB2l7yK/

REDS Hairdressing is a leading hair salon in Singapore with several branches in Tampines, Parkway parade and Takashimaya S.C. At REDS Hairdressing, you can find different types of hair treatments and services for all your hair needs. Besides, they only use high quality products to ensure safety and visible results.

Click here for more information or to book an appointment.

Location4 Tampines Central 5 03-10/11 Tampines Mall Singapore 529510
Opening hoursOpen daily: 10.30 am – 9 pm
Contact details+65 67815055

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