If you want to get a perm, there are many different kinds to choose from. What type of perm should you get? How much does it cost to get a perm?
There are many different kinds of perms, and the cost will depend on a few things like the type of perm and hair length. On average, a perm will cost between $40 to $200.
Read on to find out more about the cost of perms, the types of perms, caring for your curls, and more.
How Much Does a Perm Cost?
The cost of getting a perm will depend on many things like what kind of curls, the length and thickness of your hair, and which salon you’ll go to.
A perm will cost between $40 to $200. But, most salons will charge about $80 for most kinds of perms for medium-length hair.
You may choose to get a partial perm or a full perm. A partial perm is getting curls just at the end of your hair, and a full perm is getting curls up to the top of your head. Of course, a full perm will cost more than a partial perm because the hairdresser will need to use more perming solutions, and it’s more work to do a full perm.
Nowadays, you can pick from various perms – tight and loose curls, waves, or coils. It’s important to tell your hairstylist exactly what kind you want.
Types of Perms and Their Cost
To give you a better idea, here’s a list of the kinds of perms you can get along with the average price at most salons:
| Perm Type | Average Price |
| Body Wave | $40 – $200 |
| Spiral Curls | $80 – $200 |
| Multi-textured or Stack | $40 – $150 |
| Root | $30 – $70 |
| Partial or Spot | $40 – $100 |
| Straight | $100 – $200 |
| Volumizing | $50 -$200 |
| Digital | $150 – $300 |
Types of Perms
1. Body Wave ($40 – $200)
Body wave perms are loose perms that look natural. They’re often called romantic waves. They slightly increase the volume of your hair. These curls are very suitable for those with naturally very straight hair who want to have more volume.
If you’re looking to change your style because your straight hair looks limp and you want a transformation, try the body wave perm.
Part of the body wave perm is curling strands of the hair using large rollers to achieve natural waves. This kind is good because it requires minimum upkeep. It can last 3 to 6 months.
2. Spiral Perm ($80 – $200)
If you want curls that bounce and are springy, get the spiral perm. Usually, spiral perms will start at the scalp and go all the way down to the ends. The size of the curls can be adjusted by using different curling rod sizes.
A spiral perm will work best for those who already have curly hair. You should, however, be aware that spiral curls will require a lot of maintenance. When well-maintained, these curls can last up to 6 months.
3. Multi-Textured or Stack ($40 – $150)
Stack perms start at the middle part of the hair. The top part of the hair is left uncurled. It’s good for those who want volume on the bottom part of the hair. Stack perms look natural and add fullness to your hairstyle. A stack perm needs very little maintenance and can last up to 5 months.
4. Root Perm ($30- $70)
A root perm is a perm only for the roots of your hair. This is best done when you had your hair permed before and your hair grew out. Instead of having a perm for the entirety of your hair, the perming medicine is only applied to the newly grown part of the hair.
A root perm can also be done for those who want more volume. It can give your hair a good lift and make it appear thicker. Root perms are very low maintenance and can last up to a month or two.
5. Spot Perm ($40- $100)
As the name implies, a spot perm is a perm for a certain spot only. This is best for people who have curls that have become uneven over time. A spot perm can quickly revive your curls to make them look amazing again.
You’ll need to ask for a stylist who has experience doing spot curls to make sure that the size and texture of the curls match the ones that you already have and to know which sections need the spot perming. This kind of perm is usually very low-maintenance.
6. Straight Perm ($100 – $200)
A straight perm won’t give you curls. On the contrary, it will give you a very straight perm. That’s why it’s also known as the reverse perm. This technique uses a treatment that removes the curls in your hair. Straight perms require very little maintenance and can last up to 10 months to a year.
7. Volumizing Perm ($50 – $200)
A volumizing perm can be done on lengths of hair. This kind of perm can give all hair kinds more volume and appear fuller. A volumizing perm will give your hair waves more than curls. They’re good for those who have gotten tired of blow-drying and styling their hair daily. These waves last for a short while of 6 to 8 weeks only.
8. Digital Perm ($150 – $300)
A digital perm is a technique for perming hair with temperature-controlled rods attached to a machine with a digital display. It gives you bouncy waves while the treatment nourishes your hair too. A digital perm can last up to ten months. Digital perms require minimal maintenance.
Asian Hair Perm – How To and Tips
Making a Perm Last Longer
Proper care for your perm is important so that you don’t quickly lose those curls. Here are some things that you can do to make your perm last longer:
1. Don’t Wash Your Hair Right after Getting a Perm
Your hairstylist will tell you not to wash your hair for 48 hours after getting your perm done. This is so that the curls can “settle.”
2. Don’t Blow Dry Too Often
After 48 hours, you can wash your hair. Use only mild shampoo or a shampoo that was specially formulated for permed hair. Let your permed hair air dry. If possible, don’t blow dry your hair. If you must, choose the cold air setting.
3. Don’t Wash Your Hair Daily
Your hair actually needs oil to have that healthy glow. Washing your hair daily will strip the oil that your scalp produces. It’s best to wash your hair every other day or every 2 days.
4. Use Hair Masks with Keratin and Protein
Getting your hair permed exposed to chemicals used for the treatment. To reverse the effects of the chemicals, your hair needs to be rehydrated. Get hair masks that are rehydrating and infused with keratin and protein. Do this weekly to keep your hair healthy and make the curls last longer.
5. Try to Avoid Exposing Your Hair to Too Much Heat
Blow dryers, curling irons, flat irons are heat styling items. Right after a perm, avoid using them as they can damage your hair. If you need to use any of them, don’t let the temperature go beyond 450 °F.
Again, how much does a perm cost? Usually, you can get a perm for $80. On average, though, a perm will cost you between $40 to $200. This price range depends on many factors, including the type of perm, hair length, and if you prefer a partial or full perm.
Things You Need to Know Before Getting a Perm
If you’ve never had a perm before and are still unsure about getting one, here are some things you need to know before getting a perm:
1. You Need to Be Really Sure You Want to Get a Perm
Perms last about four to six months. It’s not advisable to quickly go back to straightening your hair shortly after you get a perm as this can be damaging to your locks. Think about it and be ready to have those curls for the long term.
2. You Need to Make Sure You Have After-perm Treatments
Truthfully, a perm can make your hair dry. To rehydrate your hair, you’ll need moisturizers and conditioners. It is advised to use a conditioner at least twice a week for a month after you get your perm. Later on, you can lessen it to twice a week.
3. Perms Will Last Anywhere from 2-6 Months
Your hair’s texture and quality will determine how long your perm will last. How you maintain it will also be a factor. But, generally, they last 2-6 months.
4. Some Perms Do Not Smell Good
Perms that use alkaline-based chemicals will really smell bad. The solution used for cold perms contains ammonia which is responsible for the bad odor. Your hair will smell bad for a while, but the odor will disappear after the first washing.
5. Some Perms Will Still Require Styling
Some perms will still need styling and high maintenance. Spiral perms, stack perms, and root perms specifically are not “wash and wear” styles. You’ll need perming mousse, perming cream, and other products so that the curls look their best.
6. Avoid Getting Your Hair Colored
When you get a perm, you expose your hair to chemicals. You’ll need to let your hair recover after getting a perm, so it is best not to add any more chemicals not totally damage your hair. Avoid hair coloring or any other harsh chemical treatments to your hair for about 5 to 6 months after getting a perm.
7. Get the Opinion of Your Stylist
You may have an idea of what perm you want, but it is best also to ask the opinion of a good stylist so they can give suggestions on what really will suit you best.
Can I Get a Perm at Home?
Yes, you can perm your hair at home with a box perm. Box perms are easily available in stores, and they cost anywhere from $6.00 – $15.00.
To have a perm at home, you’ll need someone to help you because it really will be difficult to perm your hair on your own. Pick the home perm kit you want. There will be a lot to choose from but make sure you get one suitable for your hair and one that you are confident you can use.
You’ll also need perm rods. There are different perm rods sizes, so you must get the right ones for the style you want.
Getting a perm at home will save you money but make sure that you know what you are doing. You do not want to damage your own hair. Thus, if you’re hesitant or unsure how to go about perming your own hair, it is best to leave it to the professionals and go to a salon.
Conclusion: How Much Does a Perm Cost?
The cost of getting a perm will depend on a few things like the length of your hair, the type of perm you are getting, and where you’re getting the perm.
On average, a perm will cost between $40 to $200. But, most salons will charge about $80 for most kinds of perms for medium-length hair.
Again, here’s the price range for most salons for the different perm types:
- Body Wave – $40 – $200
- Spiral Curls – $80 – $200
- Multi-textured or Stack – $40 – $150
- Root – $30 – $70
- Partial or Spot – $40 – $100
- Straight – $100 – $200
- Volumizing – $50 -$200
- Digital – $150 – $300
There’s also always the option of doing your perm at home with a box perm to save you money.
