Soft, bouncy waves that look like you just left the salon — even on a busy morning. That’s the promise of a Korean perm, one of the most searched hair trends of the last few years. If you’ve been saving K-drama hair screenshots, here’s what a Korean perm actually is, the styles to ask for, and how to tell whether it suits your hair.
What is a Korean perm?
“Korean perm” isn’t one specific service. It’s a name for the soft, natural-looking perm styles made popular in Korea: loose curls and waves that look effortless rather than tight or crunchy. Most Korean perms are done as a digital perm, which uses heated rods to set the wave, so the curl is shaped and smooth and looks best when your hair is dry.
Popular Korean perm styles
C-curl perm
The ends curve gently inward in a “C” shape. It adds polish and volume to shoulder-length hair and bobs without looking curly.
S-curl perm
Soft, flowing “S” waves through the lengths. It’s the classic Korean wave for medium and long hair.
Volume perm
Focused on lift at the roots and movement through the mid-lengths, for fine or flat hair that won’t hold a blowout.
Korean perms for men
Men’s Korean perms add soft texture and movement to the top, so short hair falls naturally and is easier to style.
Digital perm vs. regular perm
A regular (cold) perm creates curl that looks strongest when hair is wet and can feel tighter. A digital perm is set with heat, so waves are looser, softer and look their best when dry, which is why it’s the go-to method for the Korean look. Read more about our digital perm and classic perm services.
Is a Korean perm right for you?
You want waves or bounce without curling your hair every day.
Your hair is straight or flat and won’t hold a style.
Your hair is healthy enough for heat. Heavily bleached or damaged hair may need a gentler option.
Bring a photo or two of the look you love. We’ll check your hair’s length, texture and condition and tell you honestly which style will work.
Aftercare tips
Wait before washing your hair. We’ll tell you how long.
Use a sulfate-free shampoo and a light curl cream or oil.
Dry with a diffuser or scrunch and air-dry to keep the shape.
A Korean-speaking hair salon in Queens
Hair Pro Charming is a mother-daughter salon on Roosevelt Avenue in Woodside, Queens, and we speak English, Korean and Spanish, so you can describe the exact look you want in the language you’re most comfortable with. We’re a short walk from the 61 St–Woodside station and an easy trip from Sunnyside, Jackson Heights and Elmhurst. Send us a booking request or call (917) 373-1417.