Thinking about getting a perm? Whether you want soft waves, voluminous curls, or a complete texture switch-up, perming is a timeless way to transform your hair. But before you dive head-first into the world of curls, there are a few things every first-timer should know.
At NK Hairworks, we love helping clients discover their ideal curl pattern. Here’s your go-to beginner guide before booking that first perm appointment.
1. Know Your Perm Type
Not all perms are created equal. The method and curl style you choose will influence how your hair looks, feels, and behaves day-to-day.
Perm Methods:
- Cold Perm: The classic method. It creates tighter, more defined curls and is best suited for those looking for long-lasting shape and volume. Often ideal for shorter to medium hair lengths.
- Digital Perm: Uses heat to reshape the hair, creating softer, more natural-looking waves. Perfect for medium to long hair and for those who prefer looser curls that mimic natural movement.
Popular Curl Types You Can Try
🌀 C-Curl Perm
Soft, inward curls at the ends of your hair that gently frame the face. A C-Curl Perm adds subtle volume and an elegant finish — great for those who want movement without a dramatic change.
It suits round or square face shapes beautifully, as the curved ends help soften facial angles. At NK Hairworks, our stylists personalise the size and bounce of the curls to flatter your features and match your styling preferences.
🌊 S-Curl Perm
This style gives you relaxed, wave-like curls that bring texture and body to medium or long hair. It’s ideal for anyone looking for effortless, tousled volume — like you’ve just rolled out of bed in the best way.
We adjust the curl pattern to find the perfect balance between softness and structure, so the waves frame your face while staying natural and wearable.
🌸 Korean Perm
A salon favourite for a reason — the Korean Perm delivers soft, natural waves with a graceful flow. Inspired by K-beauty trends, this style adds movement and bounce without the stiffness often associated with traditional perms.
Whether you’re after romantic, airy curls or face-framing waves, this perm suits most hair lengths and types. At NK Hairworks, we customise every Korean Perm to your face shape, hair texture, and lifestyle, ensuring a polished yet low-maintenance finish.
🌴 Beach Wave Perm
Dreaming of hair that looks like you just spent a day by the ocean? The Beach Wave Perm is perfect for relaxed, light, lived-in texture. Think soft, loose waves with airy volume and bounce.
Best for medium to long hair, it grows out seamlessly and requires little upkeep — ideal if you prefer a more laid-back, casual look. Our stylists use modern techniques to create natural-looking waves while protecting the health of your hair.
✨ Volume Perm
If your hair tends to fall flat, the Volume Perm might be your new best friend. It adds lift at the roots and body throughout the lengths, giving fine or limp hair a fuller, more dynamic appearance.
Especially flattering for oval or round face shapes, the added volume helps elongate and balance facial features. At NK Hairworks, we carefully tailor each volume perm using the right technique and products to give you lasting fullness without damaging your strands
2. Prep Your Hair (and Expectations)
A perm is a chemical process, so your hair needs to be in good shape to handle it. If your strands are already very dry, brittle, or overly bleached, your stylist may recommend treating your hair first before perming.
Some things to expect:
- You may need to trim off any split ends before the service.
- Pre-perm treatments might be advised to strengthen your hair and protect its integrity during the process.
- Don’t wash your hair right before your appointment — freshly washed hair can be too slippery for the solution to take properly.
3. Think Long-Term
Perms are semi-permanent (typically lasting 3 to 6 months), so it’s important to choose a style you’re happy to live with for a while.
The good news? They grow out gracefully when done well, especially with styles like digital or Korean perms that are designed to soften over time. At NK Hairworks, we always make sure your perm suits both your current lifestyle and future plans (like upcoming colour or cut changes).
4. Aftercare is Important
Your perm is only as good as how you care for it afterward. Here are a few golden rules:
- Don’t wash your hair for 48 hours after the perm. This allows the curls to “set” properly.
- Use curl-friendly shampoo and conditioner — preferably sulphate-free and moisturising.
- Ditch the brush. Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to detangle gently.
- Style with curl creams or leave-in products that define and hydrate without weighing curls down.
- Book in for regular trims to keep your ends healthy and your curls bouncy.
Need help choosing the right products? Our stylists will recommend what’s best for your curl type during your perm appointment.
5. Expect a Slight Shift in Your Hair Routine
If you’re used to flat ironing or blow-drying your hair straight every day, a perm will mean embracing a different styling rhythm.
But here’s the best part: for most people, perms actually simplify your daily routine. You’ll wake up with more shape, bounce, and texture — meaning less time spent in front of the mirror.
A little scrunching and a light curl cream may be all you need to walk out the door looking like you did something (when you barely did).
6. Consult the Professionals
At NK Hairworks, we take the time to understand your hair goals, assess your current hair condition, and explain what to expect every step of the way. We will consider your hair health, curl pattern, length, and face shape to customise a look that works for you. Our hair stylists are trained in multiple techniques, from classic to modern, and will ensure your curls come out beautifully, without compromising hair health.
Perming your hair for the first time is exciting, but it’s also a big step. With the right knowledge, the right stylist, and the right aftercare, your perm can completely refresh your look in the best way possible.
If you’re ready to start your curl journey, book a consultation with NK Hairworks. We’ll walk you through your options, check your hair’s readiness, and help you find the curl that fits your lifestyle like a glove.
Curls should never feel like a gamble, they should feel like you.
READ NEXT: How To Prevent Your Hair Colour From Fading