Oh, how the world of hair has evolved over my years behind the chair! One trend that’s making quite the splash lately? Short hair with a perm. Let me take you through a journey of transformation, texture, and personal touch that these styles bring, along with some of my cherished insights from years of hands-on experience.
A Throwback Making a Comeback
Remember those days when perms were the rage? Well, they’re back, but with a modern twist. My clients often come in longing for a stylish, low-maintenance look. Enter the short permed haircut. It’s a genius combination that brings volume, bounce, and that certain je ne sais quoi without the endless hours of primping.
Types of Perms for Short Hair
Let’s unravel the most common types of short haircuts with a perm and discover the perfect curl for you.
Pixie Cut Perms
This style has my heart! As a stylist, I’ve played with the pixie cut, adding those intricate curls that create a tousled texture. It’s an edgy wonder for those with slim faces and angular features—imagine balancing out sharp cheekbones with those playful curls.
The Permed Bob
Ah, the evergreen bob, but this time with a curled twist. Think of soft, cascading curls bringing life to an otherwise straight canvas. For clients wanting a blend of classic and contemporary, this one’s a dream.
Diving into the Types of Perms
There’s a smorgasbord of perm styles, and choosing one feels like being a kid in a candy store. Each has its unique charm, and here’s a peek into the most popular ones from my salon chair.
Wavy Perm
Imagine gentle, beachy waves—the kind you’d get after a day by the sea. This has been a go-to for my fine-haired clients, as it adds just the right amount of body. Pro-tip: For longer-lasting waves, a curl-enhancing shampoo does wonders.
Spiral Perm
For those looking to make a statement, the spiral perm is your mate. Creating tight, corkscrew curls, this style’s drama and volume suit thick-haired divas. However, a little heads-up, it needs some tender loving care to prevent frizz.
Loose Wave Perm
Subtlety is the name of the game here. For clients who don’t want a dramatic shift but a hint of texture, the loose wave perm has been a godsend. It’s particularly flattering on those with straight or slightly wavy hair.
Body Wave Perm
Seeking to infuse some life into limp hair? This is where I’ve seen the body wave perm work magic, especially for fine or thin hair.
Digital Perm
Modern problems need modern solutions! Using temperature-controlled hot rods, the digital perm offers long-lasting curls, particularly for thick or coarse hair.
Root Perm
For that extra lift right from the roots, especially for my clients with flatter hair, the root perm has been a revelation.
The Show-Stopping Perm Hairstyles
I’ve had the pleasure of crafting many a hairstyle in my salon. Here’s a taste of the crème de la crème:
Permed Bob: The embodiment of timeless elegance.
Curly Bob: A sassy mix of fun and flair.
Pixie Cut with Perm: For the bold and adventurous.
Short Hair Mullet Perm: A contemporary twist to a classic, marrying short front layers with longer, curly back locks.
Curly Mohawk: Channeling the inner rockstar!
Picking the Right Perm for Your Hair Type
Every hair type has its quirks. From my palette of experiences:
Curly Hair: A spiral perm beautifully enhances those natural curls.
Straight Hair: Body wave perms add that desired dash of movement.
Thin Hair: Root perms give that enviable fullness.
Thick Hair: Loose wave perms tame the mane stylishly.
Fun Fact: Did you know the first-ever perm was done using a mixture of cow urine and water? Thankfully, we've come a long way since then!
Every day, as I drape my clients under the cape and begin the transformation, it’s a blend of art and science. With every snip and curl, I aim to craft a masterpiece, ensuring they walk out feeling as fabulous as they look. A perm on short hair isn’t just a style; it’s an experience, one I’ve been thrilled to be part of time and again.
A chin-length bob enhanced with soft, bouncy curls. The hairstyle showcases a voluminous crown, with the curls becoming tighter and more defined as they reach the ends. The playful spirals frame the face, giving emphasis to facial features. This style is perfect for those looking to add some fun and texture to their short hair. For maintenance, using curl-enhancing products will keep the locks defined and frizz-free. Those considering this look should consult their stylist to achieve the best curl pattern suited for their hair type.
#2 Symmetrically Framed Permed Curls in a Chic Medium-Length Cut
Chic medium-length haircut with bouncy, well-defined permed curls. The curls are tight and voluminous, giving the hair a playful and lively appearance. The hair is parted slightly off-center, allowing the curls to frame the face symmetrically. This style would suit those desiring a youthful and vibrant look. To maintain this look, regular deep conditioning is recommended. Consider using a light curl-defining cream to enhance the curls.
#3 Laid-Back Style with Side-Parted Cascading Permed Waves
Wavy curls hairstyle that exudes a relaxed vibe. The waves are soft and loose, creating a laid-back yet stylish look. The hair is parted to the side, with the waves cascading down, accentuating the facial features. This haircut is ideal for those who prefer a low-maintenance yet fashionable style. Using a sea salt spray can help in achieving these effortless waves. It's also crucial to trim regularly to maintain the shape.
#4 Versatile Perm Short Haircut with Tousled Beachy Waves
Modern short haircut with loose, beachy curly permed waves. The waves are tousled and give the hair a textured and breezy feel. The side parting gives it an edgy touch while still looking casual. For individuals who want a versatile style that can be dressed up or down, this haircut is perfect. To recreate these waves, a curling iron with a large barrel can be used. Finish with a flexible hold hairspray to keep the waves in place.
#5 Effortlessly Chic Shoulder-Length Mix of Waves and Perm Curls
This hairstyle features a carefree, tousled look with a mix of wavy and curly textures. It sits just above the shoulders, providing a youthful and refreshing appearance. The slightly messy and natural vibe of the curls makes it versatile for both casual and formal settings. A gentle side-part allows for some volume on top, adding to its playful charm. To maintain this look, a light curl-enhancing mousse or spray would be beneficial. For those interested in a relaxed and effortlessly chic style, this haircut is a top choice.
#6 Modern Twist on Classic Perm: Bold Undercut with Tight Curls
This haircut showcases a bold and modern twist to the classic perm. It's cropped close to the head and a well-done undercut highlighting the dense, tight curls that offer a rich texture. The side-swept front adds a touch of elegance and softens the overall look. With its shorter length, it's easy to manage and perfect for those leading an active lifestyle. A curl-defining cream will help keep those curls in check and frizz-free. Readers wanting to make a statement while keeping things low-maintenance might consider this chic style.
This style highlights a softer, more relaxed approach to the permed haircut. The wavy curls gently frame the face, exuding a playful and youthful vibe. The length remains medium-short, falling just above the shoulders, making it versatile for various updos and styles. The subtle bangs complement the waves and provide a touch of charm. For best results, a light-hold mousse can help define the waves without weighing them down. Readers seeking a balance between playful and laid-back should give this style a go.
#8 Achieving Timeless Freshness with a Classic Curly Look
This is a classic short permed hairstyle that radiates confidence and elegance. The bouncy curls add volume and dimension to the hair, creating a full-bodied look. The length sits just above the shoulders, making it easy to maintain and style. The side-parted style showcases the richness of the curls and complements the face beautifully. For added definition, readers might use a curl-enhancing cream or serum. This hairstyle is perfect for those looking for a timeless yet fresh curly look.
#9 Defined Curls with a Modern Twist in a Chic Short Cut
Here's a youthful and vibrant short permed haircut. The golden curls are tightly coiled, giving the hair a lively bounce and texture. Sitting at ear length, this style frames the face wonderfully and accentuates the wearer's features. The hair is neatly parted on one side, guiding the curls in a defined pattern. For those wanting to keep this look fresh, a lightweight curl-enhancing product is recommended. It's an excellent choice for individuals seeking a chic, curly short haircut with a modern twist.
#10 Modern and Edgy: Chocolate-Colored Curls With a Perm
This permed haircut exudes a modern and edgy charm. The dark, chocolate-colored curls are voluminous and rich in texture, enveloping the head in a halo of tight ringlets. The length of the hair is just above the shoulders, making it a versatile choice for various occasions. With curls cascading forward, it softly frames the face and highlights the eyes. To maintain this style's bounce and definition, using a hydrating curl cream is beneficial. It's a daring and stylish pick for someone looking to make a statement with their short, curly hair.
This hairstyle boasts a cascade of tight, spiral curls that exude a natural elegance. The mix of dark roots gradually transitioning to a lighter hue towards the tips adds depth and dimension. The short length, ending just below the chin, offers a playful yet sophisticated vibe. A couple of loose tendrils frame the face, adding a touch of whimsy. To keep the curls moisturized and defined, it's recommended to use a lightweight curl-enhancing serum. This hairstyle is perfect for those desiring a fresh, youthful look with minimal fuss.
This is a chic, short haircut that's all about showcasing natural, tight curls. The curls are closely cropped, framing the face beautifully and creating a voluminous crown. The style is low-maintenance and ideal for those with naturally curly hair. Using a hydrating curl cream can help in keeping those curls defined and frizz-free. For individuals wanting a fuss-free yet trendy look, this is the go-to style.
#13 Short and Spirited: Burst of Springy Curls Hairstyle
Here we see a lively short haircut with a burst of tight, springy curls. The curls add a playful volume to the crown, with a gentle fade towards the nape. A hint of auburn color gives the curls added depth and dimension. For maintenance, a lightweight curl enhancer can keep the curls bouncy and vibrant. This style is perfect for those desiring a youthful and energetic look.
Bouncy, short perm with a rich texture. The curls are medium-sized and uniformly distributed, giving a full and lively appearance. It gracefully frames the face, drawing attention to the wearer's features. To keep this style fresh, a hydrating curl cream is recommended. It's an ideal choice for those wanting to add volume and movement to their short hair.
#15 Fun and Voluminous Short Perm With Playful Curls
Playful short perm with a voluminous curly top. The tight perm curls add texture and dimension to the hair. It's a bit longer on top, which provides flexibility for various styling options. For best results, using a lightweight hair mousse can enhance the curls' definition. This cut is perfect for those who desire a fun and carefree look with minimal maintenance.
#16 Effortless Sun-Kissed Waves in Relaxed Short Perm
Relaxed short perm that boasts of loose, beachy waves. The waves gracefully frame the face, creating a soft and approachable look. The length reaches just above the shoulders, offering versatility in styling. To enhance the waves, a sea salt spray or curl-enhancing cream is recommended. This hairstyle is ideal for someone wanting a natural, sun-kissed appearance with minimal fuss.
Full of life, tight, bouncy curls. The multi-tonal highlights accentuate the depth and dimension of each curl. Falling just above the shoulders, the haircut is both playful and chic. For those looking to keep the curls defined, a light hold gel or curl cream is suggested. This look is perfect for anyone seeking a vivacious, voluminous style that commands attention.
#18 Face-Framing Tightly-Coiled Mastery with Depth Highlights
This haircut boasts tightly-coiled curls that radiate from the crown, creating a voluminous effect. With subtle highlights woven throughout, there's an added depth to the overall look. The length is kept short, framing the face just above the ears. For maintenance, a nourishing curl cream can help in preserving the curl's integrity and reducing frizz. This style is ideal for individuals aiming for a low-maintenance yet statement-making hairstyle.
This is a bouncy short perm with tight, spiraled curls cascading around the head. The curls are full and dense, giving the haircut a rich texture and volume. It falls gracefully just below the ears, softly framing the face. To enhance its springiness, a light hold mousse can be applied to the curls. It's the perfect choice for someone who desires a chic and playful look without the length.
A blend of short perm and neat cornrows on one side. The curls are tightly coiled, adding a fun and vibrant touch to the look. The side with cornrows gives a sleek and tidy contrast to the curly side. For maintenance, a curl-defining cream can help keep those curls bouncy and frizz-free. It's an edgy yet approachable style, perfect for those wanting to combine tradition with a modern twist.
This haircut features a lively mix of short curls that frame the face beautifully. The curls vary in size but are mostly medium-coiled, providing a playful yet sophisticated feel. The layered cut allows the curls to fall naturally, adding volume and dimension. To keep this style refreshed, using a light curl enhancer can help maintain its bounce. It's a chic choice for those seeking a low-maintenance yet polished curly look.
This haircut showcases a cascade of short, bouncy, curly perm waves that elegantly wrap around the head. The dynamic interplay of dark and light tones enhances the curl's definition, creating depth. With layers crafted to perfection, the style boasts volume and movement. A light curl-defining product will keep those ringlets in prime condition. It's the perfect choice for someone wanting to merge classic charm with a contemporary twist.
This style features an array of voluminous, tight perm curls that give a youthful and playful vibe. The curls are evenly distributed, adding a sense of fullness to the crown. The short length, just brushing the top of the neck, makes it easy to manage and style. For those with naturally straight hair, getting a perm can achieve this lively look. Maintaining it with a moisturizing curl cream can ensure its bounce and shine stay impeccable.
#24 Wild Platinum Blonde with Effortless Perm Curls
Bold, platinum blonde color combined with wild, loose perm curls. The curls flow freely, giving off an effortless and natural appearance. The length sits just above the shoulders, making it a perfect choice for those desiring a lighter feel. With its voluminous texture, it adds a sense of dynamism to any look. For optimal results, using a light hair mousse can help retain the curl structure and prevent frizz.
#25 Youthful Dark Hue in Low-Maintenance Permed Waves
This hairstyle features soft, bouncy perm waves that gently frame the face. The length is kept just above the shoulders, making it both manageable and stylish. The natural dark hue of the hair complements the curl pattern, offering a youthful and fresh appearance. To maintain the look, a light curl-enhancing cream is recommended. This style is perfect for those who want a low-maintenance yet chic hairdo.
Amy is an hairstylist and the editor-in-chief at Snazzy Lair, where her expertise and leadership are instrumental in shaping the direction of the publication and ensuring its continued success. With over a decade of experience in the hairstyling industry, Amy has honed her craft to perfection. She possesses an innate talent for transforming hair into works of art, and her dedication to her clients' satisfaction knows no bounds.
