Want voluminous curls? Say hello to the 2016 perm

For our younger readers, who may not even know what it is, essentially, a perm is created by setting the hair in waves, or curls, using chemicals. Through this method, the style lasts for a few months, or until grown out.

It's not a new trend to want that 'I woke up like this' look, that's in equal parts effortless and chic, so what better way to get it than by getting a perm? Whilst your new curls may not be completely natural, you will be able to wake up every day with good looking locks, without the need to heavily heat-style each morning. You may have recently seen the likes of Rihanna and Juno Temple sporting super curly styles, and if it's good enough for Rihanna, then who are we to ignore this emerging trend?

Get the look you want

The difference between achieving an '80s style, tight perm, or natural beachy waves, will be dependant on the size of the rods used. Larger rods will give you a more relaxed wave, whereas a thin rod will give you tight, spiral curls. It would be beneficial to have a consultation with your hairdresser ahead of having your hair styled, as they should be able to advise you as to which size rod will give your hair that perfect wave for the look you want.

The key to the 2016 perm is for it to look as natural as possible, so along with wider rods, the curls should not be placed in a completely uniform fashion. By setting the rods in a relaxed formation, this will enable some curls to fall in a slightly different direction, which emulates the way natural curls form. This is essentially what the 2016 perm aims to achieve.

What are the effects on your hair?

Unlike in the '80s, there are now much gentler ways to achieve a perm than dousing your hair in chemicals. Asking your stylist which method they use, how it will affect your hair, and what is best for the style you're looking for, will be a good place to start. Not only do fewer harsh chemicals get used in the initial method, but also, your hair will endure less heat damage if your perm prevents you from having to heat-style regularly to achieve your usual wavy look.

Particularly for those with poker-straight strands, a perm is a perfect way to give your hair added texture, which will hold styles more effectively. Gone are the days when you'd curl your hair, only to see yourself in a mirror an hour later, once again, with straight hair. With a perm, you'll have the flexibility of still being able to straighten your hair when you want, but then hopping into the shower, giving your hair a wash, and bringing those curls back to life with ease. A perm is perfect for the warmer months when you want to avoid heat-styling so much but still have a chic and on-trend style, á la Rihanna. You won't have to worry about any moisture ruining your style, and it will give you a bit of an extra lie-in in the morning.

Commitment levels too much?

If a perm is a little too permanent for you, you can invest in a high-quality curling wand and hot rollers. After you've set your curls, brush them through with your fingers and use frizz control oil or serum to prevent any fuzziness. This will give you temporary, natural texture, and let you get used to the possibility of your voluminous hair being a permanent thing. You can even experiment with different rod thicknesses to determine what kind of perm you'd like.

It's great to see curls, natural or otherwise, being embraced, and texture being lauded. With the perm making a comeback, it allows everyone to rock the curled look, and not have to tirelessly heat-style their hair on a daily basis. Whatever style you're sporting this season, remember that it's about what makes you feel good: it doesn't matter what the look is, it's your confidence that will make it work!

For more information on the 2016 perm, or any other styles that our salons offer, don't hesitate to get in touch.