Let’s admit it: There’s something so effortlessly sexy about a woman sporting glorious, wavy locks or soft, luscious curls—the kind that perfectly frame your face, staying naturally gorgeous even when unkempt. Unlike pin-straight tresses, textured hair boasts of movement and volume, adding extra oomph to your look.
But while there’s the option of styling your hair with curlers and irons, we all know how tedious and damaging the process can be. Regular heat-styling, after all, can dry out your strands and injure the hair cuticle. If you ask us, we’d say opt for a longer-lasting alternative, one that’s been making a comeback recently, too: permed hair.
Short for “permanent” hair (though perms aren’t exactly permanent), a perm is a hair treatment that uses chemicals to change the hair texture, creating curls or waves. But unlike the traditional perms of the ‘80s and ‘90s, the modern perm has evolved to be more “hair-friendly,” and yielding more subtle and natural-looking results—so you can nail that “I woke up like this” bedhead aesthetic. That said, you can actually choose if you want to go for tight ringlets or loose waves or anything in between!
Not sure what specific style you’d like to rock? Be inspired by the hot ‘do’s on these celebs!
Yassi Pressman
Yes, you can achieve Yassi’s naturally curly locks, too! It’s worth noting, though, that maintenance for this style can be a bit tricky, as lack of moisture can easily turn those pretty ringlets into a frizzy mess.
To keep dryness at bay, make sure to condition daily with an intense hydrator like the Cream Silk Triple Keratin Rescue Ultimate Repair & Shine Treatment Crème.
Catriona Gray
While we love seeing Queen Cat with her perfectly polished and updos, there’s a distinct freshness that comes with her letting her hair down like this—all vulnerable and slightly disheveled. It’s a great style for lazy girls, too: The key to maintaining this look is to avoid brushing and to simply detangle with a wide-toothed comb. Doing so lets you maintain the waves while removing unwanted knots and snags.
Janine Gutierrez
Have short hair, will perm! As Janine confidently proves, textured hair works for short ‘do’s too, and can actually lend a fun, youthful vibe. To keep strands sleek despite the movement, switch to a smoothening shampoo with hair-nourishing keratin, like TRESemmé Keratin Smooth Shampoo.
Verniece Enciso
If you’re a K-drama fan like Verniece, you’ll probably want something more understated—like this Crash Landing On You-inspired style that showcases waves just at the bottom half of her locks. (It’s super romantic, too!) Keep an eye out for signs of dryness and split-ends at the ends of your strands, though; they’re extra vulnerable especially after a perm. Use Cream Silk Triple Keratin Rescue Ultimate Repair and Shine Conditioner to maintain healthy, shiny hair.
Ready for your hair makeover? Just remember: If you do decide to go for permed hair, it’s best to go to a trusted salon or professional for best results—especially since you’ll be sporting your new ‘do for around three to six months! Make sure to switch to products suited for treated hair as mentioned above. Last but not the least: Have fun with your new style!