It’s amazing what magic a Korean perm can do for men. It might be just what you’re looking for if you’ve been itching to change up your hairstyle.
Or maybe you’ve been admiring that K-pop idol’s hair for a while now and wondered if a Korean perm could give you the same glow-up as these idols.
If you’ve been struggling to achieve that oppa hairstyle despite numerous styling products, we’ve got you covered with all the information you’ll need to spot your new Korean perm men hairstyle and where to find the cheapest hair salons in Singapore!
What Is a Korean Perm Men Hairstyle and How It Is Achieved?
![Korean men perm](https://uploads.dailyvanity.sg/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Korean-men-perm.png)
Credits: @ken_menshair/Instagram
In contrast to traditional perms, which produce tight ahjumma-style curls, a Korean perm typically aims for more natural-looking, soft waves or curls in your hair.
If you’re worried about looking like a toy poodle at the end of your perm, consult your hairstylist about your desired outcome before starting on any hair treatment.
Just like any other perm treatment, a Korean perm for men begins with shampoo and conditioner to prepare your hair for the chemical treatment. Following that, a specially formulated perm solution is applied to break down your hair’s natural bonds.
Your hair will be rinsed, and a neutraliser will be applied after the solution has been allowed to process for the required amount of time. To achieve your desired hairstyle, your hairstylist may use a variety of techniques, from wrapping your hair around large rods to using a digital perm machine.
After the neutraliser has set, your hair will be rinsed again and carefully styled by the hairdresser!
You’re Suited for a Korean Perm Men Hairstyle if…
![Korean men perm](https://uploads.dailyvanity.sg/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Korean-men-perm-2.png)
Credits: @makistock/FreePik
Your Hair Is Not Too Short
Ideally, your hair should be at least eight to 10 centimetres long to allow the stylist enough room to cut and style it with pin curls and perm rollers for your desired look.
Your Hair Is Straight and Soft
Because of the added texture that a perm provides, a men’s perm is likely to work better for you than for those with pre-existing wavy hair. With the added texture from the perm, styling can be completed in as little as three minutes!
Your Hair Is Not Thinning Yet
A common misconception is that perming will make thinning hair appear more voluminous. This, however, is not true, as a perm is likely to puff up thinning hair, making your hair appear sparser than before.
You Don’t Mind the Maintenance Process After the Perm
To keep your curls looking their best, you’ll need to follow the “cardinal rules of perm maintenance”.
First, avoid washing your hair and protect it from water for the first 48 hours, or your curls may not hold. To avoid frizz and damage to the hair cuticles, air-dry your hair and avoid combing your permed hair while it’s wet.
You Don’t Mind Taking Some Time To Style Your Hair Every Day
![Korean men perm](https://uploads.dailyvanity.sg/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Korean-men-perm-3.png)
Credits: @makistock/FreePik
If you prefer a low-effort look, a perm may not be the best choice for you. While a men’s perm can help you save time on styling, you’ll still need to spend time on maintenance every day to keep your curls looking fresh.
A Korean perm can last from six to 10 months if you follow this simple hair routine for proper maintenance:
- Wash and condition: When washing your hair, use a perm-friendly shampoo and a moisturising conditioner.
- Apply curl cream: Gently remove excess water from your hair, then work in a curl cream and let your hair air-dry.
- Curl care: Scrunch the curls into place with your fingertips to enhance its natural structure.
- Styling: If you want to add more definition and grip to your hair, apply a creamy pomade or pomade mousse.
Now that you know you’re cut out for a Korean perm, here are the top 16 Korean perm hairstyles for men to show your hairstylist!
16 best Korean Perm Hairstyles For Men
1. As Perm
![Korean men perm](https://uploads.dailyvanity.sg/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/As-perm.png)
Credits: @b_._i.__._._oneswj/Instagram
The as perm distinctively covers the forehead with curls up to the front, creating a stylish look with a small forehead window. This Korean perm men hairstyle is an ideal choice if you feel self-conscious about your forehead!
2. Shadow Perm
![Korean men perm](https://uploads.dailyvanity.sg/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Shadow-perm.png)
Credits: @mandesalon_hy/Instagram
The shadow perm features layers of curls resembling shadows, adding overall volume to your hair. This Korean perm men hairstyle is perfect if you want a warmer, softer look.
3. Wolf Shadow Perm
![Korean men perm](https://uploads.dailyvanity.sg/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Wolf-shadow-perm.png)
Credits: @mans_urban/Instagram
The wolf shadow perm cut combines the choppy texture of a mullet with the softness of a shag cut, creating a stylish blend.
Paired with the trendy shadow perm, this Korean perm men hairstyle is definitely one of the most fashionable and modern look.
4. Classy Perm
![Korean men perm](https://uploads.dailyvanity.sg/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Classy-perm.png)
Credits: @actor_leeminho.lovers/Instagram
Often sported by K-drama actor, Lee Min Ho, this Korean perm men hairstyle known as the classy perm adds sophistication to your appearance and the added fringe helps to draw attention to your face to accentuate your features.
5. Permed Mullet
![Korean men perm](https://uploads.dailyvanity.sg/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Permed-mullet.png)
Credits: @ken_menshair/Instagram
This Korean perm men hairstyle features short sides with length at the back, making a bold and edgy statement, while the permed texture adds softness to the look.
6. Side Parting Perm
![Korean men perm](https://uploads.dailyvanity.sg/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/side-part-perm.png)
Credits: @ken_menshair/Instagram
Popularised by K-actor Gong Yoo in the Netflix drama Goblin: The Lonely and Great God, the side parting perm adds volume to your bangs and reveals about half of your forehead. This Korean perm men hairstyle is an excellent choice for creating balance and concealing facial asymmetry.
7. Middle Parting Perm
![Korean men perm](https://uploads.dailyvanity.sg/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Middle-parting-perm.png)
Credits: @ken_menshair/Instagram
On the other hand, opting for a middle part is ideal if you aim to complement the symmetry of your features. This Korean perm men hairstyle will help to frame your face nicely.
8. Long loose Perm
![Korean men perm](https://uploads.dailyvanity.sg/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Long-loose-perm.png)
Credits: @byus.min/Instagram
Opting for longer strands opens up numerous styling possibilities and allows you to showcase the perm textures. This Korean perm men hairstyle exudes a relaxed and carefree artsy vibe with its long loose waves.
9. Shaggy Perm
![Korean men perm](https://uploads.dailyvanity.sg/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/shaggy-perm.png)
Credits: @ken_menshair/Instagram
The shaggy perm creates a naturally tousled and layered appearance, adding volume and movement to your hair. This Korean perm men hairstyle is ideal if you prefer a more effortless, laid-back look.
10. Bowl cut Perm
![Korean men perm](https://uploads.dailyvanity.sg/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Bowl-cut-perm.png)
Credits: @ken_menshair/Instagram
This Korean perm men hairstyle draws attention to your face with low maintenance. It allows you to show off your waves effortlessly, making it perfect for a busy lifestyle without the need for frequent salon touch-ups or extensive styling tools.
11. Short Hair Perm
![Korean men perm](https://uploads.dailyvanity.sg/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Short-hair-perm.png)
Credits: @lookbook_zz22224/Instagram
The Korean perm men’s hairstyle is easy to manage, and when paired with a fade or undercut, it creates the illusion of fuller, thicker locks.
12. Tousled Messy Perm
![Korean men perm](https://uploads.dailyvanity.sg/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Messy-tousled-perm.png)
Credits: @la.b_hjh/Instagram
The messy Korean perm men’s hairstyle is popular because of its effortlessly sexy finish, which creates a messy bedhead. It offers a more youthful appearance and beautifully softens your facial features with its natural texture.
13. Soft Wavy Perm
![Korean men perm](https://uploads.dailyvanity.sg/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Soft-wavy-perm.png)
Credits: @ken_menshair/Instagram
The soft wavy perm is a classic Korean perm men’s hairstyle, featuring soft, large curls that give the appearance of natural wavy hair. It exudes a timeless charm, making it the quintessential boyfriend hairstyle!
14. See-Through Dandy Perm
![Korean men perm](https://uploads.dailyvanity.sg/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/see-through-dandy-perm.png)
Credits: @ken_menshair/Instagram
The see-through perm offers a neat and tidy look, making it the perfect choice for office men or those seeking to cover their foreheads or M-shaped hairlines.
15. Perm with light ends
![Korean men perm](https://uploads.dailyvanity.sg/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/perm-with-light-ends.png)
Credits: @ken_menshair/Instagram
With this Korean perm, you can experiment with various looks, like colouring the tips for a lighter finish and brightening up a dull face.
However, you will definitely need to use moisturising conditioners to combat potential dryness from this double chemical treatment. Additionally, you’ll have to avoid getting both treatments done at the same time, as this will severely damage your hair!
16. Down Perm
![Korean men perm](https://uploads.dailyvanity.sg/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Down-perm.png)
Credits: @ken_menshair/Instagram
A down perm keeps the hair closer to the head, resulting in a less poofy and voluminous finish. It’s an excellent choice if you want to experiment with your hair texture but still want a subtle and natural look.