Looking for a low-maintenance way to get soft, natural-looking curls that last? The Japanese perm is trending in 2025 as a gentle yet long-lasting alternative to traditional perms. Designed to create smooth, defined waves or curls with less damage, it’s a top choice for those seeking effortless volume and style.
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about Japanese perms, from types and benefits to aftercare tips for different hair lengths.
Where to Get a Japanese Perm in Singapore?
RULER Japanese salon 4.9/5 stars on Google!
A serene retreat in the heart of the city, RULER Japanese Salon blends minimalist interiors with meticulous Japanese hairstyling. Known for its low-maintenance digital perms, the salon also excels in vibrant colouring and smoothing treatments, perfect if you’re after silky, natural-looking waves.
Reviews:
Loved the experience and result! I did digital perm + cut + moisture treatment. Absolutely the best service I’ve had.” – Crystal Blade, Google Reviews
I had an amazing experience with Joseph as my stylist for a digital perm. He really took the time to understand exactly what I was looking for and even suggested several styles that would complement my face shape and personal preferences.” – Ametrine Nephrite, Google Reviews
What We Like:
1. Expert stylists for perms, colours, and keratin treatments
2. Calm, minimalist space for total relaxation
3. Personalised, detail-oriented service
What to Consider:
1. May require advance booking due to popularity
2. Only one outlet in Singapore
Kimage 4.2 to 4.8/5 stars on Google!
Kimage has earned its reputation as a go-to salon for Japanese perms, with stylists who are trained to handle even tricky hair textures. Whether you’re after soft waves or tighter curls, consult with their experienced team to find a style that suits you best.
Reviews:
Both Yun Han and Carol were incredibly patient and meticulous. They stayed even after the salon had closed just to make sure my perm was done properly and that I was happy with the result.” – Charmaine T, Google Reviews
My stylist, Sean did a wonderful perm and colouring that is easy to maintain and gave practical tips for taking care of my hair.” – KT, Google Reviews
What We Love:
1. Wide range of perm styles available
2. Experienced, attentive stylists
3. Multiple outlets islandwide
What to Consider:
1. Standard and hairstylist skills vary greatly across all eight salons
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Location
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- 80 Marine Parade Road, #02‑46/47, Parkway Parade, Singapore 449269
- Blk 177 Toa Payoh Central, #01‑128, Singapore 310177
- 1 Jelebu Road, #03‑20, Bukit Panjang Plaza, Singapore 677743
- Click here to view all outlets
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Price
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S$230 to S$290
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Opening hours
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- Parkway Parade: 11 am–9 pm (Mon to Fri), 10 am–8 pm (Sat and Sun)
- Toa Payoh: 11 am–9 pm (Mon to Fri), 10 am–7 pm (Sat and Sun)
- Bukit Panjang: 11 am–9 pm (Mon to Fri), 10 am–9 pm (Sat and Sun)
- Click here to view all opening hours
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Contact details
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Contact details
NAOKI Hair Dressing 4.9/5 stars on Google!
Owned by Japan’s Arte Salon Holdings, NAOKI Hair Dressing is the brand’s only overseas outpost outside of Tokyo.
Stylists here are not only up to date with the latest Japanese trends and techniques, but they also uphold omotenashi, Japan’s signature style of thoughtful service. Plus, they offer a seven-day satisfaction guarantee for added peace of mind.
Reviews:
Awesome Aya-San! She is well-experienced, knowledgeable, and I always 100% assure that she will do a great job on my hair. Love her creativity on digital perm, colour, and hair cut.” – 1i Shernice kor, Google Reviews
Fantastic experience and outcome. Masa is a very skilful stylist who gave great advice. Will definitely return to get my hair done.” – Estee Tan, Google Reviews
What We Love:
1. Japanese-owned with Tokyo-level service
2. Highly skilled, attentive stylists
3. Seven-day guarantee for all services
What to Consider:
1. Only one location in Singapore
2. Past complaints of shoddy work addressed by management
Types of Japanese Perms
Photo credit: Depositphotos
There are three main types of Japanese perms available. Learn their names and what they’re like so you won’t be completely clueless when you speak to your hairstylist!
- Digital perm: This type of perm uses heat to activate the perming solution, which results in tighter, more defined curls.
- Cold perm: This type of perm uses a cold perming solution, which is gentler on your hair and creates looser, more natural-looking curls.
- Air wave perm: This type of perm uses air to create curls, which is a good option for people with fine or damaged hair.
How Does a Japanese Perm Work?
So, how does a Japanese perm give you those soft, elegant curls without the usual damage? It all comes down to innovative techniques and smart formulations.
Japanese perms use a unique combination of chemicals designed not just to reshape your hair, but also to boost its shine and texture.
Don’t let the word “chemicals” scare you. These formulas are often enriched with proteins that help repair and recondition the hair during the process, leaving it looking bouncy and healthy.
Is It Damaging to My Hair?
Photo credit: @cafeandcuts
Compared to traditional perms, Japanese perms are considered one of the gentlest options out there. They’re all designed to create natural-looking curls with less stress on your strands—but that said, no chemical treatment is completely damage-free.
If you’re going for a Japanese digital perm, just know it involves applying heat on dry hair to reshape it. This creates more defined curls, but may not be ideal if you have fine or fragile hair, as it can lead to split ends over time.
Concerned about damage? Ask your stylist about cold or air wave perms. These techniques skip the heat, making them a safer choice for those with weaker or more delicate hair, and still give you soft, natural-looking waves.
Is It Really Permanent?
Japanese perms are considered semi-permanent—they reshape your hair at the structural level, so your curls or waves will last. With proper care, the results can stick around for six to ten months before you’ll need a touch-up.
Benefits of Getting a Japanese Perm
Photo credit: Depositphotos
There’s a reason everyone’s talking about Japanese perms. They’re just that good. Here’s why they’ve been trending:
- They last longer. While traditional perms might fade after a few months, Japanese perms can last up to six with proper care.
- They look more natural. Forget stiff, crunchy curls. These give you soft, defined waves that move naturally with your hair.
- They’re less damaging. Sure, it’s still a chemical treatment, but the formulas used are much gentler compared to regular perms.
- They’re customisable. Want loose waves? Tighter curls? You can work with your stylist to create a look that suits your features and style.
- They save you time. These curls are easy to manage, so you can hit snooze and still wake up to good hair days.
Japanese Perm for By Hair Length
Photo credit: @mamasannydiary
Short Hair
- Great for adding volume and texture to limp, flat styles.
- Opt for loose waves or soft curls to avoid excessive shrinkage.
- Always consult your stylist to gauge how much shorter your hair may look post-perm.
Medium Hair
- Arguably the best length for a Japanese perm – versatile and flattering.
- Try beachy waves for a casual vibe or cascading curls for a more polished look.
- Allows for easy experimentation with different curl types.
Long Hair
- Adds dimension and body, making long hair look fuller.
- Be mindful of how curls affect your updos like buns or ponytails. Consult your stylist.
- Can reduce overall styling time, making it ideal for busy routines.
Aftercare Tips for Japanese Perm
Photo credit: Depositphotos
Want your curls to stay bouncy and beautiful for longer? Here’s how to keep them in top shape:
- Switch to sulfate-free haircare: Sulfates can strip your hair and loosen your curls, so go for shampoos and conditioners made for permed hair.
- Cut down on heat styling: Heat can mess with your curl pattern, so keep hot tools to a minimum. If you really need to use them, don’t skip the heat protectant.
- Deep condition regularly: Your curls will thank you for the extra moisture. Aim for a deep conditioning session once a week (or more if your hair’s feeling dry).
- Schedule regular trims: Snipping off split ends every six to eight weeks keeps your curls looking fresh, not frazzled.
- Detangle gently: Skip the brush and use a wide-tooth comb to avoid pulling your curls apart.
- Shield your hair from the sun: UV rays can fade your curls and dry them out. A hat or UV-protectant spray goes a long way on sunny days.
