When we talk about curl trends a few years ago, we think of dramatic, glamorous curls that are rather high maintenance. The most sought-after curls right now? Natural-looking curls that look bouncy and voluminous, and frame face so that it looks more defined and slim. This is also the kind of curls you’ve been seeing on your favourite Korean celebrities.
Achieved by what’s generally known as a “Korean perm”, it is done using a combination of hot and cold perm methods.
If you’re looking to change up your look, this is definitely something you can consider, and here are recommendations of some of the best hair salons in Singapore that are known for providing amazing Korean perm service.
1. Apgujeong Hair Studio
If you’re looking for an authentic Korean hairstyling experience without jetting off to Seoul, Apgujeong Hair Studio might be where you’re looking for. Every Apgujeong outlet is helmed by an experience Korean Assistant Director Stylist, who leads a team of Korean stylists, all of whom have at least eight years of industry experience in Korea and internationally.
Don’t worry about language barrier. All of Apgujeong Hair Studio invest resources to train their Korean stylists in English so communication and recommendation wouldn’t be a problem. The salon also offers a “7 Days Service Guarantee” assurance to all customers, allowing them to return for a free touch-up if they’re dissatisfied with their hair.
Apgujeong Hair Studio has several outlets around Singapore.
- #02-18 Junction 8 Shopping Mall (Tel: 6250-9937 / 9100-2184)
- #04-27 Tampines 1 Shopping Mall (Tel: 6781-1052 / 9457-5780)
- #01-40 Punggol Waterway Point (Tel: 6385-8957 / 9239-1297)
- #03-106 Tiong Bahru Plaza (Tel: 6250-8591 / 9853-6365)
- #02-216 VivoCity (Tel: 6255-6564 / 8299-5460)
- #02-30/31 Great World City (Tel: 6235-1629 / 8112-0226)
- #04-05/06 JEM (Tel: 6694-0978 / 8112-0310)
- Hougang Mall (Opening Soon)
- The Clementi Mall (Opening Soon)
Why you’ll love Apgujeong: Known for creating the latest and trendiest hair designs, Apgujeong’s stylists make sure every look is customised for their customers. The team also practises the Korean culture of hospitality and service, which means they treat each customer like a family guest, rather than just another client. You’ll also love the relaxing hair washes and scalp massages that they provide.
Try:
Their Mucota Omega Perm, and scalp and hair treatment.
Look for: Kyle Shin and the team of Assistant Director Stylists. The Chief Director Stylist at Apgujeong Hair Studio, Kyle is an award-winning stylist who is well-respected in the international hair styling scene. The hair maestro specialises in Korean perms, rebonding, and creative colours. The team of Assistant Director Stylists are also highly experienced in giving customers their own tailored hairstyle.
2. Picasso Hair Studio
Attention to details is a strength of Picasso Hair Studio, where the service resembles spas more than regular salons. After you’re welcomed into the salon, a hot hand towel is offered to you so you can freshen up and relax. Keep your belongings in personal lockers or dustbags, and receive personalised follow-up services via SMS to make sure you like your new perm look.
During the service, a customised salon consultation is done where you’ll see the stylists drawing out the hairstyle they will be doing (now you know why they’re called Picasso!) so you can easily visualise the final look.
Picasso Hair Studio is located at 662 North Bridge Road. Call 6291-0691 for appointments.
Why you’ll love Picasso: Picasso is big about perms. They come up with a new type of perm once every few months, and have already innovated 10 different perm styles to date. You’ll definitely be able to find something that suits you!
Try: A new type of perm look! Because of their specialisation in perms, Picasso stylists will be able to design something that look great on you. They launch new perms and colours so you’ll find something new to inspire you at every visit.
Look for: Jeremy Ng or Jason Wong.
Jeremy has more than 8 years of experience in the hairdressing industry. He prides himself to be a good listener to his customers. He finds out what their needs are and works towards a look that his customers want and will look good in. He’s known to be very detailed and patient which has garnered him2nd place in the “Cut & Style” category in the Singapore Hair Designer Award 2016.
Jason, on the other hand, has worked with many prestigious salons prior to Picasso Hair Studio. He went to advance his hairdressing skills further and was trained to educate his peers on hairdressing as well. He’s detail oriented and has 12 years of experience, so you can definitely expect great things from him.
3. Bada Hair
Founded in South Korea in 1972 and now with 190 boutiques worldwide, Bada Hair finally made its way to Singapore and set up at a huge 3,000 sq-ft space at Mandarin Gallery. This Korean hair salon is staffed with stylists who are skilful in different methods of Korean perming, such as Magic Setting, Volume Rebonding, and Digital and Setting perm.
They also offer an “8 Days Promise” guarantee, which means you can return to the salon for a free touch-up within eight days, if you’re not happy with your hair service.
The ambience is also something to shout about. You’ll be welcomed with custom designed furniture and warm lighting that will put you at ease immediately. Order a complimentary drink from their menu, either of freshly brewed coffee by their barista or a glass of refreshing drink.
Bada Hair is located at #03-13 Mandarin Gallery. Call 6909-0504 for appointments.
Why you’ll love Bada Hair: This is more than just a hair salon. The one-stop beauty salon also offers other beauty services such as mani-pedi, makeup, and even eyelash extension. You’ll also love their comfortable seats that are very much a great perk especially if you’re going to spend a lot of time at the salon for a full hair service.
Try: Spending an entire day at the Beauty Salon as a treat for yourself. Start with a cup of freshly brewed coffee, followed by a nail session. Follow this up with lash extension service, where you can choose the curl and length of lash that you prefer. Finally, complete your day with a Korean perm service and colouring service; their stylists are especially talented when it comes to Balayage and creative colouring.
Look for: Hye Jin and Ted. They’re both Director Stylists at Bada Hair. Hye Jin has been with Bada Hair in Korea since 2001 and has been frequently invited to attend the renowned Haute Coiffure Francaise (HCF), which is an international hair design competition held in Paris. Ted, on the other hand, has worked with many Korean models and is great at creating K-pop styles. If you’d like to have an appointment with Ted, remember to make early booking, the popular stylist has a huge clientele and will only be available with an appointment.
4. Du Sol Beauty Hair Salon
- #B1-19 Scotts Square (Tel: +65 6443 2582)
- #03-73/76 Square 2 Novena (Tel: +65 6397 6560)
Why you’ll love Dusol: Because of their knowledge in the latest and upcoming hair trends, they’ll be able advise on what would look best on you while still remaining on trend. They’re known to use high quality hair products that are also used in Korea – some of which have been formulated and created in Korea. Other than that, they ensure their service is always on point and their stylists are Korean too!
Try: A Korean Designer Perm. Doesn’t that sound catchy? Choose between the three types of designer perms – Glam Perm, Body Perm and the Mool Gyul Perm.
Look for: Edward Kim, Sean Lee and Lizzy. All of them are well qualified and have won many awards for their work. Edward is the Director Stylist of Dusol, Sean a Master Stylist and Lizzy a Senior stylist. Trust that you’ll be in good hands!
Tips on maintaining Korean curls
Now that you’re flaunting a natural-looking, beautiful ‘do, you’ll be happy to know that Korean curls don’t typically take a lot of maintenance work to do. At the end of your session with your stylist, it’s a good idea to check with him/her what are the things to take note of so your curls can maintain for as long as possible. But here are some general tips for you to consider:
- Avoid washing your hair in the first 24 hours after you have received your perm. It usually take some time for the chemicals used on your hair to lock in the new shape of your tresses.
- Condition your hair every day. Your hair may look dry from the perm. To make sure that they look bouncy and healthy, condition it religiously every day.
- Use a wide-tooth comb instead of a brush. This helps with detangling better, and will cause less frizz.
- Treat your hair so it looks healthy. Invest in a hair oil to help give your hair more softness and shine, focusing especially at the ends of your hair. You can also look for a cream meant for curls that can help to keep the shape of your curls.
- Finally, use a heated device sparingly. But if you have to use it, turn it down to low heat and low airflow.
