Top 5 Popular Perm Styles in New York

Perms are making a powerful comeback—and nowhere is this trend more evident than in New York City.

From fashion-forward trendsetters in SoHo to effortlessly chic Brooklyn creatives, New Yorkers are embracing the versatility, movement, and personality that a great perm can add to any hairstyle. In this blog, we’ll dive deep into why perms are so popular in NYC, explore different types of perms, share key tips before getting a perm, introduce the five most popular perm styles in the city, and offer hair care advice to keep your look fresh.

And finally, we’ll let you in on a top salon in New York trusted by locals and international visitors alike—T-Gardens New York.

Why Are Perms So Popular in New York?

New York is a city that thrives on individuality, diversity, and bold self-expression. With so many subcultures, fashion influences, and creative professions, it’s no surprise that New Yorkers are turning to perms to achieve unique, low-maintenance hairstyles that still feel dynamic and stylish.

Here are a few reasons perms are trending in NYC:

• Versatility: Perms today aren’t just about tight curls. They can range from loose beachy waves to soft body-enhancing bends.
• Time-saving: With a perm, your hair holds its shape longer, making busy NYC mornings easier to manage.
• Styling freedom: A good perm can add structure to fine hair, tame frizz, or give volume and movement to otherwise flat styles.
• Fashion-forward appeal: Perms suit a wide range of cuts and personalities—from edgy shaggy looks to romantic waves.

Whether you’re walking into a boardroom or a Brooklyn café, a well-done perm can elevate your entire look.

Types of Perms Available

Not all perms are created equal. Choosing the right perm depends on your hair type, lifestyle, and desired outcome. Here are some popular options:

1. Digital Perm

Originally popularized in Japan and Korea, digital perms use heat and digital temperature-controlled rods to create loose, soft curls or waves. It’s a favorite for medium to long hair.

2. Cold Perm (Traditional Perm)

The classic perm technique that uses alkaline solutions and rollers to form defined curls or waves. Great for more structured, lasting results.

3. Body Wave Perm

This technique creates subtle, natural-looking waves and is perfect for adding volume and movement to otherwise flat or fine hair.

4. Spiral Perm

If you want tight, bouncy curls with a dramatic flair, spiral perms are ideal. Hair is wrapped around a vertical rod to create volume and lift.

5. Root Perm

Focused only at the roots to add volume and lift without changing the shape of your ends. Popular for people with limp or flat hair looking for a boost.

What to Know Before Getting a Perm

Perms are transformative—but they’re also a chemical treatment that alters the internal structure of your hair. To ensure the best results, here are some essential things to consider:

• Hair condition matters: If your hair is heavily bleached or damaged, it may not be suitable for a perm. Always consult with your stylist first.
• Choose the right perm type: Different hair types react differently. An experienced stylist will help you choose what works best for your goals and your hair health.
• Commitment to aftercare: A perm isn’t “set it and forget it.” You’ll need to follow proper care routines to maintain your style and avoid frizz or dryness.
• Know your style goals: Bring reference images and be clear about how much time you’re willing to spend on daily styling.

Top 5 Popular Perm Styles in New York

1. Modern Korean C-Curl Perm

Inspired by Korean beauty trends, the C-curl perm gives you soft curls that naturally curl inward at the ends, perfect for a youthful, feminine look. Ideal for medium to long layered cuts, this perm adds subtle movement while maintaining a sleek silhouette.

2. Tousled Beach Wave Perm

One of NYC’s most requested styles. The beach wave perm gives an effortless, windswept texture that’s perfect for fashionistas who want a laid-back vibe. It works beautifully on shoulder-length to long hair and pairs well with balayage color.

3. Shaggy Volume Perm

Great for those with fine or flat hair, this style combines a layered shag haircut with a light perm that adds body and bounce. Popular in Brooklyn’s indie scene, it’s edgy, lived-in, and low maintenance.

4. Short Bob Wave Perm

Who says perms are only for long hair? This style creates soft, fluffy waves on a blunt or layered bob. It’s perfect for city professionals who want a wash-and-go style that still looks polished.

5. Spiral Curl Perm

For those who love a dramatic, retro look, the spiral curl perm is making a strong comeback. Bold, voluminous, and full of texture, this style suits confident personalities who love standing out in the crowd.

How to Care for Permed Hair

Once you have your dream perm, proper care is key to maintaining your style and keeping your hair healthy. Here’s how to care for permed hair:

• Wait before washing: Avoid washing your hair for at least 48 hours after the perm to allow the curls to set.
• Use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner: These products help retain moisture and prevent frizz.
• Avoid heat styling: Excessive heat can loosen your curls. If you must use a dryer or iron, always apply a heat protectant first.
• Use curl-enhancing products: Light mousses, creams, or leave-ins help define your waves or curls and reduce frizz.
• Deep condition regularly: Moisturizing treatments are essential to keep permed hair soft and resilient.
• Trim regularly: Regular trims help prevent split ends and keep your style looking fresh.

If You’re Getting a Perm in New York, Visit T-Gardens New York

When it comes to getting a high-quality, trend-conscious perm in NYC, T-Gardens New York is a salon you can trust. Located in the heart of Manhattan, T-Gardens blends Japanese precision with New York creativity, offering an unparalleled experience for clients from around the world.

Here’s what sets T-Gardens apart:

• Expert stylists trained in Japan and the U.S.
• Wide range of perm techniques including digital, cold, and custom perms
• Personalized consultation to match your face shape, hair type, and lifestyle
• Relaxing, welcoming salon atmosphere with bilingual staff
• Consistent five-star reviews from local and international clients

Whether you’re looking for soft Korean-style waves, a low-maintenance body perm, or something more bold and fashion-forward, T-Gardens will help you achieve your ideal look with care, technique, and style.

Ready to transform your hair with a beautiful perm? Book your consultation with T-Gardens New York and discover why it’s one of the most trusted salons in the city.