Cold perms are ideal for shorter hair and defined curls, while digital perms work best for longer hair and effortless waves.
That said, your choice should reflect your hair length, texture, daily styling preferences, and local climate conditions. Stick around to understand the real difference between cold and digital perms, it might just persuade you to get either one done at your local hair salon in JB.
What Is the Main Difference Between Cold and Digital Perms?
Cold perms reshape hair using chemical lotion without heat, while digital perms apply heat-controlled rods to set loose curls.
Both methods change the internal structure of your hair, but the results, styling effort, and long-term satisfaction differ significantly.
Feature | Cold Perm | Digital Perm |
Heat Usage | No | Yes (digitally controlled) |
Curl Type | Tight, structured curls | Soft, flowing waves |
Best Hair Length | Short to medium | Medium to long |
Post-Treatment Styling | Requires mousse and tools | Air-dries into shape |
Humidity Resistance | Moderate | High |
Maintenance Level | Higher | Lower |
Longevity | 2–4 months | 4–8 months |
Price in Malaysia (2025) | RM150–RM300 | RM300–RM600 |
“Over 70% of clients with long hair in Johor opt for digital perms due to frizz control and styling ease.” REDS Senior Stylist
How Does a Cold Perm Work?
Cold perm uses a chemical solution to soften and reconfigure your hair’s natural bonds without any heat, hence the term, cold!
Process Breakdown:
- Hair is washed and sectioned
- Wrapped around thin rods
- Alkaline perm solution is applied
- Processed for 20–30 minutes
- Neutraliser is added to fix the shape
Ideal for:
- Short haircuts, pixie or bob styles
- Fine or straight hair that lacks volume
- Clients who enjoy styling curls with mousse or curling irons
Result: Defined curls that are tighter when wet, looser when dry.
How Does a Digital Perm Work?
A digital perm uses a cream softener followed by digitally heated rods that shape the hair into gentle, long-lasting waves.
Step-by-Step:
- Hair is softened with a waving solution
- Rolled onto heat-connected rods
- Machine heats each rod to precise settings
- Curls are set using a neutraliser
- Final rinse and blow-dry complete the look
Ideal for:
- Long, thick hair needing texture
- Those who want low-effort, voluminous styling
- Humid-weather styling without frizz
Result: Loose waves that hold shape even after air-drying.
Is One Better for Humid Climate?
Yes. Digital perms perform better in high-humidity regions like Malaysia and Singapore.
The heat-formed bonds in digital perms offer greater shape retention. Cold perms, while affordable and effective, tend to lose their curl definition without daily styling, especially in tropical air.
If you’re tired of curls flattening after a walk to the MRT or parking lot, a digital perm might save your morning routine
Which Hair Types Suit Each Perm?
Matching the right perm to your hair type is essential for long-lasting results.
Cold Perms Are Best If You Have:
- Hair that’s short, straight, or lacks volume
- A preference for springy, vintage-inspired curls
- A daily styling routine with curl creams or mousse
- No recent bleach or intense chemical history
Digital Perms Are Best If You Have:
- Medium to long hair that’s thick or coarse
- Wavy or frizz-prone hair that resists styling
- A wash-and-go lifestyle
- A preference for subtle, natural movement
Caution: If your hair is bleached, over-processed, or chemically relaxed, both perms may be risky. A stylist should perform a strand test first.
Which One Lasts Longer in 2025?
Digital perms last 4 to 8 months, while cold perms hold for around 2 to 4 months.
Cold perms begin to relax after two months, particularly without proper care. Digital perms, while pricier, retain their structure far longer, especially if you’re using sulphate-free shampoos and hydrating conditioners.
Which Perm Requires Less Maintenance?
Digital perms win when it comes to low-maintenance styling.
- Cold perm users typically need to apply mousse, blow-dry, or use curling rods daily.
- Digital perm users often skip styling entirely, simply air-dry and go.
This difference makes digital perms especially appealing to working professionals or those who prefer low-effort beauty routines.
What Happens After a Perm? Hair Care Tips You Should Know
Aftercare is really, really important. Both perms require care to maintain shape, shine, and avoid dryness.
Post-Perm Do’s:
- Wait 48–72 hours before washing your hair
- Use sulphate-free shampoo and nourishing conditioner
- Detangle with a wide-tooth comb
- Sleep on a silk pillowcase to prevent curl friction
Post-Perm Don’ts:
- Avoid tying your hair tightly for the first few days
- Refrain from heat tools for at least a week
- Skip chlorine or saltwater pools initially
Treatment Add-On: Consider an Olaplex or deep-repair service after your perm for healthier strands.
What Are Common Mistakes When Choosing a Perm?
Many clients make the wrong choice by focusing only on curl style, not on lifestyle or hair health. Just because the hair looks good, doesn’t mean it’s really good.
Example Scenarios:
- Wrong choice: A client with long, bleached hair chooses a digital perm for soft waves. Result: ends break or refuse to hold curl.
- Right choice: A bob-cut client with fine hair chooses a cold perm and uses mousse daily. Result: lively curls and increased volume.
Reminder: Always disclose recent colouring, keratin, or chemical treatments before booking a perm. Consult with your local stylist and ask them Must-asked 8 Questions Stylist at a Hair Salon KSL .
How Much Does Each Perm Cost in Malaysia (2025)?
Factor | Cold Perm | Digital Perm |
Salon Time | 2–3 hours | 3–5 hours |
Price Range (RM) | RM150–RM300 | RM300–RM600 |
Maintenance Cost | Higher (products) | Lower |
Touch-Up Frequency | Every 3–4 months | Every 6–8 months |
Digital perms are more expensive upfront but offer better value over time for many clients. That said, pricing on its own should not be a decisive factor, what fits your hair type and features should be considered first.
Top 5 Differences Between Cold and Digital Perms
To recap the differences between cold perm and digital perm, remember:
- Heat Use: Cold perms don’t involve heat, digital ones do.
- Curl Pattern: Cold = tight curls; Digital = loose waves.
- Styling Time: Cold needs daily effort; Digital is low-maintenance.
- Hair Suitability: Cold suits short/fine hair; Digital fits long/thick hair.
- Climate Compatibility: Digital performs better in humid settings.
Conclusion on Cold vs Digital Perms in 2025
Both cold and digital perms deliver beautiful, lasting texture, but your hair type, lifestyle, and climate should guide the choice.
Cold perms suit those who enjoy styling and crave defined curls. Digital perms are ideal for those who want soft, frizz-resistant waves with minimal effort.
Still undecided?
REDS Hair Salon in Johor offers expert consultations tailored to your hair condition, face shape, and daily routine. Our stylists are trained in both perm methods to help you achieve natural results safely.
Book an appointment with us today to discover which perm style will bring out the best in your hair, beautifully, confidently, and effortlessly.
Find us here at KSL City Mall!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cold Perm and Digital Perms
Digital perms work better for thick hair due to their ability to shape dense strands into soft movement.
It depends on your hair’s health. Most stylists will recommend a strand test before proceeding.
Not if treated correctly. Digital perms reduce frizz better than cold perms, especially in humid weather.
Yes. Korean-style digital perms remain one of the most requested salon services across Asia.
Cold perms require touch-ups every 3–4 months. Digital perms can last up to 8 months with care.
Perming can cause dryness. Use moisturising masks weekly and avoid harsh shampoos.