The Korean wave perm creates soft, flowing curls that mimic natural waves, ideal for those seeking low-maintenance volume with a K-drama aesthetic.
In 2025, this style continues to dominate salon bookings across Asia thanks to its versatility, long-lasting finish, and cultural popularity.
So if you’re interested in a korean wave perm but are a little hesitant to get one, don’t worry! The best hair salon JB is here to walk you through.
What Is a Korean Wave Perm and Why Is It So Popular?
It’s a hair perm technique that forms loose, natural-looking waves rather than tight curls.
Unlike the rigid perms of the past, the Korean wave perm, also called the mul‑gyul (water wave) perm, adds soft movement and volume, much like the hair of your favourite K-pop or K-drama stars.
Key Features:
- Creates C-curls, S-curls, or soft spirals
- Often styled to look best air-dried
- Long-lasting with proper care (up to 4–6 months)
- Complements oval, round, and heart-shaped faces
- Culturally driven: inspired by Hallyu wave fashion trends
This style also blends well with layered cuts, face-framing highlights, and subtle colour gradation, making it one of the most versatile hair transformations currently trending in Southeast Asia.
Whether styled with bangs or middle parting, the waves give a polished yet effortless charm that appeals across age groups.
What’s the Difference Between a Digital and Cold Korean Perm?
Digital perms use heat to create curls that are more visible when dry, while cold perms give curl definition when wet.
Type | Curl Appearance | Styling | Best For |
Digital Perm | Curlier when dry | Air-dry | Coarse, thick hair |
Cold Perm | Curlier when wet | Blow-dry | Thin or fine hair |
Digital perms are more common for Korean wave styles as they create soft, bouncy curls ideal for everyday wear. Cold perms are better suited for temporary or frizzier finishes.
How to Choose the Right Korean Wave Perm for You
The best Korean wave perm depends on your hair length, daily routine, and preferred styling look.
Factors to consider:
- Hair type: Coarse hair holds digital curls well; finer hair prefers cold perms or soft waves.
- Face shape: Build perms add structure, while cloud perms soften edges.
- Styling time: Choose a perm that matches your routine, air-dry vs styled daily.
- Hair history: Colour-treated or bleached hair may require gentler techniques.
Consult your stylist with photos and explain how much time you spend on hair each day.
How Does a Korean Wave Perm Work? (Step-by-Step)
A Korean wave perm restructures your hair’s inner bonds using rods, solution, and sometimes heat to create long-lasting, natural waves.
1. Consultation
Your stylist will assess your hair’s condition, previous chemical treatments, and your face shape. This stage ensures your goals are realistic and tailored to your hair’s strength and texture.
2. Prep
Hair is gently washed, detangled, and divided into manageable sections. Clean, well-separated strands help the perm lotion absorb evenly and form consistent wave patterns.
3. Application
Perm rods are rolled into specific curl directions, and a waving lotion is applied. The size and angle of the rods influence whether you get tighter S-curls or soft C-waves.
4. Processing
The solution sits for 20–45 minutes depending on your hair type and the method chosen. Digital perm uses low heat to activate curls, while cold perms process at room temperature.
5. Neutralisation
A neutralising agent is applied to stop the chemical reaction and set the new wave shape. This step locks in the curl and restores pH balance to your strands.
6. Post-care Advice
After rinsing and styling, your stylist will explain aftercare instructions, including when to wash your hair and which products to use. This helps your new waves settle properly and last longer.
“Expect 2.5 to 4 hours in-salon depending on your hair length and desired wave intensity.”
Digital perms, in particular, use heated rods that activate curls during drying, meaning your hair appears curlier when dry rather than wet. Cold perms, meanwhile, give more definition when damp.
Types of Korean Wave Perms Explained
Different perm styles offer varying curl shapes and effects to match personal taste, lifestyle, and face shape.
Perm Style | Description | Best For |
Cloud Perm | Loose, airy waves from mid-length down | Flat or fine hair |
Build Perm | Mix of face-framing S- & C-curls | Oval or wide face shapes |
Grace Perm | Rich, polished curls from root to tip | Long hair, soft finish |
Hippie Perm | Tight, voluminous curls throughout | Thin or sparse hair |
Root Perm | Adds root lift and crown volume | Flat crown, short styles |
Digital Perm | Uses heat rods for bouncy dry curls | Resistant or coarse hair |
Who Is the Korean Wave Perm Best For?
Anyone looking for low-effort, high-style hair with natural movement.
- Best Hair Lengths: Medium to long hair is ideal
- Hair Texture: Works well with straight, mildly wavy Asian hair
- Face Shape Matches:
- Round: S-waves elongate the face
- Square: Soft C-waves + fringe soften jawlines
- Heart: Root volume balances forehead
This perm is particularly popular among professionals and students who want a ready-to-go look without daily heat styling. It works across various lifestyles, from office wear to street fashion.
Is It Suitable for Men?
Yes, and it’s increasingly popular among younger men and K-idol fans.
Popular styles:
- Wavy middle-part fringe
- Soft wave with curtain bangs
- Textured two-block cut
Style with matte pomade or light wax for natural, tousled looks.
In Korea, male celebrities like Park Seo-joon and Song Kang have boosted the perm’s popularity by sporting soft wave looks during press appearances and drama shoots.
This has made the Korean wave perm a fashion-forward statement for men.
Read more: Hair Cut Style Men: What Suits Your Face Shape Best in 2025?
How Much Does a Korean Wave Perm Cost in Malaysia?
Prices range from RM250 to RM500 depending on salon, stylist experience, and hair length.
Service Level | Price (MYR) |
Junior Stylist | RM250 – RM300 |
Senior Stylist | RM350 – RM450 |
Premium Digital Perm | RM450 – RM500+ |
What Factors Affect Korean Perm Pricing?
- Hair length and thickness
- Type of perm solution used (standard vs collagen-based)
- Add-on treatments (repair mask, scalp detox)
- Experience level of stylist or salon branding
- Location of the salon (JB vs KL vs Singapore border proximity)
What Are the Pros and Cons of Korean Wave Perm?
Pros
- Low-maintenance styling
- Natural, voluminous texture
- Long-lasting results (up to 6 months)
- Complements modern Korean-inspired fashion
Cons
- Not suitable for bleached or damaged hair
- Requires professional expertise
- Touch-up needed after 4–5 months for best shape
- Can loosen early without proper aftercare in high humidity
How to Care for a Korean Wave Perm
Aftercare makes all the difference in preserving wave structure and Korean wave perms can be quite a fickle when it comes to caring.
- Avoid shampooing for 48 hours post-treatment
- Use sulfate-free shampoos and curl-defining products
- Air-dry or diffuse with low heat
- Don’t brush hair dry, use fingers or wide-tooth comb
- Apply leave-in conditioner or curl cream weekly
Quick Checklist:
- No heat for 3 days
- Hydrate weekly
- Trim every 3 months
- Use satin pillowcases to prevent frizz overnight
Can You Dye Hair After Getting a Korean Perm?
Yes, but wait at least 2 weeks to avoid over-processing. If you’ve had recent bleaching, consult a stylist before attempting both services.
Our advice? Colour first, then perm, it reduces breakage risk.
Avoid harsh box dyes or overlapping chemical treatments if your hair is already fragile or porous.
Can You Undo a Korean Wave Perm?
Technically yes, but it’s best avoided.
Options:
- Keratin straightening (can be drying)
- Chemical relaxer (risk of breakage)
- Let waves grow out naturally and trim over time
You may also opt for deep-conditioning masks weekly to weigh the curls down gradually until your next haircut.
Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Korean Wave Perm
A few habits can sabotage your new waves if you’re not careful. Avoid:
- Washing hair within 48 hours of perming
- Using hot tools without heat protectant
- Sleeping on rough pillowcases (switch to satin/silk)
- Skipping hydration or neglecting trims
- Combing hair when dry
Styling Ideas After a Korean Wave Perm
There’s more to it than letting it flow freely. At REDS, we recommend:
- Soft ponytail with volume
- Loose braids for texture stacking
- Half-up Korean twist bun
- Paired with curtain or wispy bangs
- Accessorised with minimal clips or pearl pins
- Slicked side part with wave definition for formal events
Summing It Up: Your 2025 Korean Wave Perm Checklist
The Korean wave perm is a reliable favourite as of 2025 for soft movement, easy styling, and undeniable visual appeal. Whether you prefer relaxed everyday waves or something more polished, this look supports a wide range of hair goals without daily heat tools.
Ready to explore it for yourself? Book an appointment with REDS Hair Salon, a trusted name for Korean wave perms, detailed consultations, and careful, expert application.
Our stylists use modern techniques tailored to your hair health and personal aesthetic, so your new look feels as good as it looks.
Find us here at KSL City Mall!
Frequently Asked Questions About Korean Wave Perms
A hair treatment that creates natural-looking S- or C-waves for long-lasting body and texture.
Most perms last 3 to 6 months depending on hair type and aftercare.
Yes, but wait 2 weeks post-perm or do colour first under stylist guidance.
Less so than traditional perms, but damaged or bleached hair may not be suitable.
Absolutely! It’s trendy among Korean-style male cuts.
Hydrate, air-dry, use curl cream, avoid brushing dry curls, and avoid heat styling for a few days after treatment.