A soft perm for men is one of the hottest hair trends right now—especially among those who want a natural, voluminous hairstyle without needing to style it every day. Unlike tight curls or old-school perms, a soft perm gives your hair gentle waves or loose curls for a subtle, effortless, and fashionable finish.
Popular across K-pop stars, Korean dramas, and modern style icons, this look is perfect for guys who want to add shape, texture, and personality to their hair—without going over the top.
Why Men Are Choosing Soft Perms
Natural-looking waves
Creates soft, flowy curls that look like they happened naturally.
Low maintenance
Wake up and go—no need for hours of styling or heat tools.
Volume boost
Perfect for men with thin, flat, or straight hair who want more lift and movement.
Works with all face shapes
Whether you have an oval, square, or round face, there’s a soft perm style that suits you.
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Best Soft Perm Styles for Men
Curtain Bangs + Soft Waves
Inspired by Korean actors and K-pop idols, this style uses middle-parted curtain bangs with soft C-waves. It frames the face and adds a stylish, youthful vibe.
Best for: Oval and heart-shaped faces
Pairs well with: Light brown or ash tones
Two-Block Cut + Soft Perm
Combine a two-block haircut (short sides, longer top) with gentle perm waves on top for a balanced, trendy look.
Best for: Square faces and sharp jawlines
Great for: Those who want volume without puffiness on the sides
Loose Messy Wave Perm
For a more casual, relaxed style, this version offers loose curls throughout the hair for a messy, bedhead aesthetic.
Best for: Round faces
Styling: Use light wax or cream to hold the waves in place
Down Perm + Soft Texture
If you want a clean look with manageable sides, a down perm will flatten the side hair while keeping the top softly permed and voluminous.
Best for: Thick, stubborn hair types
Perfect for: Office or formal settings
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How Is a Soft Perm Done?
The Process:
- Consultation – Discuss curl size, hair type, and desired volume
- Hair prep – Shampoo and trim if needed
- Wrapping – Hair is wrapped on rods based on desired curl pattern
- Perm solution – Applied to break bonds and shape the hair
- Neutralizer – Locks in the curl structure
- Styling – Final look is blow-dried and shaped
Time needed: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
Lasts for: 2 to 3 months (with proper care)
Maintenance Tips for a Soft Perm
- Avoid washing hair for 48 hours after the perm to let curls set
- Use curl-enhancing shampoo and conditioner
- Dry with a towel or use a diffuser to keep curls intact
- Apply light styling cream or mousse for daily definition
- Deep condition weekly to prevent frizz and dryness
Avoid: Strong gels, waxes, or combing through curls when dry
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Who Should Try a Soft Perm?
Men with:
- Straight, flat hair needing volume
- Thick hair that’s hard to style
- Medium-length or longer top hair
- Interest in low-maintenance but stylish looks
Not ideal for:
- Very short hair (under 2 inches)
- Severely damaged or chemically treated hair (consult a stylist first)
Conclusion
The soft perm for men is the perfect fusion of style, simplicity, and everyday wearability. Whether you’re inspired by Korean trends or just want a fresh new look with volume and texture, this modern perm style gives you a cool, low-maintenance upgrade.
So if you’re ready to change up your style without the daily hassle, visit a professional salon and ask for a soft perm—you’ll be turning heads in no time.
FAQs
1. How long does a soft perm last?
It typically lasts 2 to 3 months, depending on hair type and how well you maintain it.
2. Can I get a soft perm with short hair?
Yes, but your hair should be at least 2 inches long for the perm to hold shape effectively.
3. Is a soft perm damaging to hair?
Modern perm solutions are gentle, but any chemical treatment carries some risk. Use deep conditioners and moisturizing treatments regularly.
4. What’s the difference between a soft perm and a regular perm?
A soft perm creates natural, loose curls or waves, while regular perms can be tighter and more structured.
5. Can I still use heat styling tools with a soft perm?
Yes, but use heat protectant and avoid excessive heat to preserve your curls.
Also read: Trending Asian Perm Hairstyles for 2025: Styles, Tips & Inspiration