Beach Wave Perms Can Offer Permanent Beachy Hair

‘Tis the season for perfect beach waves, but if you have thin or straight hair, you may find this coveted hairstyle difficult to achieve. Even if achieving wavy hair is a breeze for you, wouldn’t it be nice to roll out of bed with permanent beach waves? Well, it just so happens that the beach wave perm may be the answer to your hair prayers. Read on to learn all about this salon texturizing process and find out if it’s right for you.

WHAT IS A BEACH WAVE PERM?

So, what exactly is a beach wave perm? This chemical process is the secret behind permanent beach waves! The technique works just like a standard hair perm, which you’re likely more familiar with, with a few tweaks to achieve effortless, loose beachy waves rather than curls.

While the solution applied to your hair will be similar if not the same as what’s used for any other type of perm or permanent, what’s different will be the tool used to set your waves. The beachy wave look is achieved by using foam rollers and wrapping the hair more loosely instead of the tiny, uniform rods that give you a tight curl. When your hairdresser is done, you’ll be left with straight-from-the-beach waves.

HOW MUCH DOES A BEACH WAVE PERM COST?

As with any beauty service, costs can vary based on where you live and the salon you go to. You can expect a beach wave perm to cost anywhere between $50 and $300 (we know—it’s a huge gap!). Make sure to call your salon before booking an appointment, so you aren’t blindsided by the cost. That said, it’s also important not to book an appointment based solely on price. Make sure your stylist has experience doing beach wave perms, and ask to see pictures of their portfolio (or stalk their Instagram) beforehand.

HOW LONG DOES A BEACH WAVE PERM LAST?

We may have referred to the beach wave perm as the secret to permanent beach waves, but by now, you probably know that permanent doesn’t necessarily mean forever in the beauty world. You can expect your beach wave perm to last about six months, so long as you take care of it properly. One appointment to get beachy waves for half a year? Sign us up! If you decide you’re ready to go back to playing with other hair textures, you don’t have to worry that you’ve committed to beach waves until the end of time, your hair will grow out, and its effects will wear off.

HOW TO TAKE CARE OF A BEACH WAVE PERM

Like we said, taking care of your beach wave perm is the key to making sure your new wavy texture lasts. Keep in mind, your normal hair care routine likely isn’t formulated to care for your updated texture. Here are a few hair tips you’ll want to take note of if you decide to give a beach wave perm a go.

TIP #1. SWITCH YOUR SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

The shampoo and conditioner you have sitting in your shower? It likely won’t be a match for your new wavy strands. With waves comes frizz, which is why a system that will keep your strands smooth and hydrated is a must. Try the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Frizz-Defy Shampoo and L’Oréal Paris EverPure Frizz-Defy Conditioner or the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Moisture Shampoo and L’Oréal Paris EverPure Moisture Conditioner.

TIP #2. USE A HAIR MASK

It’s a good idea to give your permed hair a little extra love with a hair mask. A few times a week, swap out your conditioner in favor of a nourishing, wave-defining mask.

TIP #3. GRAB A HAIR MOUSSE

Lastly, the styling products you once swore by likely won’t be compatible with your new waves. Instead, you’ll want to stock your cabinet with products that will enhance your wavy texture, like a hair mousse. Try the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle CURVE IT Elastic Curl Mousse. To use, apply the mousse to damp hair, scrunch, and let your beach wave perm air dry. Prepare to be obsessed!

Next up: Beach wave perms aren’t the only perm hairstyle taking 2020 by storm. And who says perms are reserved for women? Check out our article, Trend Alert: Curly Perms for Men, for the lowdown.