Why the Digital Perm is Trending Right Now?

The digital perm is revolutionizing how we think about curls, offering a modern solution for anyone craving long-lasting, natural waves. Unlike traditional perms, this trend uses advanced technology to create soft, voluminous curls tailored to your style. So, why has it become the hottest hair trend of the moment?

This blog post will cover everything you need about digital perm. We’ll examine what makes this trendy prem popular and how it differs from traditional perms. In addition, we’ll discuss the costs, benefits, aftercare advice, and factors to consider before getting a digital perm. By the end, you’ll understand why this Korean-style perm is gaining popularity worldwide.

What is a Digital Perm?

Digital perms are an advanced technology hair treatment for soft, natural curls or waves. Unlike traditional perms that dilute the usage of harsh chemicals and alkaline solutions, this one uses heat from a digital perm machine. The hair is wrapped around the rods of the machine, and everything is done with controlled temperatures so that even curls form without damaging the hair. This low-temperature perming method makes producing soft, shiny, and natural-looking curls possible. In contrast, the traditional perms generally give much tighter and even curls.

Why is the Digital Perm So Popular?

Digital perm has quickly become the favourite of celebrities, especially in Korea and Japan. It’s spotted on A-list stars and influencers. Song Hye-Kyo, one of the popular Korean actresses, and Kim Ji-won have followed the style as it can produce soft, bouncy waves with an effortless look.  Even the fashion icons in Japan have been keen on joining the trend by having a digital perm that helps create a naturally beautiful curling frame of the face. Its popularity in such beauty-conscious countries promoted the trend worldwide, especially for someone looking for a modern, low-maintenance look that appears glamorous.

How Does Digital Prem Work?

The digital perm process works as follows:

1. Consultation and Hair Assessment: The stylist examines your hair type, condition, and curl style to determine whether you are a good candidate for a digital perm.
2. Shampooing and Pre-Treatment: The hair is thoroughly washed to remove pollutants. Pre-treatment may be used to preserve its health while it is being permed.
3. Sectioning and Wrapping: The hair is sectioned and then wrapped around rods heated by a machine that maintains digital temperature. The rods help distribute the temperature evenly.
4. Application of Perm Solution: The wrapped hair is covered with a chemical perm solution. The hair’s internal bonds, reshaping it chemically breaks down the internal bonds of the hair, which are then reshaped.
5. Heat Activation: The machine heats the rods to a set temperature, activating and setting the perm solution. This heat also sets the curl. Thus, this technique differs from old-fashioned perms.
6. Rinsing and Neutralizing: Once the preferred curl is developed, the hair is rinsed with the permanent solution and neutralized to restore its natural pH balance and lock the curly pattern.
7. Drying and Styling: In last, hair is often styled with a blow dryer and diffuser to help define curls. Additionally, products may be applied to the style to define and maintain curls.

Types of Curls Achievable with a Digital Perm

Digital perms can create a variety of curls depending on the size of the rods and the heat settings. The most common curl types are:

• Loose Waves are perfect for people who want carefree, natural hair with more volume and texture. They are also suitable for fine or straight hair and people who need a body.
• S-curls: This style creates soft, gentle waves in the letter ‘S’ shape. It is best for people with fine to medium hair who want to add softness and definition.
• C-Curls: These curls resemble the S-curl; however, they take a ‘C’ shape at the end. They make one look neat and classy. Another benefit is that they work with various hair lengths, making them suitable for almost everyone’s preferences.
• Tight Curls: Tight ringlets are an excellent style that creates a more dramatic, voluminous look. They are recommended for longer hair and those who love more surprising, more prominent curls.

Digital Perm vs Regular Perm: What’s The Difference?

A regular perm often called a cold perm, creates curls or waves by breaking and re-forming the hair’s internal bonds using chemical solutions. It doesn’t require heat since curls are pretty visible when wet. However, a digital perm uses heated rods to make curls and a digital machine to control them. As a result, it produces softer, more natural waves, mostly observable when dry.

Key Differences Between Digital and Regular Perms

Feature	Regular Perm (Cold Perm)	Digital Perm( Hot perm)
Process	Uses chemical solutions without heat.	Combines chemical solutions with heat from digitally controlled rods.
Curl Appearance	Tight, well-defined curls	Soft, natural-looking waves or loose curls
Best For	Thick or long hair, those desiring strong curls.	Fine to medium hair, coarser hair, people who seek natural waves
Maintenance	Requires more maintenance to preserve curl shape	Lower maintenance, longer-lasting curls.
Longevity	Curls last approximately 3-6 months.	Curls last about 6-12 months.
Hair Health	Less damaging, gentler on hair	It can cause more damage due to more potent chemicals
Styling	Requires specific styling products to maintain curls; curls are prominent when wet.	More straightforward to style; curls are more prominent when dry; minimal product needed.
Cost	Prices typically cost between $60 and $250, depending on the salon and the hair length,	Prices might range from about $150 to $400, depending on the salon’s location and hair length.

Who Should Get a Digital Perm?

People with Fine or Straight Hair:

For those with fine or straight hair, a digital perm can give the hair more body, especially if the goal is to add volume or texture. Unlike traditional perms, it offers a natural look instead of a heavy appearance. Additionally, It can add fullness and Movement to loose, bouncy curls.

Those Looking for Low Maintenance:

Digital perms are the best solution for individuals who prefer to manage their hairstyles without much styling. Once the perm is in place, the curls hold their shape and only need occasional maintenance—a little touching up.

Those Seeking Modern, Soft Curls:

Digital perms create curls that aren’t too tight or “crunchy,” so they resemble softer, flowing waves. These curls would look like beachy waves or soft curls for a more natural and relaxed appearance.

How Long Does a Digital Perm Take?

The digital perm session, including the haircut and the perming process, takes 2 to 4 hours. However, this may depend on the salon and your hair’s characteristics.

Factors Influencing the Duration

Several factors can affect the length of time required for a digital perm:

• Hair Length and Density: Longer or thicker hair may require more time to ensure even processing.
• Hair Condition: Healthy hair may require less processing time. However, damaged hair needs extra care.
• Salon Procedures: Every salon operates differently. Techniques and tools may differ among salons, affecting the time required to perform digital perming.

How long does a digital perm last?

Digital perm duration usually lasts around 3-6 months. With ideal upkeep, this can even exceed 12 months or even longer. Factors like hair type, maintenance routine, and solution quality affect its durability. For example, using sulfate-free shampoos helps your curls last longer. Also, use fewer heat styles and a gentle care routine. Additionally, as your hair grows, new growth will increase and not be permed, so your hairstyle will change over time. To ensure that you continue to appear the way you desire, it is typically advised to get touch-ups or trims regularly.

The Cost of a Digital Perm

Digital perm prices depend on several factors, including the salon’s location, the stylist’s experience, or the length and density of your hair. The average cost of a digital perm ranges from $150 to $400. However, it is best to check local salons’ price lists and whether there are other related fees, such as maintenance or aftercare products. Even though the upfront cost may seem high, a digital perm lasts 6-12 months with good maintenance, bringing long-term value to the waves or curls you want.

Essential Tips for Maintaining Your Digital Perm

Maintaining your digital perm is necessary to keep your curls looking perfect. Here are some quick tips to help you take care of your permed hair:

• Please do not wash your hair for 48 hours after it is permed; this enables the curls to be appropriately set.
• Choose refined shampoos and conditioners that do not contain parabens and sulfates to maintain hair health.
• After washing the hair, use a leave-in conditioner or hair serum to maintain curls with moisture and definition.
• To preserve curl strength and prevent damage, use less heat-styling equipment.
• Let your hair air dry to maintain the curl shape, or use a blow dryer in an exquisite setting.
• To improve curl definition, gently twist portions of your hair while it dries.
• Schedule regular trims to remove split ends and maintain hair health.
• Please protect it from excess sun exposure and chlorinated water, which cause dryness and hair damage.

By following these tips, you can ensure your digital perm remains vibrant and lasts longer.

Considerations Before Getting a Digital Perm

One of the criteria for determining whether a digital perm is right for you is a pre-consultation. So, these are the essential things to consider before getting a digital perm:

1. Hair Health: Your hair needs to be in good condition, as damaged and over-processed hair does not quickly accept treatment.
2. Hair Type: Best suited for straight, thin, or wavy hair. Some modification will be required if the hair is coarse or too curly.
3. Maintenance: Use appropriate hair products to maintain your curls. Additionally, be ready for regular care to keep them looking fresh.
4. Desired Style: Speak with your stylist about the curl or wave style you want to ensure it matches what a digital perm can deliver. 
5. Time Commitment:  It can take 2 to 4 hours to have this process undertaken. However, the results would last between 6 and 12 months, guaranteeing long-lasting curls. 
6. Costs: Digital perms are generally more expensive than other means of getting a perm because of the highly advanced technology involved. Hence, the price can be slightly extra, but the benefits often justify the cost. 
7. Post-Treatment Care: After perm, styling would be more stringent with specialized techniques to maintain those curls.

Pros and Cons of Digital Prem

Pros	Cons
Long-Lasting Results: Curls last 6 to 12 months.	High Cost: More expensive than traditional perms.
Customizable Curls: Styles range from loose waves to tight curls.	Time-Consuming: The process can take several hours.
Less Damage: Controlled heat application minimizes hair damage.	Not for All Hair Types: Not ideal for significantly damaged or overly processed hair.
Low Maintenance: Requires minimal upkeep with the right products.	Risk of Damage: Can cause dryness or breakage if done incorrectly.
Natural-Looking Waves: Softer and more natural than cold perms.	Not Easily Reversible: Removing it requires expert assistance and can cause further damage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, digital perms transform the hair industry by providing soft, realistic-looking waves and curls adjusted to fit different styles, making them a flexible option for many. Furthermore, compared to traditional perms, they produce long-lasting results with less damage through the latest technology. Although the process may take longer and cost more, its benefits, including low maintenance and healthier curls, make it a popular choice.

Digital perms are an excellent option for people who like versatile natural curls without damaging their hair. Despite the lengthy and costly process, many people find the long-term value and upkeep simple and satisfying. Because of its contemporary, mild attitude, it is a style that will continue to be popular in the beauty sector.

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