There are two major perm types in hair: spiral perms and regular perms. If you were alive in the 1980s, you may remember those great spiral perms everyone had. They were amazing. Spiral perms could make anyone with fine, straight hair has thicker hair with more body instantly. If you’re just in love with some of the classic ’80s movies, we have you covered. We can do a spiral perm like it’s 1988 all over again, however, we have new products that are better and not as harsh as in the past.

You may be wondering, “What is the difference between a regular perm and a spiral perm”? Right here is the information you need.

Spiral Perm vs. Regular Perm

Both spiral perms and regular perms use chemicals to change the way your hair strands move and hold shape. However, there are some key differences.

Curl Shape

One difference is the shape of the curls. In a regular perm, the curls are all the same size and the same shape. However, spiral perms can have curls that are different sizes and different lengths. Based on the size of the curl, you can also have a loose spiral perm or a tight spiral perm.

Length of Hair

Your hair has to be a certain length for a perfect spiral perm. The longer your hair is the better for a spiral perm. Some stylists can do great spiral perms on people with shorter hair — but that isn’t always the case. Your hair must be at least 8 inches long to have a good spiral perm.

Volume

Usually, a spiral perm gives you greater volume than you would have with a regular perm. Spiral perms can make your hair a lot fuller-looking because of the nature of the curls. Regular perms can increase the volume of your hair but cannot give you the same curl depth.

Retro Feel

If you are looking for a hairstyle with a retro feel, spiral perms can do the job. The spiral perm is the heart and soul of the 1980s. If you get a regular perm, you will still have glamour, but with a more modern twist. Spiral perms target a more retro, carefree, and power-rock era.

Procedure

Spiral perms and regular perms have two different procedures for your hair. Spiral perms use curling rods that a stylist sets in the hair in a vertical pattern. All the rods are long and thin and are the same size and shape. When we take your hair out of the curlers, your curls should be uneven and spiraled. We create regular perms using different sizes of rods flat against your head in a horizontal position. Tight spiral perms use smaller, thinner rollers. Looser spiral perms use bigger, thicker rollers for looser, bigger curls.

Tips for Caring for Permed Hair

Whether you have a regular or spiral perm, there are things you can do to take care of your perm. First, avoid touching it for a few days. You can use your fingers to style your hair, but, otherwise, keep your fingers out of it. This will help your hair retain its curls. Don’t wash your hair for at least two days after you’ve had a perm to allow your curls to set. Don’t put your hair in a ponytail for a few days. You are more likely to break or damage your hair. Remember that permed hair was chemically treated, so you need to use products for chemically treated hair.

If you think, “I need to find a spiral perm near me,” we have the solution. Contact Public Image, LTD, The Salon. We can offer you the spiral or regular perm look using newer products that are safer for your hair than in the past. You can find us in Wayne, N.J., in Passaic County. Wayne Magazine voted us favorite salon in its Reader’s Choice Awards for six years in a row. And, we’re proud to still be up and running.