30 BEST PERM HAIRSTYLES FOR WOMEN TO CHOOSE FROM

Looking to add some volume, texture, or a touch of drama to your hair? A perm can be a fantastic way to achieve a new and exciting look. Whether you’re going for a classic spiral perm or a modern beach wave, there’s a perm style out there to suit every taste and hair type. In this guide, we’ll explore 30 of the best perm hairstyles for women, offering inspiration and tips for choosing the perfect style for you.

BLONDE PERM HAIR WITH THIN DEFINED CURLS

It’s no surprise that permed hair is especially popular among those with loose natural textures. This treatment enhances your hair’s natural definition and texture beautifully. By leaving a gel cast on small, thin curls, you can achieve a sleek, wet look without needing to use any water.

GRAY PERM BOB WITH BLONDE HIGHLIGHTS

If you’ve reached the age of gray hair, you likely remember when perms meant super-tight curls. Thankfully, times have changed! Nowadays, you can enjoy a perm that results in beautifully textured loose waves without any of the unwanted kinks.

NATURAL LOOKING MID-LENGTH PERM HAIR

This perm offers a more natural look than traditional styles, making it a great choice for those who love big, curly hair. While frizz can be a concern, using gentle cleansers and moisturizing conditioners makes natural-looking permed hair easy to manage. Best of all, it complements all face shapes!

SIDE-PARTED LOB WITH TOUSLED CURLS

A tousled curly perm is a fun, carefree style to consider for your next look. Try parting your hair deeply to one side, allowing some curls to fall into your face for a playful peek-a-boo effect. Embrace the messiness—imperfect curls add to the charm!

ASYMMETRICAL TOUSLED PERM BOB

Women with thick, wild hair should lean into their natural texture and embrace their individuality. Permed hairstyles are a fantastic choice! Let your curly ringlets shine as your crown, cascading forward in a playful peek-a-boo style. Ash brown is beautifully complemented by white-blonde highlights that weave through each loopy curl, adding depth and dimension.

LONG LAYERED PERM HAIRSTYLE

Do you gaze at your long wavy hair and feel it lacks that extra “oomph”? This often happens because long hairstyles prioritize length over bounce and shape. A light perm can enhance your natural curl pattern while maintaining your length, giving your long brown hair a luxurious, voluminous appearance. Plus, bronze highlights add a beautiful shimmer!

TOUSLED WAVY PERM BOB

A bob haircut is an excellent base for a perm. Whether you choose a wavy perm or loose curls, you’ll enjoy a cute hairstyle that requires minimal styling. If you have a favorite product, just apply a dab to enhance your look, and you’ll be ready to shine all day!

LONG DARK WAVY HAIRSTYLE WITH HIGHLIGHTS

If you have naturally fine hair that could use some lift, consider a body wave to add extra texture and volume. If you’ve experienced tight spiral perms, you know they can shorten your hair significantly as curls spring up. Instead, opt for looser, wider curls to maintain length while still achieving bounce and visual interest. This black curly hairstyle will look healthy and shiny!

BOB WITH THIN ROOTS-TO-ENDS PERM CURLS

Not a fan of large, thick ringlets? Thin, abundant curls can give you the same volume as bigger curls. You can achieve this look with a diffuser attachment or opt for a perm for a low-maintenance style that’s easy to manage.

SHORT BOB WITH BODY-BOOSTING CURLS

The modern bob is more about waves and tousles than sleek, straight lines. A perm adds a fresh twist to this classic cropped style, while a body perm offers natural root lift that lasts all day. Keep the layers simple, as your new curls will provide all the volume you need!

LOOSE WAVE PERM

Beach wave perms and spirals instantly add volume to fine hair. If you’re aiming for a shorter look, opt for bouncy curls. For a more casual and effortless vibe, beach waves are the perfect choice!

BEAUTIFUL PERM LOB FOR GRAY HAIR

This stunning gray permed hair exudes a youthful vibe. The white side part beautifully frames the face and adds flattering height for an elongated look. Lowlights introduce a natural touch of color, enhancing the overall fullness and depth.

SHRINKING CURLS

Perfect for medium-length hair, these spiraled curls start loose and tighten toward the ends. The subtle blonde highlights add depth, making your hair appear twice as full—yes, please!

SILVER FOX PERM

Silver hair already makes a bold statement, but you can elevate it even more with a voluminous head of giant curls! This permed style, created with a large rod, results in stunning big curls that bounce beautifully all around.

MEDIUM LAYERED CURLS WITH BANGS

This medium perm features adorable, shaggy ringlets that reach the collarbone. Golden blonde highlights define each tendril, while curly bangs beautifully frame the face. Tighter curls are especially flattering on medium-layered hair.

SHOULDER-LENGTH ASH BLONDE PERM HAIRSTYLE

A short hair perm is an excellent way to boost your hair’s natural volume. Fans of tight curls are heading to salons for this style. When choosing the right length for a perm, remember that you can expect at least half an inch of shrinkage as a general rule of thumb.

LARGE LOOSE PERM CURLS

If you have a classic style and love big, loose permed looks, you’ll adore these large, bouncy curls. Loose spiral perms aren’t for the faint-hearted—you’ll want to rock this hairstyle with the confidence of an ’80s pop star! To keep your perm looking natural, gently run your fingers through your hair to separate the curls.

BLACK LAYERED PERM WAVES

Wavy perms provide a fun twist to straight hair, adding body and life to flat strands. These natural-looking, shiny locks can be parted on the side or in the middle to suit your mood. Plus, the length is perfect for styling into a bouncy ponytail or a loose, curly updo!

HIGHLIGHTED PERM LOB HAIRCUT

Perm hairstyles are both versatile and stylish. This curly perm features bouncy curls with added texture at the top. The dark roots are beautifully complemented by blonde highlights, which enhance depth and make the spirals truly stand out.

LONG BLONDE BALAYAGE SHAG WITH PERM WAVES

Every girl dreams of having permanent waves that look natural, so why not try a beachy wave perm? This style for long hair exudes shaggy, 1970s vibes, especially when paired with a bright blonde balayage. Embrace the look by letting your natural roots show—it’s all part of the charm!

THE TRADITIONAL PERM 2.0

Nowadays, women with perms are showcasing fresh ways to style them while staying on-trend. These skinny, bright blonde curls add movement, giving volume, depth, and body to shoulder-length hair while beautifully accentuating your face.

PERM BOB WITH LARGE CURLS

If you’re after a short hair perm with big curls, this pretty, slightly tousled chin-length bob is a perfect choice. Shapely tendrils frame the face, adding a sassy edge to this feminine hairstyle.

OFF-CENTER CURLY HIGHLIGHTED HAIRSTYLE

There are various types of perms, so you’re not limited to super kinky ringlets. A wavy perm at shoulder length offers a lovely option. Part your hair slightly off-center to allow those loose curls to fall naturally where they may.

BEACHY BLONDE WAVES

Nothing captures the boho beach babe vibe quite like long blonde waves! This wavy perm is ideal for anyone seeking a low-maintenance, natural look that’s full of volume and personality. TIP: Adding layers can help reduce any unwanted poof!

SPIRAL PERM STYLE FOR FINE HAIR

This modern perm is incredibly wearable and can be styled with a deep side part, which softens features and complements your look while creating a narrowing effect on your face shape. Opt for a spiral perm to achieve these classically curly tresses!

PERMED BOB

Don’t shy away from volume or texture in short, permed hairstyles! With a great cut shape, you won’t have to worry about it feeling “too curly.” Embracing this look is a fantastic way to keep your perm feeling fresh and modern.

MEDIUM PERM HAIR WITH HIGHLIGHTS

Medium-length hair offers a variety of curl pattern options, allowing for both tight and loose curls. If the curls feel too heavy around your face, you can pin back curly bangs to showcase your facial features beautifully.

OVER 40 PERM LOB FOR GRAY HAIR

Loose curls are both voluminous and flattering for most women, framing the face and neck while adding height for an overall lift. A side part, face-framing layers, and peek-a-boo bangs further enhance this effect, creating a beautifully balanced look.

SHOULDER-LENGTH MEDIUM PERM CURLS

These bouncy shoulder-length curls feel fresh and modern, far from outdated permed styles. This mane looks healthy and free of frizz, while subtle highlights add definition and texture, enhancing the overall volume and thickness.

DYNAMIC IRREGULAR PERM WAVES

Curls are anything but regular and symmetrical; their charm lies in their delightful unpredictability. A perm will give you permanent waves, and thanks to the irregularity of curls, you can enjoy a completely new hairstyle every day!

CONCLUSION

A perm can be a fun and exciting way to transform your look. With so many different styles to choose from, there’s sure to be a perfect perm for you. Whether you’re looking for something classic, trendy, or low-maintenance, consider incorporating a perm into your hairstyle routine. Remember to consult with a professional stylist to determine the best perm type and techniques for your hair. With proper care and styling, you can enjoy a beautiful and long-lasting perm.

EFFECTIVE SOLUTIONS FOR ELIMINATING BROWN SPOTS

If you’re eager to eliminate those stubborn brown spots, the good news is that there are various solutions available. While brown spots are typically benign and pose no health risks, it’s crucial to monitor any that change in color, size, or texture and to visit your dermatologist regularly. Although treatment for benign spots isn’t necessary, their removal or fading can be both cosmetically and psychologically rewarding. After all, who wouldn’t want a clearer, more even skin tone?

What should I know about spots?

Brown spots, also known as age spots, liver spots, solar lentigines, or sun spots, are flat, oval areas of increased pigmentation that vary in size. Typically gray, tan, brown, or black, these spots appear on areas of the skin that have received the most sun exposure over the years, such as the face, backs of hands, tops of feet, forearms, shoulders, and upper back. They can affect anyone, regardless of sex or race; however, brown spots are more common in individuals with fair skin, a history of frequent sun exposure, regular tanning bed use, and those over 40 years of age.

What causes spots?

Brown spots are caused by overactive pigment cells known as melanocytes. Ultraviolet (UV) light accelerates the production of melanin, the skin pigment responsible for a tan or darker skin. After years of UV exposure, melanin can clump together or be produced in high concentrations, leading to the appearance of brown spots.

There are three main types of benign skin pigmentation resulting from overactive melanocytes: freckles, solar lentigines, and melasma.

FRECKLES

Freckles can be seen as a genetic gift from Mother Nature. These small, flat spots range in color from pale to dark brown and result from an overproduction of melanin in response to UV light exposure. Typically, real freckles are found on younger skin, especially in children, and are most common among individuals with red hair and fair skin that burns easily. They tend to be more noticeable in sun-exposed areas during the summer months and often fade during the winter season.

SOLAR LENTIGINES

Solar lentigines, commonly known as age spots, are dark patches that develop from prolonged sun exposure and are generally harmless. These flat, actinic keratosis lesions can appear yellowish, gray, or light brown, with clearly defined edges. Some may have a dry or slightly scaly texture. Unlike freckles, which are smaller and more diffuse, lentigines are larger and more distinct, typically found on areas such as the face, hands, and chest, accumulating over time due to sun exposure. Unlike freckles, they do not fade in winter and can occur anywhere on the body; they are usually benign.

On the other hand, actinic keratosis represents another form of sun damage that may have the potential to become cancerous. These spots are flat or slightly raised, reddish-brown, and have a more abrasive appearance, often with a scaly surface. Surprisingly, nearly 60 million Americans are affected by this type of sun damage to their skin.

A Woods Lamp (black light) evaluation allows us to detect cumulative skin damage before it becomes visible to the naked eye. It can be eye-opening to observe the extent of sun damage that has already occurred. Since there is always a chance that new lesions may develop in the future, the best preventive measures include avoiding sun exposure, using a broad-spectrum high-SPF sunscreen, and wearing protective clothing and hats.

MELASMA

If you have a Mediterranean-type olive complexion or are of Latin, Asian, or Middle Eastern descent, you are more likely to develop melasma. This condition manifests as large dark patches of pigmentation caused by overactive melanocytes, often appearing as mask-like areas on the cheeks, temples, above the upper lip, and/or forehead. Melasma is believed to be influenced by excessive or repeated sun exposure, as well as hormonal changes. It can develop during the use of birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy, or pregnancy, which is why it is sometimes referred to as a “pregnancy mask.” While melasma may be visually unappealing, it is not dangerous and does not cause any physical discomfort.

Another type of brown spot is known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which occurs as a result of skin injury. PIH is more common in individuals with darker skin tones and appears as patches triggered by inflammation from conditions such as acne, eczema, or trauma. After the initial condition resolves, dark spots may remain, and their fading over time can vary from person to person.

Words of caution and when you should see a doctor

Another type of brown spot is known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which occurs as a result of injury to the skin. PIH is more prevalent among individuals with darker skin tones and manifests as patches triggered by inflammation from conditions such as acne, eczema, or trauma. After the initial skin condition resolves, dark spots may remain, and their tendency to fade over time can vary from person to person.

What spots can be treated? 

Brown spots, including liver spots, freckles, solar lentigines, and other benign pigmented lesions that develop after years of sun exposure, can be removed or faded from almost any area of your body. Conditions such as melasma, sun-related brown spots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can also be effectively treated. However, actinic keratoses and any abnormal-looking lesions should be evaluated and treated by a physician.

Types of spot treatments

Since the pigment is located at the base of the epidermis—the outermost layer of skin—any treatments aimed at lightening brown spots must penetrate this layer effectively.

Medications and prescription lightening creams containing hydroquinone or kojic acid (pigment-bleaching agents) can be used alone or in combination with retinoids (like tretinoin) and mild steroids to gradually fade spots over several months. However, these treatments may cause temporary side effects, including itching, redness, burning, or dryness. It’s essential to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 during treatment.

FotoFacial or IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatments emit a range of light waves that pass through the skin to target and destroy melanin, breaking up the spots without damaging the skin’s surface. Typically, two to three sessions are required, and after treatment, spots may appear like coffee ground speckles that flake off and gradually fade over several weeks or months. It’s crucial to avoid sun exposure for at least four weeks before treatment and to use sun protection liberally afterward to ensure optimal results.

Cryotherapy, or freezing, destroys the excess pigment by applying liquid nitrogen or another freezing agent to the spots. This treatment is quick but can be painful, and afterward, there may be some discomfort, blistering, or temporary redness and swelling. As the area heals, the skin may appear lighter. Cryotherapy is generally used for single brown spots or small groupings, but it carries a slight risk of permanent darkening of a spot (PIH), lightening of surrounding skin, or scarring.

Chemical peels involve applying an acid that removes the outer layer of skin to allow new skin to grow in its place. Several treatments may be necessary before seeing results, and strong sun protection is advised following the procedure. Temporary redness is common, with a slight risk of permanent changes in skin color.

Microdermabrasion is a less aggressive option that smooths the outer layers of skin using inert crystals to exfoliate. This treatment requires multiple sessions over several months to achieve desired results and is not recommended for those with rosacea or small red veins on the face. After microdermabrasion, mild redness may appear but typically resolves within a few hours, with flaky skin for three to four days. It can be effective, especially when combined with chemical peels.

Non-ablative laser spot removals destroy melanocytes without harming the skin’s surface. At YouBaby Skin Spa, we use a picosecond laser and PICO Genesis Spot treatments, which deliver light deep into the skin at a trillionth of a second. This breaks up melanocytes, allowing them to be eliminated by the body’s lymphatic system. The treated area may darken, resemble bruising, or form a crust for a few days, but fades over the following weeks, improving both the spots and the skin’s texture. Several treatments are recommended to build upon the results of previous sessions as the skin regenerates collagen and absorbs the debris.

Ablative laser resurfacing is a more aggressive treatment that removes sun-damaged cells to refresh the skin and fade spots. This method removes the outermost layer of skin, allowing new skin to grow back, but requires considerable recovery time and healing. One or two treatments can effectively address age spots quickly.

Prevention

To help prevent the reappearance of brown spots and the formation of new ones after treatment, follow these tips to limit your sun exposure:

  1. Avoid the Sun Between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
    The sun’s rays are most intense during this time, so try to schedule outdoor activities for earlier or later in the day.
  2. Use Sunscreen.
    Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors. Choose a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Be sure to apply it generously and reapply every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating.
  3. Cover Up.
    Wear tightly woven clothing that covers your arms and legs, along with a broad-brimmed hat, which offers better protection than a baseball cap or golf visor. Consider clothing specifically designed for sun protection, labeled with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) of 40 to 50 for optimal safety.
  4. Never Use Tanning Beds.
    Avoid tanning beds, as they can contribute to skin damage and increase the risk of developing new brown spots.

CONCLUSION

Spot removal is not a new concept, and the type of treatment varies, offering different outcomes. In some cases, spots may never be completely eliminated but can fade significantly, becoming much lighter. Proper home care is essential after any removal treatment to maximize your results. Alongside sunscreen, common aftercare typically includes a tyrosinase inhibitor (which targets the enzyme responsible for melanin formation) and a lightening agent.

We design an individualized program tailored to your skin type, the specific spots you have, and the treatment administered. Share your goals with us, and we will guide you to the appropriate treatment options.