UP · Wavement Cold · Korean permUP
The Korean perm. What it actually is.
It's a look, not a chemical. Soft, piecey movement, bigger rods, a lighter hand. The chemistry is the same family I've been using since 1991.
- Coldno heated rods on men
- Softmovement, not ringlets
- 2–3 monthson a short cut
What you are asking for
- A comma or C-shape fringe that falls forward and curls in at the end, instead of lying flat.
- Soft S-waves through the top that look like hair that happens to move.
- Volume without looking permedUP. That is the whole point of the style.
How I do it
I do it cold, with Wavement Cold: big rods, a light hand, placed for the fringe and the top. No heated rods on men. On a short crop that is the right tool, and it gives the Korean look with the least drama.
Most of what you have seen online is on straight, thick hair. Yours may take it differently, so I read it first and tell you what it will actually do.
The down perm that often goes with it
Korean salons often pair the permUP on top with a down perm on the sides, to make the sides lie flat against the head. I do that too: movement on top, sides tucked in.
How long it lasts
Around two to three months on short hair, because your haircuts take it out. It softens as it goes rather than dropping, so there is no awkward stage.
Straight talk
- If your hair is bleached, the permUP may not hold. That is a conversation first.
- A Korean perm at home from a kit is a gamble with your only head of hair. Read the guide before you try it.
- Bring a photo of the exact look. "Korean perm" means ten different things online.
What it costs
Men's Wavement ColdUP
- Top only, short£139.95
- All over, short£169.95
- All over, 4–8 in£219.95
- All over, 8–14 in£279.95
Before you book (optional)
- Online consultation (questions and photos, then I call you)£9.95
- In-person consultation£74.95
- Consultation in the chair on the dayIncluded
Prices come straight from the online booking system.
Questions men ask
Is a Korean perm different from a normal perm?
It's a look, not a chemical: soft, piecey movement, bigger rods, a lighter hand.
Do you do the heat version?
Not on men. I do it cold, with Wavement Cold.
How long does it last?
Around two to three months on short hair.
Can you flatten the sides too?
Yes. Movement on top, sides tucked in with a down perm.
More for men
- The Korean perm, the full guide →
- What a Korean perm costs in London →
- Korean perm kits at home: the risks →
- Sides only: the down perm →
- The modern men's perm →
- All men's pages →
As seen in
All press →Not ready? Fair enough.
Online consultation £9.95 from anywhere, or in person £74.95.
Book a consultationOther ways: Find my hair typeRead the guidesContact