1) Opt for Smaller Curls 

Yes, tighter curls. We understand Korean perms are all about that natural-looking, loose curls but does that mean you have to resign yourself to the old-fashioned curls? No! The final look actually depends on how dry you blow-dry your hair. When it comes to Korean perms, the longer you blow dry your hair, the straighter it becomes. Discuss with your hairstylist to achieve curls that are not extremely tight, yet not extremely loose to make it last up to 6 months or more. 

2) Go for a Low-Damage Perm

Another way on how to maintain Korean perm is to ensure that your hair is healthy. With less damage, the curls tend to not loosen as quickly since healthy hair is apt to retain the shape created by the hairstylist.

3) Request to Begin the Perm Higher

Always start the perm higher so it can last longer. As your hair grows out, it will begin to look like a volume rebonding. If you are going for the look where only the ends of your hair are wavy, begin the perm from mid-length onwards. If you feel the high curls do not match your liking, feel free to blow-dry certain parts to make them straighter.

4) Go for a Pre & Post-Treatment During the Perm

Apart from a low-damage perm, book appointments with your hairstylist for a pre and post treatment. This may add a little more cost to the perm but both treatments ensure that the damage done to your hair is reduced to the least so that your perm can last longer the way you want it to. If you have already spent tons of money on the perm, it is always worth it to spend a little extra to ensure the results are at its optimum. 

5) Apply Hair Mask Once a Week

Perms are prone to dry out your hair just like any other chemical treatment. As moisture is required to maintain curl definition and bounce, here is how to maintain Korean perm, avoid washing your hair with regular clarifying shampoo too often and make it a habit to deep condition your hair with a hydrating mask at least once a week. 

6) Blow-Dry Your Hair

Despite a perm cutting down on your styling hours, it still calls for a bit of maintenance. Blow-dry your hair to keep your curls looking fresh, bouncy and defined. Nonetheless, stay away from hot styling tools such as curling irons and straighteners as you wouldn’t want more damage to your hair by stripping away more of its moisture. Opt for a medium heat when you blow-dry will suffice. 

7) Use Curl Defining Hair Products

Seek products that will enhance your curls and keep it moisturised simultaneously. The last thing you want is for your perm to turn into a hot, frizzy mess. Some products for you to be on the lookout for are curl defining shampoos, conditioners, and styling products. These holy grails can go a long way to ensure your curls look its best and last longer! 

8) Twirl Your Curls 

Twirling your curls using your fingers while you apply curl defining products will provide more definition and bounce. This is how to maintain Korean Perm, try flipping your head forward and scrunch it upside down to add more volume. With that being said, be careful not to twirl or scrunch your curls too frequently in a day as touching your hair excessively will cause frizz. 

9) Bun it Up

When you are going to bed or heading to an event where you want to show off  your curls, simply put your hair up in a bun. You want to keep the bun up for hours for it to work well. Do it before bed and you’ll wake up to beautiful curls with immense volume on top, saving you extra time on your hair in the morning. A tight bun isn’t necessary, just a casual messy bun will do. 

10) Go for Frequent Hair Treatment to Refresh Your Curls

If you have enough budget, consider scheduling hair treatments with your hairstylist every 1 to 2 months. Professional hair treatments focus on repairing the damage caused by the perm as well as moisturising your locks. Thankfully, a hair treatment can also help prolong the time in between perms as it refreshes your curls and makes them bouncier.