Discovering your perfect hairstyle can be an exciting journey, especially with the resurgence of iconic looks from the past. One such style that has made a comeback is the women's spiral perm, a classic staple of the '80s and '90s. If you're considering embracing this retro trend, you're in the right place. Here, we delve into the world of spiral perms, their history, how to get them, and how to care for and style your new look.
The spiral perm is characterized by its springy, spiral-shaped curls that cascade down the hair. Unlike traditional perms that create a uniform curl pattern, spiral perms offer a more dynamic, unpredictable curl, similar to a curl iron or braided curls. But what makes spiral perms stand out is their longevity and low maintenance, making them a popular choice for women looking for a long-lasting style.
A Brief History of the Spiral Perm
The spiral perm was popularized in the mid-20th century as a softer, more natural-looking alternative to the very tight, heat-processed curls of the 1940s and '50s. It offered a more youthful, carefree look, a perfect fit for the casual fashion trends of the '60s and '70s. The spiral perm truly came into its own in the '80s, becoming a symbol of the decade's unapologetic glamour and excess.
The spiral perm was also a symbol of liberation for many women. It was an easy, affordable way to drastically change one's appearance, offering women a sense of control and self-expression in an era dominated by social norms and expectations.
The Rise of the Spiral Perm in Pop Culture
From cinematic heroines to music icons, the spiral perm was embraced by numerous public figures who helped catapult this hairstyle into pop culture stardom. Farrah Fawcett's signature curls in "Charlie's Angels" and Cyndi Lauper's distinctive style in her "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" music video are just a couple of examples.
Moreover, the spiral perm was not confined to young women. It was also popular among women in different age groups, reflecting its versatility and timeless appeal. Influential women like Diana Ross, Cher, and even former first lady Nancy Reagan all sported the style at some point, making it a true icon of the era.
Spiral Perms Today
Fast forward to the 21st century, and the spiral perm is making a comeback. actresses such as Kaia Gerber and influencing sisters Gigi and Bella Hadid have all been seen rocking spiral perms, proving that this style has lost none of its appeal. Today's spiral perms are sleeker, more subtle, and often more natural-looking than their '80s counterparts, but they retain the essence of the original style.
Whether you're nostalgic for the '80s or simply drawn to the dynamic, low-maintenance nature of spiral perms, this classic style can be a great choice. But before you take the plunge, let's delve into what it takes to get a spiral perm, and how to maintain it.
Getting a Spiral Perm
Obtaining a spiral perm involves several steps, and it's best done by a professional stylist. Here's an overview of the process:
The first step is to choose the right perm rods. These come in various sizes, and selecting the right one depends on the size and length of your hair. Larger rods will create looser curls, while smaller rods will produce tighter ones. Your stylist will advise you on the best choice.
Preparing Your Hair
Before the perm process begins, your hair must be in good condition. This means ensuring your hair is free of split ends and breakage. If it's not, you might want to get a haircut or trim before getting a perm. Also, avoid chemical treatments such as hair dye for at least two weeks before your appointment to minimize damage to your hair.
On the day of your appointment, your hair will be washed, towel-dried, and then brushed to remove any tangles. A highlighting cream or perming solution is then applied to your hair, breaking the hair's disulphide bonds and allowing it to mold around the perm rods.
Rinsing and Setting the Perm
After the perming solution has been left on your hair for the required time (which varies depending on your hair's thickness and condition), it's rinsed out. Then, a neutralizer is applied and left to set further. Once the perm rods are removed, your hair is thoroughly rinsed again, conditioned, and styled. The result is a head full of beautiful, bouncy spiral curls.
Post-Perm Care
Post-perm care is crucial to ensure your new curls stay healthy and vibrant. This includes avoiding heat styling for the first few weeks, using gentle, sulfate-free shampoos, and regularly applying deep conditioning treatments to keep your hair moisturized.
Additionally, you'll need to be patient. Spiral perms take time to settle and can be quite intense right after you get them. But with time and the right care, they'll soften into beautiful, natural-looking curls that require minimal styling.
Styling Spiral Perms
Spiral perms are low-maintenance but not maintenance-free. Here are some tips on how to style and care for your new curls:
One of the best things about spiral perms is that they air-dry into gorgeous, natural-looking curls with minimal effort. However, when you do want to style your hair, there are plenty of options. Scrunching in some styling cream or mouse while your hair is still damp can help enhance your curl pattern while adding definition. Once your hair is completely dry, you can gently reshape any unruly curls using your fingers or a wide-toothed comb.
Spiral perms also hold curls well, which means you can experiment with various hairstyles without fear of your curls losing their shape. Leave your hair down for a voluminous, romantic look, tie it up for a sporty, casual style, or pull it back into a half-up, half-down do for a sophisticated, put-together look.
Products for Spiral Perms
Investing in the right products can make a significant difference in the health and appearance of your spiral perm. Look for products that are designed for curly hair, as these will help define your curl pattern and keep your hair moisturized. Sulfate-free shampoos, moisturizing conditioners, and styling products like curl enhancers, mousses, and gels can all help you get the most out of your spiral perm.
Also, don't forget about deep conditioning treatments. These help keep your hair hydrated and can help reduce frizz, making your curls look their best.
Styling Tools
When it comes to styling tools, less is often more with spiral perms. Heat styling tools like blow dryers and curling irons can cause damage to your hair, especially when you first get your perm. Instead, focus on gentle scrunching and finger-combing to keep your curls defined and maintained.
If you must use heat, always protect your hair with a heat-protectant spray first, and keep the temperature as low as possible.
Moreover, remember that spiral perms are designed to create a dynamic, natural-looking curl pattern. Embrace your curls' natural shape and movement, and don't be afraid to let your hair air-dry for a more authentic '80s look.
Caring for a spiral perm may require some adjustments to your routine and a bit of patience, but the results can be stunning. With the right care, a spiral perm can transform your look, giving you a bold, statement style that's both glamorous and low-maintenance.
So, if you're ready to embrace a classic, timeless look with a nod to the past, a spiral perm might be just the hair transformation you've been looking for. Embrace the curl!