Perm
Korean Perm Singapore: Styles, Prices and What to Expect
Updated June 2026 · 4 min read
Korean perms have become one of the most requested treatments at The Hive Salon, Orchard Road. Whether you want soft C-curls, bouncy waves, or a tousled chic finish — a Korean perm gives you texture that lasts months, without the daily effort of styling. This guide covers everything you need to know before booking.
What Is a Korean Perm?
A Korean perm (also called a digital perm) uses heated rods and a digital perming machine to restructure the hair's bonds and create soft, defined curls. The key difference from a traditional cold perm is that Korean perm curls look most natural when dry — making it a significantly lower-maintenance option for everyday wear in Singapore's climate.
Cold perms, by contrast, produce tighter curls that look most defined when wet and tend to loosen as hair dries. If you want curls that hold their shape throughout the day without re-wetting, a Korean perm is usually the better choice.
Korean Perm Styles — Which One Suits Your Face Shape?
Korean perms are not one-size-fits-all. The curl pattern, rod size, and placement are all chosen based on your face shape, hair length, and how much maintenance you want. Here are the main styles available at The Hive Salon:
Creates a clean inward curve at the ends — upper sections stay smooth and straight while the tips curl gently inward. Mimics a professional blowout. The most natural-looking finish.
Flowing S-patterns down the hair with more defined movement and bounce. The waves soften sharp jawlines and cheekbones, making this a popular choice for stronger facial structures.
Looser, continuous waves that often start closer to the roots — an effortless, beachy texture with volume on the sides that balances vertical length.
High-volume, springy curls with heavy layering for maximum bounce. Modern retro perms lean into a 70s wolf cut or shag texture — bold but wearable.
Loose, irregular curls with directional flow for a tousled, intentional finish. Popular in gender-neutral and men's styling. Softens sharp lines while keeping a modern edge.
Korean Perm vs Cold Perm vs Root Perm
| Type | Heat | Best when | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Korean Perm | Yes | Dry | Low-maintenance curls |
| Cold Perm | No | Wet | Defined, tighter curls |
| Root Perm | No | Dry | Volume at roots, straight ends |
Korean Perm Before & After
Real results from clients at The Hive Salon, Orchard Road.
Korean Perm
Korean Perm
How Long Does a Korean Perm Last?
A Korean perm typically lasts 6–9 months with proper aftercare. Singapore's humidity can affect how long results hold — here's what helps:
- ✓Do not wash hair for 48 hours after the treatment
- ✓Avoid tying hair tightly for the first 72 hours
- ✓Use a sulphate-free shampoo to preserve the curl pattern
- ✓Avoid heat styling for the first two weeks
- ✓Apply a leave-in conditioner or curl cream to maintain definition
Korean Perm Price in Singapore
At The Hive Salon, Orchard Road, Korean perm prices start from $198 for short hair. All prices are nett — no GST, no hidden fees. Your stylist confirms the exact price at consultation based on your hair length and volume.
| Hair Length | Senior Stylist | Creative Director |
|---|---|---|
| Short | $198 | $218 |
| Medium | $228 | $248 |
| Long | $258 | $278 |
| Extra Long | $288 | $308 |
Nett pricing, no GST. See full perm service page for all prices.
Can You Perm Coloured or Bleached Hair?
Lightly coloured hair is usually fine for a Korean perm. Heavily bleached or chemically damaged hair is a different story — applying perm chemicals on top of significant damage risks breakage. At The Hive Salon, every client's hair is assessed honestly before any service begins. If a perm isn't safe for your hair, your stylist will tell you — and suggest alternatives.
For more detail, read our blog post on whether you can perm or rebond bleached hair.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
A Korean perm appointment at The Hive Salon takes 2.5 to 4 hours depending on your hair length and the style chosen. Every appointment starts with a consultation — your stylist will assess your hair condition, discuss which perm style suits your face shape, and confirm the price before anything starts.
There is no hard selling. If your hair isn't in condition for a perm, we'll tell you and suggest what to do first.
Ready to book your Korean perm?
The Hive Salon is located at Cuppage Plaza, 5 Koek Road #03-03, Orchard Road, Singapore. Korean perm from $198 nett.
Common Questions