15 Perm Hairstyles for Men for a Stylish Makeover
Let’s be honest — there’s something magnetic about a man who walks into a room with perfectly textured curls. Perm hairstyles men are choosing today aren’t your grandfather’s tight ringlets. They’re modern, intentional, and ridiculously cool.
Whether you’ve been rocking the same buzz cut for years or you’re finally ready to break free from flat, lifeless hair, a perm could be the transformation that changes everything.
The truth is, curly hairstyles men are sporting right now are dominating runways, red carpets, and Instagram feeds everywhere.
From soft Korean-inspired waves to bold spiral curls that demand attention, there’s a perm style out there for every face shape, every personality, and every vibe you’re trying to create.
And the best part? A great perm doesn’t just change your hair — it changes how youfeel when you catch your reflection.
1. The Classic Loose Wave Perm
If you’ve ever looked at someone with effortlessly tousled hair and thought, “How does he wake up looking that good?” — this is the answer.
The classic loose wave perm is the gateway into perm hairstyles men fall in love with first. It adds just enough movement and body to make straight hair look alive without screaming “I got a perm.”
The waves are relaxed, natural-looking, and insanely flattering on almost every face shape. It’s the kind of hair that makes people do a double-take.
Outfit Details & Styling Guide
- Pair with a well-fitted crew neck t-shirt in neutral tones — think white, charcoal, or olive green
- Layer with a lightweight bomber jacket or open chambray shirt for added dimension
- Slim-fit chinos or tapered jeans keep the look polished without being overdressed
- Use a sea salt spray on damp hair and scrunch gently — let it air dry for the most natural finish
- Avoid heavy products; a light-hold mousse will define waves without weighing them down
- Clean white sneakers complete this effortless everyday look
2. The Spiral Perm
This one’s for the bold souls. The spiral perm creates defined, bouncy ringlets that are impossible to ignore. Among all the curly hairstyles men are experimenting with, this one makes the strongest statement.
Each curl is structured, spring-like, and full of personality. It’s the hairstyle equivalent of walking into a room and turning the music up. If you’ve got the confidence to match those curls, there’s nothing more magnetic.
Outfit Details & Styling Guide
- A fitted black leather jacket or moto jacket amplifies the edgy, rock-star energy of spiral curls
- Keep the base simple — a plain white or black crew neck tee works perfectly
- Dark skinny jeans or slim-fit black trousers balance the volume of your hair
- Apply a curl-defining cream to wet hair, then use a diffuser attachment on low heat
- Never brush out spiral curls dry — this creates frizz; instead, finger-coil individual sections
- Finish with Chelsea boots or chunky-soled boots to own the look head to toe
3. The Korean Comma Perm
If K-drama heartthrobs had a signature move, it would be this perm. The Korean comma perm features soft, S-shaped waves that curve gently across the forehead like a comma — hence the name. It’s subtle, romantic, and incredibly flattering.
This is one of those perm hairstyles men choose when they want to look effortlessly handsome without trying too hard. The softness of the curls adds warmth to your face and an undeniable charm that’s hard to resist.
Outfit Details & Styling Guide
- Oversized knitwear in cream, beige, or soft pastels enhances the gentle aesthetic of this perm
- Wide-leg trousers or relaxed-fit pants create that coveted Korean streetwear silhouette
- Layer with a long overcoat in camel or charcoal for colder months
- Use a round brush while blow-drying to shape the comma curve at the front
- A lightweight styling wax gives hold without making the hair look stiff or crunchy
- Minimal accessories — a simple watch or thin chain necklace — keep the look refined
4. The Textured Messy Perm
Perfectly imperfect — that’s the energy of a textured messy perm. This style thrives on chaos, and honestly? That’s what makes it so attractive.
The curls aren’t uniform, the volume is unpredictable, and it looks like you just rolled out of bed looking incredible. It’s one of the most popular curly hairstyles men ask for because it requires almost zero daily effort while delivering maximum style impact.
Outfit Details & Styling Guide
- A vintage denim jacket layered over a graphic tee captures the carefree spirit of this look
- Straight-leg or loose-fit jeans with a subtle distressing detail add to the laid-back vibe
- Canvas sneakers or suede desert boots ground the outfit naturally
- Scrunch a texturizing spray into towel-dried hair and let the mess do its magic
- Skip the comb entirely — use your fingers to shape and separate curls
- A beanie worn loosely can add an extra layer of cool on casual days
5. The Curly Fringe Perm
Want to frame your face in the most flattering way possible? The curly fringe perm delivers exactly that. Tight, defined curls cascade across the forehead while the sides are kept short and clean.
It’s youthful, fresh, and adds an instant cool factor that flat bangs simply can’t compete with. This perm style has been a game-changer for men who want to draw attention to their eyes and jawline.
Outfit Details & Styling Guide
- A fitted polo shirt in navy, burgundy, or forest green complements the clean-cut sides perfectly
- Tailored shorts or chinos work beautifully for a smart-casual summer look
- Add a minimal leather belt and clean loafers to elevate the ensemble
- Apply a small amount of curl cream, focusing on the fringe area for definition
- Let the top air dry naturally while using a towel to blot — don’t rub — excess moisture
- Keep the sides maintained with regular trims every 3-4 weeks to preserve the contrast
6. The Beach Wave Perm
Close your eyes and imagine the ocean breeze in your hair, sand between your toes, and those effortless surfer waves that look like they belong in a California sunset.
That’s the beach wave perm. It’s relaxed, sun-kissed, and radiates a carefree energy that’s absolutely infectious.
Among perm hairstyles men gravitate toward in warmer months, this one reigns supreme. It says “I surf at dawn” even if you’ve never touched a board.
Outfit Details & Styling Guide
- An open linen shirt in white or light blue over a tank top is the quintessential pairing
- Relaxed-fit swim trunks or linen shorts maintain the coastal aesthetic
- Leather sandals or canvas slip-ons are the only footwear you need
- Generously mist sea salt spray through damp hair and scrunch for maximum wave definition
- Embrace the natural air-dry method — blow dryers work against the relaxed texture
- Add a woven bracelet or simple pendant necklace for that effortless beach jewelry touch
7. The Modern Perm Mullet
Yes, the mullet is back — and when you add a perm to it, magic happens. The modern perm mullet is shorter and curlier on top with textured, wavy length flowing down the back.
It’s rebellious, it’s retro, and it’s undeniably one of the most daring curly hairstyles men are rocking right now. This isn’t your dad’s mullet. It’s evolved, refined, and it absolutely slaps.
Outfit Details & Styling Guide
- Vintage band tees or retro graphic shirts are the soulmate of a perm mullet
- High-waisted straight-leg jeans or corduroy pants enhance the retro-modern fusion
- Combat boots or platform sneakers add the right amount of edge
- Use a medium-hold gel on the top for structure while letting the back flow freely
- A diffuser on low heat helps define curls without flattening the volume
- Throw on an oversized trucker jacket or varsity jacket to complete the look
8. The Undercut Perm
When precision meets chaos in the most beautiful way — that’s the undercut perm. The sides are shaved clean and tight while the top explodes with voluminous curls.
The contrast is striking, modern, and incredibly versatile. It works in a boardroom and it works at a rooftop party. This is one of those perm hairstyles men choose when they want to look sharp and creative at the same time.
Outfit Details & Styling Guide
- A black turtleneck or mock neck sweater highlights the dramatic contrast between sides and top
- Slim-fit tailored trousers in charcoal or black keep the silhouette sleek
- Minimalist leather ankle boots or dress shoes match the refined edge
- Apply a volumizing mousse to the top while hair is damp, then scrunch upward
- Blow-dry with a diffuser facing upward to maximize curl lift and separation
- Maintain the undercut with bi-weekly trims to keep the contrast sharp and intentional
9. The Body Wave Perm
Think of this as the perm that whispers instead of shouts. The body wave perm adds gentle, flowing waves throughout medium-to-long hair, creating volume and movement without tight curls.
It’s sophisticated, timeless, and has a romantic quality that makes people want to get closer. If you’re looking for curly hairstyles men can wear to both a coffee date and a formal dinner, this is your answer.
Outfit Details & Styling Guide
- A cable knit sweater in cream, oatmeal, or soft grey pairs beautifully with these soft waves
- Dark wool trousers or well-fitted dress pants elevate the look for evening occasions
- Leather Oxford shoes or suede loafers add a touch of sophistication
- Blow-dry with a large round brush, wrapping sections around it to enhance the wave pattern
- A lightweight shine serum tames flyaways while adding a healthy, natural sheen
- Part the hair naturally to one side for the most flattering shape with this perm style
10. The Short & Tight Curly Perm
Sometimes less is more — and the short curly perm proves it beautifully. Small, tight curls sit close to the head, creating a textured, polished look that’s low-maintenance but high-impact.
It works wonders on men who prefer keeping their hair on the shorter side but want more personality than a basic crop. This is the kind of perm that feels professional on Monday and party-ready on Friday.
Outfit Details & Styling Guide
- A crisp white button-down shirt — tucked or untucked — is the perfect foundation piece
- Navy or charcoal chinos create a clean, put-together aesthetic
- Minimalist white leather sneakers or monk strap shoes round out the look
- Apply a lightweight curl-activating cream to freshly washed hair and let it air dry
- Use a microfiber towel to squeeze out moisture — avoid regular towels that cause frizz
- Keep the sides tapered for a clean shape that highlights the textured curls on top
11. The Long Flowing Perm
Channel your inner rock god with shoulder-length curls that move and bounce with every step. The long flowing perm is dramatic, artistic, and unapologetically bold.
It takes commitment — both in growing the length and in maintaining the curls — but the payoff is extraordinary. There’s something deeply emotional about running your hands through long, permed waves that makes you feel unstoppable.
Outfit Details & Styling Guide
- A slim-fit blazer over a graphic or band tee creates that perfect rockstar-meets-gentleman balance
- Black skinny jeans are the go-to bottom for balancing the hair’s volume
- Pointed-toe boots or sleek leather Chelsea boots add an artistic edge
- Deep condition weekly to keep long permed hair hydrated, soft, and bouncy
- Apply leave-in conditioner from mid-length to ends, then scrunch with a microfiber towel
- Embrace the natural movement — avoid tying it back too often to preserve curl pattern integrity
12. The Tapered Fade Perm
Sharp. Clean. Modern. The tapered fade perm is where barbershop precision meets the beauty of curls. A gradual fade on the sides and back transitions seamlessly into defined curls on top.
It’s one of the sharpest perm hairstyles men can ask for — perfect for those who want the best of both worlds: structure and texture in one unforgettable look.
Outfit Details & Styling Guide
- A bomber jacket in black or olive pairs perfectly with the clean, structured aesthetic
- Joggers with a tapered fit or slim cargo pants match the modern streetwear energy
- Retro-style sneakers or high-top basketball shoes complete the urban look
- Use a curl sponge on damp hair to define and tighten the curls on top
- A light-hold styling gel keeps the shape without creating crunchiness
- Visit your barber every 2-3 weeks to maintain the fade’s sharpness against the curly top
13. The Middle Part Curtain Perm
The middle part curtain perm is giving main character energy in the best way possible. Soft, wavy curtain bangs frame both sides of the face, creating a symmetrical, heart-fluttering look that’s taken social media by storm.
It’s the intersection of boyish charm and mature style. Among the trendiest curly hairstyles men are searching for right now, this one consistently tops the charts.
Outfit Details & Styling Guide
- An oversized cardigan or open knit layer adds to the soft, approachable aesthetic
- Wide-leg trousers or relaxed straight-leg jeans create a balanced, modern silhouette
- Canvas sneakers or minimal leather shoes keep the outfit grounded and versatile
- Blow-dry with a round brush, directing each side away from the center part
- Apply a flexible-hold hairspray to maintain the part without stiffness
- Tuck one side behind the ear occasionally for a casual, effortless variation
14. The Shaggy Perm
There’s a beautiful chaos to the shaggy perm that feels like indie music looks. Layered, textured, and wonderfully unkempt, this style celebrates imperfection.
The curls are loose and uneven, the layers add dimension, and the whole thing just screams “I’m creative and I don’t care what you think.” If you’re drawn to perm hairstyles men wear in the artistic and indie scene, this is your calling.
Outfit Details & Styling Guide
- A vintage flannel shirt — unbuttoned over a plain tee — is the shaggy perm’s perfect match
- Baggy or straight-leg jeans with a worn-in wash enhance the lived-in aesthetic
- Converse-style sneakers or beat-up leather boots add authentic character
- Scrunch in a texturizing cream and forget about it — the less you style, the better this looks
- Sleep on it, wake up, shake it out, and you’re done — seriously, that’s the routine
- Get layers cut every 6-8 weeks to maintain the shaggy shape and prevent it from going flat
15. The Slicked-Back Perm
Who says permed hair can’t be formal? The slicked-back perm takes your curls and sweeps them backward with a wet, polished finish that belongs on a red carpet. It’s suave, it’s sophisticated, and it transforms any look from casual to commanding in seconds.
This is the ultimate proof that perm hairstyles men choose don’t have to be casual — they can be downright elegant.
Outfit Details & Styling Guide
- A tailored dark suit with an open-collar white shirt is the definitive pairing for this look
- Slim-fit dress pants in black or deep navy create a streamlined, powerful silhouette
- Polished leather dress shoes or sleek loafers complete the head-to-toe sophistication
- Apply a strong-hold pomade or gel to damp hair and comb straight back with a fine-tooth comb
- Use a blow dryer on medium heat while combing backward to lock in the slicked shape
- Finish with a high-shine spray to maintain the wet, editorial finish throughout the day
Ready to Make Your Move?
There you have it — 15 jaw-dropping perm hairstyles men are absolutely loving this year.
Whether you gravitate toward subtle beach waves or you’re bold enough for full-on spiral curls, there’s never been a better time to embrace the curl revolution.
The world of curly hairstyles men are rocking today is proof that texture is king, and volume is the crown you’ve been missing.
Remember, the best perm is the one that makes you feel like the most confident version of yourself.
Talk to your barber, bring reference photos, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Your hair grows back — but the memories of turning heads? Those last forever.
