Soft curls are having a big moment right now for guys who want more texture without daily heat styling, and a curly perm is one of the most reliable ways to get that look to last for months. Men are asking for everything from subtle waves to tight coils, often paired with modern cuts like fades, undercuts, and mullets so the curls become the main feature instead of an afterthought. Before you commit, it helps to know that a perm is a chemical treatment that reshapes your hair’s structure, so you need healthy strands and realistic expectations about curl size, volume, and maintenance. The best curly perm for you depends on your natural hair texture, hair length, face shape, and how much daily styling you’re actually willing to do. Some looks lean low-maintenance and casual, while others are sharper and more styled. Below, you’ll find 20 of the most popular curly perm looks for men right now, with practical notes on who they suit, how to style them, and what to ask your barber for so you walk out with curls that feel confident and modern rather than costume-like.
1. Short Curly Perm For Men
A short curly perm is a great entry point if you’re curious about curls but do not want a huge change in length or a high-maintenance routine. Hair is usually kept short on the sides and slightly longer on top, then permed into soft, even curls that sit close to the head instead of sticking out everywhere. This look works especially well for straight or slightly wavy hair that normally falls flat, because the perm adds lift at the roots and a rounded shape without needing tons of product. Guys with oval, square, or heart-shaped faces tend to pull this off easily, since the curls add volume without hiding your features. Styling is simple: a curl cream or light mousse on damp hair, a bit of scrunching with your hands, and then air-dry or use a diffuser on low heat. Ask your barber for a short scissor or clipper cut with more length left on top, then request small to medium rods for a natural curl pattern that does not look too tight or old-school.
2. Curly Undercut Perm For Men
The curly undercut perm gives you a bold contrast: tight sides and back with a full, textured top that has serious volume. Hair on the sides is usually clipped short, sometimes down to a skin fade, while the top is long enough to wrap on rods for defined curls that fall forward or up, depending on how you style them. This combo works well if you have fine or average-density hair and want it to look thicker, because the short sides make the curls on top appear even fuller. It also suits guys who like sharp, clean lines but still want movement and softness in their hairstyle. To style, apply a curl-enhancing cream or lightweight foam on damp hair, then scrunch and let it dry naturally, or diffuse if you want extra lift. For a more polished finish, you can pinch a few curls with a small amount of styling cream to separate them. Tell your barber you want a tight undercut or mid fade with enough length on top for curling, and a perm that creates medium curls, not super tight spirals, so the look stays modern and versatile.
3. Curly Perm With Fade
A curly perm with a fade is one of the most popular combinations because it hits that sweet spot between sharp and relaxed. The fade on the sides and back can be low, mid, or high, but the key is that it gradually blends from almost bare skin into longer hair on top that’s permed into curls. This gradual transition keeps the haircut looking clean and structured, while the curls add a softer, more playful texture up top. It suits a wide range of face shapes and is especially flattering if you want to elongate your face or highlight your cheekbones, since the volume is focused at the crown and upper forehead. Styling is fairly easy: use a curl cream or gel with a soft hold, scrunch into damp hair, and let the curls dry without touching them too much to avoid frizz. If you have naturally straight hair, this perm gives you reliable shape day after day, even when you roll out of bed. Ask your barber for your preferred fade height and a top length that hits between one and three inches when straight, then request a perm that creates medium-sized curls that look natural and bouncy, not overly tight.
4. Loose Wavy Perm For Men
If you like that “just came from the beach” vibe without tight ringlets, a loose wavy perm is the way to go. Instead of strong, springy curls, this technique creates soft S-shaped waves that bend and flow but still keep your hair looking mostly straight at the roots. It’s ideal for guys with straight or slightly wavy hair who want movement and texture but still want to run their hands through their hair easily. The loose wave works especially well on medium-length hair, because the extra length shows off the pattern without making it puff out too wide at the sides. Daily styling is simple and low-stress: apply a light sea-salt spray or curl spray on damp hair, scrunch from the ends upward, and either diffuse gently or air-dry. This look pairs nicely with a subtle taper on the sides and back for a more polished shape. When you see your stylist, ask for a body wave or loose perm with larger rods that focus on the mid-lengths and ends, and mention that you want soft waves, not full curls, so they adjust the processing time and technique accordingly.
5. Korean Curly Perm For Men
Korean curly perms have become extremely popular thanks to K-pop and K-drama trends, and they’re perfect if you want soft curls that frame the face in a romantic, stylish way. The cut usually keeps some length on top and around the sides, with layered sections that fall slightly over the forehead and temples, then those pieces are permed into gentle curls or waves. The result is a full, fluffy shape that moves when you walk and looks textured without feeling heavy or overly styled. This perm suits straight to slightly wavy hair best and works well for guys with slimmer faces or longer jawlines who want to soften their features. Styling is about enhancing the airy texture rather than locking it down: apply a lightweight curl cream or milk on damp hair, loosely twist small sections, and let them air-dry for a natural finish. You can also gently push the curls forward for a curtain effect around the face. Tell your stylist you’re aiming for a Korean-inspired perm with layered length, soft curls, and a natural finish that still looks good as it grows out, so they avoid too-tight rods and harsh lines.
6. Medium Length Curly Perm For Men
Medium length curly perms are great if you want curls that are more noticeable and expressive without going full long hair. Hair typically sits somewhere between eyebrow and jaw level when straight, then the perm creates coils or waves that shorten it slightly while adding lots of volume and bounce. This length gives you enough hair to play with different looks: you can push it back off your face, let it fall forward in a curly fringe, or part it slightly to one side for a more relaxed style. It’s especially good for guys with thicker hair who want to control their volume and give it a clear shape. Maintenance is still manageable: use a hydrating shampoo and conditioner for curls, work in a curl cream, and sometimes a light gel or mousse if you want more hold. Air-drying is usually best to keep the pattern intact, but you can diffuse on low heat for extra volume at the roots. Ask your barber to leave medium length all around with soft layers through the top and sides so the curls settle nicely and do not form a triangle shape, then choose a perm rod size that gives you medium, defined curls.
7. Long Curly Perm For Men
A long curly perm brings serious drama and personality, perfect if you want your hair to be the main feature of your look. Hair usually falls from just below the jaw to well past the shoulders when straight, then the perm transforms those lengths into defined curls that add even more volume and movement. This look works best if you already have relatively healthy, strong hair, because longer strands can become dry or frizzy if not cared for after a chemical treatment. It suits oval, rectangular, or heart-shaped faces very well, since the curls frame the face and soften angles. Styling takes a bit more time: use a moisturizing curl shampoo and conditioner, apply leave-in conditioner, and then a curl cream or gel to keep the pattern defined. Gently scrunch and air-dry, or use a diffuser while flipping your head forward for extra body. Regular trims every few months help prevent split ends and keep the shape from looking heavy. When you visit the salon, be clear that you want a long perm with visible, but not overly tight curls, and ask for layering that removes bulk but maintains length, so your hair flows instead of just puffing out.
8. Curly Fringe Perm For Men
A curly fringe perm focuses the curl action up front, giving you a textured front section that becomes the focal point of your haircut. The sides and back can be kept shorter with a taper or fade, or left a bit longer if you like a fuller look overall, but the key is that the front layers are permed into soft curls that fall over or just above the eyebrows. This style is great if your natural hair sits flat at the front or if your straight fringe always splits apart. It can also help balance features by drawing attention to the eyes and cheekbones. For styling, apply a light curl cream or foam to the fringe area, scrunch gently upward, and let it dry without disturbing it too much so the curls form clearly. You can keep the rest of the hair more relaxed or use a lighter amount of product to maintain some texture. Tell your barber you want a curly fringe with a perm only on the front or top section, leaving hair long enough there to create visible curls, and a cut that gradually shortens toward the back to avoid a heavy front-only look.
9. Curly Perm Mullet For Men
The curly perm mullet mixes retro attitude with modern texture, giving you short hair at the front and sides and longer, permed curls in the back. The front is usually cut into a simple crop or slightly longer fringe, while the sides are tapered or faded for a cleaner edge. The back section is left longer and then permed into defined curls or waves that sit around the neckline and shoulders. This look stands out and is perfect if you like bolder hair choices, want to show personality, or enjoy a bit of edge in your style. It works especially well on straight hair that looks boring in a standard short cut, because the perm transforms the back into a soft, bouncy curtain of curls. Styling is straightforward: use curl cream on the longer back section, scrunch the curls, and let them dry while keeping the front and sides more controlled with a light styling paste if needed. Ask your barber for a modern mullet with short front and sides, length at the back, and then a perm on the longer rear section that creates medium curls with movement instead of super tight ringlets.
10. Curly Top Taper Perm For Men
A curly top taper perm keeps things neat and professional while still giving you plenty of texture on top. The sides and back are tapered gradually with scissors or clippers, staying longer around the temples and neckline than a fade would, which makes the overall shape softer. The hair on top is left longer and then permed into curls that add height and dimension. This look is perfect if you need a haircut that works at the office but still looks stylish on weekends. It flatters most face shapes, especially round and square faces, because the extra volume on top helps elongate the face slightly. For daily styling, work a little curl cream or light mousse into damp hair, scrunch to encourage the curl pattern, and then let it air-dry or use a diffuser. You can also define a few curls in front with a touch of styling cream. When you explain it to your barber, ask for a classic taper on the sides and back with enough top length for a perm, and specify that you want soft, controlled curls that sit upward and slightly forward rather than falling flat.
11. Curly Perm Quiff For Men
A curly perm quiff is ideal if you like height and volume at the front, with curls that sweep upward and slightly back instead of falling over your forehead. The sides and back are usually tapered or faded for a clean outline, while the top is kept long enough to create a lifted, voluminous front section once permed. The curls add a textured twist to the classic quiff, giving it more character and movement. This style works best for guys with straight or fine hair that struggles to hold volume, because the perm provides a built-in lift that does not collapse quickly. To style, apply a curl cream or lightweight mousse from roots to ends on damp hair, then blow-dry with a diffuser while pushing the front upward and back using your fingers. Finish with a small amount of flexible-hold product to keep the quiff in place without making the curls stiff. Tell your barber you want a quiff-friendly cut, with more length at the front and a gradual blend toward the crown, plus a perm that creates medium curls for a textured, lifted look rather than tight coils.
12. Curly Perm Comb Over For Men
For men who like a polished look but still want the dimension of curls, the curly perm comb over offers a sharp yet textured option. Hair on the sides and back is tapered or faded, while the top is left longer and permed, then styled by parting it to one side and combing or pushing the curls over. Unlike a classic straight comb over, this version uses curls for a softer, more modern finish that does not look stiff or overly formal. It works particularly well for guys with thinning hair on top, because the curls create visual fullness and hide some of the scalp. Styling involves applying a curl cream or soft-hold gel on damp hair, creating a side part with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb, then guiding the curls over to one side and letting them dry in place. You can refine the front section by twirling a few curls with your fingers. When you talk to your barber, ask for a side-part friendly cut with enough top length for a comb over, combined with a perm that yields defined but relaxed curls that can still be directed in one main direction.
13. Tight Spiral Curly Perm For Men
A tight spiral curly perm delivers the most pronounced curl pattern, with corkscrew-like curls that spring away from the scalp and create big volume. This look is high impact and tends to draw attention, so it suits men who are comfortable with a strong hairstyle statement. It can work on both short and medium lengths, but the curls will appear smaller and more tightly packed on shorter hair. The style is great if you want to completely transform very straight or limp hair into something bold and full of texture. Because the curls are tighter, they need more moisture and gentle handling to avoid frizz and dryness. Use a sulfate-free shampoo made for curls, a rich conditioner, and a leave-in product, then apply a curl cream or gel and allow the hair to air-dry, avoiding brushing it out. Refresh curls between washes with a water and leave-in spray. When you visit your stylist, ask specifically for a spiral perm with smaller rods and a defined, tight curl pattern, and discuss how much volume you’re comfortable with so they can tailor the cut and layering to your face shape.
14. Curly Perm Mohawk For Men
The curly perm mohawk combines shaved or very short sides with a central strip of longer, permed hair that runs from the forehead to the nape. This style is edgy and expressive, perfect if you want something that feels more alternative while still being surprisingly wearable in more casual settings. The curls add softness and texture to the traditionally sharp mohawk silhouette, making it feel modern rather than harsh. Length in the central strip can be customized: shorter curls stand up more, while longer curls fall and cascade along the center. Styling is straightforward: apply curl cream or mousse to the mohawk section, scrunch upward, and either let it air-dry or diffuse for more lift. The short sides require little maintenance beyond regular trims to keep the contrast sharp. When speaking to your barber, ask for a mohawk or faux-hawk base cut with a wide enough central panel for curls, and then a perm that creates medium to tight curls so the mohawk has structure and does not flop completely flat.
15. Curly Perm Wolf Cut For Men
A curly perm wolf cut blends shaggy layers and a slight mullet shape with lots of texture, giving you a wild, lived-in look that still feels intentional. The cut usually features shorter layers at the crown for volume, a longer fringe or front pieces around the face, and more length toward the back. When permed, these layers turn into an explosion of curls that move in different directions but still create a cohesive silhouette. This style works best on medium to thick hair and is ideal for guys who like a messy, rock-inspired aesthetic. Daily styling can actually be easy: apply a moisturizing curl cream or mousse to damp hair, scrunch all over, and let it air-dry or diffuse, embracing a slightly imperfect finish. You do not want super defined, neat curls here; a bit of chaos is part of the charm. Ask your stylist for a wolf cut with strong layers and extra length in the back, then a perm that produces medium curls to amplify the texture without turning your hair into a uniform ball of tight coils.
16. Curly Perm Bowl Cut For Men
The curly perm bowl cut is a twist on the classic round shape, using curls to soften the lines and give it a more contemporary feel. Hair is cut in a circular shape around the head, with the top and sides blending into each other and the length sitting around the temple or mid-ear. When permed, the hair forms a halo of curls that frames the face and draws attention to the eyes and cheekbones. It works well for guys who want something a bit different but still fairly easy to style. Because the outline is already set by the cut, styling mainly focuses on keeping the curls hydrated and defined. Use a curl-friendly shampoo and conditioner, apply curl cream sparingly, and scrunch upward before letting it dry. Avoid heavy products that weigh the curls down and ruin the round shape. When talking to your barber, ask for a bowl cut with a soft, blended edge instead of a harsh line, and a perm that creates medium, bouncy curls so the haircut looks intentional, not like a throwback to a dated look.
17. Curly Perm Edgar Cut For Men
The curly perm Edgar cut takes the bold, straight-edged fringe of the classic Edgar and mixes it with curls on top for a striking contrast. The front usually features a defined, horizontal line that sits above the eyebrows, while the sides and back are faded or tapered quite close. The top is left longer, and after the perm, those curls sit behind or slightly over the fringe, adding depth and texture. This look is edgy and works best if you like stand-out haircuts that highlight your eyes and facial structure. It’s especially flattering on guys with strong cheekbones and jawlines. Styling is fairly simple: keep the fringe neat with a bit of light styling cream if needed, and use curl cream or mousse on the top, scrunching to encourage the curl pattern. Let the curls dry naturally so they keep their shape behind the straight line of the fringe. Tell your barber you want an Edgar-style front with a sharp, straight fringe, a fade on the sides, and a permed top that gives visible curls and texture for a more modern version of the cut.
18. Curly Perm Textured Crop For Men
The curly perm textured crop gives you a short, modern haircut with a lot of movement on top and clean edges around the sides and back. The crop itself keeps the hair relatively short, but leaves slightly more length on the crown area for texture. Once permed, those top sections turn into tight or medium curls that add an interesting, almost tousled surface to an otherwise minimal haircut. This style is great if you want curls but do not want to deal with longer hair or a dramatic change. It works particularly well for men with fine or thinning hair, because the curls create the illusion of thickness. For styling, apply a small amount of curl cream or sea salt spray to damp hair, then use your fingers to lift and scrunch the top while keeping the sides neat. You can let it air-dry or diffuse briefly for extra lift. Ask your barber for a short textured crop with more length on the crown and then a perm only on that top section, using rods that create tight or medium curls for visible texture without needing a lot of product.
19. Curly Perm Bob Cut For Men
A curly perm bob cut hits around chin length and gives you a rounded, balanced shape with curls all around the head. This length is great if you want something longer and more expressive than a crop, but not as dramatic as shoulder-length hair. The ends typically sit around the jaw or slightly lower, framing your face and softening strong features. When permed, the curls create a lot of movement and make the bob feel more dynamic and masculine rather than overly polished. It’s especially good for guys with straight, thick hair that tends to hang heavy; the curls break up the weight and give it lift. Styling involves using a curl-friendly conditioner, adding a curl cream or gel, and scrunching the hair while focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Let it air-dry or diffuse, and you can tuck sections behind your ears or part it in the middle or slightly off-center. Ask your stylist for a bob-length cut with soft layers through the interior so the curls stack nicely, and a perm that creates medium curls that look full but not overly tight.
20. Natural Look Curly Perm For Men
A natural look curly perm is designed to mimic what natural curls would look like on you, with a softer pattern and less obvious “I just got a perm” vibe. The cut usually follows your hair’s existing shape, whether short, medium, or slightly longer, and uses subtle layering so the curls fall in a relaxed way. The perm itself focuses on creating loose to medium curls with a bit of variation in size, which keeps things from looking too uniform. This style is ideal if you want the benefits of curls—volume, texture, movement—without a dramatic or high-fashion hairstyle. It works for a wide range of hair types and face shapes, and it’s easy to maintain day to day. Use gentle, moisturizing products, a curl cream or light gel, and let your hair air-dry most of the time, scrunching occasionally to keep the curl pattern. When you talk to your stylist, emphasize that you want a very natural result with soft curls, minimal frizz, and a shape that still looks good even as the perm grows out and loosens over a few months.
Conclusion:
Choosing the right curly perm as a man comes down to balancing how bold you want your look to be with how much daily styling you’re willing to commit to. Tighter spiral perms, mohawks, mullets, and curly Edgars are high-impact and expressive, great if you enjoy standing out and do not mind regular product use and salon visits to keep the shape sharp. On the other hand, loose waves, natural-look perms, short curly perms, and curly top tapers offer more subtle texture that still upgrades your everyday haircut without feeling like too big a jump. No matter which of these 20 curly perm looks you’re drawn to, it’s smart to go into your appointment with clear photos, a realistic idea of your hair’s starting point, and questions about maintenance so you know exactly what you’re signing up for. Talk honestly with your stylist about your lifestyle, job, and styling habits so they can adjust curl size, cut, and product suggestions to fit your reality. With the right match, a curly perm can give you months of easy, textured hair that looks intentional and stylish with minimal effort once you find your rhythm.
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