Home|Blog|Spiral Perm vs Body Wave vs Basic Curls -Which Is Better for Your Hair?

Spiral Perm vs Body Wave vs Basic Curls -Which Is Better for Your Hair?

Last Update Jul 25, 2025

Do you want to get a perm but aren't sure what kind to get? Do you know how to choose the best perm for your hair type? Yes, perming entails more than simply walking into a salon and waiting for your stylist to do whatever he or she wants with your hair.

perm  type

There are numerous factors to consider, including which perm to use, your hair type, the products to use, and how to care for your perm. This article will assist you in deciding which perm to get.

Many people struggle with deciding whether to get a body wave perm, a spiral perm, or a regular perm, and the best way to solve this problem is to compare the characteristics of these three perms and see which one best suits you.

Things About Spiral Perm

Spiral Perm

The spiral perm takes us back to the 1980s and reminds us of the past for many people, and if you want a hairstyle with a retro feel, the spiral perm can do the trick. The spiral perm was the heart and soul of the 1980s, evoking a more retro, carefree, and power-rock era. Check UNice spiral curly wigs:

1. Hair type and length

Spiral perms are ideal for shoulder-length or even long hair. In general, your hair should be at least 8 inches long if you want a spiral perm. Because your hair will shrink as it curls, the length at the start is critical.

Spiral perms suit fine, thin hair the best. These perms can lift fine, thin hair and add volume. Spiral perms are best for people with extremely healthy hair because the perm process employs stronger chemicals than body waves to produce stronger, longer-lasting curls.

2. Procedures and tools

Spiral perms are created using special curling rods. These thin, long rods are placed vertically in the hair to create a spiral effect.

Spiral perms produce tighter, thinner curls because the rods used are smaller than those used in other perms. Although spiral perm rods come in a variety of sizes, these rods are typically small and produce a tight, bouncy perm.

3. The Look of Your Hair

Because spiral perms are made from thinner materials, they produce the tightest curls. As a result, the hair appears fuller, tighter, denser, and more bouncy. If you want to add long-lasting volume to your hair, a spiral perm is a way to go.

4. Perm longevity

Spiral curls typically last longer because the rods used to create them are finer and contain stronger chemicals, resulting in a stronger hold. Spiral curls have a six-month lifespan before the tight curls begin to loosen.

Things About Body Wave Perm

Body wave perm

Body waves provide a modern style and appearance. Check UNice body wave wigs here:

1. Hair type and length

Body wave perms can be applied to any length of hair. You can get this perm whether your hair is long or short. Body waves can be achieved by anyone with straight hair who wants more texture or natural waves. People with limp, straight hair who struggle to get and keep curls naturally can benefit from a body wave perm.

2. Methodology and equipment

Body wave perms typically use larger rollers, but the size of the waves at the end of the perm can be adjusted because the size of the rods used to create body waves can also be adjusted.

You can create tiny curls with smaller rods or large, loose curls with larger rollers. You can even make different-sized whoops in your hair by using different-sized rods.

3. Hairstyle

Body waves create soft, natural waves. They also add texture and provide a longer-lasting blowout. However, the results for non-straight hair are inconsistent and short-lived.

4. Perm longevity

Body waves typically last 3 to 5 months, depending on the size of the rods used to create these waves, the quality of the solution used in the perming process, and the post-perm management process.

Things About Basic Curls

Basic curls

Basic perms have uniform curls throughout the hairstyle; they are the same size and shape.

1. Hair type and length

If you have shorter hair and want to add volume, a basic perm is your best bet. You can easily get a nice basic perm.

2. Methodology and equipment

Basic perms employ horizontally applied rods with a uniform curl to the scalp. After the perm, avoid washing or touching it for a few days, and avoid wearing it in a ponytail or other style that causes tension along your scalp. This can cause your hair to break or become damaged.

3. Hairstyle

Basic perms have uniform curls that are all the same size and shape throughout the hairstyle.

4. Perm longevity

The lifespan of the basic curls hairstyle varies more than you might think. A perm can last anywhere from three to six months, depending on your hair type and how well you care for it.

What Perm Style Is Right For You?

What perm style right for you?

A spiral perm is ideal for adding volume to your hair and creating tight, long-lasting curls. Spiral perms provide more volume to fine hair than other perm styles.

Body waves are ideal if you want to add texture and volume to your straight hair but don't want tight curls. Body waves are a great way to add texture and a natural wave to your hair.

A spiral perm is appropriate if your hair is 8 inches or longer. However, for shorter hair lengths, even if you want to, a spiral perm is impossible to achieve, so you should opt for body waves.

Final thoughts

Body waves and spiral perms are both beautiful styles to try when you want to add curls or texture to your hair. Now that you know everything there is to know about these styles, consider your preferences, hair length, and longevity requirements before deciding. Whatever you choose, rest assured that it will look stunning!

UNice Hair

UNice Hair is a trusted brand known for high-quality human hair wigs, bundles, and extensions. With a passion for beauty and innovation, we provide expert tips, styling guides, and the latest hair trends to help you look and feel your best.

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