Curls, Waves, or Coils? Your Guide to Choosing the Right Perm at Assort Tokyo
Thinking about adding some texture to your look? Whether you’re dreaming of effortless “woke up like this” waves or bold, defined ringlets, getting a perm is the ultimate way to transform your style.
At Assort Tokyo, we know that with so many options, picking the right service can feel a bit overwhelming. To help you book with confidence, we’ve broken down our four most popular perm types and what makes each one unique.
1. Cold Perm (The Traditional Classic)
Commonly known as a “normal perm,” this method uses a chemical solution without any external heat.
• The Look: Tighter, springier, and more defined curls. It’s perfect for adding volume right from the roots.
• The Magic: The curls are most prominent when the hair is wet. As it dries, the curl becomes softer and more voluminous.
• Best For: Short to medium hair, or those who love using styling mousse or gel for a “wet look” finish.
2. Digital Perm (The Modern Favorite)
The Digital Perm (or “hot perm”) uses temperature-controlled rods and a specialized machine to “set” the hair.
• The Look: Soft, natural-looking “S-curves” that mimic the look of a curling iron or a professional blowout.
• The Magic: Unlike the cold perm, digital perm curls are strongest when the hair is dry. Simply twist your hair with your fingers as you blow-dry to “activate” the bounce.
• Best For: Medium to long hair and clients looking for low-maintenance, polished waves.
3. Airwave Perm (The Gentle Volume) 
The Airwave is a Japanese innovation that uses air pressure and controlled temperature to create texture while keeping hair health a priority.
• The Look: Very soft, “airy,” and natural texture with a lot of movement.
• The Magic: It is significantly gentler on the hair than traditional perms. It creates a “memory” in the hair that lasts longer than a cold perm but feels softer than a digital perm.
• Best For: Fine or flat hair that needs a boost of volume without the “crunchy” feel.
4. Spiral Perm (The Bold Statement)
If you want maximum texture and a “wow” factor, the spiral perm is the way to go.
• The Look: Uniform, corkscrew-shaped curls that run from the root to the ends.
• The Magic: We use vertical rod placement to create high-definition coils that offer incredible volume and personality.
• Best For: Those who want a high-fashion, high-texture look and don’t mind a little extra love during the styling process.
⚠️ Important: A Note on Hair Health
At Assort, we prioritize the integrity of your hair above all else. Because perming involves changing the internal structure of your strands, it requires a healthy foundation.
Please Note: We typically do not perform perm services on hair that currently has bleach in it (including highlights or balayage). Similarly, we do not recommend bleaching hair that has already been permed. Combining these two chemical processes can cause significant damage or breakage.
If you aren’t sure about your hair history, don’t worry! Our stylists provide a thorough consultation before every service to ensure we achieve the best (and safest) results for you.
🌀 QUIZ: Which Perm Should You Book?
Answer these 4 quick questions to find your perfect match!
1. How do you usually style your hair?
• A) I like to wash it, add some product, and let it air dry.
• B) I prefer a polished, “blow-dried” look with soft waves.
• C) I want maximum volume and a natural, “fluffy” feel.
• D) I want high-impact curls that make a statement.
2. What is your hair length?
• A) Short to medium.
• B) Medium to long.
• C) Any length, but it’s a bit fine/flat.
• D) Any length, but I want a lot of texture.
3. When do you want your curls to look their best?
• A) When my hair is damp/wet.
• B) After I’ve dried it with a hairdryer.
• C) I want them to look soft and airy all day long.
• D) All the time! I want tight, defined spirals.
4. Has your hair ever been bleached or highlighted?
• Yes: (Stop! A perm might not be safe for your hair right now. Let’s book a Treatment & Cutinstead!)
• No: (Great! Proceed to your results below.)
✨ Your Results:
• Mostly A’s: The Cold Perm. You’re a classic! You’ll love the definition and volume this gives your natural hair, especially when using a bit of product.
• Mostly B’s: The Digital Perm. You’re looking for those effortless “Instagram waves.” This is the best choice for a soft, dry-finish look.
• Mostly C’s: The Airwave Perm. You want body without the damage. This gentle process will give you that breezy, Japanese-style texture.
• Mostly D’s: The Spiral Perm. You’re ready to go bold! Get ready for maximum volume and head-turning ringlets.
Ready for a change?
Book your transformation via our online system today. If you’re still not sure which one to choose, we recommend booking in for either an airwave or digital perm and the stylist will consult with you and change the menu if need be after the consultation 🙂
Book your spot here: https://app2.bireki.jp/p/reserve/11714/assort_tokyo_en
Address:
B1F Rihei Building, 2-10-28 Kita-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 107-0061