The world of men’s grooming has changed dramatically in the past decade. Once, a haircut was considered enough. Men would go to their barbers, ask for something neat and short, and leave without thinking too much about style or individuality. But today, especially for men in their twenties and thirties, grooming has become a statement of personality and lifestyle. Haircuts are no longer just about neatness—they are about self-expression, fashion, and even cultural identity.
One of the most exciting transformations in men’s grooming is the rise of perms. Traditionally associated with women, perms have now crossed into the world of men’s hairstyling in a powerful way. But this is not about heavy, artificial curls from the past. Modern men’s perms are subtle, stylish, and tailored to create natural movement, texture, and individuality.
At TWENTY TWO CUT – one of the best barbershops in Bangkok, we specialize in adapting these perm styles for men. With a deep understanding of Asian hair textures, Bangkok’s climate, and the modern male lifestyle, we deliver perms that are fashionable, versatile, and easy to maintain.
In this article, we’ll explore the Top 5 Perms for Men in 2025, along with the techniques behind them and why they are becoming essential for stylish men today.
Why Perms for Men are Trending
Before diving into the styles, it’s important to understand why perms have become such a major trend for men. The answer lies in a combination of cultural influence, practicality, and individuality.
From K-pop idols to Japanese actors and Chinese celebrities, Asian men have embraced perms as a way to break free from the monotony of straight, thick hair. These perms add softness, movement, and a touch of romance that align with today’s fashion aesthetics. Social media has amplified this trend, with platforms like TikTok and Instagram filled with men flaunting their textured waves or curls.
For men in Bangkok, perms also offer practical advantages. The city’s humidity can make straight hair fall flat and lifeless, but a perm adds volume and resilience. With the right technique, perms can hold shape without requiring excessive styling, making them ideal for busy young professionals.
Most importantly, perms give men the chance to express creativity and individuality. While fades and undercuts remain popular, perms add a new dimension, turning a basic cut into something extraordinary.
Understanding the Technique
Modern men’s perms rely on advanced techniques that differ from the traditional image of tight curls. The process involves:
- Consultation – At TWENTY TWO CUT, we first analyze the client’s face shape, hair texture, and lifestyle to recommend the right type of perm.
- Preparation – The hair is washed and trimmed if needed, ensuring the right base length for the chosen perm.
- Rod Selection – The size of the rods determines the curl or wave type. Larger rods create looser waves, while smaller ones give tighter curls.
- Perm Solution – A chemical solution is applied to break down the hair’s natural structure, allowing it to be reshaped around the rods.
- Neutralization – After processing, a neutralizer is used to lock in the new shape.
- Styling – Once complete, the hair is styled using premium products to showcase the perm’s natural flow.
The process takes between two to three hours, depending on the style, and the results last for several months with proper care.
1. The Natural Wave Perm
One of the most popular choices for men is the natural wave perm. This style doesn’t create obvious curls but instead introduces soft, flowing waves that look as if they were natural. The result is subtle volume, movement, and a slightly tousled effect that feels effortless yet stylish.
For men in their twenties, the natural wave perm is ideal because it enhances appearance without looking too styled. It works particularly well for those with straight, heavy hair that tends to sit flat. The waves add dimension, making the face appear more dynamic and approachable.
At TWENTY TWO CUT, we achieve this by using medium-sized rods and adjusting the curl direction to suit the client’s features. The goal is not to make the perm noticeable but to make the man look naturally stylish. A touch of sea salt spray or matte cream is enough to maintain this look day to day.
2. The Korean-Inspired Curtain Perm
Inspired by K-pop idols, the curtain perm has become one of the hottest trends across Asia. This style works with longer front sections, parted down the middle or slightly off-center, and styled into soft, voluminous waves. It creates a romantic, youthful, and trendy look that has become a symbol of modern masculinity.
For men in Bangkok’s young generation, this style is particularly appealing. It frames the face beautifully, draws attention to the eyes, and carries a fashionable yet approachable energy. It is also incredibly versatile—polished enough for work, yet casual enough for weekends.
The technique involves leaving the hair slightly longer in the front, then applying a perm to create flowing waves. At TWENTY TWO CUT, we customize the intensity of the waves: some men prefer very soft bends, while others want more defined curls for dramatic flair. Styling can be as simple as blow-drying with a round brush to emphasize the curtain shape.
3. The Textured Volume Perm
For men who want more boldness and edge, the textured volume perm delivers. This style adds height and thickness to the hair, often paired with an undercut or fade on the sides for contrast. The result is a hairstyle that looks sharp, structured, and fashion-forward.
This perm is especially popular among men who struggle with fine or thinning hair. By adding texture and lift, it creates the illusion of fullness. It is also perfect for young men in creative industries who want a hairstyle that makes a statement.
At TWENTY TWO CUT, our barbers tailor the textured perm to each client’s head shape, ensuring the volume complements rather than overwhelms. The technique often involves combining rods of different sizes to create natural irregularity, making the hairstyle look effortless rather than artificial.
Paired with styling powders or matte wax, this haircut becomes a bold yet manageable option for men who want to stand out.
4. The Soft Curl Perm
The soft curl perm is a modern reinvention of traditional perms, creating defined but loose curls that add playfulness and personality. It is less structured than the natural wave perm but not as bold as the textured volume perm, making it a versatile middle ground.
For men, soft curls add a sense of creativity and charisma. They work well with medium-length hair and can be styled in multiple ways—casual with tousled curls or more polished with a light hold cream.
The technique involves using smaller rods than those used for waves but not so small that the curls become tight. At TWENTY TWO CUT, we pay attention to curl placement, ensuring the curls frame the face attractively while maintaining balance.
This style is particularly popular among younger men who want a hairstyle that sets them apart without feeling too experimental. It carries a fashionable, slightly artistic edge that works beautifully in Bangkok’s urban setting.
5. The Hybrid Perm (Fade + Curls)
One of the most creative innovations in men’s hairstyling is the hybrid perm, which combines clean fades or undercuts on the sides with permed curls or waves on top. This fusion of structure and texture creates a striking contrast that feels modern, stylish, and bold.
The hybrid perm is perfect for men who want to balance discipline with creativity. The fade keeps the look sharp and professional, while the curls on top introduce individuality and flair. It is a favorite among trendsetters, athletes, and influencers who want a haircut that grabs attention.
At TWENTY TWO CUT, we specialize in executing this look with precision. The fade is crafted to perfection, while the curls are tailored to suit the client’s hair type and face shape. Depending on preference, the top can feature soft waves for subtle contrast or tighter curls for a more dramatic effect.
This perm is not for everyone—it is bold, confident, and requires regular maintenance. But for men who want to stand out, it is one of the most impactful choices in 2025.
Caring for a Men’s Perm
A perm is an investment, and proper care is essential to maintain its shape and health. At TWENTY TWO CUT, we provide aftercare guidance tailored to each client. Key steps include avoiding washing for the first 48 hours, using sulfate-free shampoos, conditioning regularly, and minimizing heat styling.
Daily maintenance is surprisingly simple. Most modern perms are designed to look good with minimal effort. A touch of sea salt spray, a lightweight mousse, or matte clay is often enough to bring out the waves or curls. With trims every four to six weeks, the perm maintains its freshness while growing out gracefully.
The TWENTY TWO CUT Experience
What sets TWENTY TWO CUT apart is not just technical skill but the experience of grooming as a lifestyle. From the moment clients step into our barbershop, they are welcomed into an environment of creativity, luxury, and masculinity. Our interiors combine vintage charm with modern style, complete with a vinyl DJ lounge that sets the mood.
We use only premium grooming products from brands like Aesop, Balmain, and Eau de Spa, ensuring every perm not only looks good but feels healthy. Our barbers are trained internationally, blending the artistry of Asian hairstyling with global barbering techniques.
More than just a haircut or a perm, a visit to TWENTY TWO CUT is a transformation. Clients leave not just with a new look but with renewed confidence and identity.
Perms for men are no longer a niche experiment—they are a defining trend of modern grooming. From the natural wave to the curtain perm, the textured volume, the soft curl, and the hybrid fade + curls, these styles showcase the versatility and creativity possible with today’s techniques.
For men, especially the young generation, perms offer a way to express personality while staying fashionable and practical. They work with Asian hair textures, suit Bangkok’s climate, and adapt easily to both casual and professional settings.
At TWENTY TWO CUT – one of the best barbershops in Bangkok, we bring these looks to life with precision, artistry, and premium care. If you are ready to elevate your style and embrace the modern era of men’s grooming, the perfect perm awaits you at our barbershop.