You’ve got short hair and are wondering—can I rock a perm? The idea of adding curls to a pixie cut or bob might sound a bit wild, but trust me, it’s not as crazy as it seems! Perms for short hair are the ultimate game-changer.
If you’ve been craving volume, texture, or that effortless beachy wave, a perm could be exactly what you need. Plus, you get to skip that awkward in-between hair stage as your natural waves grow out—total win, right?
Now, you might be thinking, “But isn’t a perm for long hair only?” Well, let me tell you, short-haired folks can get in on the fun too! I’ve had clients with everything from chin-length bobs to edgy pixie cuts, all walking out of the salon with hair that’s full of body and bounce.
So, yes—perms for short hair are totally a thing, and they can be absolutely stunning when done right. If you’re curious about how they work, the best styles for your length, and whether it’s right for you, I’ve got you covered!
1. Undercut Pixie with Curly Perm
The undercut pixie with a curly perm combines edginess and softness for a fun, modern look.
It’s perfect for those who want volume and texture with a bit of daring flair. The perm adds body to your pixie while the undercut keeps things sharp.
Use curl cream to define your curls and dry shampoo to maintain the freshness.
2. Thick Curly Mullet with Wavy Perm
Embrace boldness with the thick curly mullet paired with a wavy perm.
This daring style mixes volume with structure, adding bounce in the front and sharpness in the back.
Ideal for thick hair, it’s great for making a statement. Use curl-enhancing gel to define the curls and keep the back layers neat.
3. Curly Hair Perm
A curly hair perm is a classic option that enhances natural curls with added volume and definition.
This style works wonderfully for those with naturally wavy or curly hair who want more shape and bounce.
It gives you a fuller, more defined look while maintaining the softness of your natural curls.
A curly perm is a low-maintenance way to achieve voluminous, bouncy curls without daily styling.
For best results, apply a curl cream or mousse to keep the curls frizz-free and defined.
4. Short and Shaggy Perm Bob
The short and shaggy perm bob combines a chic bob with textured, voluminous curls for a playful, relaxed vibe.
This style is ideal for women with fine hair who want to add fullness and movement without a heavy, bulky look.
The shaggy layers give it a lived-in feel, while the perm adds volume and bounce. It’s a great way to experiment with texture and create a style that’s both carefree and stylish.
To maintain the look, scrunch your hair with a lightweight mousse and let it air dry for a natural, tousled effect.
5. Modern Wavy Perm for Fine Hair
A modern wavy perm for fine hair is the ultimate solution for adding volume and texture without creating tight curls.
This look is perfect for those with finer hair who want to achieve a fuller, more voluminous appearance without frizz.
The gentle waves created by the perm give a relaxed, beachy vibe, making it ideal for a low-maintenance yet stylish look.
This perm works best on short cuts, creating a fuller, more textured style that doesn’t require a lot of effort.
6. Beach Wave Perm on Short Bob
The beach wave perm on a short bob is a gorgeous, laid-back look that screams effortless chic.
This style is perfect for those who want a trendy, voluminous bob with soft, beachy waves.
The loose waves created by the perm add texture and fullness to your bob, giving it a more relaxed, natural vibe.
It works wonderfully for those with fine to medium hair, creating a fuller, bouncier look.
Apply a texturizing spray or mousse to define the waves and maintain the tousled, beachy feel.
7. Wavy Undercut Pixie with Curly Bangs
The wavy undercut pixie with curly bangs is a bold, eye-catching style that combines an edgy undercut with voluminous curls and bangs.
This look adds plenty of texture and movement, while the undercut gives it an extra sharp, modern twist.
It’s perfect for those with medium-to-thick hair who want to embrace both volume and structure.
The curly bangs give a fun and youthful appearance, framing the face beautifully. To style, use a curl mousse to define the curls and bangs, keeping them soft and natural.
8. Cute Short Bob with Loose Curls
The cute short bob with loose curls is the perfect mix of elegance and ease, creating a soft, voluminous look.
This style adds texture to your bob while maintaining a light, airy feel. It’s great for women with fine to medium hair who want to add bounce without looking too curly or tight.
The loose curls keep the look soft and natural, offering a relaxed vibe. Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep the curls in place without sacrificing softness.
9. Delicate Perm for Straight Hair
A delicate perm for straight hair creates soft, natural-looking waves that add subtle volume and movement.
It’s ideal for those who want texture without the tight curls or frizz often associated with perms.
This style works beautifully for women with fine or straight hair who want to create more fullness and body.
The delicate curls are gentle, giving you a naturally voluminous look that’s easy to manage. To style, use a light mousse to define the waves and keep them soft and bouncy.
10. Afro Perm Style for Natural Hair
The afro perm style is a stunning way to embrace natural curls with even more volume and definition.
Perfect for those with curly or coily hair, this perm adds shape and fullness, creating a bold, beautiful look.
It works great for adding extra body and texture to your natural hair. The afro perm highlights the beauty of natural curls while giving them a more uniform, defined shape.
Keep the curls moisturized with a curl cream to maintain their softness and bounce.
11. Permed Bob with Bouncy Curls
A permed bob with bouncy curls is a fun, timeless style that adds plenty of volume and texture.
The curls create movement and shape, giving your bob a fuller, more dynamic look.
It’s ideal for those with fine or straight hair who want more body and definition without sacrificing the bob’s sleek shape.
The bouncy curls give the bob a playful, youthful feel, perfect for any occasion. Enhance the curls with a light mousse and hairspray for lasting volume and bounce.
12. Shoulder-Length Perm Hair
A shoulder-length perm gives you soft, natural-looking curls that add body and movement to your hair.
It’s perfect for women who want a low-maintenance, voluminous look without going too short.
The perm creates gentle waves that are easy to manage, making it ideal for a busy lifestyle. This style works well for both fine and thick hair, adding texture and fullness.
To style, use mousse or a curl cream to define the curls and keep them bouncy throughout the day.
13. Curly Mohawk Permed Style
A curly mohawk permed style is an edgy, statement-making look that adds height and texture.
The perm gives your hair volume, while the mohawk cut keeps the sides sleek and bold.
This style is perfect for those with thick hair who want to experiment with texture and shape.
The curls in the top section add volume and interest, while the shaved sides offer contrast.
14. Stunning Spiral Perm Hairstyle
The spiral perm adds tight, defined curls that create a dramatic, voluminous look.
This style is perfect for those who want bold, full-bodied curls that really stand out.
Spiral perms work well on medium to thick hair, giving it extra volume and texture.
The tight curls add a touch of vintage glamour, making this style timeless.
Use a curl cream or mousse to enhance the curls and keep them bouncy and frizz-free.
15. Wavy Perm for Older Women with Short Hair
A wavy perm for older women with short hair adds volume and movement to aging hair, creating a youthful appearance.
The soft, natural waves give hair texture and fullness without being too tight or harsh.
This style is perfect for those who want a low-maintenance yet chic look.
The wavy perm brings new life to short hair, giving it more body and bounce.
16. Short Permed Hair with Caramel Highlights
Short permed hair with caramel highlights is a chic, sun-kissed look that adds depth and warmth to your curls.
The perm creates volume and bounce, while the caramel highlights bring dimension and lightness to the style.
This look works beautifully for those with medium to fine hair, giving it fullness and richness.
The combination of curls and highlights creates a playful, textured effect. Keep your curls defined and shiny with a lightweight curl-enhancing serum or mousse.
17. Asymmetrical Pixie with Permed Curls
The asymmetrical pixie with permed curls is a trendy, stylish cut that offers both sharpness and texture.
The asymmetry creates an edgy look, while the curls add softness and volume.
This style is ideal for women who want a bold, statement-making cut with a touch of femininity.
The perm gives your pixie added movement and body, making it easier to style.
Use a curl mousse to define the curls and finish with a light hairspray to hold the shape.
18. Rounded Bob with Natural-Looking Curls
The rounded bob with natural-looking curls offers a soft, feminine look with plenty of volume.
This style works best for those who want a voluminous bob with gentle, flowing waves.
The perm adds texture and fullness, making it perfect for medium to fine hair.
The rounded shape gives it a polished, classic feel, while the curls keep it fresh and modern. Use a curl cream to keep the curls defined and frizz-free.
19. Body Wave Perm for Shoulder-Length Hair
A body wave perm for shoulder-length hair creates soft, gentle waves that add volume and texture to your mid-length cut.
This style is perfect for those who want subtle waves without going for tight curls.
The body wave perm enhances the natural shape of your hair, making it look fuller and more dynamic.
It works beautifully for fine hair, adding lift and movement. To style, apply mousse or curl cream to define the waves and keep them looking fresh.
20. Permed Pixie Mullet
The permed pixie mullet combines the fun, playful look of a pixie with the edgy, bold cut of a mullet.
The perm adds texture and volume to the top of the hair, while the mullet layers give it a unique, daring shape.
This style works well for those who want a statement-making cut that’s full of personality.
The perm creates movement and body, making the mullet look less heavy and more dynamic. Use a texturizing spray to keep the look fresh and voluminous.
21. Root Perm for Short Thin Hair
A root perm for short thin hair is the perfect way to add volume and fullness right at the roots.
This style is great for those with fine hair who want a bit of extra lift without the full commitment of a perm.
The root perm adds body to the scalp, giving the hair a thicker, fuller look.
It’s a simple, low-maintenance way to boost your hair’s volume and create a more voluminous style.
Apply volumizing mousse at the roots to maintain the lift and fullness.
22. Chic Gray Hair Perm
A chic gray hair perm is a stylish and sophisticated way to embrace your silver locks with added texture.
The perm enhances your natural curls or waves, giving your gray hair more volume and definition.
This style works beautifully for women with gray or silver hair who want to embrace their natural beauty.
It adds movement and softness, making your gray hair look vibrant and youthful.
Use a curl cream to define the curls and keep them soft and natural.
23. Tight Curls and Curly Bangs
Tight curls with curly bangs create a voluminous and youthful look. This style works well for those looking to embrace a playful, bold aesthetic with a lot of texture.
The combination of tight curls and bangs frames the face beautifully, making it an excellent option for round or heart-shaped faces.
It’s great for those with thick hair who want extra definition and fullness. Keep the curls defined and frizz-free by using a curl cream or mousse.
24. Charming Permed Bob
A charming permed bob is the perfect way to add volume and shape to a bob cut. The perm brings natural-looking curls and texture to the bob, creating a soft, feminine silhouette.
This style works well on medium to fine hair, adding body and fullness without feeling too heavy.
The permed bob is perfect for those who want a classic look with a bit of extra flair.
A lightweight styling mousse will help define the curls and keep them looking fresh all day.
25. Gorgeous Blonde Perm Style
A gorgeous blonde perm style gives you the best of both worlds: soft, bouncy curls with a sun-kissed, golden hue.
The perm adds volume and texture to blonde hair, enhancing the lightness and brightness of the color.
This style works great for anyone looking to add more dimension and fullness to their blonde locks.
It’s a stunning way to keep your hair voluminous while embracing a playful, carefree vibe.
Apply a heat-protectant mousse to maintain curl definition and shine.
26. Thin and Tight Perm Curls in Short Hair
Thin and tight perm curls in short hair create a fun, textured look that’s full of volume and bounce.
This style works best for people with fine or thin hair, giving it a thicker, fuller appearance.
The tight curls help add body and movement to short cuts, making them look more dynamic.
It’s perfect for those who want a low-maintenance yet chic hairstyle with a bit of edge.
To keep the curls defined, use a lightweight styling gel and scrunch the hair as it dries.
27. Loose Waves on Relaxed Natural Hair
Loose waves on relaxed natural hair provide a relaxed, beachy vibe while maintaining the natural texture.
This perm style is perfect for those with relaxed hair who want to add softness and movement without going for tight curls.
Loose waves give the hair a more effortless, everyday look, while still adding volume.
It’s a great way to add dimension to your relaxed hair without too much maintenance.
Finish the look with a texturizing spray to enhance the waves and keep them soft.
28. Short Stacked Bob with Spiral Curls
The short stacked bob with spiral curls is a bold, sophisticated style that adds structure and volume.
The spiral curls give the bob a chic, modern twist, making it stand out in any crowd.
This style is perfect for those with medium to thick hair who want a cut that has both personality and volume.
The stacked layers at the back provide lift, while the spiral curls create an elegant, voluminous effect.
29. Playful Curly Shag on Medium Hair
The playful curly shag on medium hair gives a laid-back, fun look with a lot of movement and texture.
This style works great for people with medium-length hair who want to add volume and a carefree vibe.
The shag cut allows for different curl patterns to shine, creating a more dynamic and voluminous style.
It’s perfect for those who want something edgy but still feminine and easy to maintain.
Enhance the curls with a lightweight texturizing spray for a tousled, beachy look.
30. Edgy Permed Pixie Cut
An edgy permed pixie cut combines the boldness of a pixie with the volume and texture of curls.
This style is ideal for those who want a sharp, modern cut with a playful, youthful twist.
The permed curls add dimension to the pixie, making it stand out and look more voluminous.
It works best on those with fine to medium hair who want to enhance texture and volume.
A lightweight mousse or curl cream will help define the curls and keep the style fresh.
A low-maintenance perm for short hair is the perfect choice for those who want texture and volume without the hassle.
This perm creates natural, soft waves or curls that require minimal styling. It’s ideal for anyone who leads a busy lifestyle but still wants a chic, voluminous look.
The low-maintenance perm adds body and texture without the need for constant touch-ups.
To keep it looking fresh, simply use a curl-enhancing spray or mousse and let it air dry.
32. Trendy Spiral Perm
The trendy spiral perm creates tight, well-defined curls that add volume and shape to your hair. This style works beautifully on those who want a dramatic, curly look with lots of body.
The spiral curls give the hair a consistent, uniform texture, making it look more polished and structured.
It’s perfect for anyone who loves bouncy, voluminous curls but wants a more modern take on the classic perm.
Use a curl cream or styling gel to maintain the curls’ definition and reduce frizz.
33. Bold Digital Perm
A bold digital perm is a modern twist on the classic perm, creating more natural, loose waves with plenty of volume.
This perm is ideal for those who want a more relaxed, beachy look while still maintaining body and texture.
The digital perm uses heat and digital technology to create softer, looser curls, making it a great option for people who don’t want tight curls.
It works well on all hair types and is a low-maintenance way to get effortless waves. For best results, apply a lightweight styling cream to enhance the waves.
34. Loose Wave Perm for Short Hair
The loose wave perm for short hair gives you a beachy, carefree style with soft waves that add texture and volume.
This look works great for anyone who wants a natural, effortless look without going for tight curls.
The loose waves offer a relaxed vibe, making it ideal for casual or formal occasions.
It’s perfect for short haircuts, adding body and movement without too much styling effort.
Use a light texturizing spray or sea salt spray to define the waves and maintain that fresh-from-the-beach look.
35. Feminine Wavy Perm
The feminine wavy perm creates soft, gentle waves that enhance the natural beauty of your hair.
This style works well for those who want a voluminous, textured look that still feels soft and romantic.
The waves add dimension and body, making it ideal for those with fine to medium hair who want a fuller look.
It’s a great option for women seeking a more elegant and polished yet easy-to-maintain style.
Keep the waves smooth and defined with a curl-enhancing cream or mousse.
36. Easy Perm for Thin Hair
An easy perm for thin hair adds volume and texture to create the illusion of fuller, thicker locks.
This style is perfect for those with fine or limp hair who want to add some body without heavy curls.
The easy perm creates soft waves that require minimal styling, giving your hair a natural, effortless look.
It works best for short to medium hair, creating a fuller, more voluminous style without looking too overdone.
To style, simply apply a lightweight mousse to define the waves and add lift.
37. Textured Permed Bob with Bangs
A textured permed bob with bangs is a stylish, voluminous look that adds depth and shape to your hair.
This style works beautifully for those who want a chic bob with extra texture and movement.
The bangs frame the face beautifully, while the permed curls add softness and volume.
It’s a great option for anyone with medium to fine hair looking to add body and fullness.
Use a light mousse or curl cream to define the curls and keep the style soft yet structured.
38. Perm Rod Set on Natural Hair
A perm rod set on natural hair is a great way to achieve defined, bouncy curls with lots of texture.
This style works well for those with natural, coily hair who want to add more curl and volume.
The perm rods create uniform curls that give the hair shape and structure, without being overly tight.
It’s perfect for those who want a fun, versatile style that can be worn in many ways.
To maintain the curls, use a moisturizing curl cream to keep them hydrated and bouncy.
39. Sassy Beach Wave Perm
The sassy beach wave perm gives you soft, tousled waves that look effortlessly chic.
This style is perfect for those who want volume and texture with a relaxed, carefree vibe.
The beachy waves are ideal for adding movement to short or medium-length hair.
It’s a great low-maintenance perm, requiring minimal effort to keep the waves looking natural.
Use a salt spray or lightweight mousse to enhance the waves and add texture.
40. Perms for Seniors
Perms for seniors are a great way to add volume and texture to hair that may have thinned over time.
A gentle, soft perm creates a full-bodied look without making hair feel heavy or artificial.
This style works well for older women who want to restore body and volume to their hair while maintaining a classic, polished appearance.
It’s a perfect choice for those who want a low-maintenance yet elegant look.
To maintain softness and manageability, use a curl-enhancing cream and avoid harsh heat styling.
41. Sweet Asian Perm
The sweet Asian perm creates soft, flowing waves that enhance the natural beauty of straight Asian hair.
This style works well for those who want texture and volume without tight curls.
The gentle waves give the hair a soft, romantic appearance, while the perm adds body and fullness.
It’s perfect for anyone with straight, fine to medium hair looking to add a bit of flair.
To style, use a curl cream to define the waves and reduce frizz.
42. Beautiful Soft Perm
A beautiful soft perm creates loose, natural-looking curls that add texture and volume without being too tight or overdone.
This style works well for those who want to add fullness and movement to their hair while maintaining a soft, feminine look.
The soft perm is perfect for anyone who wants a low-maintenance, versatile style that can be worn for any occasion.
It works beautifully on all hair types, creating a more natural, relaxed vibe. Finish with a lightweight curl cream to keep the curls defined and bouncy.
43. Gorgeous Body Wave Perm
A gorgeous body wave perm gives hair soft, flowing waves that add volume and shape.
This style works best for those who want a natural, elegant look with plenty of body.
The body wave perm creates large, smooth waves that give hair a polished, yet relaxed feel.
It’s perfect for those with medium to fine hair who want a more voluminous, textured style.
To maintain the waves, use a light mousse or curl-enhancing cream to define and control the curls.
44. Bright Short Curly Perm
A bright short curly perm creates tight curls that add fun and vibrancy to short hair.
This style is perfect for anyone who wants a bold, energetic look with plenty of volume.
The short length keeps it fresh and modern, while the curls provide added texture and bounce.
It’s great for those with thin or fine hair who want to create a fuller, more lively appearance.
Keep the curls defined with a lightweight styling gel and enjoy the voluminous, bouncy effect.
45. Polished Dry Perm
A polished dry perm is a sleek, modern look that combines soft curls with a smooth, shiny finish.
This style works beautifully for those who want the volume and texture of a perm but prefer a more refined and sophisticated look.
The polished finish gives the curls a clean, shiny appearance without looking too frizzy.
It’s perfect for anyone with medium to thick hair who wants a sleek, polished vibe.
To style, use a smoothing serum to control frizz and add shine to the curls.
46. Perfect Loose Perm
The perfect loose perm creates soft, flowing curls that add body and texture without feeling too tight.
This style works well for those who want a relaxed, beachy vibe with plenty of movement.
The loose curls give hair a soft, natural appearance, perfect for those who want volume without the extra maintenance.
It’s great for medium to fine hair that needs a bit of extra texture.
Finish with a light-hold hairspray or mousse to keep the curls looking defined and soft.
47. Modern Loose Curl Perm
The modern loose curl perm is a fresh, updated version of the classic perm, creating soft, effortless waves that add body and texture.
This style works beautifully for those with short to medium hair who want a low-maintenance yet stylish look.
The loose curls give a natural, beachy vibe while still maintaining volume.
It’s perfect for anyone looking to add some softness and dimension to their hair without tight, overdone curls.
To keep the waves soft and natural, use a curl cream and scrunch the hair as it dries.
