Perm Regrets: 80s Hairstyles Haunt Celebrities, While Modern Perms Offer Nuance

The bold hairstyles of the 1980s, particularly the perm, are resurfacing in celebrity memory with a mix of nostalgia and regret. Victoria Beckham recently shared her aversion to the hairstyle, recounting how she denied her 15-year-old daughter Harper's request for chemical curls.

Beckham's sentiment echoes that of many who experienced the era's more extreme hair trends. While icons like Debbie Harry sported rockstar shags and Cindy Crawford popularized the side-parted blowout, the perm became synonymous with voluminous, textured styles. For some, like Kylie Minogue, Julia Roberts, and Brooke Shields, perms resulted in celebrated looks. However, many others ended up with what is described as frizzy, untamed, or "crunchy" hair.

Barbara Streisand's tightly curled perms were noted as teetering between glamorous and overdone, while country music star Reba McEntire described her early 80s perm as "super tight" and "angry." Anne Kirkbride, known for her role as Deirdre Barlow in Coronation Street, became recognizable for her tightly curled hair, though its aspirational quality is debated.

Despite the past missteps, industry professionals assert that modern perms can be successful. Perm specialist Stuart Marsh of Taylor Taylor emphasizes the critical role of a thorough consultation, assessing hair condition, texture, and color history to ensure suitability and desired results. He notes that advanced techniques and rollers have replaced the less sophisticated methods of the 70s and 80s.

Tina Farey, Editorial Director at RUSH Hair, agrees, highlighting the variety of modern methods that create different curl types. She advises discussing desired curl patterns and methods with a stylist.

Marsh suggests discussing curl size, softness, grow-out potential, styling, aftercare, and reapplication frequency. He warns that clients should understand a perm's initial look may differ from how it settles after a couple of weeks. A successful perm, he explains, works with the haircut, requiring enough structure and weight to support the curls. Over-texturized hair, he cautions, can lead to a fluffy rather than polished result.

Farey points out that modern perms can also address limp areas in naturally curly hair, enhancing overall fullness and evenness. However, she advises caution for those with lightened hair, as it is weaker and more susceptible to damage from perming.

Signs of an unsuccessful perm include frizz, dryness, unevenness, or flatness, which can result from incorrect solutions, processing, application, hair condition, or poor aftercare. Marsh reiterates that the haircut, styling, and realistic expectations are as crucial as the chemical process.

He cited Julia Roberts as an example of successful perm-induced volume and gloss, while Kylie Minogue's look is noted for its texture, lift, and playful finish. Ultimately, Marsh believes a great perm is one that suits the individual and their style, emphasizing that it is a specialist service requiring a deep understanding of hair structure and movement.