A piece of history about perms… isn't it nice to read some background information about this more than a century and a half old treatment in the hair salon! Perms have earned a permanent place in the world of fashion and hairstyling over the decades. Its popularity has varied over the years. In this blog, we delve into the fascinating history of perms, how it originated, further developed, and what place it had and has in the fashion scene.
The Beginning: A Revolution in Hairstyling
The roots of perms go back to the end of the 19th century. In 1872, French hairdresser Marcel Grateau introduced a revolutionary method of curling hair using heated metal tongs. While this didn't create the permanent curls we know today, it was an important precursor to perms.
The real breakthrough came in 1906, when German hairdresser Karl Nessler, also known as Charles Nestlé, developed the first true perm machine. With this device, he could create curls that lasted for months. Nessler used chemicals such as ammonium thioglycolate and heat to transform the hair, a technique that would form the basis for modern perms.
Karl Nessler
The 1920s and 1930s: Glamour and Sophistication
In the 1920s and 1930s, the perm became a symbol of glamour. Women like Josephine Baker and Hollywood stars embraced the technique to create wavy hairstyles. Perm machines became more compact and easier to handle, allowing salons to offer this treatment more easily to a wider audience.
The 1970s and 1980s: Curls for Everyone
The perm experienced a huge resurgence in the 1970s and 1980s, when large, voluminous curls became an important fashion statement. This was the era when hairstyles like the Afro-perm and the spiral perm became popular. Thanks to advances in chemicals and techniques, perms could be applied more safely and flexibly, allowing people with different hair types to enjoy curls.
The Downside of Popularity
Although perms were a huge success, they also had drawbacks. The chemicals used could damage the hair and the process was time-consuming. In the 1990s, perms therefore lost popularity, as more natural looks and less aggressive styling methods became the norm.
Modern Times: A Comeback for Perms
In recent years, the perm has made a comeback, but in a renewed form. Thanks to technological improvements, modern perms are gentler on the hair and more versatile. Styles like the ‘beach wave perm’ and ‘digital perm’ offer subtle, natural curls that match today's trends.
Perm as a statement
The history of the perm reflects not only trends in hair fashion but also societal changes. From the liberating waves of the 1920s to the rebellious curls of the 1980s, perms allowed and still allow people to create a look that suits them and the era they live in.
Conclusion
The history of the perm is a story of innovation, fashion, and personal expression. It proves that, although trends come and go, the desire to change our hair and vary our look and appearance is always there. Whether it's soft waves or tight curls, the perm remains a powerful style symbol!
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