Perms & Beach Waves

Perm 2026: Costs, Durability & Tips for Beach Waves

June 3, 2026

5 minutes

The perm is back – but not as a frizzy 80s hairstyle, rather as a 'modern perm' for natural beach waves. Whether for more volume or gentle curls: anyone opting for a permanent reshaping in 2026 will benefit from gentle techniques. Find out here what the treatment costs and who it is suitable for.

Dauerwelle Beach Waves - Moderne Dauerwellen überzeugen durch lässige Beach Waves und Styles!

Key Facts About Perms

An overview of the most important facts about modern perms:

Durability: A modern perm usually lasts 3 to 6 months before it drops or grows out.
Costs: In Swiss hair salons, prices usually range between 80 and 150 CHF, depending on hair length.
Time required: You should plan at least 2.5 hours for a professional salon treatment.
Hair structure: Healthy, untreated hair is best suited. Bleached hair requires a special, gentle technique.
Aftercare: To set the curls, the hair must not be washed for the first 48 hours after the treatment.

These guidelines will help you better estimate the effort and costs for your new hairstyle.

Important Perm Terminology

Modern Perm: A modern approach to perming that often uses larger rollers. The waves usually start 2 to 3 centimetres below the roots, creating a natural look.
Alkaline Perm (Cold Wave): The standard method for normal to thick hair. It has a stronger reshaping power but affects the hair structure slightly more.
Acid Perm: A gentler variant with a lower pH value. It is particularly suitable for fine, sensitive, or slightly damaged hair.

Choosing the right method depends largely on the condition of your hair.

Alkaline Perm

Best if: You have strong, healthy, and normal to thick hair.
Costs & Time: 80–150 CHF / approx. 2.5 hours.
Risks: Can dry out the hair if applied incorrectly.
Who does it: Strictly by a professional hairdresser.

Acid Perm

Best if: Your hair is fine, sensitive, or already slightly damaged (e.g., tinted).
Costs & Time: 80–150 CHF / approx. 2.5 hours.
Risks: The reshaping degree is weaker; curls can drop more quickly.
Who does it: Strictly by a professional hairdresser.

Beach Waves (Partial Perm)

Best if: You want a natural look with gentle waves in the lengths, without curls at the roots.
Costs & Time: 80–150 CHF / approx. 2 to 2.5 hours.
Risks: Due to the gentle waving, the result often lasts slightly less than classic curls.
Who does it: Strictly by a professional hairdresser.

How the Salon Treatment Works

A perm requires chemical processes that must be precisely tailored to your hair. Here is how the salon appointment works:

Consultation and hair analysis: The hairdresser examines the hair structure (healthy, dyed, bleached) to choose the appropriate waving lotion.
Washing and preparation: The hair is washed and divided into sections.
Rolling: The damp hair is rolled onto large foam or perm rollers (up to 60 pieces, depending on the desired volume).
Applying waving lotion: A reducing agent is applied to break the disulfide bonds in the hair. The processing time is about 10 to 30 minutes.
Neutralising: The lotion is thoroughly rinsed out with water. Then a neutraliser is applied (approx. 10 minutes processing time) to stabilise the hair's new shape.
Care and styling: The hair is rinsed again and treated with special care products (e.g., keratin). Important safety note: Do not wash or comb your hair for the first 48 hours after the appointment so the curls retain their bounce.

A professional procedure not only guarantees beautiful curls but also protects your hair structure as much as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions About Perms

Here you will find the most important answers regarding perms and beach waves.

How much does a perm cost in Switzerland?

In Switzerland, the cost of a perm in 2026 averages between 80 and 150 CHF. The exact price depends on hair length (short, medium, long) and the chosen hair salon.

How long does a modern perm last?

A professional perm usually lasts 3 to 6 months. On short hair that is cut frequently, it disappears faster. On long hair, the curls drop over time due to their own weight.

Can bleached hair be permed?

Yes, this is generally possible but requires great caution. A gentle acid perm is usually used for bleached hair. Since the hair is already damaged, there is an increased risk of breakage – be sure to get advice from a professional.

How do I properly care for permed hair?

Use moisturising shampoos and special treatments for damaged hair (e.g., with keratin). Only detangle the curls with a wide-tooth comb before washing, and ideally let the hair air dry.

How long does the salon appointment take?

You should plan at least 2.5 hours in the salon for a professional perm. It may take a little longer for very long hair or special techniques.

Do you have further questions about your hair structure? A consultation with your hairdresser will provide clarity.

The modern perm in 2026 focuses on gentle beach waves instead of small ringlets.

Depending on hair structure and care, a professional perm lasts about 3 to 6 months.

For a perm in Switzerland, you can expect costs between 80 and 150 CHF.

Caution is advised with bleached hair: a gentle acid perm minimises the risk of breakage.

The hair should not be washed in the first 48 hours after the treatment.