Loose perms are becoming a favorite among modern men looking for texture, volume, and movement in their hairstyles. Unlike tight curls, loose perms provide a natural, relaxed wave that flatters nearly every face shape and hair type. Whether you want a subtle, surfer-inspired vibe or a more defined, styled wave, there’s a loose perm hairstyle that’ll elevate your look. Below are 12 stylish loose perm styles every modern man should consider.
1. Loose Perm with Taper Fade
Meld a loose perm with a narrow fade gives you the best of both worlds: structure and style. The waves on top create texture and volume, while the step by step taper on the sides keeps things clean and sharp. This style works well for men with medium-length hair who want a professional yet trendy appearance. It’s easy to style with a bit of curl cream and perfect for both office settings and casual hangouts.
2. Messy Loose Perm with Mid Fade
If you prefer a laid-back, tousled look, a messy loose perm with a mid fade is ideal. The mid fade adds definition around the sides while the top remains relaxed and carefree. This style works especially well for men with medium to thick hair, as it embraces natural movement and volume. Use a sea salt spray or mousse for a light hold that enhances the loose, beachy texture without stiffness.
3. Loose Perm Mullet
Yes, the mullet is back—but this time with a modern twist. The loose perm mullet combines wavy texture at the back with shorter layers up top and faded or tapered sides. This retro-inspired cut has gained popularity in fashion-forward circles and is great for men who like to make a bold style statement. It looks great with facial hair or a shaved design on the sides for extra personality.
4. Side-Parted Loose Perm
The side-parted loose perm is a polished and mature take on wavy hair. This style features a defined side part with loose waves that fall naturally to one side. It’s ideal for men with longer hair on top and is a great choice for work or formal occasions. A light pomade or styling cream can help hold the part and enhance the texture without weighing the hair down.
5. Loose Perm Quiff
The quiff has always been a popular hairstyle, and when paired with a loose perm, it brings a fresh, voluminous twist to the classic cut. The waves add natural lift to the front, while the rest of the hair is styled back or to the side. This look is perfect for guys with oval or square face shapes who want a strong, stylish profile. Blow-dry with a diffuser for volume and use a lightweight wax to shape the quiff.
6. Loose Perm Undercut
A loose perm paired with an undercut delivers contrast and edge. With the sides buzzed or shaved, the textured curls on top become the focal point. This look is bold and modern, making it a favorite for men who like to stand out. You can keep the top long for drama or trim it shorter for easy maintenance. A bit of styling foam can help keep the curls tight and in shape throughout the day.
7 Brushed Back Loose Perm
This elegant, slightly wavy style adds texture to a classic brushed-back look. The loose perm helps add volume and movement to the hair, which is typically hard to achieve with straight or flat textures. Ideal for semi-formal to formal settings, this look can be styled using a matte cream or light gel. It’s especially flattering for men with longer face shapes and thick hair density.
8 Short Loose Perm Crop
For men who like low-maintenance cuts, the short crop with a loose perm is perfect. The curls add texture to the top, while the sides are faded or kept short for a sleek appearance. This style is ideal for guys with naturally straight or limp hair who want some dimension without growing their hair too long. Use curl-defining cream to keep the waves structured without stiffness.
9. Loose Perm Afro-Inspired Style
Afro-textured hair can benefit from a loose perm to stretch and relax tight curls into a looser, more manageable wave. This gives a unique take on the traditional afro—voluminous yet soft and flowing. It’s a great choice for men who want to keep their natural hair while experimenting with a different shape and texture. A leave-in conditioner or curl moisturizer will help maintain softness and shine.
10 Disconnected Loose Perm
A detach hairstyle features a stark difference between the longer top and very short sides. When paired with a loose perm, the result is high-impact and fashion-forward. This cut makes the wavy top appear even more dramatic, drawing attention to your curls. It’s a versatile style that pairs well with hair designs or color highlights. A styling gel or foam can help keep the curls bouncy and under control.
