Perm rods, essential tools for creating permanent waves or curls, have been integral to hairstyling since the early 20th century. Over the decades, they evolved in design, material, and size, reflecting changing beauty trends. Their cultural impact peaked in the 1980s and 1990s, making perm rods a household staple.
Perm rods were first introduced in the early 1900s and were simple metal or plastic cylinders. By the mid-20th century, innovations led to flexible, comfortable rods in various sizes for different curl styles. “Everyone from celebrities to everyday folks embraced voluminous curls and waves” during the perming craze of the 1980s and 1990s. The perming process includes washing, rolling hair around rods, applying chemicals, and neutralizing.
Though perms have declined in popularity, perm rods remain influential in hairstyling, especially for retro-inspired looks. These tools, once a cultural symbol of beauty, are now collectibles that continue to inspire modern styles.
