Men's Perm in Toronto: Styles, How Long It Lasts and What It Costs

MOMO HAIR · 2026-11-08

More guys than ever are getting perms, and for good reason. A men's perm turns flat, straight hair into curls or waves that look good with almost no work in the morning. At MOMO HAIR, our salon at Yonge and Eglinton in Toronto, men's perms are one of our most popular services. Here is everything guys ask us before their first one.

What is a men's perm?

A men's perm is a chemical service that gives straight hair a lasting curl or wave. The stylist wraps sections of hair around rods, applies a perm solution, and then a neutralizer sets the new shape. The rod size decides the result: small rods make tight curls, bigger rods make loose waves.

Most men's perms are done on the top of the head, often paired with a short taper or fade on the sides. That gives you texture on top and a clean look around the ears and neck.

What styles can I get?

• Tight curls: small, defined, springy curls all over the top. Big change, very current look, and it is the style many guys mean when they say "perm." It pairs well with a fade.
• Loose curls: bigger, softer curls with more movement. Looks natural, like you were born with curly hair.
• Wave perm: gentle waves and body without real curls. Great if your hair is flat and you just want texture and volume.
• Down perm: not a curl at all. It makes hair on the sides lie flat and close to the head, so it doesn't stick out. Often added to a curl perm on top.

Bring a photo of the look you like. It is the fastest way to get exactly what you want.

Will a perm work on my hair?

It usually works well if your hair is straight or flat and at least a few centimetres long on top, enough to wrap around a rod. Hair that is very short on top may need to grow for a few weeks first.

If your hair has been bleached or coloured, it is more fragile, and a perm can make it dry or frizzy. We do a free 5-minute strand test on treated hair before we start, so we know how it will react.

How long does a men's perm last?

The permed hair keeps its curl until you cut it off. Because men's hair is usually short and gets trimmed often, most guys find their perm looks great for about two to four months. After that, the curl starts getting cut away and the roots grow in straight. Many guys redo it every three to four months. A good stylist will cut the sides so your fade can be refreshed without losing the curl on top.

How long does the appointment take?

Usually about 1.5 to 2.5 hours, including the cut. A perm with a down perm or a big change takes longer.

How do I style it?

This is the best part: it is easy.

• Wait about 48 hours before the first wash, so the curl can set. Your stylist will tell you the exact timing.
• After washing, put a little curl cream or leave-in in damp hair.
• Scrunch with your hands and let it air-dry. No brush, which pulls curls apart.
• Use a sulfate-free shampoo to keep curls soft and stop them from frizzing.

How much does a men's perm cost in Toronto?

In Toronto, men's perms are usually listed "from" about $120 to $200, and a down perm on its own often starts around $80 (Toronto salon listings on Fresha, November 2026). The final price depends on hair length, the style and whether a cut is included.

At MOMO HAIR, a men's perm starts at $180. Our team is led by Liz, our Director, with 28 years of experience, and every perm starts with a free consultation so you know the exact price before we begin. Our clients are very happy with their results, as our reviews show. A perm is chemical work. A rushed, cheap perm can leave hair frizzy, uneven or damaged, and fixing it usually costs more than getting it right the first time.

See real results

Our men's perm gallery shows our own clients before and after, from tight curls to soft waves, so you can pick the look you want.

Ready to try it?

Book a free consultation, bring a photo of the style you like, and we will tell you honestly what will work for your hair and the exact price. Book online or call (647) 381-1398. We are on the 2nd floor at 2156 Yonge St, just south of Eglinton.