The GTA's Dedicated Perm Specialist.

DM me on Instagram with a photo of your hair. Free answer, no obligation.

Full Perm

• —Want curls or waves everywhere
• —Most dramatic transformation
• —At least 2–3 inches all over

Haircut booked separately.

Partial Perm

• —Want texture on top only
• —Sides/back are faded or short
• —Prefer a subtle, natural result

Haircut booked separately.

Full Perm

Complete curl or wave, root to tip. Free consultation included.

Partial Perm

Curl or wave on top or crown only. Texture without a full transformation.

Haircut

Options available — see website for full details.

Haircut & Beard

Options available — see website for full details.

Long Hair Scissor Cut

Options available — see website for full details.

Long Hair Scissor Cut & Beard Trim

Options available — see website for full details.

Right here. I'm Akil Jacob — the GTA's dedicated perm specialist at IDNTY Barbershop Heartland, 800 Boyer Blvd Unit 6, Mississauga ON L5V 2Y1. I'm the only barber in the IDNTY network offering professional perm services. Clients travel from Brampton, Oakville, Burlington, Milton, Georgetown, Halton Hills, Etobicoke, Vaughan, Woodbridge, Rexdale, and across the GTA. Book at getsqr.co/akil-jacob-1 or DM @akilthebarber with questions first.

If you want curls or waves but your hair grows straight, a perm is the most effective and longest-lasting way to get there. Done right, it looks natural — not like you had a chemical treatment. It's low maintenance once you know how to style it, lasts 3–6 months, and gives you a look that's genuinely yours. If you're on the fence, DM me on Instagram with a photo of your hair and I'll tell you honestly whether it's a good fit.

A perm is a chemical treatment that permanently reshapes your hair into curls or waves. The chemistry is the same — but the technique, rod selection, and target results are completely different for men. Men's perms are typically done on shorter lengths, require different rod sizes, and are designed to look natural and textured rather than tight and uniform. The results stay until the hair grows out.

Full perm: $199 + HST. Partial perm: $165 + HST. A free consultation is included with both services. Pre-payment is required to hold your appointment. For questions before booking, DM @akilthebarber on Instagram.

This is the first thing I check. For a curly perm, you need at least 4–5 inches in the section you want permed — the sweet spot for best-defined curl is 5–6 inches. For a wavy perm, you need 6–8 inches — waves need more length to form that soft S-shape. Under 6 inches and you'll get a curl, not a wave. For a partial perm, those same rules apply per section — only the area being permed needs to meet the length requirement. If you're unsure, send me a photo on Instagram and I'll tell you directly.

Yes — and it's actually one of the most popular combinations. A partial perm on top with a fade or undercut on the sides is exactly how most guys wear this look. The sides stay clean and the top gets the curl or wave. The faded or undercut sections don't need to meet any length requirements — only the section being permed does.

Done correctly, it looks completely natural — like your hair just grows that way. Modern men's perms are nothing like the tight, uniform ringlets from the '80s. Depending on the rod size and technique, we can go from barely-there texture and wave all the way to defined, bouncy curls. The goal is always a result that looks intentional, not processed. Check the gallery on this page for real examples of the work.

Full perm: curl or wave applied to the entire head. Choose this if you want curls everywhere, your hair is uniformly straight, and you have at least 4–5 inches all over. Partial perm: one section only — usually the top or crown. Choose this if your sides are faded or short, you want texture on top only, or you want a subtler result. Use the Full vs. Partial guide on this page or send me a photo on Instagram and I'll tell you which one makes sense for your hair.

The chemistry is the same — what changes is the technique and the target look. A "Korean perm" typically refers to a soft, natural-looking wave or curl that's airy and low-effort rather than tight and defined. It's the K-pop/K-drama aesthetic — textured movement on top with volume at the root. I dial in that exact look by choosing the right rod size, wrap angle, and processing time for your hair. If that's the look you're after, that's what we build.

Any chemical treatment changes your hair's structure — but on healthy, unprocessed hair with the right solution and timing, a professionally done perm causes minimal damage. Where damage happens is when hair is already compromised (bleached, over-processed, or chemically straightened) and a perm is applied anyway. I won't do that. I assess your hair before anything goes on it, and if it's not ready, I'll tell you — and we'll make a plan to get you there safely.

It depends on the extent of the treatment and the current condition of your hair. Lightly coloured hair is often fine. Bleached, heavily lifted, or chemically damaged hair is a no — the perm solution on already-compromised hair can cause serious breakage. Always disclose your full colour history before booking. If you're unsure, send me a photo and message on Instagram before booking and I'll give you an honest answer.

No. You'll feel the rods being wrapped and the solution applied, but there's no pain involved in a properly done perm. Some people experience a slight tingling from the solution — that's normal. If you feel any burning or real discomfort, you tell me immediately and we stop. That's the whole point of having a professional do it.

Block 90 to 120 minutes. That includes the consultation, washing, rod wrapping, solution application, processing time, neutralizing, and finishing. Longer or thicker hair takes longer. Don't book this appointment if you're in a rush — the processing time is what it is, and cutting it short affects your results.

Come in with clean, dry hair — no heavy products, oils, or wax in it. Don't wash it right before the appointment either; natural oils help protect the scalp during the process. Be ready to disclose your full chemical history (colour, bleach, relaxers, any previous perms). That information changes how I approach your hair. When in doubt about anything, DM me before you come in.

Yes — and it's something I assess before we start. Fine hair takes the solution faster and processes more easily, but curls may loosen sooner over time. Medium hair is the easiest to perm and gives the most predictable results. Thick or coarse hair is more resistant — it takes longer to process, may need a stronger solution, and I'll usually go slightly smaller on the rod to push through the resistance. Low-density hair (not many strands) can result in curls that look stringy — I'll always be honest about what's realistic for your hair before we commit.

I offer this at IDNTY Heartland in Mississauga — 800 Boyer Blvd Unit 6, Heartland Town Centre. Whether you call it a Korean perm, a wave perm, or just "curls on top with a fade," I build that look. Clients come from Brampton, Oakville, Burlington, Etobicoke, Vaughan, and further. Book at getsqr.co/akil-jacob-1 or DM @akilthebarber with a photo first.

Yes — two ways. A free consultation is included with every perm booking. Or, before you even book, DM me on Instagram at @akilthebarber with photos of your hair — top, sides, back. I'll give you a real recommendation on length, service type, and what to expect. No charge, no obligation.

Most perms last 3 to 6 months depending on your hair type, how fast it grows, and how well you maintain it at home. Coarser, thicker hair tends to hold longer. Fine hair may need a refresh sooner. As your roots grow in straight, you'll notice the curl starting from mid-shaft — that's completely normal. I generally recommend coming back every 3–5 months for shorter hair and 6–10 months for longer hair to stay on top of it.

48 hours minimum — no exceptions. Do not wash your hair, tie it up, put anything tight on it, or get it wet for 48 hours after your perm. The bonds are still setting during this window. Getting it wet or pulling it can cause frizz and uneven curl that can't be fixed. For the first 3 days: no shampoo at all. If you absolutely need to rinse, use water and conditioner only — then restyle immediately on wet hair.

After the 48-hour hold: sulphate-free shampoo only. Regular shampoo strips the moisture permed hair needs and will dry it out fast. Condition every single wash — apply from mid-shaft to ends. Deep condition once a week to keep your hair from drying out or going brittle. Wash 2–3 times per week maximum. More than that and you're working against your curl.

Start with a leave-in conditioner on wet hair — this is non-negotiable. It rehydrates and defines your curl at the same time. Then layer based on your goal: curl cream or curl-enhancing lotion for definition and hold; lightweight mousse for volume on waves; curl gel or strong-hold mousse if you want maximum hold all day. Scrunch upward — don't rub or towel dry aggressively. That's how you get frizz. Avoid sulphate shampoos, heavy waxes, pomades, and heat styling without a diffuser.

Use a curl gel or strong-hold mousse on soaking wet hair and scrunch it in. Let it dry completely before touching it — breaking the cast early loses the hold. Once fully dry, scrunch gently to break the cast and reveal soft, defined curls with structure underneath. This method works best for all-day wear, humid weather, and active days.

After your leave-in, apply a lightweight curl cream — nothing too heavy. Finger-comb through to separate and loosen the curls slightly. Scrunch loosely and let it air dry. The less you manipulate it, the softer the wave. Lightly stretch the curls downward while damp to elongate them into more of a wave pattern. This gives you that casual, natural, everyday look without looking done-up.

Apply your leave-in, then layer a curl-defining cream or curl custard on top. Scrunch firmly upward and do not disturb until fully dry. For extra definition, twist small sections while wet and let them dry before releasing. This is the method for photo-ready days and when you want your curls to really show.

On no-wash days, spritz your hair with a mix of water and leave-in conditioner, then scrunch upward to revive the curl pattern. Avoid touching your hair while it's dry — constant handling breaks up the curl and causes frizz. Moisture is what keeps your curl alive between washes. If they need more, a small amount of curl cream on damp fingertips scrunched through the ends brings them back.

Usually one of three things: the hair wasn't styled on wet hair after washing (always apply products to soaking wet hair and scrunch — never let it air dry unstyled), the hair wasn't left alone to dry fully before touching it, or the products being used aren't right for the curl type. Frizz is almost always a moisture or handling issue, not a problem with the perm itself. DM me if it's persistent and I'll help you troubleshoot.

Yes — and you should. Regular trims every 6–8 weeks keep the shape clean as your hair grows out. Just wait the full 48 hours after your perm before getting a cut. After that, trims are fine and actually help the perm look better for longer by removing the straight new growth at the roots as it comes in.

Your call — both work. For shine: use a curl oil or gloss serum on dry hair after styling. A little goes a long way. For matte: stick to curl creams and mousses without oil — avoid anything labeled "serum," "gloss," or "shine." For everyday use, the best balance is a light curl cream with a tiny drop of oil on the ends only.

Avoid sulphate shampoos — they strip the moisture your curl needs and will dry it out fast. Avoid heavy waxes and pomades — they weigh the curl down and cause buildup. Avoid heat styling without a diffuser — regular blow-drying disrupts your curl pattern over time. Stick to sulphate-free shampoo, moisturizing conditioner, leave-in conditioner, and a curl cream, mousse, or gel depending on your hold preference.

Sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase. Regular cotton pillowcases create friction against your curl and cause frizz overnight. This is especially important in the first 48 hours after your perm when the bonds are still setting. Don't tie your hair up or put it in a tight bun — anything that creates tension on the curl while it's fresh will affect the shape.

As your hair grows, the roots come in straight while the treated sections retain their curl — starting from mid-shaft. This creates a natural grown-out look that most guys actually like. To manage it cleanly, get regular trims to blend the straight root growth with the curled ends. When it's time for a refresh, we re-perm only the new growth — never the previously treated sections.

A perm permanently changes the hair structure until it grows out — it can't be chemically reversed to exactly what it was. Deep conditioning can help relax the curl slightly over time, and haircuts can remove the treated sections faster. The best protection against a perm you don't like is a thorough consultation before we start — which is exactly why I include one free with every service. If you're unsure about anything, talk to me before we begin, not after.

Typically, the haircut happens before the perm — we shape the hair first, then perm it. Some cuts also happen lightly after to clean up the shape once the curl is set. Either way, both can be done in the same visit. Check the booking page for combo options and timing.

Yes — but only the new growth gets re-permed each time. Applying perm solution to previously permed sections causes breakage. I'll apply the solution only to the straight roots that have grown in since your last perm. How often you come back depends on your hair length and growth rate — generally every 3–5 months for shorter hair, 6–10 months for longer.

A partial perm on top with a fade or undercut is the most popular short-hair perm for men right now. The top section needs to be at least 4–5 inches to get a defined curl. With shorter top lengths (4–6 inches), we can do a curly perm and style it looser for a wavier finish. The curly-to-wavy trick: get the curly perm and scrunch it out or finger-comb it while damp to get a softer, wavier feel. You can always loosen a curl into a wave — you cannot tighten a wave into a curl.

With 6–8+ inches, you have full access to every option — tight curls, medium curls, loose waves, body waves, or spirals. Most guys with longer hair go for a loose wave or body wave because it looks natural and is the easiest to maintain. A full perm gives consistent results all over. If you want to keep the length but add movement and volume, this is one of the best uses of the service.

Yes — but coarse, thick hair is more resistant and requires a different approach. I'll typically use a slightly stronger solution and go a bit smaller on the rod to push through the resistance. Coarse hair also needs about an extra inch added to the length minimums because thick hair fights the rod more. The results on coarse hair can be excellent — often holding longer than fine hair. The key is proper assessment before we start. DM me with a photo and I'll tell you what's realistic for your hair specifically.

Yes — fine hair actually takes perm solution faster and processes more easily than thick hair. The tradeoff is that curls on fine hair may loosen faster over time and need a refresh sooner. If you have low density (not many strands overall), I'll be upfront with you — curls can sometimes look stringy or flat when there's not enough hair to give them body. That doesn't mean it's impossible, but I'll set realistic expectations before we start.

A partial perm on top is exactly what most guys picture when they see the popular men's perm look — textured, curly, or wavy hair on top with clean, short or faded sides. Only the top section gets permed; the sides and back stay natural. It's the most requested men's perm style right now and the look that most closely matches what you see on social media. Check the gallery on this page for before/after examples.

It comes down to rod size and hair length. Tight curl: small rod, minimum 4–5 inches, produces springy defined ringlets. Medium curl: medium rod, 3–4 inches minimum, produces classic bouncy curls — the most versatile result. Loose wave / body wave: large rod, 6–8 inches minimum, produces a soft S-wave or beach texture. The longer the hair and the larger the rod, the looser the result. I'll recommend the right combination for your hair length and the look you're going for.

A root perm applies the solution only to the hair at the root — adding volume and lift at the scalp while the ends stay natural. It's used for guys whose previously permed sections have grown out and need a touch-up on new growth only, or for guys who want volume and lift without changing the length. It requires precision to avoid overlapping onto previously treated hair.

Lower maintenance than daily styling with heat tools — yes. But "no maintenance" — no. You still need to style on wet hair after every wash (leave-in and curl cream at minimum), sleep on a satin pillowcase, use sulphate-free products, and deep condition weekly. The upside is that once you know the routine, it takes about the same time as any other styling process. And you skip the need for curling tools every day completely.

Perms work across face shapes — it comes down to rod size and how we place the volume. Round faces generally benefit from more volume on top and less width on the sides (a partial perm with a tight fade works well). Square faces look great with loose waves that soften the jawline. Oval faces are the most versatile — almost any perm style works. Longer or narrower faces can benefit from more width and body. Bring a reference photo of the look you want and I'll tell you how we'd adapt it for your face.

The day-to-day maintenance is nearly identical — sulphate-free products, styling on wet hair, diffusing or air drying, satin pillowcase. The main difference is that a perm needs to be refreshed every 3–10 months as the hair grows out (depending on length), whereas naturally curly hair is permanent. The styling routine is the same. Products are the same. The difference is just how you got the curl — and how long each session lasts before a touch-up.

Here's the honest answer: true waves need 6–8 inches. Under that, you'll get a curl, not a wave. BUT — here's the trick I use: get the curly perm at 4–6 inches and style it looser. Scrunch it out, finger-comb it, or gently stretch it while damp. It won't be a true beach wave, but it leans wavy and looks great. The key rule: you can always loosen a curl into something wavier. You cannot tighten a wave into a curl. So if you're between lengths, going curly and styling it out is always the smarter move.

Humidity actually works in your favour — it keeps your curl hydrated and defined. Dry, cold air is harder on permed hair because curls need moisture to hold their shape. In winter, deep condition more frequently, use a slightly heavier leave-in conditioner, and keep a curl refresher spray handy for mid-day touch-ups. The curl itself doesn't go away — it just needs a bit more moisture support in cold, dry conditions.

Men's perms have been having a major moment since at least 2022. Harry Styles, Timothée Chalamet, and a wave of K-pop artists (BTS, EXO) helped push the look mainstream. The hashtag #boyperm has over 2 billion views on TikTok. What's popular right now leans soft, natural, and textured — not the tight ringlets of the '80s. The current look is the one I specialize in.

That's me — Akil Jacob at IDNTY Heartland Town Centre, 800 Boyer Blvd Unit 6, Mississauga ON L5V 2Y1. I'm the only barber at this location offering professional perm services, and the only dedicated perm specialist in the IDNTY GTA network. Book at getsqr.co/akil-jacob-1.

I'm your closest option — IDNTY Heartland in Mississauga is a short drive from Brampton via Mavis Rd or Hurontario. Free parking on site. I regularly see clients from all parts of Brampton including Bramalea, Castlemore, Heart Lake, and downtown Brampton. Book online or DM me first.

IDNTY Heartland in Mississauga is easily accessible from Oakville and Burlington via the QEW or 403. The drive is typically 20–25 minutes from North Oakville and 25–35 minutes from Burlington. Clients from both cities book regularly — the perm is the reason they make the trip.

Yes — Heartland is very accessible from Etobicoke and Rexdale via Hwy 427 to the 401 West, or straight down Dixie Rd. Most clients from this area are about 20–30 minutes away. Free parking at Heartland makes the trip easy. Book at getsqr.co/akil-jacob-1.

Clients from Vaughan and Woodbridge typically take Hwy 400 to the 401 West, or come down through Etobicoke. From North York, it's 407 or 401 West. It's a longer drive from these areas — but perm clients make it regularly because there's no comparable specialist closer. DM me first if you want to discuss the service before committing to the trip.

Heartland is about 25–35 minutes from Milton and Georgetown via Hwy 401 East or Mississauga Rd. I've had clients make the trip from both. For a service that lasts 3–6 months and is done right the first time, it's worth it. Book at getsqr.co/akil-jacob-1.

Book online at getsqr.co/akil-jacob-1 — select your service, pick a date and time, and confirm. Pre-payment is required to hold the appointment. For questions before you book, DM @akilthebarber on Instagram or call (437) 533-0450. Walk-ins are welcome but booking guarantees your spot with me specifically.