Thinking, “Could I pull this off?” Stick with me—I’ll dive into the facts, share my barber expertise, and answer all your burning questions to help you decide if this curly mullet is your next big move.
What Is a Perm Mullet?
A perm mullet is the classic mullet hairstyle—short on the top and sides, longer in the back—but with a permanent wave or curl to crank up the style. The perm adds bouncy curls or loose waves to the longer sections, giving serious movement and definition. Unlike a regular mullet, the perm adds an extra layer of hair texture that makes it stand out for guys seeking a retro hairstyle with a modern twist.
In my salon, I’ve seen this work best on medium to long back lengths where the curls can shine. It’s like combining 80s fashion with today’s men’s hairstyle trends—perfect for boosting volume in thin hair or taming thick hair. Fun fact: Grooming reports show a spike in perm mullet searches, up significantly since 2023. In my shop, requests for this curly mullet have doubled this year alone—guys are loving it!
The History and Epic Comeback
The mullet haircut has a wild story. Born in the 80s as a symbol of rockstar rebellion—think Billy Ray Cyrus or David Bowie with those flowing locks—it faded but never vanished. Now, in the 2020s, the modern mullet exploded, thanks to celebs like Harry Styles and Paul Mescal rocking mini mullet versions with subtle curls. In 2025, the perm mullet is leading the pack in men’s perm trends, blending Korean perm vibes for that soft, body wave perm look.
As a barber, I’ve permed mullets for guys rediscovering this style post-COVID, when longer hair became common. Data backs this up: Searches for this jumped 50% in 2024, and it’s climbing in 2025, fueled by athletes and musicians. This isn’t just a trend—it’s a trustworthy evolution of classic cuts, and I’m here for it.
How to Get Your Own Perm Mullet: A Barber’s Step-by-Step Guide
Wondering, “How do I even start?” As someone who’s done hundreds of perms, trust me—skip the DIY and book a professional service for a consultation. Here’s how it goes down, based on my experience:
- Consultation: Talk to your barber about your hair type—straight hair needs more processing for tight curls, while wavy hair might suit loose curls. Bring in inspiration photos; we’ll assess your face shape (oval, round, or square) to help us customize.
- The Cut: Start with the mullet base—short front, taper or fade on sides, long back. I love a mullet fade for that clean, modern mullet vibe.
- Perm Process: We wrap sections on rods, apply perm solution, let it sit for processing time (20-30 minutes), then use a neutralizer to lock in the curls. Options include digital perm for heat-activated waves or root perm for volume at the base.
- Aftercare: Rinse, condition, and style lightly. The whole deal takes 1-2 hours, with a perm cost around $100-$200 depending on the salon.
I’ve seen guys with Asian hair go for the Korean perm mullet for that effortless bounce—it’s a total game-changer for straight strands.
Styling and Maintenance Tips
Keeping your mullet fresh isn’t hard, but it needs some care. Here’s what I tell my clients after 15 years of styling:
- Daily Routine: Use a curl-enhancing shampoo and conditioner for hydration and moisture. Scrunch with mousse or gel for definition—no brushing, just finger comb.
- Tools: A diffuser on low heat with heat protectant keeps curls intact. For volume, sea salt spray gives that beachy wave vibe.
- Upkeep: Trim every 4-6 weeks for regrowth and touch-ups. Wash less to avoid dryness, and use protein or keratin masks for damage prevention.
One client swears by pomade for a slick top with wild back curls—low-maintenance but stylish. If curls fade after 3-6 months, a refresh perm keeps them sharp.
Pros and Cons: Is this for You?
Let’s get real—every hairstyle has its highs and lows. From my chair:
Pros:
- Boosts texture, bounce, and volume for flat hair.
- A bold look that’s versatile for both casual and edgy vibes—think wolf cut mullet hybrids.
- Low effort once set; air-dry for natural waves.
Cons:
- Risk of damage if not done right—tough on thin hair.
- Frizz control is needed in humid weather.
- Not always office-friendly, though modern variations soften it.
As an expert, I’d say the pros outweigh the cons if you’ve got the confidence to rock it.
Variations to Match Your Vibe
The perm mullet is super versatile. Here’s what’s hot in 2025:
- Mini Mullet Perm: Shorter overall for a subtle style—great with tight curls.
- Shaggy Mullet Perm: Loose waves for a 70s-inspired feel.
- Permed Mullet Fade: Clean sides with a curly explosion in back—my top request.
- Asian Mullet Perm: Uses Korean perm for soft, voluminous ends.
Celebs like Timothee Chalamet are killing it with curly versions, proving it works for all face shapes.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
How long does a perm mullet last? About 3-6 months, depending on hair growth and care.
Can I get a perm mullet on thin hair? Yes, but go for a body wave perm for volume without overloading.
Is it high-maintenance? Not too bad—use wax or pomade for quick styles, and regular trims keep it fresh.
Best product for curl definition? I love curl enhancer creams; they fight frizz without crunch.
Suitable for round faces? Totally! The height on top slims the face.
Celeb inspiration? Check Paul Mescal’s mini mullet or Billy Ray Cyrus for retro vibes.
Alright, that’s the full rundown on the perm mullet! Ready to rock this men’s hairstyle trend? Book a consultation and let those curls fly. Drop a comment—I’d love to hear how you’re styling it!
Alax, the mind behind hairecho.com, has spent 13+ years perfecting the art of hairstyling for both men and women. As a skilled barber and stylist, he crafts precise fades, clean cuts, and textured styles for men while creating flattering, versatile women’s cuts that enhance natural hair texture. Alax’s commitment to staying ahead of trends while delivering timeless, confidence-boosting results has made him a trusted figure in the modern grooming and hair community.