As hairstylists at Jenny’s Salon in Mechanicsburg, PA, we’ve seen countless trends come and go. But lately, there’s one style that’s been catching the eye of many young clients and their parents: the broccoli head haircut, often achieved through a broccoli perm. If you’re a parent of a teen or pre-teen boy, chances are you’ve heard about this trend. Let’s dive into what it is, why it’s popular, and what you should consider before booking an appointment.
What is a Broccoli Head Haircut?
The broccoli head haircut, also known as the “bird’s nest” or simply “the perm,” is characterized by voluminous, tightly curled hair on top of the head, often with shorter sides. The name comes from its resemblance to the top of a broccoli floret. This style has gained immense popularity among young men and boys, particularly through social media platforms like TikTok.
Key Features of the Broccoli Head:
- Voluminous, curly top
- Shorter, often faded sides
- Typically 2-4 inches of length on top
- Natural-looking, tousled appearance
The Broccoli Perm: Creating the Look
While some boys naturally have the texture to achieve this look, many opt for a perm to get those perfect, bouncy curls. This is where the term “broccoli perm” comes in.
What is a Broccoli Perm?
A broccoli perm is a chemical treatment that creates permanent waves or curls in the hair. For the broccoli head look, the perm is typically applied only to the top section of hair, leaving the sides natural or shorter.
The Perming Process:
- Consultation to determine desired curl pattern
- Hair is washed and sectioned
- Perm solution is applied to create the curls
- Hair is wrapped around perm rods
- Processing time (usually 15-30 minutes)
- Neutralizer is applied to set the curls
- Rods are removed, and hair is styled
Considerations Before Getting a Broccoli Perm
As with any chemical treatment, there are some important factors to consider before committing to a broccoli perm:
- Hair Health: Perms can be drying, so starting with healthy hair is crucial.
- Maintenance: This style requires regular upkeep and specific hair care products.
- Growing Out: As hair grows, the perm will become less defined.
- School and Sports: Consider any dress code restrictions or how it might affect sports participation.
- Commitment: A perm is a semi-permanent change that can’t be easily undone.
Caring for a Broccoli Head Haircut
Whether achieved through a perm or natural texture, maintaining a broccoli head requires some effort:
- Use sulfate-free, curl-enhancing shampoos and conditioners
- Apply leave-in conditioner to keep curls moisturized
- Style with curl-defining creams or mousses
- Avoid excessive heat styling
- Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce frizz
- Get regular trims to maintain the shape
Is the Broccoli Head Right for Your Teen?
As a parent, you might be wondering if this trend is appropriate for your son. Here are some points to consider:
- Age appropriateness: While there’s no set age for this style, consider your child’s maturity and ability to maintain the look.
- Lifestyle: Does the style fit with your teen’s daily activities and responsibilities?
- Self-expression: Hair can be a great way for teens to express themselves and build confidence.
- Temporary nature: Remember, hair grows back. If it doesn’t work out, it’s not permanent.
Alternatives to the Broccoli Perm
If you’re not ready to commit to a perm, there are other ways to achieve a similar look:
- Curl-enhancing products on naturally wavy or curly hair
- Temporary styling techniques like twist-outs or sponge curls
- Heat styling with a small-barrel curling iron (though this requires daily styling)
At Jenny’s Salon, we’re here to help you and your teen make informed decisions about hair care and styling. Whether you decide to go for the full broccoli perm or explore other options, our team of licensed stylists can guide you through the process and ensure you leave feeling confident and looking great.
Remember, trends come and go, but healthy hair is always in style. If you have any questions about the broccoli head haircut or any other hair trends, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Jenny’s Salon in Mechanicsburg, PA. We’re always happy to help our clients in Mechanicsburg, Camp Hill, Dillsburg, Enola, and throughout the West Shore area look and feel their best!
Contact us to schedule your appointment at Jenny’s Salon today! We can help you achieve the best broccoli perm in Central PA!
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