Hair Carving: What It Is and Can You Do It at Home

What is hair carving?

Hair carving is a semi-permanent curling method that uses gentle formulas based on polymers. These ingredients stay on the outer layer of the hair rather than entering the core. This makes carving different from traditional chemical perms, which break the hair’s internal structure to create new curls. Carving typically yields loose waves and added volume rather than tight ringlets, and it also differs from bio-perms, which use ingredients closer to the hair’s natural chemistry and focus on conditioning.

The effect usually lasts about three weeks; as the hair grows, the curls soften and the volume decreases. In some cases, especially with thick, dense hair, the result may fade sooner. For finer hair, the outcome can be more persistent.

Carving is a good option for people with fine or flat hair who want more lift, or for anyone curious about a new style without committing to a traditional chemical perm.

Benefits and drawbacks of hair carving

Pros

• Gentle on hair because formulas work only on the surface, not inside the strand.
• Natural-looking waves that resemble real texture.
• Can add volume to thin hair without weighing it down.
• As the volume decreases, the style remains neat and easy to manage.
• If desired, you can straighten or curl more with heat tools for a bolder look.
• Post-procedure care is straightforward; no drastic changes are needed.

Cons

• Cannot achieve tight, firm curls like a classic perm.
• Results can be unpredictable on bleached or dyed hair.
• Styling lasts only a few weeks; hair may gradually return to its natural shape.

Types of hair carving

Carving varies by curl size and the wrapping method used.

By curl size

• Large carve — ideal for long or medium-length hair; creates a soft, natural wave.
• Medium carve — great for experimenting with a new look without a major change; suitable for any hair length.
• Small carve — provides milder texture than chemical perms; on long hair, the curl lasts shorter.

By wrapping method

• Traditional curling — horizontal rods wrap the entire length for even, natural curls.
• Vertical curling — spiral rods along the length create extra volume and defined waves.
• Localized curling — focuses on lifting the roots; can also tweak the ends for a subtle curl.
• Textured curling — uses rods of different sizes for a more dimensional look.

Who should avoid carving?

Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should avoid this treatment due to potential effects on the fetus or baby. Recent bleaching or dyeing can also be a concern, as the product could interact with color and alter shade.

How a salon performs hair carving

While the exact steps can vary by salon and product, the overall process is similar.

The hair is washed with a clarifying shampoo to remove buildup.

Hair is thoroughly dried and divided into strands of the chosen thickness, which influences the final look.

Strands are wrapped around rods of the chosen diameter.

The carving solution is applied along the length of each strand. Processing time depends on the product, hair type, and the desired result, typically 10–30 minutes.

After processing, the solution is rinsed out thoroughly while the rods stay in place.

A setting agent is then applied to fix the curls. After a short wait, the rods are removed, the hair is rinsed again, and a conditioner or treatment may be used.

Finally, the hair is dried with a hair dryer without pulling on the curls. A diffuser adds more defined waves.

Can you do hair carving at home?

Yes, it is possible to perform carving at home following similar steps to a salon procedure. However, without proper skill, you risk damaging your hair. For best and safest results, consider consulting a professional.

What you might need

• HairCarving Fixative for lasting curls, about $36.50
• Hair Carving Permanent 2 for colored hair, about $24.70
• Kudri plastic roller set, about $2.10
• Clarifying shampoo for pre-treatment, about $8.80
• Deep-cleansing shampoo for all hair types from Kapous, about $6.60
• Deep-cleansing shampoo from Concept, about $6.75
• Deep cleansing shampoo with niacinamide and inulin from RICHE, about $4.60

How to care for your hair after carving

To keep the style longer, follow these recommendations:

• In the first two days, avoid washing your hair and using styling products or heavy treatments.
• Avoid saunas, pools, or intense workouts right after the procedure to let the curls set properly.
• Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle; this helps prevent early straightening.
• Condition your hair after every wash.
• Gently pat dry with a towel; do not rub or twist the hair on your head.
• Air-dry whenever possible instead of using a hair dryer in the initial days.

Expert comment: Carving provides texture and lift with less chemical impact than traditional perms, making it ideal for those seeking a low-damage styling option. A skilled stylist can tailor the technique to your hair type for best results.

Summary

Hair carving offers a lightweight alternative to classic perms, delivering natural-looking waves and extra volume with minimal damage. The results are temporary, typically lasting a few weeks, and depend on hair type and care. It works well for thin or flat hair but may be less suited for very curly or highly processed hair. For the best balance of appearance and hair health, seek professional application when in doubt.

Key insight: Hair carving delivers natural, surface-level waves with easy upkeep, but its longevity varies by hair type, making professional guidance important for optimal results.