NYC HAIR GUIDE
A Guide to Down Perms and Cuts for Hair That Sticks Out on the Sides
Understand your options for controlling unruly side hair, from chemical services to precision haircuts, with NYC salon examples.
Every image you see is a bookable style. Click any photo to view details and book an appointment with a stylist.
If the hair on the sides of your head grows outwards instead of down, you have two main paths to a sleeker silhouette: a chemical service like a down perm, or a strategic haircut. A down perm chemically relaxes the hair to make it lie flat, while haircuts with fades or tapers physically remove bulk. The right choice depends on your desired hair length on the sides and your commitment to either chemical upkeep or more frequent trims.
High-Contrast Styles: Texture on Top, Flat on the Sides
These looks pair voluminous or textured tops with sides that are kept very short or are chemically flattened for a sharp, modern shape.
This approach creates a strong silhouette by contrasting a full, often permed, top with sides that are pressed down or faded close to the scalp. Some looks achieve this with a down perm on the sides, which relaxes the hair to redirect its growth pattern. Others rely on a sharp fade or undercut from a haircut. Discuss with your stylist whether a chemical service or just the cut is needed to get the sides to lie this flat.
Consultation Tips
Bring photos of what you don't want.
Showing your stylist haircuts where the sides look too puffy or triangular can be just as helpful as showing your goal photos. It clarifies the specific problem you're trying to solve.
Talk about your daily routine.
Be honest about how much time you're willing to spend styling. A down perm might reduce daily styling time, while a precision cut might require specific products or blow-drying to look its best.
Before You Book
Assess your side hair length.
Decide how much length you want to keep on the sides. A down perm works on hair that has some length, while a fade or taper involves cutting it shorter. This is a key first decision.
Compare relevant portfolio photos.
Look for reference photos on Kiri with a starting hair texture and growth pattern similar to yours. In your consultation, explain how you want to adapt that look to control your sides.
Compare portfolio photos and discuss your goals with a stylist.
