My sister found several small vintage items at home today, but she doesn’t know their purpose. Have you ever seen anything like these?

Perm rods, also known as perm rollers or curling rods, are small cylindrical tools used in the process of creating permanent waves or curls in hair. These vintage items have played a significant role in the evolution of hairstyling, reflecting changes in beauty trends and technology over the decades.

Perm rods first emerged in the early 20th century, a time when permanent waves or “perms” became a popular hair treatment. The perming process, which involves chemically altering the structure of the hair to create curls or waves, necessitated a tool that could hold hair in place while it was treated. Early perm rods were simple in design, often made from metal or plastic, and had a straightforward cylindrical shape.

By the mid-20th century, perm rods saw significant advancements. The 1950s and 1960s brought a surge in popularity for perms, and the demand led to innovations in rod design. Manufacturers began producing rods in various sizes and materials, including plastic and rubber, to accommodate different curl styles and hair types. The introduction of flexible, plastic-coated rods made the perming process more comfortable and efficient.