Abstract: A bendable permanent wave rod is disclosed including an elongate rod that includes a core portion composed of a material that is longitudinally bendable into a selected shape and self-sustainable in that shape, and a flexible, substantially non-absorbent outer portion bonded to and sealably covering the core portion. The outer portion has an exterior surface that includes a coefficient of friction such that hair that engages the exterior surface resists slipping relative thereto. An elongate flexible hair retaining band having first and second end portions is provided. The first end portion is attached to first end of the rod and the second end portion is selectively secured to the opposite second end of the rod to secure the rod onto the hair rolled onto the rod.