The hair care industry has developed many solutions to help women who want smooth and shiny hair. Two of the most popular options on the market are Keratin treatments and Japanese hair straightening treatments.
If you are new to these methods, you may be wondering which one is best. Read on for a comprehensive breakdown of Japanese hair straightening vs keratin treatment to know the differences between these two popular hair straightening methods.
Japanese hair straightening
Japanese hair straightening is also called thermal renovation, rebodding or yoko. This last designation is intended Yoko Yamashita, the inventor of the technique. Read on to find out more.
Advantages and disadvantages of Japanese hair straightening
Japanese hair straightening changes the internal structure of the hair to remove any waves or curls, allowing for a permanent effect. While the lasting aspect is great, Japanese hair straightening has some drawbacks.
First, because it changes the actual structure of the hair, it is quite harmful. It may seem great at first. However, in the long run, it can leave your hair looking dull, frizzy, dry and more damaged than before you started.
Moreover, because the process causes damage to the cuticle that protects the hair shaft, Japanese hair straightening tends to create frizz instead of combating it. You’ll still need to dry the embers and take steps to prevent frizz (for example, by applying moisturizing pomades or serums).
How does the Japanese hair straightening process work?
Before applying the Japanese hair straightening treatment, the hair should be divided into sections. This ensures a more even application and a better result. Then apply the chemical straightening solution to each part, ensuring that each block of strands is well soaked.
The solution should then sit anywhere between 30 and 60 minutes. The exact amount of time depends on factors such as the length of the hair and its natural texture. The hair is then washed to remove the chemical solution. Finally, dried and flat ironed for the final touch.
Please note that Japanese hair straightening can take up to eight hours for people with super thick hair. Make sure you have something to entertain you!
Keratin treatments
Keratin treatments are overall a more popular alternative to Japanese hair straightening. Find out why below.
Advantages and disadvantages of keratin treatments
Before emphasizing the advantages, it is important to note one disadvantage of the keratin treatments: it is only temporary. However, the effects are still long-lasting, with hair noticeably transformed between three and six months, depending on maintenance.
Now, let’s discuss the benefits of keratin treatments. First, unlike Japanese hair straightening treatments, keratin does not damage your hair. This creates healthier hair over time. Furthermore, keratin not only smooths the hair but it also adds shine and eliminates frizz.
However, keratin is not suitable for every type of hair. If you have super curly hair, you won’t be able to make your curls disappear. Instead, you can expect it to soften the curls. If you have wavy hair, a good quality keratin treatment should be able to soften waves.
How does the keratin hair straightening process work?
So what exactly does keratin treatment include? This is a multi-step process that usually takes between two and four hours. The exact amount of time depends in part on the length of your tresses and the type of hair you have.
First, your hair will be thoroughly washed with a clarifying shampoo. The shampoo removes oils, dead skin cells and products such as pomades, serums and hairspray that have accumulated in your hair over time. Then dry the hair.
Then, the keratin treatment is applied. It is applied to sections of hair and worked through each section using a wide tooth comb. Combing the treatment ensures that the individual strands are fully coated with the treatment, ensuring maximum effectiveness.
Let the keratin sit in your hair for a while, allowing it to penetrate the shaft and work its full magic. The stylist will then dry your hair again. A flat iron is then used to straighten hair and seal the keratin on the strands.
Now, you have two options. One option is to wash your hair and dry it.
Once this is done, you can leave the living room and immediately design it as you wish. Alternatively, you can skip the wash and leave the salon as is.
However, if you take this second route, you need to protect the keratin for 72 hours. This means you can’t get it wet, style it, or even put it behind your ears! Some women find these restrictions too stressful and challenging to remember, so they choose to wash in the salon.
Japanese hair straightening vs. keratin: which one is right for you?
Now you know the basics of keratin vs Japanese hair straightening, but which option is right for you? When deciding between Japanese hair straightening and keratin, consider the following:
- Your hair type: Is your hair curly or wavy?
- Your hair health: Is it colored, recently bleached or very delicate?
- Your desired outcome: Do you want to do it straight or also fight in Paris?
In general, keratin treatments are preferable because they cause less damage to the hair. They also have the added benefit of improving hair health, reducing frizz and adding shine. This helps reduce blow drying and flat iron needs.
However, keratin treatment is not suitable if you have super curly hair. They will not provide smooth hair, but will soften the curl. If you’re determined to tackle your curls, a Japanese hair straightening treatment may be preferable.
It is best to exercise caution with any straightening procedure if your hair is very thin or damaged. People with bleached or dyed hair may experience breakage, which can leave hair thinning.
It is always better to consult a professional stylist before deciding whether and how to straighten your hair. These procedures involve the use of chemicals that can harm your hair if not used or applied correctly. Trust an expert, and don’t try to do these treatments yourself.
The final word on Japanese hair straightening vs. keratin
Many women covet straight, smooth and shiny hair. Even if Mother Nature hasn’t blessed you with flawless natural locks, you can achieve them with a Japanese hair straightening or keratin treatment.