If you have stubborn, unruly curly, wavy or frizzy hair that’s unmanageable and resistant to keratin treatments, then it’s time to discover the magic of Japanese Hair Straightening.

For many years, people with curly or wavy hair have been seeking ways to straighten their hair permanently. One popular method is Japanese Straightening, also known as Thermal Reconditioning, which has gained popularity over the years due to its long-lasting results. In this article, we will dive into the nitty-gritty of Japanese Straightening and everything you need to know before deciding to get the treatment.

What is Japanese Permanent Straightening?

Japanese Straightening is a hair straightening treatment that originated in Japan in the late 1990s. It's a chemical process that involves breaking down the natural bonds in the hair using a special solution, then flat-ironing the hair to restructure the bonds in a straight pattern.

How Does Japanese Straightening Work?

The Japanese Straightening process involves several steps, including:

1. Consultation: Your stylist will examine your hair type and texture and determine if you're a suitable candidate for Japanese Straightening. (Refrain from coloring your hair 2 weeks before the treatment.)

2. Washing: Your hair will be washed and towel-dried.

3. Solution Application: A special solution, usually containing sodium hydroxide, is applied to your hair to break the natural bonds that give your hair its shape.

4. Rinsing: The solution is rinsed off and your hair is blow-dried.

5. Flat Ironing: Your hair is flat-ironed to restructure the bonds in a straight pattern.

6. Neutralizing: A neutralizing solution is applied to your hair to stop the chemical process.

7. Rinsing and Blow Drying: Your hair is rinsed, conditioned, and blow-dried.

The entire process can take several hours, depending on the length and thickness of your hair.

Aftercare

To ensure you get the best results and don’t damage your hair, it’s important you take good care of your hair after the treatment.

In the first 72 hours

In the first 3 days after getting your treatment, your hair will need special care.

• For 3 days, keep your hair completely dry.

• Avoid rain and sweat.

• Wear a shower cap when showering.

• Use a facecloth to wash your face.

• Avoid any hair products such as oils and gels.

• Keep your hair as straight as possible by leaving it down and keeping it untucked from the ears.

After 72 hours

After the first 3 days, the treatment will set and you’ll be able to go back to your normal hair routine.

A few exceptions include:

• Refrain from coloring your hair for 2 weeks after the treatment.

• Avoid chlorinated water for a few weeks.

• Avoid too much sun exposure.

• Avoid sulfur-based shampoos. Use products that are designed for chemically straightened hair.

The Benefits of Japanese Straightening

One of the biggest advantages of Japanese Straightening is that it offers long-lasting results. Unlike other hair straightening methods, such as keratin treatments, which last up to 4 months, Japanese Straightening can last up to eight months with proper care and depending on hair growth.

It's an excellent option for those with stubborn curly, wavy hair that keratin treatments are not effective on. Japanese Hair Straightening gives hair a sleek and polished look that is more manageable, easier to style, and less prone to frizz and tangles.

The Pros and Cons of Japanese Straightening

Like any beauty treatment, Japanese Straightening has its pros and cons. Here's a breakdown of the most significant advantages and disadvantages of the treatment.

Pros

• Permanent results: Japanese Straightening offers long-lasting results, making it a great option for people who want a low-maintenance hairstyle.

• Manageability: Straightened hair is easier to manage and style, making it a popular choice for people with unruly curly or wavy hair.

• Time-saving: With straight hair, you'll spend less time styling your hair, making it a great option for people with busy lifestyles.

Cons

• Damage: Japanese Straightening can be damaging to hair if it's done improperly or if the hair is already damaged.

• Cost: Japanese Straightening can be expensive, with prices ranging from $600 to $1000, depending on the salon and your hair's length and thickness. However, the cost averages out to a similar price of keratin treatments, since Japanese Straightening lasts longer and is performed less frequently.

Which is better, keratin treatments or Japanese straightening?

Another popular hair straightening treatment is keratin treatments, also know as Brazilian Blowout. Keratin treatments are a semi-permanent hair straightening treatment that does not alter the internal bonds of the hair. Instead, they temporarily reduce frizz by coating the hair by smoothing the hair cuticle from the outside. While both techniques can give you straight, smooth hair, there are some differences to consider.

Keratin treatments are less damaging than Japanese Hair Straightening, but they don’t offer the same long-lasting results, lasting up to 4 months. Keratin treatments are less of straightening treatment and more accurately a hair smoothing treatment, leaving some curl and volume. They gradually wash out over time, while Japanese hair straightening remains in the hair until it is cut off. Ultimately, the decision between the two techniques comes down to your hair type, budget, and personal preferences.

Is Japanese hair straightening bad for your hair?

Japanese Hair Straightening is generally safe when done correctly and can even improve hair health because you’ll likely use fewer heat styling products. While the chemicals used in the process can weaken and dry out your hair leading to breakage and split ends, it's essential to go to a reputable salon and stylist who has extensive experience with the treatment to minimize the risk of damage.

Can you undo Japanese hair straightening?

Once the hair has been treated with thermal reconditioning, it is permanently straightened and cannot be undone. It will not wash out or wear off over time. The only option is to grow it out and cut off the treated sections. However, to ease and smooth the growing-out process and help with frizz, a keratin treatment is recommended.

How long does Japanese hair straightening last?

Although Japanese hair straightening lasts until the hair grows out or is cut off, touch-ups are required after eight to ten months or whenever four inches of new growth appear. This treatment is best suited for wavy and curly hair patterns that are looser at the scalp, allowing for texture continuity between the treated hair and regrowth.

How much does it cost for Japanese hair straightening?

The cost of Japanese thermal straightening starts around $700, which reflects the time-consuming process. However, the total cost depends on the density, length and thickness.

Can you use hair ties, clips or pins after Japanese straightening?

During the first 72 hours after treatment, the hair should be worn straight and down to allow it to neutralize. Any tension or pressure on the hair, such as bobby pins, elastics, or headbands, should be avoided to prevent creases. After the 3 day period, you can use hair accessories, however, for longer-lasting results, use soft, gentle accessories that don’t cause harsh kinks in the hair.

Is Japanese hair straightening worth it?

In conclusion, whether or not Japanese hair straightening is worth the cost and commitment is a personal decision. If waking up with straight hair every day is worth the price and upkeep, then it might be worth considering. However, it is crucial to find an experienced stylist to ensure the best results.