Curly or curly hair may seem cute, but sadly it's hard to manage for the day. If you've ever dreamed of straight, silky hair, permanent hair straightening can give you the results you want. Depending on the straightening method you use, the results can last between a few months or until your hair grows longer.
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Method 1 of 3: Choosing a Professional Hair Straightening Treatment
Step 1. Choose the Japanese straightening method if you have loose to medium curls
In this straightening method, also known as thermal reconditioning, a solution that breaks the bonds that cause frizz in the hair is used. After that, the hairdresser will dry the hair and then straighten it with a flatiron until it is completely straight. This process can take up to 8 hours. After that, you will get neat, shiny and straight hair.
- If you choose this straightening method, you won't be able to curl your hair, even if you use a tool.
- The difference between straightened hair and newly grown hair will be obvious. So, make a plan to repeat this treatment after 6-12 weeks.
- The cost you need to undergo this Japanese straightening treatment may be more than IDR 6,000,000, depending on the length and thickness of your hair.
Step 2. Use a relaxer product if you have tight, coarse curls
Just like the Japanese straightening method, relaxer products will also break the bonds in the hair. The chemicals used in this process are quite strong as they are designed for coarse and thick hair. However, if used properly, you will get straight hair that is easy to manage, even if you live in a humid climate.
- Your hair can still be curled after this treatment. So, you can still use the curling iron to style your hair if you want.
- Be prepared for a re-treatment within 6-12 weeks, depending on the rate at which your hair is growing.
- The cost of this treatment ranges from IDR 600,000 to IDR 1,500,000.
Step 3. Use a keratin treatment to smooth your hair, but it can still be curled
Keratin treatments, such as Brazilian Blowout, will smooth the surface of the hair, but will not permanently break the bond. However, over time your natural hair texture will return to its original state (usually in about 2 months). Since the structure doesn't change, you can still curl your hair if you want.
- Some keratin treatments contain formaldehyde which is known to be carcinogenic.
- Keratin treatment costs range from IDR 2,500,000 to IDR 4,000,000.
Step 4. Find a professional hair stylist to provide hair care
The chemicals used in permanent hair straightening are highly flammable. So, in the hands of an inexperienced hairstylist, this treatment can cause severe damage and even breakage of your hair. Ask friends for stylist recommendations, or read online reviews to find an experienced stylist with a good history of this treatment.
The stylist will examine your hair and recommend the type of straightener that works best for you
Step 5. Ask the hair stylist for the chemicals contained in grooming products
Some permanent straightening products contain formaldehyde, or other chemicals that release formaldehyde when they come into contact with hair. These harmful chemicals can irritate your skin, eyes, and lungs, and cause cancer if exposed to them long term. Discuss formaldehyde-free product options with your stylist.
Step 6. Ask if there are any pre-treatment guidelines you should know
Before undergoing treatment, contact your hair stylist and ask if there is anything you should do or avoid beforehand. Depending on your treatment, your stylist may ask you not to wash your hair for a few days beforehand, or to rinse your hair with a clarifying product the night before. You may also be advised not to scratch or brush your hair too vigorously.
Method 2 of 3: Undergoing the Hair Straightening Process
Step 1. Tell the condition of your hair honestly to the hair stylist
If you've been coloring your hair for years, or you've used a hair relaxer product at home a few months ago, it's a good idea to tell your stylist about this. Hair that has been exposed to chemicals may be too damaged to be chemically straightened. As a result, your hair will become dry and rough, or even break during the straightening process.
Step 2. Ask your stylist to test the straightening product on a small section of your hair
In this test, your stylist will apply a small amount of straightening solution to hidden areas of your hair, such as near the nape of your neck. After that, the hair's reaction to the chemical will be observed by the hair stylist, and he or she will determine whether the treatment is safe to continue.
Step 3. Bring a book or set up a game to avoid boredom
Most hair straightening processes take at least 2-3 hours. Meanwhile, Japanese straightening can take up to 8 hours in the first treatment. So, bring a book or have a game ready on your phone to accompany you to spend time waiting.
Step 4. Follow the post-treatment instructions
To protect your hair, follow the post-straightening care recommendations provided by your hair stylist. If you opt for Japanese straightening, you will be advised not to wash your hair for 2-3 days afterward. Depending on the treatment you choose, you may also be asked to avoid using heat when styling your hair as this can increase the risk of your hair breaking. For a keratin treatment, you may not want to wear a ponytail for 2-3 days to prevent the hair from curling permanently.
Method 3 of 3: Maintaining Hair Straightening Results at Home
Step 1. Use a deep conditioner and steam to straighten the hair
First, apply a deep conditioning mask to your hair, especially the ends. Turn on the hot water tap to maximum temperature, then pin your hair up so that the ends are exposed. Sit as close to the steam as possible without touching the hot water and relax for 20-30 minutes. When you're done with the steam treatment, set the shower to a comfortable height, then rinse the conditioner out of your hair.
This is a great way to help restore moisture to your hair after a professional straightening treatment, as the steam will open the hair cuticles. Thus, the conditioner can seep into the hair shaft
Step 2. Try using a serum or smoothing cream at the store to blow dry your hair
You can buy straightening products at a drugstore or beauty store. Most of these products are sold in serum or cream form. If you want to get hair that looks like it's after a salon treatment at home, look for an active formula that will protect your hair from damage caused by using a hairdryer. Use the product while your hair is still wet then blow dry your hair a little at a time with a round comb.
These serums and creams won't permanently straighten your hair, but they can help keep your hair looking neat between keratin treatments, or when your roots start to grow longer after a Japanese straightening treatment or relaxer
Step 3. Apply natural oils to the hair
Natural oils can penetrate deeply into the hair, helping to retain moisture. This oil will help protect your hair from damage that can lead to frizz. Try using an oil to nourish your hair after a chemical straightening treatment. Natural oils can also help protect hair from moisture, and make it look smoother in all weather conditions.
Look for natural oils that are rich in vitamins and minerals to nourish your hair, such as coconut oil, argan oil, macadamia oil, and almond oil
Step 4. Try a keratin treatment at home
There are a number of keratin treatments that you can use at home to achieve smooth, straight hair. Most keratin products are used when the hair is damp before blow drying. However, there are also some keratin products that are best used when your hair is dry. Products like this are claimed to be able to straighten hair between 1 wash and up to a maximum of 30 days, depending on the brand you choose.
