From flat irons to chemical relaxers, there are numerous products that take the natural curls or waves out of locks. When you visit a hair salon, your stylist might recommend Japanese straightening to help you achieve a glossy, sleek look. If you’re considering this option, here are answers to a few of the questions you might have.

4 Questions About Japanese Straightening Answered

What does it do?

Japanese straightening eliminates the curls and waves in the hair. To do this, stylists use both chemical solutions and flat-ironing techniques in a multi-step process. Unlike other straightening treatments, this does not use toxic formaldehyde.

This process works for all hair types, regardless of whether they’ve been color-treated or highlighted. Once done, the hair becomes silky to the touch. 

What is the process?

After washing your hair to remove product residue, the hair salon stylist will spritz it with a protective spray and apply a chemical to alter the bonds that create the natural textures.

They then rinse out the solution and apply another protective serum to the strands. They will blow-dry the wet locks to remove some of the dampness before straightening them with a thermal iron. After applying a neutralizer, they will rinse, dry, and straighten the hair with a flat iron again.

How should I care for my hair after the treatment?

It takes at least three days for the new texture to set, so refrain from washing your hair or putting it in a ponytail. Afterward, you can wash and style as normal.

As the treated hair will be permanently straight, you’ll have to use styling products if you want curls or waves. Refrain from getting a perm, as putting more chemicals on the strands can cause damage.

How long will the results last?

Japanese straightening permanently alters the curly or wavy texture, so you will only need to straighten the new growth. The timing of your next appointment depends on how quickly your hair grows and how straight you want the roots to be. To make the curls less noticeable in the meantime, a stylist can straighten the sections of hair along your part and hairline.

Whether you want to add definition to a curly hairstyle or straighten it, the stylists at Bloom Beauty Lounge are eager to assist. Based in Chelsea, this hair salon offers head-turning haircuts, color corrections, blow outs, and other treatments to transform your locks. They also carry their own line of organic hair products to help you maintain your mane between appointments. Learn more about their straightening options online or call (212) 255-9355 to schedule an appointment. For more inspiration, check out their clients’ makeovers on Instagram.