There are different types of hair straightening, there are for all tastes. For those who like to experiment with new techniques and for those who always bet on classic treatments. There are also some for those who prefer a straightening with natural products. In short, variety is what is left over when talking about types of hair straightening. Therefore, we will explain what they are and some considerations that you must take into account when making them. So that this way you can choose the one that suits you best. Read on!
Well, the basic principle of all types of straightening is the breakdown of the natural molecules present in the hair. Either a permanent or semi-permanent straightening. By breaking these natural molecules or bonds, as it is known in English, the hair weakens and becomes smoother. Therefore, it is easier to smooth. So that the hair does not take the worst part, the secret is to do this process correctly. Applying the appropriate steps and products. And always by the hand of a specialist.
What are the types of straightening?
Japanese straightening
This straightening was created in the mid-90s by the Japanese Yuko Yamashita. Japanese straightening is one of the types of straightening made with chemicals. It is a little more aggressive than others that use substances like keratin. The chemical compound in this Japanese straightening is ammonium thioglycolate, a type of ammonia, but of low toxicity.
Japanese straightening breaks the chemical bonds of curly hair, so it will never return to its natural state. For this reason, it is not recommended for those who wish to regain their curls. Similarly, it is not recommended for people who tend to apply hair dyes frequently, because it could cause irreparable damage.
The application of this straightening is very similar to that of other types of permanent straightening. First the pre-straightening cream is applied, second the hair is washed. Third, iron, fourth, apply the final smoothing cream. Then the hair is washed with a specific shampoo and finally dried.
At the end of the application of the Japanese straightening, some special considerations must be taken to guarantee its effectiveness. During the 48 hours of applying the product, the hair cannot be moistened, or held with hooks or pigtails. This avoids damaging the straightening.
Although nowadays packages are sold to be able to perform the Japanese straightening in each. The most recommended is that it be applied in beauty salons specialized in these treatments. The application process of this straightening is a little more complicated than others. Also, used products are more aggressive.
Ideal for: virgin hair, which has not received any type of straightening or dyeing and for those who do not want to return to their natural curls.
Duration: 4 to 6 months.
Brazilian straightening
It is a process that straightens the hair without breaking any of its natural molecules. In such a way that, after the duration time, it will return to its original texture. This is one of the most harmless types of chemical straightening. Keratin is used for its realization. This is a protein much like the one that the hair naturally produces. Therefore, it does not damage the hair, but repairs and restructures it.
You must be very careful not to fall for imitations. Due to its increasing popularity, many products emerged that mimic Brazilian straightening. But, these contain chemicals like formalin, which not only cause serious damage to hair, but to overall health.
According to the stylist Valeria Costa for the magazine Glamor of Spain, “the authentic Brazilian straightening (or escova progressiva) does not damage the hair, nor does it change its structure, it is compatible with other chemical processes, it restructures the strand, eliminates frizz and leaves a completely healthy hair, repaired and a spectacular shine one hundred percent guaranteed.”
Some of the considerations that should be taken with Brazilian straightening are: after applied, you cannot wash your hair with regular shampoo, you should wash it with one that does not contain salt (sodium chloride). Do not apply dyes before using the straightening, because it can change the tone. You should be very careful with allergies to the ingredients of the product and protect the skin during application. It is not recommended to apply it more than once a year.
Ideal for: Lightly wavy, fluffed or previously treated hair. It will not work well on very strong curls.
Duration: 3 to 4 months approximately.
Chemical straightening
This is one of the most permanent straightening types of all, making it the most damaging. The chemical used in this treatment “relaxes” the curls and breaks the natural molecules of the hair. Because of this, only the hair that is being born is the one that will be curled, the rest of the hair will remain straight.
In addition to the chemical aggressiveness of this treatment, the main problem is when it has to be applied to growing hair. Because it tends to superimpose that hair on areas that already have the product and all that area is seriously affected. In this type of chemical straightening, post treatment care is essential to maintain the health of the hair.
The procedure is similar to the previous ones: washing, applying the previous product, applying the smoothing product and ironing.
Ideal for: very curly or wavy hair.
Duration: until the hair grows.
Photonic straightening
This, like Brazilian straightening, also uses keratin. Its name is due to the fact that a photonic light (blue light) is used to fix the treatment and help hair straighten faster.
The main advantage over the others is that it can be applied to all types of hair, including bleached and coloured hair. In addition, it not only straightens the hair, it also repairs it and allows it to regain its health. In addition to this, hair can be wet within hours of straightening.
Ideal for: all hair types, even dyed and bleached.
Duration: 3 to 5 months
Taninoplasty
Taninoplasty is one of the types of straightening that does not use chemicals to straighten hair. Neither formaldehyde nor any chemical component is used in this treatment. For this reason, its results are less aggressive with the hair, transforming and revitalizing it, making it look beautiful.
In this treatment the hair is smoothed using natural components such as tannin. An organic substance that is extracted from the bark of trees, such as oak. This natural compound acts from inside the hair, generating a protein chain inside the fibre that, with the heat of the plates, allows modifying the shape of the hair.
Taninoplasty, unlike other types of straightening that break the natural molecules of the hair, does not break the internal links of the hair or damage its hair fibre. For this reason, when you apply it, you can pick up your hair or wash it, very different from what happens with other chemical straighteners.
On the other hand, taninoplasty smoothes and aligns the cuticle, repairs the hair, prevents frizz, provides hydration, shine and softness. A great advantage is that it is not necessary to use the hair straightener, five minutes of hair dryer and you are ready to go. Less iron, less damage, great!
Ideal on all types of hair. It can be applied to pregnant and lactating women.
Duration: 3 to 4 months approximately.
In short, there are many types of hair straightening, it will depend on your tastes and, especially on the needs of your hair, to choose the most suitable one. It is important to clarify that this article is for informational purposes. We advise you to go to a professional specialized in these techniques to advise you. Likewise, if you have any condition on your scalp or are allergic to any of the ingredients in these products, consult your specialist doctor before applying it. Remember your health is the most important thing.
ALFA