- Japanese thermal heat treatments involve more steps than using a flat-iron. First, your hair stylist will test your hair to see how well it will withstand chemicals that are used in the process. If your hair is more on the fragile side, a petroleum-based protectant may be applied to your hair. Next, a relaxer is applied to straighten your waves or curls. These relaxers contain one or a combination of guanadine hydroxide, sodium hydroxide and ammonium thiglycolate. Once your stylist feels the relaxer has stayed in your hair for the appropriate amount of time, she will rinse it out with a neutralizing shampoo. After shampooing, a cream or protein-based conditioner is applied to your hair.
Then, your hair is straightened into its new shape, usually with a comb. Your hair will be smoother and softer than with self blow-drying or flat-ironing techniques, as frizziness is eliminated during the treatment process. If you decide you want your hair to be curly after the Japanese thermal heat treatment, you can use a curling iron. However, according to the Gary Manuel Salon, your hair cannot revert back to its curly state until it grows out again. - Once you get your hair straightened or relaxed through a Japanese thermal heat treatment, do not wash your hair for 72 hours, advises the Gary Manuel Salon (Reference 1). After this time, you still do not want to wet your hair before going to bed, as it can re-curl.
Also do not use any hair ties, pins or barrettes for a week, according to ThermalReconditioning.net. If you decide to color your hair after treatment, wait 2 weeks.
Use a thermal heat protector prior to blow drying your hair.
According to the Gary Manuel Salon, the cost of Japanese thermal heat treatments cost hundreds of dollars, because the results last for months. Depending on how curly your hair is initially, you will need to have your hair re-straightened between 4 and 8 months.
If you follow the proper steps for upkeep within the first few days and your hair re-curls, call your stylist.
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