JAPANESE HAIR STRAIGHTENING

Before	After

Straight up - This is the latest in hair relaxing techniques. Blow out junkies take note: Chemical relaxers are now gentle more than ever before. This can be use on color treated hair. These souped up straighteners are so effective you may never have to wrestle with a turbocharged blow dryer again.

Thermal reconditioning - This Japanese treatment uses heat to restructure the cuticle so it lies flat, giving you glossy, pin straight hair that does not require blow drying.

How it works - First, hair is chemically softened with a solution that is milder than a standard relaxing solution. Then, individual ¼ inch sections of hair are straightened with irons heated to 180 degrees. Some salons will blow dry hair first so steam from damp hair has no chance to burn your face: others may keep it damp to minimize trauma to the hair. Afterward, a neutralizing formula is smoothed onto the hair close to the cuticle. How long it takes - The relaxer sits on the hair for only 20 - 25 minutes, but the whole process takes about 4 - 6 hours (depending on hair texture and length), including ironing each ¼ inch section for 3 seconds.

How long it lasts - 6 to 10 months. Thermally recondition hair will never be curly again; you won't have to repeat the process until new hair grows in.