Is Japanese Hair Straightening Safe? A Salon’s Honest Take
People love the glossy, sleek hair that comes from getting a Japanese hair straightening treatment. Japanese straightening is a popular hair treatment that can tame the most unruly curls and frizz into glassy, smooth locks.
The results of this treatment are dramatic, but the process raises questions: Is Japanese hair straightening safe? In this article, we will examine the process of Japanese thermal straightening, its working mechanism, and how to safeguard against potential risks and side effects.
Table of Contents
What Exactly Is Japanese Hair Straightening?
Japanese hair straightening, aka Japanese thermal straightening, is a professional salon treatment that permanently straightens curly, wavy, or frizzy hair. Japanese hair straightening alters the structure of the hair follicles, making it different from other straightening or “smoothing” treatments like Brazilian blowouts or keratin treatments.
Curious about Japanese hair straightening? Reach out to Chameleon Salon, one of the few Portland, OR, salons with stylists officially licensed to perform Japanese hair straightening treatments.
Is Japanese Hair Straightening Safe?
Short answer: If done by a licensed stylist and professional, Japanese hair straightening can be safe. However, when done incorrectly, the results can be disastrous. That’s why it is so important to find a salon with expertise in Japanese hair straightening, such as Chameleon Salon.
Chameleon Salon is not only one of Portland’s hottest salons for color and cuts, but they are also one of the few licensed Japanese straightening professionals in Portland, OR. With Chameleon Salon, you know that your safety, as well as your style, are a priority.
The Role of Professional Expertise
Japanese hair straightening is not as simple as a blowout. It is a complex, chemistry-based process that should only be done by someone who has the necessary experience and skill.
At Chameleon Salon, we start by ensuring that your hair is a good candidate for this treatment. Certain hair types, such as thin hair or heavily processed hair, will be damaged by Japanese straightening.
If you are worried about the safety of Japanese hair straightening, be sure to go to a stylist with lots of experience who can talk you through it.
Common Concerns About Safety
When considering Japanese hair straightening, consider the safety of your hair and seek a salon with experience in these techniques. It is important to have a stylist who understands the process and can guide you based on your unique hair goals.
Can Japanese Straightening Damage Hair?
If applied incorrectly or by a novice, yes, Japanese hair straightening can damage your hair. It requires knowledge and experience to correctly use this styling technique.
Japanese hair straightening involves the application of relaxer chemicals to the hair. One of the biggest mistakes newbies make is applying the relaxer to the scalp. This causes a “break point” at the root during straightening, which can result in severe damage and breakage at the site as the hair grows out.
In addition, processed and bleached hair can be so damaged by Japanese thermal straightening that it will fall out. That's why it is important to be honest with your stylist about what kind of hair treatments you have had in the past.
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Get Japanese Hair Straightening
Best Candidates
Who is the best candidate for Japanese hair straightening? The ideal client is someone with hair that is:
Curly/Frizzy
Thick
Healthy
Unprocessed (no bleaching or perms)
If that sounds like your hair and you are seeking a treatment to get permanent, long-lasting, silky straight hair, you may be a good candidate for Japanese hair straightening.
Hair Types That Should Avoid It
Japanese hair straightening is a permanent hair procedure, and isn't a good choice for anyone with hair that is:
Damaged by styling
Bleached
Permed
Relaxed (exception being someone who has already had Japanese hair straightening and is getting a touch-up)
Thin or fragile.
If you aren’t a good candidate for Japanese hair straightening, Chameleon Salon can still help you get silky smooth hair! Other options, such as Brazilian blowouts, may be more gentle and give you the results you want. Reach out to the stylists at Chameleon Salon; they have experience in haircare treatments for all hair types.
Questions To Ask Your Stylist About Japanese Hair Straightening and Your Hair
Is Japanese hair straightening safe? Yes — but only when done by a professional.
If you are looking to have your hair straightened, be sure to find a stylist with experience. Ask them about what kind of products they’ve used and how familiar they are with Japanese straightening. If possible, ask them to show you pictures of other clients who’ve gotten Japanese hair straightening at the salon.
If they are experienced, they should be able to determine if your hair is a good candidate for Japanese hair straightening.
3 Benefits of Japanese Hair Straightening
#1: Long-Lasting Results
Japanese hair straightening is a permanent procedure, leaving hair straight and silky for 6-12 months or until the hair grows out. Results can last longer with regular touch-ups.
#2: Everyday Convenience
Tired of straightening your hair every morning? Consider a Japanese straightening treatment to get glossy hair while saving you time.
#3: Sleek, Polished Look
When it comes to achieving glossy, polished, straight hair, there is no technique better than Japanese hair straightening. Not only does it produce pin-straight hair, but Japanese straightening also lasts for months.
Are There Any Downsides To Japanese Hair Straightening?
Here are some potential downsides for anyone considering Japanese hair straightening:
Potential hair damage for damaged or processed hair
Needs touch-ups for new hair growth
Long procedure taking 2-4 hours
Not a budget treatment
Permanent, so not a good option for people with curly hair looking for temporary straighteners
How Safe Is Japanese Hair Straightening for Your Hair? Let Chameleon Salon Be Your Guide
There are certain haircare treatments you need an experienced professional for, and Japanese hair straightening is one of them. This has fantastic results when done correctly, but can be disastrous if attempted by a novice.
If you are ready for silky-straight locks without hassle, reach out to Chameleon Salon. With over 400 five-star reviews, you know that we have the expertise to give you exactly the styling you are looking for. Our stylists are not only certified in Japanese hair straightening, but have the experience to train and certify other stylists as well. Don’t risk your hair; reach out to the professionals at Chameleon Salon to learn if Japanese hair straightening is right for you.
