Shiseido hair straightening is an incredibly popular method of permanently flattening one’s tresses. It started out in Japan back in the 1990s when Yuko Yamashita figured out the process of thermal reconditioning. It essentially uses special flat irons and a chemical solution in order to transform wavy or curly tresses into flat locks.

But what do you need to know about the procedure before getting it done? This article tells you everything you need to know.

 

How it works

When getting Shiseido hair straightening done, your stylist will first apply a special chemical solution to your tresses. This solution will alter the bonds of your locks responsible for its shape, which helps it become permanently flat. They will then use a special flat iron to smooth the locks into shape and apply a neutralizer to finish it off. The whole process can be quite time consuming, taking anywhere from 3-8 hours depending on the length and condition of your locks.

 

Benefits

If you’ve ever experienced a bad locks day (hello, frizz!) then you’ll know how amazing it is having sleek, smooth tresses. Shiseido hair straightening ensures that you don’t have to spend hours each morning taming your mane with product in order to get it to behave. Once you’ve had the procedure done your tresses should dry much faster and be far more manageable. You will look stylish with minimal effort (no more need for flat irons!) and won’t have to worry so much about frizz.

 

When not to get Shiseido hair straightening

Some types of tresses will benefit better than others using this technique. People with wavy or soft curls are encouraged to undergo the procedure. People with tight curls may not benefit as greatly as maintenance is more difficult – you will typically have to perform more touch ups as new strands emerge from the roots.

It is not recommended for pregnant and/or breastfeeding women. You should tell your stylist if your locks have recently been coloured or bleached as this could affect the final result.

 

Price

The final cost of Shiseido hair straightening depends on the amount of time your stylist spends with you. As such, the longer and thicker the tresses, the more expensive it may be. It generally costs anywhere from $300-1000. Salons which are cheaper than $300 may be dubious in quality and could cause strand loss.

 

Maintenance

Following the procedure, you should keep your tresses away from water for at least 2-3 days in order to help the chemicals settle into your locks so that the style can set. This is because the chemicals are still at work in your tresses for several days following the procedure.

You should also ensure that you use shampoo and conditioner that is designed for treated locks. Thermal heat protector products are also important for preventing damage as a result of blow drying. You can colour your tresses following Shiseido hair straightening treatment but you should wait at least 2 weeks and get it done by a professional. Protein treatments are useful for ensuring good results.

Not taking these precautions could result in unsightly damage to the locks, such as strand loss and breakage, “bent” tresses and a tight scalp. If you find you are experiencing these following your treatment but have done what you’re meant to, go back to your stylist for a refund.

You will generally require a Shiseido hair straightening touch-up every 6-9 months depending on how curly your locks are. This is because as your tresses grow out, they will return to their natural wave or curl.