There are many things that begin to change when you meet your40er, but one thing I wasn't prepared for was the texture of my hair. I have always had a slight wave to my hair, but it has changed in recent years to be thicker (thanks to some gray hair!) and frizzy. Well, let me tell you, I'm certainly not against texture, curls, and even a bit of frizz; After all, that is what gives our hair volume, definition and personality! No, it was the scratchy, rough feeling of my hair that I struggled with. I also felt very dry despite trying all the moisturizing hair masks and they refreshed my skin.Hair Vitaminand omega-3 supplements - you can seeIt's video. me too in summerair drying my hairmore often and I noticed that it was much more frizzy than usual, making it difficult to style. Most of the time my hair ended in aback combed ponytailolow bun. So I did some research and found a natural hair straightening treatment that would help reduce and smooth frizz and texture without sacrificing the curl and movement of my hair.
It's important to note that I didn't want totally straight hair, just general softening and smoothing. I've heard from friends and colleagues how harmful other hair straightening treatments can be, so I was really looking for a non-toxic keratin treatment that could give me similar results.OKLook formivarious studiesFormaldehyde can increase the risk of cancer and is a key ingredient in the most popular hair straightening treatments. Finding a formaldehyde-free treatment was crucial.
there I foundTanja Whittier. After two decades as a leading colorist, Whittier has a busy schedule of celebrity clients, from Maya Rudolph to Leslie Mann to Kristen Bell. It's safe to say that acclaimed fashion designerShe's seen it all, but it wasn't until a client asked her about non-toxic smoothing treatments that she decided to get serious, and she hasn't looked back.
Today, Whittier is a recognized authority on cleansing hair, and he really is.led the non-toxic movement. She hopes to raise awareness and inspire clients and stylists to switch to formaldehyde-free versions. "I'd love to see more hairstylists embrace clean, nontoxic beauty," she tells me. “My clients are ready, but we need more stylists on board. My goal is to popularize safer options becauseI'm a big believer in doing what's best for you, so keep an eye on your ingredients and make informed decisions. This practice alone will make the industry even better for you!”
I have had several natural hair straightening treatments with Whittier and I can tell you that I am obsessed. While safety is always the top priority, effectiveness is also important and I can say that this one works!Read on to find out more about this natural keratin treatment, how it works, how long it lasts, who is the ideal candidate and much more!
Image featured byJenna Peffley.
But first, let's take a look at my before and after photos:
As you can see in my before photo, my hair was curly with a bit of frizz and although it doesn't show in the photo, it was also natural to the touch. But after the Whittier treatment, she's soft, shiny and hydrated. Read on to find out why.
Toxic vs Non Toxic
The main difference between non-toxic straightening treatments and traditional keratin treatments is formaldehyde. The second biggest difference is customization, which means you can choose the level of straightening you want to achieve: keep the curl, lose the frizz! Non-toxic treatments allow you to choose how much movement you want to keep in your hair while reducing frizz; traditional treatments did not. This time I went for something sleeker than my normal hair because I really wanted a sleeker look. But my friend and former colleague,victoria hofAnyone with thick, long, naturally wavy 2B S curls canReduces frizz without sacrificing texture.. Whittier always assesses the natural state of the hair first.what he does naturally and how she can play along. Then your formulas, finishes and irons for a personalized result.
Several non-toxic hair straightening products are now available, so Whittier is very excited and switches between them.Purluxus,cezanne, mileaf and flowerdepending on the client's hair (Whittier used Puraluxe on my hair). But one of the great advantages is that you don't have to wait to wash your hair. "Because the treatment has penetrated the cortex and is really sealed, you can resume your normal life immediately after the treatment, which is a huge benefit,” explains Whittier. Yes, that means you can also work out or take a class at the gym right after.
So how does it work?
Formaldehyde treatments work by using heat to push the keratin deeper into the cuticle, with the formaldehyde acting as the end product. Whittier points out that this creates the illusion of shine, but over time the hair becomes dry because it is too harsh on the hair, especially brittle hair.Non-toxic treatments open the cuticle to allow amino acids to penetrate the cortex of the hair, unlike the old method of intense heat mixed with formaldehyde, which creates a toxic carcinogen. "It works better because now I can control processing times, heat levels, and mix different formulas," he adds. "It allows me to customize a treatment for each client because not everyone wants straight hair."
Benefits of Non-Toxic Hair Straightening Treatments:
- formaldehyde free
- it is not drying
- Customizable depending on desired results
- You can wash your hair immediately after the treatment.
- natural ingredients
The step-by-step process from start to finish
Paso 1:Shampoo to clean the hair, but do not use conditioner. Observe the texture of the hair and discuss the desired results.
Paso 2:Mix the product, apply and leave to act. This allows the amino acids to penetrate the hair.
Stage 3:Rinse the hair 110%, as the water will neutralize the ingredients and amino acids that have not entered the cortex of the hair. This is an important step in creating a non-toxic treatment.
Stage 4:Dry your hair with a hair dryer.
Paso 5:Hair straightening. This is also an important step because the hair will tell you what it can and cannot take the heat. Knowing your hair is always important, but your tools, which use a different temperature and type of iron, can also make a BIG difference!
How long does it take?
Treatments can last anywhere from one to three hours, depending on the type of treatment you want and how long you need. The length and texture of your hair also play a role.
How long does it take?
Treatment can last from a few weeks to six months. "Everyone has a different texture, and everyone wants different results, so it varies," Whittier explains. "But the more contrasting the texture of your natural, the faster it will appear to be growing out."
How do you take care of the aftercare of your new straight curls?
Whittier always recommends professional sulfate-free shampoo.NoContains keratin or protein. "A relaxing treatment adds all the amino acids, so you don't want to try and add more. It leaves hair dry, it's all about balance," he advises.
Who is the ideal candidate for a non-toxic keratin treatment?
Whittier says that almost anyone can benefit from a smoothing treatment with amino acids. "If you look now, even shampoos start to boast keratin and amino acids to help repair hair," she says. "It's all about balance, so talk to your stylist to make sure your hair stays in the right place!"
How much does that cost?
Whittier charges from $125 to $475, depending on the treatment.
But what does it look like after washing it and air drying it?…
This is my hair that was washed and air dried a week after the non toxic keratin treatment. As you can see, it's still very shiny and smooth. The curl in the front is mine as I tuck it behind my ears when wet. I love the S-curve shape it creates around my face.
WEEK 6:
This is my hair that was air dried and washed six weeks after the natural straightening treatment. Although some texture has returned, it is still smooth and incredibly soft to the touch. It has a wave that gives my hair shape and movement, but no frizz. I love him so much
Tania's Top 4 Aftercare Brands:
Olaplex Daily Cleansing and Conditioning Duo
It does not contain sulfates and helps keep your hair strong.
Oway straightening set for fine hair
Great professional Italian brand clean that smells amazing!
O&M Hydrate & Conquer Spülung
Another great clean line from Australia.
InnersenseRenew Texture Ceremony for thick, coarse and curly hair
Clean, easy to use and amazing quality.
FAQs
What is the least harmful hair straightening treatment? ›
Keratin Treatment (Brazilian Straightening)
They are one of the safer hair straightening techniques out there. Keratin is a natural protein that is already found in our hair, however as protein content decreases with age and a poor diet, so do keratin levels.
- Hot Oil Treatments: Hot oil treatment helps restore the moisture of the hair. ...
- Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise works as a conditioner. ...
- Apple Cider Vinegar: ...
- Avocado: ...
- Egg Whites, Apple Cider Vinegar, Olive Oil: ...
- Tea: ...
- Coconut Oil Treatment:
- Hot Oils. Procedure: Combine 1 tablespoon of castor oil with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. ...
- Milk Spray. Procedure: Pour some milk into a spray bottle. ...
- Egg and Olive Oil Hair Mask. Procedure: ...
- Milk and Honey Mixture. Procedure: ...
- Rice Flour and Egg Mask. Procedure:
"After any Keratin Treatment, the Moisture vs. Protein balance in our hair will be "out-of-sync" due to the high protein concentration used during the procedure. This will cause hair to feel rough, coarse and brittle in the short or long term if nothing is done to counteract it.
Which treatment is best for dry and frizzy hair? ›- Take vitamins. ...
- Add omega-3s and antioxidants to your diet. ...
- Avoid washing your hair every day. ...
- Wrap your hair instead of air drying. ...
- Cut down on heat styling. ...
- Use essential oils. ...
- Wear a hat. ...
- Try coconut oil.
Other great formaldehyde-free treatments you can try for straightening your hair include Japanese straightening. Japanese straightening is a type of thermal reconditioning process that permanently straightens your hair. The way that this treatment works is by chemically restructuring your hair.
What causes extremely frizzy hair? ›There are four primary factors that cause frizz: the environment, diameter of the hair fiber itself, level of curl, and the amount of damage. Avoid long and hot showers, excess exfoliation, and hot tools like traditional hairdryers and flat irons to prevent frizz.
How can I straighten my hair without a relaxer? ›- Silk Press on Natural Hair. A gorgeous addition to the silk press, hair is curled at the end for a more formal look. ...
- Blowout Method. Blowouts are a fan-favorite way to straighten natural hair. ...
- The Classic Flat Iron Method.
The keratin/Brazilian treatment is one of the safest permanent hair straightening methods. It also comes with the added benefit of protecting your hair from the sun. The stylist will wash your hair and divide it into sections. They will apply a keratin solution to each section and leave it on for 2-5 minutes.
Can I let my hair air dry after keratin treatment? ›No, you cannot apply heat to your hair after washing it for the first time following a keratin treatment. This is because the heat will cause the hair cuticle to open and the treatment will be less effective. It is best to let your hair air dry or use a diffuser on low heat if you must use heat.
How do you soften keratin buildup? ›
- Gently exfoliate your skin. Scrub your skin gently using a washcloth, sponge or soft facial brush. ...
- Keep your skin hydrated. Moisturize regularly with a lotion or cream that's noncomedogenic, which means it won't clog your pores. ...
- Take care of your skin.
KERAGEN - Brazilian Keratin Smoothing Treatment, Blowout Straightening System for Dry and Damaged Hair, Formaldehyde Free, 16 Oz - Eliminate Curls and Frizz, Fine to Medium Hair.
Why does my hair air dry crunchy? ›Straw-like hair is often the result of common hair care oversights, such as these: using drying and styling tools (dryers, curling irons, electric rollers, flat irons) at too high a heat setting. using heat-based drying and styling tools too frequently. shampooing too often.
What products do hairdressers use to make hair smooth? ›You can use hair oil, smoothing serum as well as a blow-dry spray. This combination is used by most hairdressers in order to style your hair.
Which is better for frizzy hair keratin or smoothing? ›BOTH THE TREATMENTS ENSURE SHINY, SOFT AND FRIZZ-FREE HAIR. THE RESULTS OF SMOOTHENING LAST FOR 2-3 MONTHS, WHILE KERATIN THERAPY RESULTS LAST UPTO 5 MONTHS. KERATIN THERAPY NOURISHES THE HAIR, REPAIRING IT FROM INSIDE OUT, AND ADDS EXTREME SHINE AND SOFTNESS TO THE HAIR.
What are the side effects of formaldehyde hair treatment? ›The warning letters noted that hair smoothing products containing formaldehyde have been associated with reactions such as eye problems, nervous system problems (for example, headaches and dizziness), respiratory tract problems, nausea, chest pain, vomiting, and rash.
Is vinegar good for hair straightening? ›Apple cider vinegar is a great natural hair-straightening ingredient. It fights scalp infections and restores natural pH levels of your hair. Add 2 tbsp of apple cider vinegar in a cup of water. Use this mixture after washing your hair and gently spill it all over your tresses.
Which natural ingredient is best for hair straightening? ›- Egg and Olive Oil:
- Milk, Honey and Strawberries:
- Aloe Vera:
- Castor Oil:
- Vinegar:
- Lemon Juice and Coconut Milk:
- Banana, Curd, Honey and Olive Oil:
"Make sure your hair is moisturized enough — dryness is typically what causes frizz," said Roszak. So, if your ends are frizzy, it's probably due to a lack of conditioner. As for products, steer clear of heavy oils or anything that contains wax, Kimble told us.
Why is the top layer of my hair so dry and frizzy? ›Heat damage and styling is another common culprit of frizzy hair. The high heat from blow-drying or flat-ironing can damage the hair's cuticle, causing frizz. Dying, bleaching and other chemical treatments also damage the cuticle, causing brittleness and breakage, a recipe for frizz.
Why is my hair getting frizzy as I get older? ›
As we get older, our hair texture changes dramatically. Hair will slowly become drier, coarser, and thinner over the years. The truth is that as we grow older, the oils that our scalp relies on for nourishment decrease, resulting in drier, frizzier hair.
What is the best alternative to relaxer? ›You can use hair chalks, hair paint wax, temporary hair color spray, or get a hair rinse. The fun part of being natural these days is “DIY”, but I suggest visiting a professional stylist when thinking about rinses, bleaches, permanent dyes, and other color treatments.
Is there a natural way to permanently straighten hair? ›Soybean Oil
Applying soybean oil on the scalp can enhance the straight look of the hair, and is also said to be one of the best natural methods for permanent hair straightening. Here's how to use it – Take one tablespoon of soybean oil and two tablespoons of castor oil, then combine them well.
Other things to look out for when you are checking your product ingredient list are natural butters. The best are shea butter, mango butter, and avocado butter. These are all great for softening the hair strands.
How can I make my relaxed hair soft and silky? ›Because the process of relaxing hair weakens follicles, you'll want to avoid using excessive heat as it can easily cause damage. Instead, opt for alternative smoothing methods such as sleeping with a silk or satin scarf to flatten hair, or using a wrapping foam or leave-in-conditioner to soften and smooth hair.
How do you loosen a stiff hair? ›- Use a Nourishing Hair Care System. One of the easiest ways to improve stiff strands is to incorporate a hydrating hair care system into your routine. ...
- Reach for a Leave-In Conditioner. ...
- Air-Dry Your Hair. ...
- Protect Your Hair From the Sun. ...
- Limit Your Hair Color Sessions. ...
- Minimize Your Styling Products.
Straightened hair tends to be drier and brittle, so try to include deep conditioning once a week or every 10 days. A good tip to retain moisture after straightening your hair would be to use a good quality leave-in hair serum after you shampoo it.
What not to do after straightening hair? ›- Avoid ANY heating products. The last thing you wanna do is damage your hair just after infusing it with chemicals! Remember that hair dryers and straightening irons exude heat. ...
- Condition daily, but use shampoo sparingly. Keep that fancy shampoo on the shelf and avoid eye contact as much as possible.
- Streax Pro Hair Straightening Cream, Intense.
- Streax Professional Canvo Line Hair Straightening Kit.
- L'Oreal Paris Studio Line Silk & Gloss Hot Straight Cream.
- Oxyglow Herbals Hair Straightener Cream.
- Indus Valley Hair Ultima Spa.
- NutriGlow Hair Spa Essentials.
So while direct, excessive heat can cause damage to the surface part of the hair strands, air-drying can cause trauma to that inner layer. When the cell membrane complex layer swells, it can weaken the hair over time, explains Dr. Longsworth. It can also cause something called hygral fatigue.
When should you not use keratin treatment? ›
You'll have to wait 3 to 4 days post-keratin treatment to get your hair wet, so if you're not a person who likes skipping wash day, then this treatment may not be right for you, and some people report a musty smell even after washing. Not recommended for all. It's also not recommended for pregnant women.
How do you sleep with keratin treatment on your hair? ›If you want your hair to stay straight, sleep straight on your back. Make sure your hair is straight below your head when you climb into bed. After that, carefully place your head on your pillow so that your hair is flat. For the first three days following a keratin treatment, sleep on your back.
What does keratin debris look like? ›The fungal infection breaks down the keratin in the nail to form a white or yellow chalky substance under the nail plate. "As keratin debris spreads under the nail, the nail plate typically becomes lifted up off of the nail bed.
Does hydrogen peroxide dissolve keratin? ›Once keratin has been converted to soluble protein by the action of alkaline hydrogen peroxide on the disulfide bonds of its cysteine molecules, the protein may be further broken down, to peptides and/or amino acids by known methods of proteolysis.
What are the symptoms of hyperkeratosis? ›- Calluses: A callus is an area of thickened skin that usually occurs on the feet, but can also grow on the fingers. ...
- Corns: A lesion that typically develops on or between the toes. ...
- Eczema: This condition causes red, itching skin that may appear in patches or as small bumps.
Japanese Hair Straightening
“This is an alternative to keratin treatment for some because it doesn't contain formaldehyde, and it will permanently straighten hair,” Sabit Hantal, hairstylist and founder of SH Fifth Avenue Salon tells Mane Addicts.
Safety: Hair botox is the safest deep treatment. It does not contain formaldehyde, a potent carcinogen, and other harsh chemicals that weaken the hair.
What ingredient ruins keratin treatment? ›Sodium lauryl sulphate and keratin treatment do not mix well together. Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) is a mild detergent that is used in many shampoo products in order to lather the hair. This ingredient is responsible for stripping out colour from hair and washes out keratin from treated hair.
What is the safest way to permanently straighten hair? ›The keratin/Brazilian treatment is one of the safest permanent hair straightening methods. It also comes with the added benefit of protecting your hair from the sun. The stylist will wash your hair and divide it into sections. They will apply a keratin solution to each section and leave it on for 2-5 minutes.
Which is less harmful keratin or smoothing? ›UNLIKE SMOOTHENING, KERATIN RESTORES NATURAL PROTEIN AND DOESN'T ALTER OR DAMAGE THE HAIR STRUCTURE COMPLETELY.
Can your hair recover from heat damage? ›
However, using hot tools at high temperatures on a regular basis prolongs the changes to the protein bonds and moisture levels of each strand. Eventually, those bonds are broken, and hair becomes hydrated in a way that can't be fixed.
How do you straighten thick frizzy hair? ›For thick, coarse hair, you usually need to set the straightening iron between 350 and 400 degrees, so make sure that yours is adjustable to that range. When you're straightening, start at 350 degrees and see if the iron can successfully straighten your hair at that temperature.
Which is more harmful keratin or smoothing? ›In addition, smoothing products and treatments work from the inside, repairing and preventing damage so that the hair is sleek. On the other hand, Keratin clings to the cuticles, strengthening weakened hair and protecting it from the sun, chemical, and pollution damage.
When should you not use keratin? ›Check the weather forecast. Keratin treatments are fine for rainy days, but you'll definitely want a rain coat with a loose hood and an umbrella. Tell your house mates that your hair must not get wet for three days after. Keratin treatments are not recommended for pregnant or nursing women.
What do hairdressers put in your hair to make it silky? ›Proper Hair Serums:
You can use hair oil, smoothing serum as well as a blow-dry spray. This combination is used by most hairdressers in order to style your hair.
You can use products that have ingredients to hydrate and moisturise your hair. Avocado, coconut, olive and almond oils; aloe vera, shea butter and glycerine can help hydrate and moisturize your hair. Ensure your conditioners include some of these ingredients too in order to lock the water content in your hair.
What is the best homemade hair treatment? ›- Danielle Daly. ...
- Cinnamon and Coconut Oil Mask for Hair Growth. ...
- Rice and Avocado Mask for Curly Hair. ...
- Banana, Honey, Egg and Olive Oil Mask for Thin Hair. ...
- Almond Oil, Mayo and Yogurt Mask for Dry Scalp. ...
- Baking Soda Mask for Buildup. ...
- Green Tea and Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse for Irritated Scalp.