Get that right treatment

Techniques and trends keep changing, especially in hairstyling. From permanent waves to relaxing, rebonding and smoothening, one needs to keep up with the information regarding these trends. Yes, there are different procedures that help to make the hair soft and smooth, straightening out curls, waves and even frizz. It is true that one should know the treatment one is going in for and the effects it has on the hair. But, all said and done, such procedures should be done by an expert hair stylist.

Some time back, “relaxing” was the in thing. It is a hair straightening procedure, in which a “relaxing” lotion is used. The chemicals in the lotion enter each hair shaft and change the structure of the hair so that curly or wavy hair becomes straight.

The effects of a strong relaxing procedure may last upto six months. Apart from the chemical hair relaxing formula, other products that are usually used are base cream, neutraliser, shampoo, as well as a conditioner, which is specifically meant for the hair relaxing procedure.

The hair straightening method that has become more popular is the Japanese thermal straightening method, also known as “rebonding”. It is said that the straightening is permanent in this method and does not require the use of blow dryers after shampoo. Also, the effect may last for about a year. The other reason why the method has become popular is that it is said to make the hair look healthier and smoother and is said to add more body. The procedure should be done by an expert hairstylist.

The procedure begins with shampoo. Usually, protein is applied to the hair, which coats each hair. This helps the straightening process and is also said to protect the hair. Then a chemical solution is applied, which breaks down the hair’s disulphide bonds. Hair is made up of a protein matter called keratin and has a lot of disulphide bonds. A disulphide bond is a bond between two sulphur atoms.

The breaking of the bonds makes the hair more pliable. The duration is decided by the hairstylist, according to hair texture. Once the solution is rinsed off, the hair is partially blow-dried, till it is still damp. A thermal iron is then used to straighten the hair. Then, another solution is applied, which helps to reform or “rebond” the broken disulphide bonds. Hence, the name “rebonding”.

The hair is then rinsed and conditioned. After rebonding is done, the hair should not be washed for 2 to 3 days, to allow the reforming of the disulphide bonds. The entire rebonding process may take four to eight hours. The effect lasts for a year, after which the regrown hair can be touched up. Needless to say “rebonding” is an expensive method of hair straightening.

Repeated hair straightening can damage the hair, due to the chemical lotions and heat applications. That is why aftercare is extremely important with straightened hair. Use mild shampoos and extra-rich conditioners. The use of hair serums helps to give shine and added protection too. Once a week, give your hair hot oil therapy. Use a wide toothed comb to disentangle your hair. If split ends start developing, be sure to cut them off. Give the hair regular conditioning, especially at the ends. If the hair has become damaged due to repeated straightening, allow the hair to recover, giving it deep conditioning and hair spa treatments.

Smoothening is said to be a better option than straightening. However, for extremely curly hair, straightening would be better. Hair smoothening therapy makes use of keratin, smoothing out curls, waves or frizz. The smoothening product is an intensive conditioner. Other smoothing products can be applied to make the hair softer and smoother. Leave-on conditioner, hair serums, hair butter are some of the products that help to soften the hair and make it look straighter when it is styled. Anti-frizz products are also available.

At salons smoothing creams and masks are used to make the hair more manageable. They also help to moisturise the hair and add lustre. They make the hair look thicker and straighter.