If you have bleached hair and are tired of dealing with frizz and unmanageable curls, you may be wondering whether or not you can permanently straighten your hair. The good news is that, yes, you can get a permanent straightening treatment on bleached hair. However, there are some important things to keep in mind before you take the plunge.
What is Permanent Straightening?
Permanent hair straightening is a chemical treatment that alters the natural texture of your hair. The process involves applying a solution to your hair that breaks down the bonds in each strand, allowing them to be reshaped permanently. There are different types of permanent straightening treatments, including Japanese straightening, Brazilian keratin treatment, and chemical relaxers.
When Should You Consider Permanent Straightening?
Permanent straightening is a great option for anyone who wants low-maintenance, silky-smooth hair that will stay straight even in humid conditions. If you have bleached hair that is prone to frizz and breakage, permanent straightening can help to improve its overall health and appearance. However, it’s important to note that permanent straightening is not suitable for everyone.
How To Prepare for Permanent Straightening?
Before you go for a permanent straightening treatment, there are several things you’ll need to do to prepare. First, you’ll want to ensure that your hair is in good condition and free from damage. This may involve getting regular deep conditioning treatments and avoiding heat styling tools for a few weeks before your appointment.
You’ll also want to make sure you choose a reputable hair salon that specializes in permanent straightening treatments. Ask for recommendations from friends and read online reviews to find a salon with a good track record.
Pros and Cons of Permanent Straightening
Like any beauty treatment, permanent straightening comes with both pros and cons. Here are some of the key advantages and disadvantages to consider before getting a permanent straightening treatment on bleached hair:
Pros
- Low-maintenance: Once you’ve had a permanent straightening treatment, you won’t need to spend as much time styling your hair each day.
- Humidity-proof: Straightened hair is less prone to frizz and will stay straight even in humid conditions.
- Improved hair health: Permanent straightening can help to improve the overall health of your hair by reducing breakage and split ends.
Cons
- Expensive: Permanent straightening treatments can be expensive, especially if you choose a high-end salon or opt for a Japanese straightening treatment.
- Damage risk: Permanent straightening treatments involve harsh chemicals that can cause damage to your hair if not applied correctly.
- Regrowth: As your hair grows out, you’ll need to have touch-up treatments to maintain the straightened texture.
Alternatives to Permanent Straightening
If you’re not ready to commit to a permanent straightening treatment, there are several alternatives to consider. Here are some of the most popular options:
- Keratin treatments: Similar to Brazilian keratin treatments, keratin treatments use a protein-rich solution to smooth and straighten hair without permanently altering the texture.
- Blowouts: Getting a professional blowout can give you silky-smooth hair that lasts for a few days without any chemical processing.
- Flat irons: For a quick fix, you can use a flat iron to straighten your hair at home. However, be sure to use heat protectant products to avoid damaging your hair.
Step-by-Step Guide to Permanent Straightening
If you’ve decided to go ahead with a permanent straightening treatment, here’s what you can expect during the process:
- Consultation: Your stylist will assess the condition of your hair and determine which type of permanent straightening treatment is best suited to your needs.
- Pre-treatment: Your hair will be washed and conditioned to remove any dirt or product buildup.
- Application: The straightening solution will be applied to your hair in sections, working from the back to the front.
- Processing: You’ll need to sit with the solution in your hair for several hours while it works its magic.
- Neutralizing: Once the processing time is up, a neutralizing solution will be applied to stop the chemical process and lock in the straightened texture.
- Rinse and Blow-Dry: Your hair will be rinsed thoroughly to remove any remaining chemicals, then blow-dried and styled as desired.
Compare Different Types of Permanent Straightening Treatments
There are several different types of permanent straightening treatments available, each with its own pros and cons. Here’s a comparison of the three most popular options:
- Japanese straightening: This treatment uses a strong chemical solution to permanently alter the bonds in your hair. It’s the most expensive option but provides the most dramatic results.
- Brazilian keratin treatment: This treatment uses a protein-rich solution to smooth and straighten hair without permanently altering the texture. Itis less expensive than Japanese straightening but may not be as effective on extremely curly or coarse hair.
- Chemical relaxers: This treatment uses a strong chemical solution to break down the natural curl pattern of your hair. It’s the least expensive option, but can be harsh and damaging if not applied correctly.
Tips for Maintaining Permanently Straightened Hair
Once you’ve had a permanent straightening treatment, it’s important to take good care of your hair to keep it looking healthy and shiny. Here are some tips:
- Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to avoid stripping your hair of moisture.
- Avoid heat styling tools as much as possible to prevent damage and breakage.
- Consider getting regular deep conditioning treatments to keep your hair hydrated and nourished.
- Get touch-up treatments every few months to maintain the straightened texture.
The Best Permanent Straightening Treatment for Bleached Hair
The best permanent straightening treatment for bleached hair will depend on your individual needs and hair type. If you have extremely curly or coarse hair, Japanese straightening may be the most effective option. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable and gentler option, Brazilian keratin treatments may be a better choice.
Ultimately, the key is to choose a reputable salon and stylist who has experience working with bleached hair. They will be able to assess your hair condition and recommend the best treatment for your needs.
Conclusion
If you’re tired of dealing with frizzy, unmanageable curls on your bleached hair, a permanent straightening treatment may be just what you need. While there are some risks involved, such as damage and regrowth, the benefits can be significant, including low-maintenance, humidity-proof hair that looks and feels healthy.
Before you go for a permanent straightening treatment, be sure to do your research and choose a reputable salon and stylist who has experience with bleached hair. And remember to take good care of your hair after the treatment to keep it looking and feeling its best.
FAQs After The Conclusion
- Is it safe to get a permanent straightening treatment on bleached hair?
- Yes, it is safe as long as you go to a reputable salon and stylist who has experience with bleached hair.
- How often do I need touch-up treatments?
- You’ll need touch-up treatments every few months to maintain the straightened texture.
- Can I still dye my hair after getting a permanent straightening treatment?
- Yes, but it’s important to wait at least two weeks before coloring your hair to avoid damage.
- Will permanent straightening make my hair completely straight?
- It depends on your natural hair texture and the type of permanent straightening treatment you choose. Japanese straightening will provide the most dramatic results, while Brazilian keratin treatments will be more subtle.
- How long does a permanent straightening treatment last?
- Permanent straightening treatments can last up to six months or longer, depending on how fast your hair grows and how well you take care of it.## Pros and Cons of Permanent Straightening Treatments
Like any beauty treatment, there are pros and cons to getting a permanent straightening treatment on your bleached hair. Here are some to consider:
Pros
- Low maintenance: With straightened hair, you won’t have to spend as much time styling or managing your hair.
- Humidity-proof: Permanent straightening treatments can make your hair resistant to humidity, which can be a game-changer if you live in a humid climate.
- Healthier appearance: Straightened hair can look healthier and shinier than curly or frizzy hair.
Cons
- Damage: Permanent straightening treatments use strong chemicals that can damage your hair if not applied correctly.
- Regrowth: As your hair grows out, you’ll need touch-up treatments to maintain the straightened texture, which can be costly.
- Limited styling options: Once your hair is permanently straightened, you won’t be able to style it in its natural curls or waves anymore.
Alternatives to Permanent Straightening Treatments
If you’re not ready for the commitment or risk involved with a permanent straightening treatment, there are some alternatives to consider:
- Heat styling tools: Flat irons and blow dryers can help you achieve a temporary straight look without the commitment or damage of a chemical treatment.
- Brazilian blowouts: This treatment uses a keratin-based solution to smooth and straighten hair without breaking down the natural curl pattern.
- Hair extensions: If you want a completely different look without changing your natural hair texture, extensions can add length, volume, and straightness to your hair.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Permanent Straightening Treatment
If you’ve decided that a permanent straightening treatment is right for you, here’s what you can expect during the process:
- Consultation: Your stylist will assess the condition of your hair and recommend the best type of permanent straightening treatment for your needs.
- Preparation: Your hair will be washed and dried, and a protective solution will be applied to your scalp and hairline to prevent irritation.
- Application: The chemical solution will be applied to your hair in sections, making sure to cover every strand evenly.
- Processing: The solution will be left on your hair for a certain amount of time, depending on the type of treatment and your hair texture.
- Neutralizing: Once the processing time is complete, a neutralizing agent will be applied to your hair to stop the chemical reaction.
- Rinse and dry: Your hair will be thoroughly rinsed and blow-dried straight.
Tips for Choosing a Reputable Salon and Stylist
Choosing the right salon and stylist can make all the difference in the success of your permanent straightening treatment. Here are some tips to help you choose:
- Look for salons and stylists who specialize in permanent straightening treatments.
- Read online reviews from past clients to get a sense of their experience and satisfaction.
- Schedule a consultation to meet with the stylist and ask any questions you may have about the treatment process.
- Ask to see before-and-after photos of previous clients with similar hair texture and condition to yours.
Comparison of Permanent Straightening Treatments
Here’s how the two most popular types of permanent straightening treatments compare:
Japanese straightening
- Best for extremely curly or coarse hair
- Most effective at achieving completely straight hair
- More expensive and time-consuming than Brazilian keratin treatments
- Uses strong chemicals that can be damaging if not applied correctly
Brazilian keratin treatments
- Gentler on hair than Japanese straightening
- More affordable than Japanese straightening
- Only partially straightens hair, leaving some natural curl pattern intact
- Can be less effective on extremely curly or coarse hair
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance, humidity-proof hairstyle that will make your bleached hair look healthier and shinier, a permanent straightening treatment may be the solution. However, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons and choose a reputable salon and stylist to minimize the risk of damage or regrowth.
If you’re not ready for a permanent straightening treatment, alternatives like heat styling tools or Brazilian blowouts can provide a temporary straight look without the commitment.
Ultimately, the best way to achieve the straightened hair of your dreams is to consult with a professional stylist who can assess your individual needs and recommend the right treatment for you.
I am Thomas Taw, the CEO of CITIZENSNIPS. I have experience in hair product development and chemical research, as well as sustainable resource engineering. In 2009, I co-created Sunsilk, one of the world's leading haircare brands. More recently, I was the CEO of SMOKINGPANDA LTD. I am a professional with a strong track record in delivering tangible results.
