Japanese hair straightening is a popular way of permanently straightening hair that originated in Japan in the 1990’s. This process will turn wavy, coarse, or curly hair into pin-straight locks.This permanent hair straightening process has many benefits. The most obvious one is the sleek, frizz free look. But beyond the appearance factor, the greatest benefit is time saved each day on not having to fight to dry, wavy or curly hair with a blow dryer and brush. Hair that has been straightened by thermal reconditioning is much quicker to dry. It requires very little attention out of the shower, giving you a professional look with minimal effort. You are also saved from the hassle of fighting frizz from humidity or physical activity.The Japanese hair straightening process is extensive, taking at least 3 to 5 hours.

1) Consultation

This is a crucial step as not all hair types can be helped by this technique.
Common questions that stylists ask include:
  • Have you had a perm before?
  • Have you ever undergone chemical treatments?
  • Have you used color before?
  • Do you use relaxers?
  • Do you consider your hair to be dry?

2) Shampoo

The actual straightening process will begin with a shampoo and partial drying.

Protein treatment and other pre-treatment are sprayed unto hair to moisturize, even porosity and balance ph as well as a solution to slowdown chemical reaction on areas that are more delicate and dry.

3) Solution is Applied

The appropriate solution is applied to the hair and left on hair and given time to process. A strand test is then done to determine if hair has processed enough. Once the hair has processed it will be shampooed and conditioned then towel dried.

4) Ironing

Pretreatment is applied which gives the hair extra shine and protects the hair from heat. The hair is then blow dried and flat ironed in thin sections at appropriate temperature.

5) Neutralizer

A neutralizer is then applied and left on in order to stabilize the balance of the pH. And then a final rinse and condition. No shampoo.

6) Blow Dry

A shine and heat protectant is then applied before a final blow drying and flatiron.
The Yuko hair straightening system was developed in Japan by Yuko Yamashita and is considered by many to be the gold standard. Immediately following the procedure, you will have to keep your hair dry and free from all kinks for 48 hours. This means no ponytail holders, hair clips, hats, or combs of any kind. During this time there may still be chemical residue inside the shaft of the individual hairs. Pressure on the hair could cause a bend that will not go away. Even tucking and leaving hair behind the ear could result in a distortion. This procedure is a good fit for those with loose curls or wavy hair.The benefit is less for those with tight curls since the process would take longer and therefore be more expensive, and because touch ups would be needed more frequently as new hair grows from the roots. (The straightening process is permanent but only to the hair that is treated at the time.) For women with African hair, this may not be a good straightening solution. If you have recently had your hair colored, bleached, or relaxed, be sure to tell your stylist as these processes affect the health of your hair. Moving forward with the Japanese hair straightening process will require extra care and consideration. The stylist may recommend another straightening procedure altogether. Because of the intense processing your hair goes through with Japanese straightening, you will need to be sure to let your stylist know if you have previously used relaxers in your hair. Whether or not the product worked, they will need to know if the relaxer was a hydroxide base (sodium, potassium, calcium, or lithium hydroxide) or a thioglycolate base. The solutions used in thermal reconditioning are thio based and are compatible with other thio based relaxers. However, they are NOT compatible with any hydroxide based products.Informing the stylist of your history of hair coloring is just as critical. Tell her the type and frequency of color used as well as whether it was done at home or by a professional. Even if the treatment was done six months to a year ago and has since been covered, you need to share it upfront. Giving more detail is always better!
Japanese Hair Straightening
Japanese Hair Straightening

“Angella is incredible! I was very hesitant to have Japanese hair straightening done because I’ve had my hair “permanently straightened” at another salon in the past that did not do anything for my hair except damage it. I am SO happy I decided to trust Angella to do this treatment because my hair could not have turned out better. Before, my hair was unmanageable and a hassle to deal with on a daily basis. I would spend hours straightening it with a flat iron only to walk outside and have it frizz up instantly. Since the Japanese hair straightening I step out of the shower and let my hair air dry and it is perfectly straight, soft, and smooth with no effort! If you’re considering Japanese hair straightening, definitely go to Angella! Her work speaks for itself!”

Stephanie H.

“Angela is the best stylist you could get! I drive to her from Tallahassee to Jacksonville just to have her do my hair. I get the Japanese Permanent Straightening and Anti-frizz treatment done for my roots every few months and let me tell you, she is not only the most affordable, she is the BEST (I have curly, slightly kinky hair/fro). People with half of Angela’s talent will charge you at least twice as much. My hair is much softer and more manageable than it’s even been. She truly cares about your hair and will give it the time, attention and energy it needs. She is under recognized. I highly recommend!”

Lid M.