Japanese Straightening Vs Keratin: A Comparison Guide

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Hair is an important part of how we look and is often called a person's 'crowning glory.' Healthy and easy-to-manage hair, which is also nice to look at, is a desirable quality for every human. However, a big challenge for many is having frizzy, wavy, or curled hair strands.

Two possible solutions to have silky smooth hair are Japanese straightening and keratin treatment. These can give great results for certain hair types as they can change your hair to be silky, straight, and smooth. However, these two treatments are not the same and respond differently to different hair textures.

Each one has a different method, effect, benefits, and downsides. You should carefully think about these differences before choosing your treatment. This blog will compare both treatments. It will help you understand them better so you can make a smart decision.

What is Japanese straightening?

Japanese straightening, also called thermal reconditioning, yuko, or rebonding, is a hair treatment method created by a Japanese hair expert named Yoko Yamashita. This method uses a special solution to make your hair straight forever. It changes the inner bonds of your hair.

This means you will get pin-straight hair that will not go back to being frizzy or curly, even after washing. It works really well, but remember that it can take a long time. The whole process might last up to five hours, depending on how long and thick your hair is.

The Japanese straightening process carefully changes the way your hair looks and feels. If this is your first time, here's how it works:

• Start by shampooing your hair well with an ionic cleanser to clean the hair and get rid of any leftover products.
• Then, apply a special straightening solution. Make sure to cover each strand from the roots to the tips and scalp. This solution helps to break down the protein bonds in your hair that create curls.
• After letting the solution sit for the right amount of time, rinse it off. Next, a salon professional dries and carefully irons your hair in sections to lock in the chemical treatment.
• Finally, a neutralizer is applied to rebond the hair structure and give straighter hair. This step helps to keep your hair straight. After that, there will be one last rinse and a blow-drying process to complete the treatment.

The Japanese straightening treatment is strong, but it gives you a lasting way to get straight hair. You won't have to worry about daily straightening or dealing with stubborn curls or thick hair anymore.

What is keratin treatment?

The keratin treatment is often mixed up with Brazilian Blowouts, and it uses Keratin, which is a strong protein that is naturally present in our hair, nails, and skin. Its goal is to smooth the hair. Unlike Japanese straightening, it does not make hair pin-straight.

Instead, it focuses on getting rid of frizz or a curl pattern while also reducing waves or curls. This makes your hair easier to manage and quick to straighten, needing less heat or styling tools. A key point to remember is that the results of a keratin treatment are not permanent. They usually last about 2 to 4 months.

How is a keratin treatment done?

Keratin treatments can be done at home or in a salon. However, getting it done by a professional helps to ensure you get the best results. Here's a simple overview of the process:

• First, wash the hair with a sulfate-free shampoo, and do not use any conditioner after washing.
• Then, apply a keratin solution all over the hair, ensuring every strand is coated well.
• After waiting some time for the solution to set, blow-dry the hair. Next, carefully flat iron it to lock in the keratin.
• Depending on the treatment your stylist chooses, they might rinse the product off. They may also use a conditioning mask and blow-dry the hair a second time.

The application process is much easier and faster than Japanese straightening. But it's important to keep in mind that you should not wash or tie up your hair for three to four days after the treatment. This time allows the keratin to fully attach to your strands.

Which factors should I consider when choosing one?

Choosing between a Japanese straightening and keratin treatment is not an easy choice. You need to think about several things before making your decision. Consider your hair type, the structure of the hair, the condition of your hair, how you want it to look, and how much damage could happen.

You should also think about how long the results will last, how much work is needed to take care of it later, and the cost involved. A consultation with a skilled hair stylist can help you get important advice on which treatment is a good fit according to your specific hair needs and expectations.

1. Purpose

Japanese straightening vs keratin treatment both help control unruly hair, but they have different results. If you want sleek, straight hair that lasts for a long time, choose Japanese straightening. This treatment keeps your hair pin-straight until new hair grows in. It changes your hair's structure for a big transformation.

If you prefer to keep some of your hair's natural texture, like waves or body, but want it more manageable, then keratin treatment is the right option. It works to reduce frizz and adds shine. Plus, it makes daily styling much easier, even if you have thick hair, and improves the health of your hair.

2. Hair types 

These treatments are designed for different hair types. Knowing which one is right for your hair will help you make a good choice. Here's a quick look:

Wavy or Loosely Curly Hair Permanent straightness can be achieved, provided the hair is strong enough to withstand the treatment. The curls will be loosened but not entirely straightened, resulting in a more natural and voluminous look.

Coarse and Curly Hair Again, the success largely depends on the hair's overall health. It may not completely straighten very tight curls. This hair type benefits the most as it effectively smoothens the frizz and makes the curls manageable.

Fine or Thin Hair Not recommended as the treatment can overly weaken the hair, leading to breakage or loss. If frizz is a concern, this treatment can help by adding a layer of protein, thereby also giving a fuller appearance.

Chemically Treated or Damaged Hair It is not advisable as it can lead to severe damage and hair loss. It can actually heal the hair by filling in the porous spots and restoring the lost sheen due to prior chemical damage.

Results of Japanese straightening vs keratin treatment

Japanese straightening makes your hair change significantly by making it completely straight. However, you need to be aware of the line that shows where the treated hair ends and the new growth starts. 

On the other hand, a keratin treatment makes your hair smooth and strong. It greatly reduces frizz and keeps the natural feel of your hair. If you want to straighten it, that becomes easier, too. The effects of keratin last about 2 to 4 months and fade away slowly. There's no clear line between the treated hair and the new growth. This gives your hair a more natural look.

1. Duration and maintenance

Both treatments need care after you use them. This will help them last longer and keep the effects you want.

• Japanese straightening: This is a permanent solution, so it needs less upkeep. Regular trims can help with the blend of treated and new hair growth. Using hair products rich in protein can help strengthen any weak hair.
• keratin treatment: This one needs more care because it is semi-permanent. It is very important to use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners to keep the keratin from washing away quickly. You will need a top-up treatment every 2 to 4 months to keep the results.

It's important to know that neither treatment protects your hair fully from other damages. This includes things like UV rays or water from the sea and pools. So, adding a good hair care routine can help. Using deep conditioning masks and heat protective sprays can improve both treatments' results and how long they last.

1. Damage control in Japanese treatment vs keratin blowout

In damage control, keratin treatments are the best choice. They feed the hair by putting protein into the hair cuticles. A bit of heat is used to lock in these nutrients, but it is not very damaging. It can even help repair hair that got hurt from chemical treatments before.

On the other hand, Japanese straightening uses strong chemicals to change the hair's natural structure. This method can make the hair weaker over time, leading to breakage or hair loss, especially when it is done several times in a short time.

1. Japanese straightening vs. keratin cost comparison

The price of both treatments can change a lot. This depends on several things. These include where you go, how long your hair is, how thick it is, and its overall condition. Here's a rough comparison:

Treatment Cost Range

Japanese straightening $300 - $800

keratin treatment $200 - $500

keratin treatments are usually cheaper. However, you may need to do them more often to keep the results. On the other hand, Japanese straightening costs more but gives permanent results. It needs less maintenance after the treatment.

How do you choose the right treatment, Japanese treatment vs. keratin?

Choosing between Japanese straightening and keratin treatment is a personal choice. It depends on your hair type, the style you want, your daily routine, and your budget.

If you want straight hair and are ready for a big change, Japanese straightening might be for you. This method works well if your hair can handle chemicals or heat and is not too damaged or thin.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more natural look that keeps some wave or body, keratin treatment is a good option. It can make your hair smoother and less frizzy. You will still get easier styling without a huge change in your look.

What are the pros and cons of Japanese straightening vs keratin?

Each treatment has its own benefits and drawbacks. Knowing these can help you choose the straightening method that is best for your hair, your likes, and your way of life. Let's look at the good and bad sides of Japanese straightening and keratin treatments.

What are the pros of Japanese straightening?

Here are some reasons to think about choosing a Japanese straightening Treatment:

• Long-Lasting Results: If you want pin-straight hair, this method can help you achieve it with results that last a long time.
• Faster Styling: With straight hair naturally, you won't have to spend hours with flat irons or brushes to look sleek.
• Less Care Needed: The effect lasts and does not wash out. This means you won't need to visit the salon for touch-ups as often.

What are the cons of Japanese straightening?

However, remember these possible problems with Japanese straightening:

• Damage Potential: It can make your hair weaker. This may cause breakage or shedding.
• Limitation on Future Styling: After straightening, it gets hard to curl or perm your hair.
• Visible Regrowth Lines: As new hair grows, it makes a clear line where the straight hair ends. This line may look strange.

What are the pros of keratin treatment?

The possible benefits of choosing a keratin treatment are:

• Healthy Hair: It helps to feed and fix hair by adding Keratin protein.
• Easier Styling: Less frizz and looser curls make it easier to handle your hair.
• Retains Natural Body: Unlike Japanese straightening, keratin treatment allows your hair to keep its natural volume and movement.

What are the cons of keratin treatment?

However, think about these possible downsides before you try a keratin treatment:

• Regular Visits: Because this is a semi-permanent option, you will need to go to the salon often for touch-ups to keep it looking nice.
• Hair Care After Treatment: You need to use special hair products to help the treatment last longer. This might mean spending more money overall.
• Heat Damage Risk: Although it can be less harmful than Japanese straightening, getting keratin treatments again and again may still cause some hair damage from the heat used.

Conclusion

Both Japanese straightening and keratin treatment are popular options for hair styling and care. They have different methods and benefits that can help with hair issues like frizz control and managing hair. Your decision should be based on your hair goals, its condition, the style you want, how permanent you wish the results to be, and your budget.

It's important to see a good hairstylist for a proper consultation before you decide. They can give you suggestions based on your hair type and lifestyle. This helps you pick the right treatment. Always keep the health of your hair in mind. Make sure the treatment you choose improves your hair's quality while helping you achieve the look you want. A confident you with beautiful hair is the best result!

Frequently asked questions

What is better, Japanese straightening vs keratin?

Neither treatment is better than the other. The choice really depends on what you need, your hair type, and what you prefer. If you want your hair to be permanently straight, then Japanese straightening is the way to go. On the other hand, if you want to reduce frizz and make your hair easier to manage while keeping some natural texture, you should choose keratin treatment.

Does Japanese hair straightening damage hair?

Japanese hair straightening changes the inside of your hair. This can weaken your strands and cause damage. Because of this, it is important only to consider this treatment if your hair is strong enough to handle it.

Why is my hair still frizzy after keratin treatment?

Keratin treatment helps reduce frizz, but it won't entirely get rid of it. This is especially true for very damaged or very curly hair. To get the best results after the treatment, use sulfate-free hair products and try to limit heat styling.

Which is more expensive, Japanese straightening or keratin?

On average, Japanese straightening costs more than keratin treatments. But it gives more lasting results. This means you need fewer touch-ups. As a result, you will spend less on maintenance compared to keratin treatments.

What is the healthiest permanent straightening?

The best method for hair care depends on your hair's condition and type. It also depends on how much effort you want to put into maintaining it. keratin treatments are often considered safer. They help keep the hair healthy and strong. On the other hand, Japanese straightening uses strong chemicals. This process can harm the hair over time.