Straightening vs Smoothing Treatment | Which One Is For You?
is there A difference between a Straightening vs Smoothing Treatment?
Shiny, beautiful hair has been everyone's goal. However, not everyone has naturally straight hair, so most people turn to hair treatments such as strengthening shampoo and smoothing treatments. While these two hair products might give you perfectly straight hair, they can also result in damaged and dry hair.
Hair straightening began well before hair smoothing. Hair straightening was the very first hair treatment performed on African-American hair. To achieve smoother hair, it was designed for those with curly hair. Hair smoothing, commonly referred to as Brazilian keratin treatment or Brazilian blowout, was developed in Brazil in 2003.
What we would like to do, is break down both procedures, which have their advantages and setbacks. A trained hairdresser should do both, and these types of procedures will require regular upkeep to maintain the hair’s structure.
Before making the decision, you and your stylists should go over a few important questions:
Do you want a treatment that's long-term or short-term?
Are you looking for something natural or going pin-straight?
Are you trying to avoid frizz, or you're looking to go straight all the way?
But for now, let us go over the differences and see if you can relate to one over the other.
What Is A Straightening Treatment?
There are several differences between a straightening treatment and a smoothing treatment. On the other hand, a smoothing treatment is performed by a professional stylist trained in this technique to reduce the frizz of curly or wavy hair and make it more manageable. It is a long-lasting technique, is safe for all hair types and has no side effects. This treatment's results last long as the new straightness stays in the hair.
A chemical process performed by your stylist, using either a chemical relaxant applied through a blow-dryer or flat iron, could remove frizz, making the hair less curly or wavy and more straight.
advantages of A Straightening:
1. Suitable for All Hair Types
Straightening treatments are perfect for thick, wavy and curly hair. Your hair does not matter; you have the same chance of achieving straight hair.
3. Lasts Longer When Applied Every Day
Unlike straightening treatments which can be applied only once, a smoothing treatment is applied daily to maintain the new straightness you have achieved.
4. Almost Free Of Side Effects
A smoothing treatment is a non-chemical process that has no side effects. However, some people are allergic to this technique, so it is important to read all the instructions before deciding whether you can do this procedure on your hair.
5. Reduces unwanted volume
The smoothing treatment is perfect for those who want to reduce the volume in their hair, making it look as thick and voluminous as you have always wanted.
Disadvantages of A Straightening:
1. The chemicals may not be suitable for everyone
With the correct technique, a smoothing treatment is suitable for all hair types and has no side effects. Therefore, if you are still deciding whether this is right for you, get a consultation with your stylist before deciding whether or not to have it done.
2. It May increase hair porosity
The smoothing treatment increases your hair's porosity, allowing more substances to enter your hair and allowing moisture, bacteria, and dirt to enter. This can lead to damage to your hair.
3. leaves a demarcation line
As a smoothing treatment keeps your hair straight for long periods, it leaves a demarcation line between your newly straightened hair and the rest of your previous texture. The demarcation line is minimal and not unsightly at all. However, this is the perfect way to go if you prefer smooth hair.
What Is A Smoothing Treatment?
Some people tend to confuse a smoothing treatment with a chemical straightening process. This is because they both have the same effects on your hair.
Smoothing is a safe, effective and chemical-free way to make your hair more manageable. It works in a way that the ends of your hair become less curly or wavy while the top and middle of the strands stay just as they are, giving you a much more beautiful look. The primary type of smoothing treatment is a keratin treatment.
Advantages of a Smoothing Treatment:
The results last longer than with other treatments. You can have straight hair for months or even years with regular touch-ups on your hair after the initial smoothing treatment session.
It is safe and effective for all curly and wavy hair types, especially if you are not keen on damaging your hair through chemicals or heat damage.
It is a non-chemical process, so it does not depend on ingredients that have side effects on your hair.
It also removes humidity from the hair, making it shinier and more manageable by making it easier for you to get the desired results when doing your daily styling routine.
It eliminates fizz from hair, meaning your hair looks more voluminous.
Disadvantages of a Smoothing Treatment:
While great at making the hair look straighter, Formaldehyde is the chemical used and is not pleasant to inhale, so those sensitive to smell may get headaches or nausea.
The cost for each treatment can take a strain on the bank account. The treatment does last longer than other options.
It can be difficult to maintain. Making sure you have the right shampoo and conditioner can help, and avoid washing the hair for 3 to 4 days after getting a treatment.
Those who are pregnant or looking to conceive should avoid chemicals being used.
Conclusion
Both these processes have benefits and drawbacks. Both these processes have to be performed in salons by professional hairdressers. Keep in mind both procedures require routine upkeep to maintain the aesthetic outcome.
Remember, before making a decision, to answer these critical questions:
Do you want a treatment that's long-term or short-term?
Are you looking for something natural or going pin-straight?
Are you trying to avoid frizz, or you're looking to go straight all the way?
Besides the effects determined by the results of various types of straightening treatments, you also need to understand the pattern, taste, hair length, and high quality of your hair. Remember that the results also differ from person to person, so before jumping in, speak to a professional hair stylist to get the right information for you.