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Hair Smoothening vs. Hair Straightening: Which is Better for Your Hair Type?

Hair is a symbol of love for everyone, as it represents the true beauty of each individual. Choosing the right hair treatment requires maintaining hair health to achieve the desired results. With the popularity of hair treatments, more and more people opt for Hair smoothening vs hair straightening to achieve the desired appearance and ease of maintenance. The choice between these two treatments may be difficult for you to make once you learn about them. Choosing between the two can be a challenge because both promise shiny, manageable hair. The purpose of this blog is to inform you about hair smoothening, hair straightening, and keratin treatments that will allow you to achieve the goals that you have set for your hair.

What is Hair Smoothening?

Hair smoothening uses a semi-permanent chemical process that reduces frizz and makes hair shiny, silky, and manageable without altering its natural texture. The procedure involves a keratin-based solution that is used to seal the hair, resulting in smoother, less frizzy, and more manageable hair. It is different from straightening in that it utilizes the natural structure of the hair to achieve point-straight hair that is smooth and shiny for several months. Hair smoothening vs hair straightening is a personal choice based on hair type, desired look, and maintenance.

How Does Hair Smoothening Work?

An effective hair smoothening treatment involves applying a chemical solution to the hair, which strengthens the cuticles and breaks down hydrogen bonds with keratin molecules, followed by flat ironing the hair to seal the straight appearance. There is nothing harsh about the treatment, and it is a great option for individuals who are busy and do not have much time to devote to their hair care.

Types of Hair Smoothening Techniques

Keratin Treatment

It is a protein-based treatment that helps reduce split ends, strengthen hair, and repair damage and frizz, resulting in soft, shiny, smooth and straight hair.

Brazilian Blowout

It is a semi-permanent blowout treatment that adds a protective protein layer, reduces frizz, is safe for color treatment, and provides long-lasting results.

Cysteine Treatment

It is a type of smooth hair treatment that uses the amino acid cysteine to restructure hair, bind, nourish, smooth, and reduce frizz.

Pros and Cons of Hair Smoothening

Advantages of Hair Smoothening

Shines and reduces frizz
Straightening without permanent damage
It's perfect for hair with a little wave or frizz

Disadvantages of Hair Smoothening

It lasts about 3 to 6 months
For maintenance, use sulfate-free shampoo
It might not work on really curly hair

What is Hair Straightening?

Hair straightening uses chemical treatments or heat-based styling tools to give the hair structure to straighten. Also, it provides long-lasting results, but it involves more brutal chemicals than smoothening treatments. These treatments benefit the hair by reducing frizz, facilitating hair styling, and providing a soft and shiny appearance. If you have curly hair, this is the best option for you.

How Does Hair Straightening Work?

It involves heating the hair to break down the bonds and reform them, injecting keratin structure to change it into a straight form. In this way, the hair structure will be changed and the hair will become shiner, smoother, and a better condition.

Types of Hair Straightening Methods

Chemical Hair Straightening

A permanent straightening method using ammonium thioglycolate for curly or wavy hair.

Japanese Hair Straightening

The hair is permanently straightened from root to tip using a combination of heat and chemical processing.

Thermal Rebonding

A method of straightening hair using flat irons by applying a chemical solution.

Pros and Cons of Hair Straightening

Benefits of Hair Straightening

Results last 6-12 months
Straightens hair from root to tip
It's good for thick and curly hair

Drawbacks of Hair Straightening

The risk of hair damage and dryness is high
Over time, hair can get brittle
It requires a lot of aftercare

Differences Between Hair Smoothening and Straightening

Hair smoothening vs hair straightening are two popular hair straightening salon treatments, but they're different in how they work and the effects they have on the hair.

Duration and Longevity of Results

Smoothening: Based on hair type, works 2-5 months.
Straightening: Can last 6 months or more, but requires more maintenance.

Impact on Hair Texture and Volume

Smoothening: Leaves some natural texture and volume.
Straightening: Makes hair completely straight, often reducing volume.

Chemical Usage and Potential Damage

Smoothening: Uses milder chemicals, which cause less damage.
Straightening: It's more damaging because it uses strong chemicals.

Maintenance and Aftercare Requirements

Smoothening: Use sulfate-free shampoos.
Straightening: You need special products to keep it straight.

Suitability for Different Hair Types

Smoothening: Good for curly, wavy, or frizzy hair.
Straightening: Great for curly or coarse hair.

Which Treatment is Better for Your Hair Type?

Smoothening vs. Straightening for Curly and Wavy Hair

Smoothening: Boosts natural waves and reduces frizz.
Straightening: Makes curls look sleek and straight.

Best Treatment for Frizzy and Unmanageable Hair

Smoothening: Reduces frizz without changing texture.
Straightening: Makes hair smooth and frizz-free

Smoothening vs. Straightening for Thin and Fine Hair

Smoothening: Gives hair volume and shine.
Straightening: It might make thin hair look flatter.

Ideal Treatment for Thick and Coarse Hair

Smoothening: Adds manageability and tames frizz.
Straightening: Gives thick hair a sleek, straight look.

Choosing the Right Option Based on Hair Damage

Smoothening: Damaged or chemically treated hair.
Straightening: I don't recommend it for severely damaged hair.

How to Prepare Your Hair for Smoothening or Straightening

Pre-Treatment Care Tips: Deep condition your hair before treatment.
What to Avoid Before the Treatment: Don't wash your hair 24 to 48 hours before.
Testing Hair Porosity: Check your hair's porosity with a professional.

Post-Treatment Care: Smoothening vs. Straightening

After Smoothening: Wash with sulfate-free shampoo.
After straightening: Use heat protectants and don't tie your hair up too tight.
Do’s and Don’ts: Don’t swim in chlorinated water and use hair masks that are nourishing.

How Long Do the Results Last?

If you take care of your hair and use the right treatment, smoothing will last 2 to 5 months. Maintain the look with regular touch-ups.

Longevity of Hair Straightening Results

Hair straightening lasts 6 months to a year, but new hair growth may need touch-ups

Factors That Affect the Duration of Results

Hair Type and Texture

If your hair is thick, curly, or wavy, it might revert faster.

Frequency of Washing

A sulfate-free shampoo extends the life of the treatment.

Use of Heat Styling Tools

Use heat protectors to prevent damage from excessive heat styling.

Potential Side Effects and Risks of Both Treatments

Common Side Effects of Hair Smoothening

Hair frizz and dryness
Chemicals irritate the scalp
As you get more treatments, your hair weakens

Risks Associated with Hair Straightening

Repetitive damage
Split ends and hair breakage
Skin sensitivity caused by chemicals

How to Minimize Damage and Protect Your Hair

Maintain your treatment with sulfate-free shampoo
Avoid overheating to keep your hair strong
Maintain healthy hair with deep conditioning
Don't overdo it with chemicals

Cost Comparison: Hair Smoothening vs. Hair Straightening

Price Range for Hair Smoothening Treatments

The cost of hair smoothening treatments varies based on the salon, hair length, and product used.

Cost of Hair Straightening Procedures

Hair straightening costs range from ₹5,000 to ₹15,000, with advanced techniques like Japanese straightening being more expensive.

Factors That Influence the Overall Cost

Hair Length and Thickness: Longer and thicker hair requires more product and time, increasing the overall cost.
Salon Reputation: High-end salons with experienced professionals and premium services tend to charge higher prices.
Type of Treatment: The cost varies depending on the type of treatment chosen, such as keratin, cysteine, or other specialized procedures.
Aftercare Products: Maintaining results requires investing in sulfate-free shampoos, conditioners, and serums, adding to the total expense.
Treatment Method and Salon Pricing: The cost of hair smoothening or straightening can range from ₹8,000 to ₹20,000, depending on the method used and the salon's pricing structure.

Conclusion

Do you have trouble deciding between hair smoothening vs hair straightening? Your hair's goal is determined by the hair you desire, and smoothing and straightening depend on your hair type and desired result. Smoothing reduces frizz while maintaining a natural texture while straightening provides a sleek, straight appearance. Consult a hairstylist at Bhavya Kapur Makeup Studio for personalized advice.

Book Your Hair Consultation Today!

Give your personality a new look. We offer consultations at Bhavya Kapur Makeup Studio so that you can decide what is best for your hair and what treatment will suit you best. Let our experts make your hair smooth, straight, and easy to manage.