Brazilian Hair Straightening

Do you spend a lot of time straightening your hair every day?  Maybe hair straightening is something you should look into.  The most recognized type of hair straightening is called Japanese Hair Straightening.   The procedure for straightening can take several hours to complete and the results will be permanent.  You will need to return to the salon after several months to have the procedure done again to your new growth.

Japanese hair straightening can run between $300-$1000, depending on the length and thickness of your hair.  This service cannot be done on color-treated or highlighted hair.  There have been reports of some damage to the hair occurring after repeated applications of certain straighteners that contain alkaline.

Brazilian hair straightening has recently become the most sought-after salon service ever.  The Brazilian straighteners will wash out of your hair after around 3 months.  The service can be performed on color-treated or highlighted hair.  The costs range from $150-600 depending on the length and thickness of your hair.   Stylist must have the proper training and/or certification to perform this service.

There are two major drawbacks to the Brazilian hair straighteners on the market today.  First, the straightening is not permanent.  Hair that is straightened with the Japanese system is permanently straight--only the new growth needs to be treated.  The Brazilian straightening system washes out and the whole head must be redone.

The second drawback is that many of the Brazilian hair straighteners contain the known carcinogen, formaldehyde.  Most products are within FDA guidelines.  However the FDA does not regulate cosmetics.  Effects of being exposed to formaldehyde include itchy eyes, irritated throat, nausea, dizziness, insomnia and headaches.

If you are serious about getting your hair straightened with a Brazilian Hair Straightening system, be sure to inquire about where the product comes from and how much formaldehyde is in it.  After all, will you really care about how straight your hair looks if you are dying from cancer?