Understanding the Different Types of Chemical Hair Straightening

Which Type is Right for You?

In recent years, more and more people are opting for organic hair products and cruelty-free brands. Fortunately, there are several options available for those who want to avoid harsh chemicals and animal testing. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most popular types of chemical hair straightening, along with some organic and cruelty-free alternatives.

1. Traditional Relaxers

Traditional relaxers are the most common type of chemical hair straightening. They work by breaking down the hair’s natural protein structure, which allows it to be straightened with heat. Sodium hydroxide is the most common active ingredient in traditional relaxers.

Pros:

• Effective: Traditional relaxers can provide the most significant straightening results for those with coarse, curly hair.
• Long-lasting: Results can last for several months.
• Affordable: Traditional relaxers are typically the most affordable option for chemical hair straightening.

Cons:

• Damage: Traditional relaxers can be very damaging to hair if not done correctly, leading to breakage and damage.
• Harsh chemicals: Traditional relaxers contain harsh chemicals that can cause scalp irritation or burns if not used correctly.
• Animal testing: Many traditional relaxer brands are not cruelty-free and have been tested on animals.

Organic and cruelty-free alternative: There are several organic and cruelty-free relaxer options available, such as Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Kit and the Curls Unleashed No Boundaries Kit. These kits use natural ingredients like coconut oil and shea butter to provide a gentler alternative to traditional relaxers.

2. Keratin Treatments

Keratin treatments are a popular option for those who want to achieve smooth, frizz-free hair. They work by infusing the hair with a protein called keratin, which helps to smooth out the hair cuticle.

Pros:

• Smooth hair: Keratin treatments can provide a smooth, frizz-free look that lasts for several months.
• Can be customized: Different levels of keratin can be used to achieve the desired level of straightening.
• Can be used on colored hair: Keratin treatments can be used on color-treated hair without damaging the color.

Cons:

• Harsh chemicals: Keratin treatments can contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, which can be dangerous if not used in a well-ventilated area.
• Cost: Keratin treatments can be expensive, depending on the salon and the level of treatment required.
• Animal testing: Many keratin treatment brands are not cruelty-free and have been tested on animals.

Organic and cruelty-free alternative: There are several organic and cruelty-free keratin treatment options available, such as the Brazilian Blowout Zero+ Treatment and the Simply Smooth Xtend Keratin Replenishing Magic Potion. These treatments use natural ingredients like keratin and acai oil to provide a gentler alternative to traditional keratin treatments.

3. Japanese Hair Straightening

Japanese hair straightening, also known as thermal reconditioning, is a permanent hair straightening method that uses heat to restructure the hair’s bonds. The process can take several hours and can be quite expensive, but the results are long-lasting.

Pros:

• Long-lasting: Results can last for up to six months.
• Low maintenance: Once the process is complete, there is little maintenance required to keep the hair straight.
• Can be customized: Different levels of straightening can be achieved based on the desired outcome.

Cons:

• Cost: Japanese hair straightening can be very expensive, depending on the salon and the level of treatment required.
• Damage: Japanese hair straightening can be very damaging to hair if not done correctly, leading to breakage and damage.
• Harsh chemicals: The process involves using harsh chemicals that can cause scalp irritation or burns if not used correctly

Organic and cruelty-free alternative: Unfortunately, there are not many organic and cruelty-free alternatives available for Japanese hair straightening. However, there are ways to make the process more natural, such as using natural ingredients for pre and post-treatment care, like aloe vera and coconut oil.

4. Hair Relaxer Alternatives

For those who want to avoid harsh chemicals altogether, there are several hair relaxer alternatives available. These options use natural ingredients to help loosen curls and waves without permanently altering the hair’s structure.

Pros:

• Natural: Hair relaxer alternatives use natural ingredients that are gentler on hair and scalp.
• Cost-effective: Many hair relaxer alternatives are more affordable than traditional chemical treatments.
• Can be DIY: Many hair relaxer alternatives can be done at home with simple ingredients.

Cons:

• Limited results: Hair relaxer alternatives may not provide the same level of straightening as chemical treatments.
• Short-lasting: Results may not last as long as chemical treatments.
• Animal testing: Some hair relaxer alternative brands are not cruelty-free and have been tested on animals.

Organic and cruelty-free alternative: There are several organic and cruelty-free hair relaxer alternatives available, such as Aunt Jackie’s Curls & Coils Curl Boss Coconut Curling Gélee and Mielle Organics Babassu Oil & Mint Deep Conditioner. These products use natural ingredients like coconut oil and babassu oil to provide a gentler alternative to traditional hair relaxers.

In Conclusion

There are several types of chemical hair straightening available, each with its own set of pros and cons. While traditional relaxers may be the most affordable option, they can be very damaging to hair if not done correctly and often contain harsh chemicals. Keratin treatments and Japanese hair straightening are more expensive options but can provide longer-lasting results. However, they also come with their own set of risks and may not be suitable for everyone.

For those who want to avoid harsh chemicals altogether, there are several hair relaxer alternatives available that use natural ingredients. As the demand for organic hair products and cruelty-free brands continues to grow, there are now several organic and cruelty-free options available for each of these types of chemical hair straightening. It’s essential to research and choose products that are safe for both your hair and the environment.