How to Get a Japanese Thermal Hair Straightener

Forget the straightening shampoos, flat irons, and de-frizzers. A Japanese thermal hair straightener will give you permanently silky straight hair that won't wash out, even after a year. The only upkeep you need is to touch up the roots as your hair grows out. It's a maintenance-free solution to wavy, curly or frizzy hair, and one of the safest options out there.

Instructions

1. Call salons to find out if they have someone who performs Japanese thermal hair straighteners. It requires special training and not every salon has a stylist who does the procedure. If a salon tells you they don't offer that service, ask if they know someone who does. It's a small business and they may very well know someone.

2. If you find more than one person in your area who performs the Japanese thermal hair straightener, make appointments with them for a free consultation. They will require this anyway so they can look at your hair in its natural state. Show up to each appointment without any product in your hair. Simply wash it and let it dry naturally. Don't blow dry it.

3. Ask each hair stylist how many Japanese thermal hair straighteners they've done and if you can see before and after pictures. Ask them how much they charge for the procedure and how long they estimate it will take. Some stylists charge by how curly or how long your hair is and others simply charge by the hour. Ask if they require a deposit up front.

4. Choose a stylist and make the appointment for the procedure. It can take anywhere from two to six hours depending on the texture and length of your hair, so make sure you are not rushing around on the day you get it done. You'll want to be relaxed. Bring something to read or work on as you will have some down time while the chemicals are in your hair. There is no need to wash your hair beforehand because the stylist will do that when you come in.

Tips & Warnings

• The Japanese thermal hair straightener is an expensive treatment and will cost anywhere from $400 to $1000. The results are phenomenal though. Some stylists charge less for root touch-ups (needed every six months or so) while others charge the full price.

• Don't wash your hair for a minimum of 48 hours after the straightener. Waiting 72 hours is even better.

• You may have a slight chemical scent in your hair for up to two weeks following the procedure, even after shampooing. It will go away soon.