In my last column, I discussed the pros and cons of Japanese Hair Straightening. This time around, we will look at Brazilian Straightening (aka Keratin Smoothing Treatment).
What to expect
Brazilian Straightening is a keratin treatment first developed in Brazil. It is applied to the hair, and then hair is blown straight. Sometimes, after this, the stylist will also flat iron the hair straight. The hair must then be left dry and straight (not put up or tucked behind the ears) for three days. The treatment locks keratin into the hair and leaves it frizz-free and either less curly, or quite straight, depending on the original texture of the hair, and whether a flat iron was used. It lasts six weeks to three months, and costs $150-$600 depending on the type of treatment that is used.
When applied correctly, Brazilian Straightening should not damage the hair and will actually improve its condition, a major advantage over Japanese Straightening. It actually works best on damaged hair, because the repairing keratin complex is responsible for changing the hair’s texture.
Brazilian Straightening is not permanent, so it can be more expensive than Japanese Straightening. Using sulphate-free shampoos, conditioners and styling products will extend the length of the treatment.
Is it safe?
Recently, Health Canada has found that certain brands of Brazilian Straightening and Keratin Smoothing treatments contain unacceptable levels of formaldehyde for cosmetic products. Exposure to high levels of formaldehyde can cause respiratory problems and eye irritation, and it is a known carcinogen with chronic inhalation.
Obviously, you want to choose a product that will not expose you to these risks. The first step is to check Health Canada’s list of unsafe products and avoid these. Next, ask your stylist for the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) that comes with the product. If the product contains more than 0.2% formaldehyde (can also be listed as methyl glycol or formalin), steer clear. Third step: Google the brand name. This may sound pedestrian, but the beauty blogosphere is a pretty unforgiving place for products that do not measure up. If customers have experienced adverse reactions to your product of choice, someone will have written about it online. Two products that pass the smell test so far are Bio Ionic Kera Smooth and Keratin Complex Blow Out.
One last tip: for best results, avoid the step of flat ironing. Skipping this part reduces the risk of unsafe fumes, and the risk of an inexperienced stylist applying too much heat and damaging the hair. Also, you can keep some of your natural curl, and still be able to straighten it quickly when desired.
Donna Wilson is a Toronto-based commercial litigator at Affleck Greene McMurtry LLP. Her style and beauty column appears every second Wednesday.
Photo by gaby_bra