What I Value in Straightening / International Hairdresser TAKA
Introduction
At Hairdresser Taka, I prioritize bringing out each client’s unique beauty through every service I provide.
This applies not only to straightening (chemical straightening) but also to haircuts, perms, and coloring.
However, straightening tends to make hair uniformly flat, lacking character or individuality.
Straightening is about subtraction—minimizing volume or frizz.
In contrast, perming is addition—adding texture or movement.
My goal is to preserve your unique charm and avoid over-subtracting in your hair design.
Below, I’ve summarized the key points I focus on when performing straightening treatments.
1. Suitable for All Hair Types and Backgrounds
Excluding severely bleached or highly damaged hair, I have the products and knowledge to work with all hair types from all backgrounds.
If you’re unsure whether your hair type can be treated, feel free to contact me before booking.
2. Two Types of Straightening
There are two main types of straightening treatments:
– Permanent Straightening (Japanese straightening)
Lasts semi-permanently.
“Permanent” means long-lasting.
– Semi-Permanent Straightening
Lasts for about 2–4 months and gradually returns to its natural state.
“Semi-permanent” means it only lasts temporarily.
Let me explain each type in more detail:
Permanent Straightening
This method uses chemical agents and a flat iron heated to 160–180°C to straighten the hair.
It is effective for all hair types, regardless of nationality or background.
The straightened portion remains smooth and straight for a long time.
However, new hair growth will come in with your natural texture, so root touch-ups are typically needed every 3–6 months.
Due to the protein heat denaturation caused by the flat iron, hair treated with permanent straightening may not be suitable for:
– Perms (curl or wave styles)
– High-saturation or light hair colors
– Bleaching treatments
Semi-Permanent Straightening
This method straightens the hair using only chemicals—no flat iron.
It doesn’t create pin-straight hair like the permanent method; instead, it smooths out some texture while retaining a natural feel.
Depending on your hair type, it may still result in very straight hair.
The result lasts for about 2–4 months.
Because the texture gradually returns to its natural state, there is no visible regrowth line.
That means no need for regular touch-ups and it’s easier to maintain a natural appearance.
Since no flat iron is used, protein heat denaturation does not occur.
Hair treated with semi-permanent straightening can still undergo:
– Perming (curl/wave styles)
– High-saturation or light hair coloring
– Bleaching
3. Enhancing Quality of Life
I help clients choose the best option for them by comparing the benefits of each type of straightening.
However, I often recommend semi-permanent straightening because it offers the following advantages:
- Hair stays well-managed over time without frequent salon visits
- It saves time, money, and effort
- It’s easier to combine with coloring and perming
- Less damaging than permanent straightening
Permanent straightening often produces a uniform look regardless of the client.
This can obscure your unique appeal.
Also, as it’s long-lasting, you’ll need ongoing maintenance for new hair growth—this can be stressful for some people.
Improving daily convenience and quality of life through hair is very important.
4. Scalp Care (Preventive Beauty)
It’s crucial not to let straightening chemicals touch the scalp to preserve its health.
That’s why I strictly follow these practices:
- Applying chemicals carefully without touching the scalp
- Using protective creams to shield the skin
Even if you’re mainly concerned with your hair, scalp care is essential.
Healthy hair comes from a healthy scalp.
And that healthy scalp comes from a healthy lifestyle.
Like in medicine, quick fixes rarely provide lasting solutions—true improvement starts at the root.
A healthy body is the foundation of beautiful hair.
5. Using a Platinum-Plate Flat Iron
To minimize heat damage, I use a high-performance flat iron with platinum plates.
It offers several benefits:
- Reduces friction on hair
- Prevents excessive moisture loss
- Helps break down residual chemicals in the hair, minimizing damage like dryness, breakage, and color fading
Final Thoughts
– Dyeing gray hair just to hide it
– Straightening just because you’re self-conscious about frizz
These are similar emotional responses.
What I care most about is helping you address your insecurities.
However, overly hiding insecurities can also erase your good qualities.
That’s why I offer multiple hair design options to help you find the right balance between what you love about yourself and what you don’t.
At my salon, I always take the time for a thorough consultation to ensure your concerns are heard before we begin any treatment.
