When you hit your 40s, a lot of things start to change. But there’s one thing I wasn’t ready for. the texture of my hair. I’ve always had a bit of a wave in my hair, but here in his two years it’s gotten even coarser and frizzier. Now, as a preface, let me say that I’m not against textures, curls, or even a bit of frizz at all. After all, it’s what gives our hair volume, contour and character. No, what I struggled with was the feeling of the hair being stiff and rough. It also felt really dry despite trying every moisturizing hair mask while upping my hair vitamins and omega 3 intake. I’ve noticed that I let my hair air-dry more often in the summer, which makes it more frizzy and harder to style. Most of the time, the hair ends up in a mess. back ponytail again low bread. So, I did some research and found a hair-smoothing treatment that helps reduce frizz and texture, as well as smooth it out. Bonus: without sacrificing the wave and movement of the hair itself.
featured image Thiel Thomsen.
Meet the Expert: Tania Whittier
The point here was that all I wanted was not perfectly straight hair, but to soften and smooth it all over. I had heard from friends and colleagues how damaging other straightening treatments could be, so I was looking for a non-toxic keratin treatment that would give similar results. according to research and various studies, formaldehyde may increase the risk of cancer. Unfortunately, it’s a key ingredient in most of the popular hair-smoothing treatments. Finding a formaldehyde-free treatment was important.
That’s when I met Tania Whittier. With many celebrity clients, it’s no exaggeration to say that this renowned stylist has seen it all. But it wasn’t until a customer of hers asked about a non-toxic hair-smoothing treatment that she decided to seriously consider it. And she didn’t look back.
I’ve had a few whittier natural hair smoothing treatments now and am hooked. Safety is always the top priority, but so is efficacy. Well, let me tell you, this works!This natural keratin treatment, how it works, how long it lasts, the ideal candidate, and more.
Before and after hair smoothing treatment
As you can see in the previous photo, my hair was curly and curly. You can’t tell from the picture, but when I touched it, it was rough. But after Whittier’s treatment, I feel smooth, glowy and hydrated. Read on to find out why.
Toxic vs. non-toxic hair treatments
The main difference between non-toxic hair smoothing treatments and traditional keratin treatments is formaldehyde. The second biggest difference is customization. This means you can choose the level of straightness you want to achieve. (Keeps waves and eliminates frizz.) Unlike traditional treatments, our non-toxic options let you choose how much movement your hair retains while reducing frizz.
This time I wanted to give a clean impression, so I made my hair a little straighter than usual. However, a friend and former colleague of mine Victoria Hoff, who has thick, long, naturally wavy 2B S curls, Reduces frizz without compromising texture. Whittier always evaluates the natural texture of hair first. What it does naturally and how she can play it. It’s up to the formula, the process and the irons to produce personalized results.
There are several non-toxic hair smoothing products available today. Whittier will rotate between: Pura Lux, Cezanneand leaves and flowers Depending on your hair type. (She used her Puraluxe on my hair.) One of her big benefits is that I don’t have to wait to wash my hair. ““Because the treatment reaches the cortex and is actually contained, you can return to normal life soon after the treatment, which is a huge advantage,” explains Whittier. Yes, that means you can go straight to the gym for a workout or class.
How does it work?
Formaldehyde treatment works by pushing keratin into the cuticle with heat, and formaldehyde acts as its finishing product. Whittier points out that while this can make your hair look shiny, over time it can dry out your hair because it puts too much strain on your hair, especially fragile hair.
Unlike traditional methods that mix formaldehyde and high heat, which produce toxic carcinogens, the non-toxic treatment opens the cuticles to allow amino acids to enter the cortex. “Being able to control processing times and heat levels while mixing different formulations has improved workability,” she added. “Not everyone wants straight hair, so this allows me to customize the treatment for every client.”
Benefits of Non-Toxic Hair Smoothing Treatment
- formaldehyde free
- not dry
- Customizable according to desired results
- Hair can be washed immediately after treatment
- natural ingredients
A step-by-step process from start to finish
step 1: Shampoo cleans your hair, but don’t use conditioner. Look at the texture of the hair and discuss the desired result.
Step 2: Mix, apply and process the product. This allows the amino acids to penetrate inside the hair.
Step 3: Water washes hair 110% as it neutralizes all ingredients and amino acids that have not reached the cortex of the hair. This is an important step towards creating non-toxic treatments.
Step 4: Dry your hair with a hairdryer.
Step 5: Iron your hair. This is also an important step as it indicates what the hair can and cannot tolerate heat. It’s always important to know what hair and tools you’re using. Different temperatures and types of irons make a big difference.
Note: The treatment takes 1-3 hours depending on the type of treatment and the time required. It also depends on the length and texture of your hair. Whittier costs between $125 and $475, depending on the treatment.
How long does the smoothing treatment last?
Treatment duration ranges from a few weeks to up to 6 months. “It’s different because everyone has different textures and different results they want,” explains Whittier. “But the stronger the contrast with the natural texture, the faster it feels like it’s stretching.”
Who are the ideal candidates for non-toxic keratin treatments?
Whittier says just about everyone can benefit from an amino acid smoothing treatment. “Even shampoos are starting to advertise keratin and amino acids that help repair hair,” she says. “But it’s all about balance, so be sure to talk to your stylist to make sure your hair stays in the best place.”
Post-treatment results
1st week
This is my hair after a week of non-toxic keratin treatment, washed and air dried. As you can see, it’s still very shiny and smooth. The front curl is made by tucking it behind the ear while wet. I like the S-curved shape it creates around the face.
6th week
This is my hair after 6 weeks of natural hair smoothing treatment, air dried and washed. Some texture has returned, but it still feels smooth and incredibly soft. The hair is wavy, giving it shape and movement, but no frizz. I really like that.
Tania’s Top 4 Brands of Post-Treatment Care
Whittier always recommends sulfate-free professional shampoos. won’t Contains keratin and protein. “Smoothing Her treatment includes all the amino acids, so you don’t need to add more, which can lead to dry hair, but it’s all about balance,” she advises.
All of our products are carefully curated by our editors to always give you an honest opinion, whether it’s a gift or a purchase for yourself. When you purchase something through our links, we may earn a small commission for free.
Olaplex Daily Cleanse & Conditioning Duo
Sulfate-free to keep hair strong.
Oway smoothing kit (for fine hair)
Great clean professional Italian brand that smells great!
O&M Hydrate & Conquer Conditioner
Another nice clean line from Australia.
Inner Sense Renew Texture Hair Ceremony For thick, curly hair
Clean, easy to use and great quality.
This post was originally published on August 31, 2021 and has since been updated.
