What is the difference between semi-permanent and permanent straightening?

UnSprung only offers Semi-Permanent straightening. This information is for those trying to decide between the 2 services. Semi-permanent straightening does not break bonds. It fades off in time, or can be permanent. Permanent straightening breaks bonds and permanently alters the hair's condition. It always leaves the hair more vulnerable to future damage.

What type of straightening should I choose?

If you:

  • Have relatively virgin hair and are NOT intending to ever do highlights or home color jobs

  • Have thick course hair

  • Can spend @ $750-1000/year (this would be an appointment every six months to a year)

  • Want to permanently kill the curl bonds, and never want the curl back in the hair that is treated

  • Want your hair to air-dry as straight as it blowdrys

  • Want to maintain your hair with high end products formulated for chemically treated hair

  • Are not necessarily growing out your hair and are willing to get regular trims

  • Are willing to deal with the curly new growth in between straightenings and you are okay with a definite line of curly hair vs. straight hair

  • Don't mind getting split ends a little more quickly, and having to use conditioning treatments to maintain as much shine and health as possible

  • Can spend potentially 6-12 hours (the average is @ 7.5) in the salon

...then go for the Permanent Straightening (TR, Japanese Straightening)

If you:

  • Have either virgin or damaged hair: highlights, over processed color, thermal styling damage, split ends

  • Have fine hair to thick course hair

  • Can spend @ $180-720/year (this would be an appointment 1 to 4 times a year)

  • Want to preserve your hair's full strength, and only want to override your curl

  • Want the option of blow-drying for ultimate straightness, or air-drying for more body

  • Do not want to be obligated to purchase high end products, and in general would like to have a budget friendly upkeep program

  • Are growing your hair out and want to trim as little as possible

  • Want to deal with as little new growth as possible, and if you do not want a definite line of curly vs. straight hair

  • Want the most shine and conditioning and preservation of the hair's health without having to use additional products daily

  • Can only spend 2-4 hours in the salon

  • Think that at some point you want all your curl back, and you like the idea of it being able to revert back to your natural hair

...then go for Semi-Permanent Straightening (Keratin Treatment)

How does UnSprung decide which brand of semi-straightening to use?

UnSprung only carries 1 brand at a time. All potential brands are put to a 1/2 & 1/2 head test to determine initial straightness and longevity. One brand is applied to one half of a head of hair, and the competing brand is applied to the other. The client is required to live with both brands for several months, at which point there is typically a clear winner. All brands that have been put to the test are listed under the “Bio” section. Currently, UnSprung stocks Brazilian Blowout’s Original formula. Interestingly, GK Hair’s Resistant formula was the go to product for years and is equal in results, but due to the demand for cruelty-free/vegan/plant-based formulas, the switch was made. Having animal derived ingredients in any formula is a totally unnecessary cruelty. In addition, most labs manufacturing ingredients still rely on animal testing. The SDS provided by Brazilian Blowout discloses the status of every lab of origin of every ingredient of their product. This is above and beyond any legal requirement, and is much appreciated. Those who’ve been doing this a while know the trouble Brazilian Blowout got into for not disclosing certain facts pertaining to their product. It seems like they’ve done a 180 and hopefully other brands realize the benefits of full disclosure.

Why are there so many different opinions on straightening the hair during pregnancy?

There are so many opinions because the actual facts remain unclear. Prior to 2018, the label on the bottles of  solution read, "not for use on women who are pregnant, intending to become pregnant, or who are nursing." The label now reads, "consult your physician before using this product." There have been no studies verifying the safety of this product on pregnant women. If you intend to consult your physician about this product, allow us to send you a list of ingredients for your doctor to look at. They will also need to know that all keratin treatments gas off formaldehyde to some degree.