If you’re wondering WTF the difference is between Brazilian Blowouts, Japanese Straightening, Smoothing Treatments, and Keratin Treatments, you’re not alone. While they go by plenty of names, all of these are treatments that smooth hair and eliminate frizz. They vary by strength and ideal hair type, which is why if you’re considering getting a treatment, you should ask your stylist (there it is again) which is best for you.
When it comes to smoothing treatments, don’t fix what isn’t broken. You’ve had the same hair on your head for your whole life and you know how it reacts. If frizz isn’t a huge problem for you, a smoothing treatment probably isn’t necessary even if you’re getting married in the humid summer.
Products are only as good as the stylist applying them, so you need to find a professional who is going to take their time applying the treatment.
Find someone that you feel comfortable with. Once you find this magical person, make sure they do a test strip before beginning the treatment- this will make sure the [huge amount of] chemicals aren’t going to irritate your scalp, ruin your hair, or cause an allergic reaction.
...assuming you are following the recommended maintenance routine: using sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, avoiding salt water, and staying away from products with sodium chloride in them. Because of their longevity, we recommend getting your first treatment at least 12 months before your wedding. This way, you can test out whether or not your hair holds a curl with the treatment (it totally depends on your hairs texture and density), and you will have plenty of time for it to completely wash/grow out if you decide it’s not for you.
If you do end up loving it, you should check with both your Bridal Hair Stylist AND Treatment Stylist to determine when you should be getting your final treatment before the wedding so that your hair is at its silkiest and sleekest. Just make sure you leave enough time between getting the treatment and coloring your hair- you should NEVER get both in the same day. Ask your stylist (one more time!) to help you figure out the schedule that makes the most sense for your needs.