Hey curly top…Think you know every trick to smooth those unsightly frizzes? Well, think again! This here is a straight story about a system that has been around for ages, but is just recently catching on in America.
By Miriam Day
2/14/2005
Photo by Hans Rosemond
The Japanese Hair Straightening System, a.k.a. Thermal Reconditioning, has claimed, and proven to transform your hair from frizz prone to humidity proof.
Contrary to popular belief, a very high percentage of the Japanese population has a wavy or kinky curl to their hair. So, in response to the desire of clients to have straight hair, a company called Milbon introduced LISCIO, “the first Japanese straightening system,” in 1996.
What makes Liscio so desirable is its specially formulated solution which protects and repairs hair from heat damage. Unlike existing relaxers with active ingredients based on hydroxide and lye, Liscio is gentle on your hair and straightens while leaving it well conditioned.
This unique service can take anywhere from three-and-a-half to six hours, and can cost upwards of $500. Here’s how it works: After washing and drying hair, a Japanese essential oil/aloe straightener is applied to small sections of the hair at a time, and then left to soak in. Following more washing and drying, baby irons are used to flatten hair almost strand by strand. Next comes another solution and yes, another wash and dry.
Though this may sound like a tedious process, the end result will prove to be time well spent. With this treatment, the most curly and coarse hair will be straight and frizz-free, healthier and softer than ever, and boasting more shine and gloss than any magic hair potion could ever provide.
Three popular straightening systems include the YUKO SYSTEM “Japanese Straightening”; the RUSK STR8 “Thermal Reconditioning”; and the BIO IONIC “Thermal Reconditioning”. All have differences in activator solution, specialty straightening irons, and protection cream systems to adapt to varying hair strengths and textures.
