fashionweekdaily - Inquirer Lifestyle

Permanent blowdry is next big thing in hair

By Mel Nikel  
fashionweekdaily
First Posted 01:21:00 08/14/2009

Filed Under: Health and Beauty Products, Lifestyle & Leisure

ARE YOU one of many Filipinas with frizzy, unruly hair? If your hair has seen better days and you are desperately looking for a treatment that will bring back strength and shine into your hair, the Permanent Blowdry is exactly what you need.

The latest hair straightening system since rebonding, the treatment got its name from Brazil (it’s called NanoKeratin System  in the US), where it is usually called escova progressiva (progressive blowdry).

Different from rebonding

Technically, the Permanent Blowdry is neither a relaxing nor straightening treatment, both of which use chemicals to restructure hair. Japanese straightening or rebonding has fallen out of favor with some users not only because it lends an unnatural “walis tingting” look, but users also experience extensive damage, particularly when the process is repeated.

Permanent Blowdry uses keratin, a type of protein akin to a component of human hair. The nanokeratin coats the hair cuticle and repairs damaged strands, reconditioning the hair and preventing frizz. Hair gradually returns to its original state without the awkward growing-out stage inherent in rebonding.

However, this advantage becomes its disadvantage; results can last from six weeks to a few months, depending upon how frequently the hair is washed.

The multi-step treatment takes around three hours,  depending on the length of hair. A stylist applies a solution made with active keratin on several sections of the hair, and using a 450-degree flat iron, the stylist seals the formula onto the outer layer of the cuticle.

The formula adheres to the cuticle’s inherently rough edges. Thus, it is said, it traps moisture, hydrating the hair, and adds lots of shine.

What’s also unique about the treatment is that the hair can be shaped according to the client’s specifications. “You can add a little volume, or give the hair a slight wave,” says Manfred Spiering of Basement Salon. This hair treatment is recommended for all types of chemically treated hair, whether it’s bleached, highlighted, colored, permed, relaxed or straightened.

“It’s great for getting rid of curly, frizzy and damaged hair,” adds Spiering.

Some even opt for the treatment to simplify their beauty routines. “For people who can’t master blowdrying at home or go for regular blowdrying sessions at the salon, a treatment like this is a time-saver,” says a client.

However, the treatment comes with a caveat – most formulas used for NanoKeratin System  is said to contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen that can irritate the eyes and lungs if the fumes are inhaled.

While Spiering guarantees that Basement Salon’s formula is formaldehyde-free, they’re still taking necessary precaution –
installing a special area and exhaust system specifically for NanoKeratin System  , and having technicians and clients wear protective gear during treatment


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