HAYATO SALONS | The Best Japanese Hair Salon

Japanese hair straightening, also known as thermal reconditioning, is a popular hair treatment that promises sleek, straight hair.
This innovative process transforms curly, wavy, or frizzy hair into smooth, glossy locks that are easy to manage and style.

Choosing the right salon is crucial when it comes to achieving smooth, permanently straightened hair.
Hayato Salons stands out as a top destination for Japanese hair straightening, with over 30 years of experience in the field.
We guarantee beautifully straight hair while maintaining hair health and integrity.

What is the difference between Japanese Straightening and Keratin Treatment?

Both Japanese Straightening and Keratin Treatments are popular options for achieving smoother, more manageable hair, but they differ significantly in technique, results, and suitability depending on hair type and condition.

Japanese Straightening A long-lasting chemical straightening method that permanently transforms curly, wavy, or frizzy hair into sleek, straight strands by restructuring the internal bonds of the hair. Pros: Permanently Straightens Hair: Once treated, the hair remains pin-straight until it grows out. No daily straightening needed. Sleek, Smooth Finish:  Delivers a high-shine, frizz-free, smooth result, especially popular among those with coarse or curly hair. Humidity Resistant: Keeps hair smooth and manageable even in damp weather, less puffiness or frizz. Long-Lasting: Effects last 3–12 months, depending on hair type and regrowth speed. Only the roots typically need retouching. Cons: Risk of Damaging: Not suitable for bleached, highlighted, or highly compromised hair. The alkaline agents used in the process cause hair to swell, which is the primary source of structural damage, especially in already weakened hair. Stiffness & Loss of Volume: Can make hair appear flat or stiff, especially if not layered well. Natural movement may be reduced. Aftercare: Hair must not be tied, washed, or tucked behind ears for 48 hours post-treatment to avoid creases. Ideal For: ✔ Clients with coarse, thick, wavy, or frizzy hair seeking long-term straightness ✔ Who want low-maintenance straight hair and are comfortable with a flat, sleek look ✔ Who do not bleach or colour their hair often, or whose hair is in good health

Keratin Treatment A semi-permanent smoothing treatment that coats the hair with keratin and silk proteins to reduce frizz and enhance shine without altering the hair’s internal structure. Pros: Semi-permanent Smoothing: Reduces frizz and leaves hair soft, shiny, and manageable while maintaining natural shape and movement. Suitable for Bleached and Chemically Treated Hair: Free from harsh chemicals such as formaldehyde and does not require neutralisation, allowing it to be used on highly compromised hair.  Less Damaging: Generally less harsh on hair compared to Japanese straightening, as it does not alter the internal structure of the hair. Styling Versatility: Hair remains smoother and more manageable, but you can still style it with waves or curls if desired. Cons: Shorter-lasting Results: Results last 3-5 months. and needs more frequent reapplication. Not a Straightening: Does not fully remove strong curls and less effective for very coarse or tight curls if full straightness is desired. Styling at Home: Requires some heat styling (blow-dry/flat iron) to maintain the finish at home. Ideal For: ✔ Clients with frizz, dryness, or dullness from colouring or heat styling ✔ Who want to keep some natural texture while reducing bulkook and are comfortable with styling at home ✔ Who need a gentle, safe option for compromised hair

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Which One Should You Choose?

✔️ Choose Japanese Straightening if you want sleek, straight hair with long-lasting results and your hair is healthy enough for chemical processing.

✔️ Choose a Keratin Treatment if you want to reduce frizz and improve manageability while maintaining natural texture, especially if your hair is bleached, coloured, or more fragile.

What is the process for Japanese Straightening?

The Japanese straightening process involves several steps, typically performed over the course of several hours.
Here's a general overview of the process:

1. Consultation

   Our process begins with a consultation with a professional stylist.
   During this consultation, the stylist assesses your hair type, condition, and desired results.
   We will also discuss any previous chemical treatments or concerns you may have.

2. Preparation

   The hair is washed with a clarifying shampoo to remove any residue or product buildup.

3. Application

   We offer several different types of chemicals to match your hair type and condition.
   The solution is carefully applied section by section, and it breaks down the hair's natural bonds, allowing it to be reshaped.

4. Processing Time

   Your hair is left to process for a specific amount of time, typically around 10-30 minutes, depending on your hair's texture and condition.
   During this time, the stylist monitors the hair's reaction to ensure it is processing correctly.

5. Rinsing

   Once the processing time is complete, your hair is thoroughly rinsed to remove the chemical solution.
   It's essential to rinse the hair completely to ensure that all traces of the solution are removed.

6. Blow Drying

   After rinsing, your hair is gently dried to remove excess moisture.
   This step is crucial for preparing the hair for the next stage of the process.

7. Flat Ironing

   The stylist uses a flat iron set to a high temperature to carefully straighten each section of hair.
   The heat from the flat iron helps to seal in the straightened shape of the hair.

8. Neutralizer

   A neutralizer is applied to restore the hair’s pH balance and lock in the straightened shape.
   The neutralizer is left on the hair for around 5-10 minutes.

9. Final Rinse and Styling

   Finally, your hair is rinsed once again to remove the neutralizer, and then blow-dried and styled as desired.
   We offer additional products to enhance shine and manageability.

Aftercare tips for Japanese Straightening / How to take care

1. Avoid Moisture

   Keep hair dry for at least 48 hours post-treatment. Avoid washing, sweating, or exposure to rain.

2. No Hair Ties or Clips

   Refrain from using hair ties, clips, or tucking hair behind ears during the first few days to prevent kinks.

3. Gentle Shampoo and Conditioner

   Use sulfate-free, moisturizing shampoos and conditioners to maintain hair health.

4. Minimal Heat Styling

   Limit the use of heat styling tools to prolong the straightened effect.

5. Regular Touch-Ups

   Schedule touch-up treatments every 4-8 months for new growth.

6. Deep Conditioning

   Regular deep conditioning treatments help keep hair hydrated and strong.

 

Japanese Straightening Q&A

How long does Japanese straightening last?

Japanese straightening is a permanent hair straightening method.
The treated hair will remain straight until it grows out, typically lasting around six months to a year depending on hair growth.

Is Japanese straightening suitable for all hair types?

Japanese straightening works best on curly or wavy hair.
However, it may not be suitable for extremely damaged or over-processed hair, so please check with your stylist first.

How should I care for my hair after Japanese straightening?

After the procedure, it's important to use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners formulated for chemically-treated hair.
Additionally, avoid heat styling as much as possible to maintain the straightness.

Can I color my hair after Japanese straightening?

It's generally recommended to wait at least two weeks before coloring your hair after Japanese straightening to allow the hair to recover from the chemical treatment.

What are the potential risks of Japanese straightening?

Japanese straightening involves the use of chemicals and heat, which can potentially damage the hair if not done correctly.
It's important to have the procedure done by a trained and experienced professional to minimize the risk of damage.

Can Japanese straightening be reversed?

Japanese straightening permanently alters the structure of the hair, so it cannot be reversed.
However, you can still style your hair curly or wavy by blow-drying or using curl irons.

Can I wash my hair after getting a Japanese Straightening?

It's generally recommended to wait at least 48 hours after getting a Japanese Straightening before washing your hair.
This allows your hair to set properly and ensures that the chemical solution has enough time to work effectively.

Can I colour or dye my hair after getting a Japanese Straightening?

It's generally best to wait at least two weeks after a Japanese Straightening before colouring or dyeing your hair.
Colouring immediately after a straightening can put extra stress on the hair and can lead to damage or uneven results.

Can I swim or expose my hair to water after getting a Japanese Straightening?

It's generally recommended to avoid exposing your hair to water, especially chlorinated or saltwater, for at least 48 hours after getting a Japanese Straightening.
After this initial period, it's important to rinse your hair thoroughly with fresh water after swimming to remove any chemicals or salt that could potentially damage your hair.

	HAYATO	Art Director	Director	Associate (Student discount Tue~Thu)
Regrowth & Short (up to jawline)	from £460	from £360	from £320	from £290 (from £261)
Medium (up to collar bone)	from £490	from £390	from £350	from £320 (from £290)
Long (below collar bone)	from £520	from £420	from £380	from £350 (from £320)

*Haircut, shampoo & shiatsu head massage included
*Any discount offer except student discount cannot be applied to this service

Additional Add-Ons:

Japanese Moisturising Hair Treatment

from £50

Solve dryness and frizz with the 5-Step Japanese Hair Treatment, which provides an inner moisturiser and an outer water-repellent coating for long-lasting shine and smoothness.
This treatment comes with a complimentary take-home booster, extending results for up to 5 weeks.
Click here for more details.

*Student discount is not available

 

Japanese hair straightening offers a long-lasting solution for those desiring permanently straight, sleek hair.
With proper care and maintenance, you can enjoy the benefits of this treatment for months.
Always consult with a professional stylist to determine if this treatment is the right choice for your hair type and condition.

We require a consultation before booking to check availability.

Please send us your enquiry first!