Hair straightening: Japanese vs. Ionic Perm – key differences and suitability

Have you ever wondered why some girls’ hair looks so sleek and smooth? Besides good genetics, they may have undergone Japanese hair straightening at a salon. In this article, M-Palace hairstylist Seven, an expert in Japanese hair straightening, explains what this treatment is and how it differs from an ionic perm.

Catalogue

I. What is Japanese Hair Straightening?

II. Differences between Japanese Hair Straightening and Ionic Perm

III. Who is suitable for Japanese Hair Straightening?

IV. How to maintain Japanese Hair Straightening?

V. Frequently asked questions about Japanese Hair Straightening

VI. Recommended hairstylist for Japanese Hair Straightening – Seven

Japanese hair straightening is a type of perm that reshapes hair by using a chemical solution to alter its structure. Combined with heat styling, it smooths out frizzy and naturally curly hair, making it more manageable and sleek without appearing unruly. Regular touch-ups on new hair growth help maintain a consistently straight look with minimal effort.

Many people confuse Japanese hair straightening with an ionic perm. While their principles are similar, the final results differ. Seven explains, “The biggest difference is in the final effect. The techniques are nearly the same, but the term ‘Japanese hair straightening’ helps distinguish it for customers.”

Ionic Perm: Traditional ionic perms are limited to fully straightening the hair. They often leave hair dry, overly straight like a pencil, and flat. This technique is mostly used for specific areas, leading to the misconception that only extremely curly hair needs it.

Japanese Hair Straightening: With advancements in technology and aesthetics, Japanese hair straightening prioritizes a natural, smooth finish. It not only straightens hair but can also be customized for different hair types. For example, fine hair can be treated with a gentler method to prevent excessive flatness while maintaining a long-lasting sleek look. Seven emphasizes, “With the right technique, hair can also achieve a mirror-like shine.”

Hair straightening is especially suitable for those with natural curls, particularly those with frizzy or voluminous hair. Seven, with years of hairdressing experience, says that most Asians have varying degrees of natural curls in their hair. If you feel that the degree of natural curl affects your styling, or if your carefully styled hair tends to become frizzy easily, then hair straightening would be a great choice for you.

Here are a few features that are suitable for hair straightening:

People who spend a lot of time styling their hair in the morning: If you spend time every day using a blow dryer or flat iron, getting a hair straightening treatment once can save you the trouble every day.

People who are easily affected by the weather: The high humidity in Taiwan can make natural curls become frizzy, but hair straightening helps keep your hair smooth.

People who want to create a high-quality look: Hair straightening can be combined with other perm treatments, allowing people with natural curls to enhance the texture of Korean or Japanese-style hairstyles.

Styling and caring for hair after hair straightening is effortless. Seven says that with just basic at-home care, you can maintain your hair easily. Since hair straightening is a type of perm, it's recommended to use a rinse-off hair mask during washing to nourish your hair. Before blow-drying, apply hair oil to smooth the strands and enhance shine. The first month after the treatment is the golden repair period for your hair, so it's recommended to visit the salon for a deep conditioning treatment. Seven kindly reminds: "Hair quality is the key to maintaining your hairstyle."

Q1. Will hair straightening make the hair flatter?

Not necessarily! The advantage of hair straightening is that it can be adjusted according to personal preferences. Whether you want natural volume or smooth, straight hair, it can be customized. If you want more volume, you can ask your stylist to adjust the perming technique and combine it with a suitable layered haircut.

Q2. Can permed curly hair be transformed back into straight hair through hair straightening?

Seven strongly affirms that it is definitely possible! In fact, many customers at the salon have this request. However, if the hair has been previously permed, using hair straightening to make it straight again requires extra care. Since permed hair is usually more fragile, the strength of the treatment will be adjusted to a lower level to avoid damaging the hair quality.

Q3. Can I still use a curling iron after hair straightening?

Yes, you can still use a curling iron to style your hair. However, since hair straightened with the treatment is smoother, the curls created with the iron may not last as long. To help the curls hold better, you can use a setting spray to keep the curl in place for a longer period.

Q4. Can I do hair straightening after dyeing my hair?

There is no conflict at all. Hair straightening can actually reduce frizz and enhance the color's texture and shine after dyeing. However, it's recommended to wait at least two weeks between dyeing and hair straightening to avoid over-processing the hair, which could lead to breakage or damage.

With 20 years of experience in the hairdressing industry, Seven specializes in hair straightening and custom hair colors without bleach. Reflecting on his early days in the industry, she recalls that every senior hairstylist told her, "You need to learn everything, master every technique." Although it was tough to learn, Seven says that this kind of training is what enabled her to meet the diverse needs of her clients today.

Having observed countless hair types, Seven has honed the ability to customize designs based on each client's needs. She tailors the strength of the chemical treatments according to the client's face shape, hair volume, and preferred style, preserving the hair's natural elasticity. This allows her to adjust the hair's volume or smoothness during the styling process, giving the hair a more refined appearance while maintaining a healthy, hydrated look. Want your hair to feel smoother? Join Seven's Line to make an appointment and enjoy an 15% off discount on hair dye and treatment services.

M-Palace flagship store appointment information

Hair designer: Seven
Instagram: @seven_mpalace
Line: @kuro7777777
Address: No. 95, Jin Xin Street, North District, Taichung City 404, Taiwan

Further Reading

• Achieve Effortless Waves with Curling Iron-Style Perms – Perfect for Your First Perm or Natural Curls!

• Ultimate Japanese Transparent Hair Colors: Creamy Shades, Orange Milk Tea, and More for a Bright Look!

• Recommended perms for women with short shoulder-length or long hair, featuring Korean-style perms.

• Sweet and salty water wave perms—Increase volume, shape round faces, and lift flat back-of-the-head areas!

• Women's perm recommendation: Blackpink's Jisoo’s signature "flowing rain perm" for a relaxed, goddess-like vibe!

• Taichung Salon M-palace fully upgraded—the flagship store offers a modern experience, bringing you closer to your beauty needs.

• Taipei East District salon recommendation: M-palace, where you can enjoy a fun, party-like atmosphere in a palace-inspired setting!

Essential hair care for women with permed hair