5 Best Smoothing Treatments for Silk Press & Curly Hair: Which One is Right for You?

Let’s talk about smoothing treatments! If you’re like me, you love your natural curly hair, but sometimes you want to switch things up and try a different look. Maybe you want your silk press to last longer and be protected from humidity, or maybe you want to loosen the tightness of your curls. Whatever your reason, a smoothing treatment for curly hair can help you achieve your hair goals.

I tried a smoothing treatment back into 2018, before my second big chop, and although I do not remember the product that my hairstylist used, I do remember loving the results. It was the first time my silk press lasted more than 2 weeks and was resistant to sweat and humidity, from working out to Friday night salsa dancing. Here are some pictures of my results:

If you’re not a fan of heat on your curly hair, but you are looking for other ways to loosen your curl hair texture CHECK OUT THIS MY ARTICLE ON THE GINA CURL ARTICLE. However, if you’re interested in other options to smoothing treatments CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE ON TEXTURE RELEASE PRODUCTS and THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SMOOTHING TREATMENTS AND TEXTURE RELEASE PRODUCTS.

What are smoothing treatments and how do they work?

Smoothing treatments are typically salon services that use chemicals or heat to alter the texture and appearance of your hair. They can help reduce frizz, add shine, and make your hair more manageable. They can also protect your hair from heat and environmental damage, which is especially important for curly natural hair, which tends to be more fragile and prone to breakage. An upside to all the aforementioned benefits is that smoothing treatments allows for your silk press to last longer than they usually would. So, instead of lasting 1-2 weeks, your silk press could last up to 12 weeks! Won’t he do it!?!?

Now, not all smoothing treatments are the same. There are different types of smoothing treatments, depending on the formula and application method. Some smoothing treatments can last for months, while others can wash out in a few weeks. Some smoothing treatments may change your hair texture permanently, while others can preserve some of your natural curl pattern. Some smoothing treatments can be gentle and safe, while others can be harsh and damaging.

So, how do you choose the best smoothing treatment for your hair? Well, that’s what this article is all about. So, Let’s get into it!

Smoothing Treatments #1: Design Essentials STS Express Smoothing System

This is a salon treatment that uses heat-activated amino acids to temporarily straighten and smooth frizzy, curly, or transitioning hair. It is a three-step system that includes a cleansing shampoo, a smoothing mousse, and a leave-in smoother. It lasts up to 12 weeks, depending on the hair type and care routine.

The system works by using heat-activated amino acids to temporarily stretch the disulfide bonds inside of the hair shaft, resulting in a softened curl pattern. It does not break or rearrange the bonds of the hair, but rather coats and protects them. 

The application process takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on the length and thickness of the hair. The cost of the system varies depending on the product and the kit, but it ranges from $150 to $250. The system is suitable for all hair types, except very damaged or chemically treated hair. It works especially well for women with natural or transitioning hair who want to temporarily straighten and smooth their hair for better manageability. It is also a great option for women who want to wear their silk press for longer than a week and to protect their silk press from humidity.

Pros

• It is gentle and does not contain formaldehyde or other harsh chemicals.
• It does not break or rearrange the bonds of the hair, but rather coats and protects them.
• It gives the flexibility to wear the hair straight or curly without compromising the hair integrity.

Cons

• It is not permanent and requires repeated treatments every 8 to 12 weeks.
• It may not work well on very damaged or chemically treated hair.
• It may require a high temperature of at least 400 degrees to achieve the desired results.
• The foam/mousse may cause scalp irritation.

• You can locate a salon in your state or country using the Design Essentials Locator.
• I live in Texas; here are three salons I located in Texas using the locator:
  • Khimandi Hair Studio
  • Pretty Hair Spa
  • Ti-Sha’s Hair Studio

Here are results of this treatment:

Smoothing Treatments #2: Salerm Cosmetics Keratin Shot

This smoothing treatment is a salon service that uses keratin and cationic polymers to repair and smooth your hair, while also adding volume and shine. Keratin is a protein that is naturally found in your hair, and it can help fill in the gaps and smooth out the cuticles. Cationic polymers are ingredients that help bind the keratin to your hair, and also condition and detangle your hair. It offers a double functionality, allowing its application with or without straightening effect. You can choose between a mild, medium, or intense smoothing effect, depending on the heat and the ironing technique used.

The best thing about this smoothing treatment is that it’s very long-lasting and effective. It can last up to 10 weeks, and it can transform your hair texture and appearance. It can also work for all hair types, whether you have fine, thick, curly, or coily hair.

The downside of this smoothing treatment is that it’s very expensive and time-consuming. It can cost up to $300 or more, and it can take up to 3 hours to complete(which is about how long it takes in the salon anyway). It can also damage your hair, as it involves applying chemicals and heat to your hair. It can also change your hair color, as it can lighten or darken your hair.

Pros

• It gives you options: you can choose to smooth or straighten your hair, depending on how you apply the product and how long you leave the product on your hair and how much you flat iron it.
• It improves your hair health: it repairs, conditions, and strengthens your hair, and helps prevent breakage and split ends.
• It lasts for a long time: it can last up to four months, depending on your hair type and maintenance.

Cons

• It is expensive: it can cost anywhere from $200 to $500, depending on the salon and the length and thickness of your hair.
• It is time-consuming: it can take up to three hours to complete the treatment, and you need to wait 72 hours before washing or styling your hair.
• It can damage your hair: if the product is not applied correctly, or if the flat iron is too hot, it can burn or dry out your hair, and cause irreversible damage.

This product can only be found in a salon and used by a licensed professional.

• You can locate a salon in your state or country using this hair treatment using the Salerm Cosmetics Keratin Shot Locator
• I live in Texas; here are three salons I located in Texas using the locator:
  • 2 Color’s Beauty Salon
  • Gala Hair Salon

Smoothing Treatments #3: Peter Coppola Keratin Concept

This smoothing treatment is another salon service that uses keratin and ceramides to reduce frizz and curl, while also strengthening and protecting your hair. Ceramides are lipids that are naturally found in your hair, and they can help seal and repair the hair cuticle. They can also help prevent moisture loss and protect your hair from humidity and frizz.

The best thing about this smoothing treatment is that it’s customizable, safe, and gentle. It is applied to the hair and then activated with heat to create a protective layer on the hair. You can choose how much you want to smooth or straighten your hair, and you can also keep some of your natural curl pattern. You can also wash and style your hair immediately after the service, and you don’t need to wait for days before you can enjoy your new look. It’s also safe for color-treated and chemically processed hair, as it doesn’t contain formaldehyde or other harsh chemicals. It is suitable for all hair types, textures, and colors.

The downside of this smoothing treatment is that it’s costly, time-consuming, and requires maintenance. It can cost up to $250, and it can take up to 2 hours to complete. It can also reduce frizz by 90% and last up to 3 months, but you need to use special shampoos and conditioners to preserve the results. It can also fade or wash out over time, especially if you use sulfates or chlorine on your hair.

Pros

• It is safe: it does not contain any harmful chemicals that can irritate your scalp, eyes, or lungs, or cause allergic reactions.
• It is versatile: it allows you to customize the level of smoothness or curliness you want, and you can wash and style your hair the same day as the treatment.
• It is beneficial: it heals and protects your hair from environmental and thermal damage, and stimulates hair growth by activating the hair follicles.

Cons

• It requires a 72-hour waiting period: you need to avoid getting your hair wet, tying it up, or using any products for 72 hours after the treatment, to allow the product to fully penetrate and seal the hair.
• It lasts just as long as other treatments: it can last up to 12 weeks, depending on your hair type and maintenance, but it may fade faster if you use harsh shampoos or swim in chlorinated water.
• It needs special aftercare products: you need to use sulfate-free and sodium chloride-free shampoos and conditioners, and avoid products that contain alcohol, oil, or wax, to preserve the results of the treatment.

Peter Coppola Keratin Concept Smoothing Treatment can only be found in a salon and used by a licensed professional.

• You can locate a salon in your state or country using this hair treatment using the Peter Coppola Keratin Concept Locator
• I live in Texas; here are three salons I located in Texas using the locator:
  • Cintya Velderrain Hair & Makeup Studio
  • The Upper Hand

Here are results from Peter Coppola Keratin Treatment:

Smoothing Treatments #4: BASIC one step smoothing treatment

This smoothing treatment is a salon service that uses amino acids and conditioning agents to smooth and straighten your hair, while also protecting it from heat and environmental damage. Amino acids are molecules that combine to form proteins, which are the building blocks of your hair. Conditioning agents are ingredients that moisturize, soften, and protect your hair.

The best thing about this smoothing treatment is that it’s simple, fast, and effective. It only involves one product, the One-Step Smoothing Foam, which is applied to your hair and then sealed with a flat iron. It doesn’t involve multiple trips to the shampoo bowl, multiple blowdries, or multiple passes with the flat iron. It can also last up to 12 weeks, and it can work for all hair types.

The downside of this smoothing treatment is that it’s temporary, requires heat styling, and potentially irritating to the scalp. It can wash out in a few shampoos, and it also requires high heat to seal the smoothing effect. It can also cause itching, burning, or redness on the scalp, especially if you have sensitive or dry skin.

Pros

• It is gentle: it does not contain any harsh chemicals that can damage or weaken your hair, and it does not alter your natural curl pattern permanently.
• It is flexible: it lets you choose how smooth or curly you want your hair to be, and you can switch between different styles easily, without compromising the results of the treatment.
• It is nourishing: it adds moisture and proteins to your hair, and improves its health and appearance.

Cons

• It is temporary: it lasts for 8 to 12 weeks, depending on your hair type and maintenance, and it needs to be reapplied regularly to maintain the smoothness and shine.
• It requires a high temperature flat iron: you need to use a flat iron that reaches at least 400°F to activate the product and get the best results, which can cause heat damage if not done properly or too frequently.
• It can cause scalp irritation or allergic reactions: some people may experience itching, burning, or redness on their scalp, or have an allergic reaction to the product, especially if they have sensitive skin or a history of allergies.

Distributors and Sales Reps for the BASIC one step smoothing treatment:

Please note that this list was uploaded on their Facebook page in 2021, so I am not sure how applicable or correct this list right now. NB: Renee Donaldson‘s state information is missing.

This is the results of using the Basic One Step Smoothing Treatment:

Smoothing Treatments #5: Straight Request Smooth Transformation

This smoothing treatment is an at-home or salon service that uses amino acids and conditioning agents to smooth and straighten your hair, while also protecting it from heat and environmental damage. It’s similar to the BASIC one step smoothing treatment, but it uses a different formula and application method.

This is a one-step smoothing treatment that helps smooth and lay down the cuticle, adding conditioning agents to nourish and strengthen the hair. It does not break or rearrange the bonds of the hair, but instead coats and protects them. You apply it to the hair and then use a flat iron with a temperature of 350 to 450 degrees to seal the product.

It is suitable for all hair types and textures, but especially for the curly hair girls who want to temporary loosen their curl pattern, and particularly for the natural curly hair girls who want to have their silk press last longer. It can last up to 12 weeks, and it can transform your hair texture and appearance.

Now, this may cost you a pretty penny if you do it through a stylist, a regular silkpress can cost $150, so a silk press with a smoothing can be anywhere upward from $150. But, The Straight Request Smooth Transformation Conditioning Treatment costs $53, plus shipping and handling. You can also add their Silky Fast Dry Treatment, which is a leave-in that helps nourish and protect your hair from heat.

Pros

• It is easy to use: you just apply it to damp hair, cover with a cap for 15 to 20 minutes, rinse, spray with a leave-in conditioner, blow-dry, and flat iron.
• It is effective: it smooths and straightens your hair, and eliminates frizz and flyaways, leaving your hair silky and shiny.
• It is affordable: it costs less than other treatments, and it comes in different sizes to suit your needs and budget.

Cons

• It is not permanent: it lasts for 8 to 12 weeks, depending on your hair type and maintenance, and it needs to be reapplied regularly to maintain the smoothness and shine.
• It may not effective on very tight curls or coils: it may not be able to smooth out the tightest curls or coils, and it may leave some texture or wave in your hair.
• It can cause dryness or breakage if not used correctly: if you use too much product, or leave it on for too long, or flat iron your hair too often, it can dry out or break your hair, and reduce the quality and health of your curls.

Here are the results for :

How to choose and use smoothing treatments for Curly Hair

Now that you know the pros and cons of 5 smoothing treatments for black hair, you might be wondering how to choose the best one for you. Here are some factors to consider:

Your hair type and texture:

• Different smoothing treatments may work better or worse on different hair types and textures. For example, if you have fine or thin hair, you might want to avoid heavy or greasy products that can weigh down your hair. If you have coarse or thick hair, you might want to look for products that can penetrate and moisturize your hair. If you have curly or kinky hair, you might want to decide whether you want to keep or loosen your curl pattern.

Your hair goals:

• Different smoothing treatments may offer different levels of smoothness, straightness, and frizz control. For example, if you want to achieve a sleek and straight look, you might want to opt for a keratin treatment that can break the bonds of your hair and make it straighter. If you want to maintain your natural texture and volume, you might want to go for a heat-activated treatment that can smooth and protect your hair without altering its shape.

Your budget and time:

• Different smoothing treatments may vary in cost and duration. For example, if you are on a tight budget or a busy schedule, you might want to choose a product that you can use at home and that does not require a lot of time or money. If you are willing to invest more in your hair, you might want to splurge on a salon treatment that can last longer and give you better results.

Once you have chosen a smoothing treatment for your curly hair, you need to follow some tips and recommendations on how to use and maintain it:

• Consult a professional: Before you get a smoothing treatment, especially a salon one, you should consult a professional stylist or trichologist who can assess your hair condition, history, and goals, and recommend the best product and technique for you. They can also perform a strand test to check how your hair reacts to the smoothing treatment and avoid any adverse effects.
• Do a strand test: before you apply any product to your entire hair, do a strand test on a small section of your hair, to see how your hair reacts to the product, and if you like the outcome.
• Follow the instructions and after care guidelines: Whether you use a smoothing treatment at home or at the salon, you should follow the instructions carefully and precisely. This includes using the right amount of product, applying it evenly and thoroughly, using the appropriate heat and ironing technique, and waiting for the recommended time before washing or styling your hair. You should also use the products that are compatible or recommended by the smoothing treatment, such as shampoos, conditioners, serums, or masks.
• Maintain your hair with proper care: To prolong the effect of your smoothing treatment and keep your hair healthy and beautiful, you should maintain your hair with proper care. This includes washing your hair less frequently, using sulfate-free and moisturizing products, avoiding chlorine and salt water, protecting your hair from sun exposure, and trimming your ends regularly. You should also deep condition your hair once a week and use a protein treatment once a month to restore the balance and strength of your hair.

Here is a summarized Table on the Different Types of Smoothing Treatments:

Conclusion

I hope this article helps you choose and use the best smoothing treatment for your black hair. If you have any questions, feedback, or experience to share, please leave a comment below or visit my website for more information. Thank you for reading and happy styling! 😊

References

Design Essentials. (n.d.). Designessentials.com. Retrieved March 1, 2024, from https://designessentials.com

Salerm Cosmetics | Experts in hair color and care. (n.d.). http://Www.salerm.com. Retrieved March 2, 2024, from https://www.salerm.com/us_en/

PETER COPPOLA | Keratin Smoothing Hair Treatments & Smoothing Products. (n.d.). Peter Coppola. Retrieved March 1, 2024, from https://www.petercoppola.com

Facebook. (n.d.). http://Www.facebook.com. Retrieved February 27, 2024, from https://www.facebook.com/BasicHair

Straight Request Products | A House Top-quality, Best Hair Products. (n.d.). Straight Request Official Website. Retrieved March 1, 2024, from https://straightrequestproducts.com

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