|
Step-By-Step
of Thermal Reconditioning
Amy explained that it is impossible to describe
all of the individual steps that occur during a
thermal reconditioning process. This is because
even though Yuko recommends a series of processing
steps, each practioner is encouraged to custom fit
the steps in the process to the individual hair
needs of each customer.
One thing is certain, all customers receive two
different applications of chemicals and their hair
is flat ironed at least twice. Of the two chemicals
applied, one is the protein bond busting chemical
formula while the other is a special Yuko chemical
neutralizer.
|
Karen M. Shelton
The Hair Boutique |
|
|
The chemicals remain on the hair for various time lengths ranging
from 5 to 20 minutes, again depending on the texture and condition
of the hair. The chemicals are applied at different points during
the multi-step reconditioning process.
Yuko manufactures two different patented heat irons that hold a
patent. Some thermal reconditioning specialists use both irons,
which consists of a small and large iron, while others only use
just one of the irons. Again, this is based on individual stylist
preferences. During the reconditioning process the Yuko iron is
applied to individual sections of the entire head of hair. Each
section is approximately 1/8” thick. Depending on the thickness
and length of the hair, this can take a long time to complete. The
Yuko irons heat up to 356 degrees. Depending on the condition of
the hair, the stylist may use various heat settings on hair that
ranges from wet to dry.
The last step in the process involves a second ironing of the hair
after it has been completely dried with a blow drier. At this point
the thermal reconditioning process is complete except for the required
after-care steps.
After Care
The most critical after-care factor is keeping the hair 100% bone
dry for a minimum of 48 hours after the process is completed. This
can be challenging in terms of bathing but it is essential that
this rule be strictly followed. The hair must remain 100% dry. Carry
an umbrella everywhere to make sure.
You must use the Yuko recommended products to maintain your straight
hair. Amy reports that “the after-care conditioner that comes with
the Yuko system is absolutely incredible”.
The thermal processing after-care hair products include:
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Blow Dry Essence
- Shine Spray
Challenging Side Effects
One of the rare complaints with the thermal reconditioning treatments
is that the hair may feel dry as a result of the chemicals. Whether
hair is relaxed the traditional way or the Yuko way, it generally
requires post-treatment deep conditioning and moisturizing on a
regular basis. The Yuko post-treatment products are designed to
counter any drying effects. If you need an extra moisture dosage,
ask your stylist to recommend a deep conditioner that you can use
in conjunction with the Yuko products.
Maintenance
For the majority of people, their hair remains perfectly sleek and
straight until curly re-growth appears at the roots. While there
is always an exception to every rule, once hair is straightened
chemically it remains straight until the roots grow to a certain
point. Depending on your hair, treatment need to be repeated every
three to nine months if you wish to retain the straight look.
If you decide to repeat treatment it is advisable that you return
to the stylist that performed the last thermal reconditioning process.
Not only will the stylist be familiar with your hair and condition,
they will make sure to only apply the chemicals to the root re-growth
and not over previously treated hair.
The Cost
So what does all this shiny sleekness cost? Like everything else
in the hair world, the cost ranges wildly depending on the location
and the needs of your hair. The price can range anywhere from $500
all the way up to $1,000+ depending on the condition and amount
of time it takes to work with your hair. Be sure to always get a
cost estimate during your evaluation consultation to make sure that
you don’t suffer checkbook shock after you have already had the
treatment applied.
Is the treatment really worth all the time and money? Salon professionals
along with curly haired men and women rave about the Yuko process.
If you dream of a life of stick straight locks, thermal reconditioning
might just be worth it for you too.
TR
The Inside Scoop Part 1., Introduction
to Thermal Reconditioning
TR
The Inside Scoop Part 2., Best
Candidates for Thermal Reconditioning
Discuss
this topic with others right now at the
Salon Discussion Board!
More
Thermal Reconditioning Articles By Karen M. Shelton
Chemical
Hair Straightening Faqs
Yuko
Founder's - Words Of Hair Care Wisdom
|
Karen
M. Shelton is the founder of HairBoutique.com
which has been featured in numerous magazines including
101 Celebrity Hairstyles, Today's Dallas Woman
Magazine, WE-Women's Enterprise, The National Enquirer,
American Salon Magazine and Self magazine,
as well as international publications.
Karen M. Shelton was featured in DFW Tech Biz
as winner of the Emerging CEO - Tech Titan award.
In 2001 Ms. Shelton joined 101 Celebrity Styles
& Short Cuts magazine as consumer hair editor.
|
|
|