There is nothing more tiring than dealing with frizzy hair. If you want sleek, straight hair but do not want to spend hours achieving it, you can benefit from a hair straightening treatment such as a Japanese or Brazilian Blowout.

They are popular treatments that help transform hair and create a straight appearance. But which of these salon treatments should you choose? We are here to help you decide between the Japanese and Brazilian Hair Straightening techniques.

Japanese vs Brazilian Hair Straightening: The Difference

Here at our hair wellness spa, we offer many hair straightening treatments, including the Brazilian Blowout. But what is the difference between it and the Japanese Hair Straightening technique?

Japanese Straightening

Japanese straightening or thermal reconditioning is a permanent hair straightening treatment originating from Japan.

The treatment uses chemicals to break down hair’s natural structure and reshape it into a straighter texture. Professional salons use a chemical solution with a flat iron to help transform the hair bonds.

You get long-lasting results, but it is worth noting that the treatments are best suited for curly and frizzy hair and are not recommended for bleached, damaged, or fine hair.

If you want a Japanese hair straightening, your stylist tests a strand before the treatment.

The Japanese Hair Straightening Process

The treatment starts with shampooing your hair to prepare it for your chemical solution. After your hair dries, the stylist will flat-iron the strands to help break the hair bonds and take on another form.

Once these steps are completed, your stylist will apply a neutralizer to set the straightened structure and follow it up with a conditioner to help nourish your hair. As you must have a person with expertise and precision doing the treatment, we recommend visiting a hair and scalp salon professional.

Pros and Cons of Japanese Straightening

With Japanese straightening, you get many benefits if you want to straighten your hair.

Pros:

• Long-lasting results until you notice new hair growth.
• Helps make your hair manageable, reducing styling time.
• Can wear different hairstyles, from curly to straight

Cons:

• You must use special hair care products and follow a dedicated hair care routine.
• Not advisable for fine or damaged hair, as it can cause further damage.
• It is time-consuming, and you must have a hair consultation to determine if it suits your hair.

Brazilian Blowout

Many people refer to the Brazilian blowout as a keratin treatment, but there is a difference between the two. Here at Haste, we provide both of these popular treatments.

The Brazilian blowout is another exceptional treatment that helps smooth and straighten hair and enhances shine. Unlike Japanese hair straightening, it is not permanent.

The treatment comprises a keratin-based solution that forms a protective layer around your hair cuticles, leaving it manageable and smooth. It is a beneficial treatment for frizzy, curly, or coarse hair.

Brazilian Blowout Process

With a Brazilian hair straightening treatment, you can achieve your desired look in several steps. We will shampoo your hair to remove buildup and apply a keratin solution.

We will then blow-dry and flat-iron your hair to seal the solution, creating a smooth texture. The keratin will add protein to your strands and reduce frizz while enhancing the shine. The process takes around 90 minutes to two hours, depending on hair length and thickness.

As with the Japanese straightening, we recommend you visit us for your Brazilian blowout.

Pros and Cons of Brazilian Blowout

The Brazilian blowout also offers you many benefits, as seen here:

Pros:

• You get straight, smooth hair to help reduce your styling time.
• Works on most hair types and does not leave you with a permanent change.
• It can make your hair more manageable and does not need special hair care products.

Cons:

• The treatments are not permanent and last 10 to 12 weeks.
• Does not suit you if you have very coarse and curly hair.
• Some of the products used for the treatment can have formaldehyde, resulting in scalp irritation.
• Not suitable to use if you have chemically treated or damaged hair.

Japanese vs Brazilian Hair Straightening Comparison

Great, now that you understand the difference between the Japanese and Brazilian hair straightening treatments, let’s compare the two to decide which one is better for you.

Factor	Brazilian Blowout	Japanese Hair Straightening
Time Consumption	Depending on hair length and density, this quicker process takes about 90 minutes to 2 hours. It’s ideal if you’re short on time.	Requires more time—usually 3 to 6 hours—due to its detailed, intensive process.
Cost	Generally, more budget-friendly. The process and products cost less but must be redone more frequently.	More expensive upfront due to the skill, time, and products involved, but requires fewer touch-ups.
Longevity	Lasts around 10 to 12 weeks. It’s a temporary smoothing treatment that gradually fades.	The results are long—lasting—the hair stays straight until new hair grows in, making it a semi-permanent to permanent option.

Brazilian Blowout vs Japanese Hair Straightening Aftercare

Aftercare Factor	Japanese Hair Straightening	Brazilian Blowout
Shampoo & Conditioner	Use moisturizing, treatment-safe products that support keratin and protein balance.	Stick to sulfate-free formulas to maintain the smooth, frizz-free finish of the blowout.
Heat Styling	Avoid flat irons and excessive heat to prevent damaging the straightened bonds.	Limit heat tools to reduce stress on treated strands and maintain the blowout effect.
Nourishing Treatments	Regular use of masks and serums helps nourish hair and keep it silky.	Deep conditioning treatments keep hair hydrated and sleek for longer.
Trims & Growth Management	Trim regularly to manage new growth and preserve the uniform, straightened look.	Less emphasis on trimming, though maintaining healthy ends is still encouraged.
Stylist Consultation	Personalized advice is essential, especially for texture-specific maintenance post-treatment.	A stylist can help tailor your routine to get the most from each session.
Additional Note	Avoid using flat irons to preserve the treated hair’s structural integrity.	Avoid sulfate products, as they can break down the treatment and dry out your hair.

Wrap-Up: Japanese vs Brazilian Hair Straightening

Both treatments offer benefits and drawbacks. Your choice depends on your hair type, preference, and lifestyle.

With Japanese hair straightening, you get permanent results but need special upkeep. The Brazilian blowout is semi-permanent and requires less maintenance, but does not provide long-lasting results.

We recommend you consider the time the treatment takes, longevity, price, and the results you want to achieve. If you opt for a Brazilian blowout, contact us today to schedule an appointment.

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