Chemical hair treatments have revolutionised the way we can transform and manage our hair, offering solutions for everything from stubborn curls to lacklustre locks. In Perth’s unique climate, understanding the various types of chemical hair treatments available, their benefits, and proper aftercare becomes even more crucial for achieving and maintaining the results you desire.
At Contact Hair Services, we’re passionate about helping our Perth clients navigate the world of chemical treatments safely and effectively. Whether you’re considering your first chemical treatment or looking to better care for previously treated hair, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to make informed decisions about your hair transformation journey.
Understanding Types of Chemical Hair Treatments
The world of chemical hair treatments encompasses a wide variety of procedures, each designed to achieve different results and cater to specific hair concerns. Understanding these different types of chemical hair treatments is essential before committing to any procedure, as each comes with its own set of benefits, considerations, and maintenance requirements.
Permanent Hair Straightening Treatments
Permanent hair straightening represents one of the most dramatic types of chemical hair treatments available today. These procedures work by breaking down the protein bonds in your hair and restructuring them to create a straighter pattern.
Traditional relaxers remain popular, particularly for those with very curly or coily hair textures. These treatments use strong chemicals like sodium hydroxide or calcium hydroxide to permanently alter the hair’s structure. The process typically takes 2-4 hours and results in significantly straighter hair that remains that way until new growth appears.
Brazilian keratin treatments offer a semi-permanent alternative that smooths hair and reduces frizz without completely straightening it. These treatments infuse the hair with keratin protein and can last 3-6 months, gradually fading with each wash. They’re particularly popular in Perth due to their ability to combat humidity-induced frizz during the warmer months.
Japanese straightening, also known as thermal reconditioning, creates poker-straight results that can last up to six months. This intensive process involves applying chemicals followed by heat styling to permanently reshape the hair’s internal structure.
Permanent Wave Treatments
On the opposite end of the spectrum, permanent wave treatments add curl and texture to naturally straight or limp hair. Modern perming techniques have evolved significantly from the tight, crunchy curls of decades past, now offering more natural-looking waves and curls.
Digital perms use heated rods to create soft, bouncy curls that look more natural when air-dried. These treatments are particularly popular among Perth clients who want to add body and movement to their hair without daily styling efforts.
Cold perms use chemical solutions without heat to create curls and waves. They tend to produce tighter, more defined curls and can be customised based on rod size and chemical strength.
Beach wave perms have gained popularity for creating that effortless, tousled look that’s perfect for Perth’s coastal lifestyle. These treatments create loose, natural-looking waves that enhance your hair’s movement and texture.
Hair Colouring Treatments
Chemical hair colouring treatments range from temporary colour glazes to permanent dye applications. Each type offers different levels of commitment and varying degrees of hair structure alteration.
Permanent hair colour penetrates the hair shaft and removes natural pigment while depositing new colour. This process involves opening the hair cuticle with ammonia and using peroxide to lighten natural pigment before depositing new colour molecules. We now have ammonia free versions of permanent colour which can successfully cover white hair etc. Emsibeth, Arpege Melody Oil and Emsibeth, Thermal Color are two examples of our ammonia free versions of permanent colour.
Semi-permanent colours don’t contain ammonia and only deposit colour without removing natural pigment. These treatments gradually fade over 4-8 weeks and are gentler on the hair structure.
Bleaching represents one of the most intensive chemical treatments, involving the complete removal of natural pigment to achieve very light colours or to prepare hair for vibrant fashion shades. This process requires careful consideration and expert application to minimise damage.
Keratin and Protein Treatments
Reconstructive protein treatments help strengthen damaged hair by temporarily filling in gaps in the hair’s protein structure. These treatments are particularly beneficial for hair that has been previously chemically processed or damaged by environmental factors.
Keratin smoothing treatments differ from straightening treatments by focusing on smoothing the hair cuticle rather than permanently altering the hair’s structure. These treatments reduce frizz and improve manageability while maintaining some of the hair’s natural texture.
Chemical Hair Treatment — Before & After Considerations
Understanding what happens during chemical hair treatment before and after the procedure is crucial for achieving optimal results and maintaining your hair’s health throughout the process.
Pre-Treatment Preparation
Before any chemical treatment, your hair and scalp need proper preparation to ensure the best possible outcome. This preparation phase typically begins several weeks before your appointment and involves specific steps designed to optimise your hair’s condition. Scalp protection is a must during any chemical service. The ever effective THERMAL PH spray is ideal for pre and post scalp protection.
Deep conditioning treatments in the weeks leading up to your chemical service help ensure your hair is in the best possible condition. However, avoid deep conditioning immediately before certain treatments, as this can create a barrier that prevents proper chemical penetration.
Avoid washing your hair for 24-48 hours before most chemical treatments, as natural oils provide some protection for your scalp during the chemical process. Your stylist will advise you on the specific preparation requirements for your chosen treatment.
Hair analysis is a crucial pre-treatment step that involves assessing your hair’s porosity, elasticity, and previous chemical history. This analysis helps determine the appropriate chemical strength and processing time for your specific hair type.
Strand testing should always be performed before any chemical treatment to predict how your hair will react to the chosen chemicals. This small-scale test helps prevent unexpected results and allows for adjustments to be made before treating your entire head.
During the Treatment
The chemical hair treatment before and after process involves careful monitoring and precise timing to achieve optimal results while minimising damage. Professional application is essential, as chemical treatments require expert knowledge of product chemistry and hair science.
Processing time varies significantly depending on your hair type, desired results, and the specific treatment being performed. Your stylist will monitor your hair’s response throughout the process and make adjustments as needed.
Immediate Post-Treatment Care
The first 48-72 hours after a chemical treatment are critical for the longevity and success of your results. During this time, your hair’s new structure is still setting, and proper care is essential.
Avoid washing your hair for the specified period recommended by your stylist, which can range from 24 hours for some treatments to up to 72 hours for others. This waiting period allows the chemical process to fully complete and the hair’s new structure to stabilise.
Heat styling should be avoided during the initial post-treatment period, as your hair may be more vulnerable to damage while the chemical process completes. If you must use heat, apply a thermal protectant and use the lowest effective temperature.
Avoid tight hairstyles, hair accessories, and anything that might create creases or indentations in freshly treated hair. Sleep on silk or satin pillowcases to reduce friction and maintain your treatment results.
Cost of Chemical Hair Treatment in Perth
Understanding the cost of chemical hair treatment helps you budget appropriately and ensures you’re getting fair value for professional services. Pricing in Perth varies significantly based on several factors, including the type of treatment, salon location, stylist experience, and your hair’s length and condition.
Factors That Affect Cost
Hair length and thickness significantly impact pricing, as longer and thicker hair requires more product and processing time. Most salons structure their pricing in tiers based on hair length, with additional charges for extremely thick or long hair.
Treatment complexity also influences cost, with more intensive procedures like Japanese straightening or major colour transformations commanding higher prices than simpler treatments like basic highlights or semi-permanent colour.
Salon location and reputation affect pricing, with premium salons in central Perth typically charging more than suburban locations. However, the additional cost often reflects higher quality products, more experienced stylists, and better facilities.
Product quality varies significantly between salons, with some using premium professional lines while others opt for more budget-friendly options. Higher-quality products typically produce better results and cause less damage, making them worth the additional investment.
Typical Price Ranges
Basic chemical treatments in Perth typically range from $80 to $200 for services like basic colour touch-ups, semi-permanent colour, or simple perms. These treatments usually take 1-3 hours to complete and involve standard chemical processes.
Mid-range treatments, including full colour changes, basic straightening treatments, or complex colour work, generally cost between $200 and $500. These services require more time, expertise, and product, reflecting their increased complexity.
Premium treatments such as Japanese straightening, major colour transformations, or corrective colour work can range from $500 to $1200 or more. These intensive services often require multiple sessions and extensive expertise to achieve optimal results safely.
Maintenance costs should also be factored into your budget, as most chemical treatments require regular touch-ups or special care products to maintain results. Root touch-ups typically cost 50-70% of the original treatment price and are needed every 6-12 weeks depending on your hair growth rate.
Getting Value for Your Investment
Research potential salons thoroughly, reading reviews and examining before and after photos of their work. A slightly higher upfront cost often proves more economical than dealing with damage from poorly executed treatments.
Consultation fees are typically applied toward your service cost and provide an opportunity to discuss your goals, assess your hair’s condition, and receive professional recommendations before committing to a treatment.
Package deals or loyalty programmes offered by many Perth salons can provide significant savings for clients who maintain regular treatment schedules. Ask about these options during your consultation.
Best Shampoo for Chemically Treated Hair
Selecting the best shampoo for chemically treated hair is crucial for maintaining your treatment results and keeping your hair healthy. Chemically treated hair has different needs than natural hair, requiring specialised care to maintain its new structure and prevent damage.
Understanding Chemically Treated Hair Needs
Chemically treated hair often has increased porosity, meaning it absorbs and loses moisture more quickly than untreated hair. This characteristic necessitates shampoos that provide gentle cleansing while helping to seal the hair cuticle and lock in moisture.
pH balance becomes critical for chemically treated hair, as many chemical processes temporarily alter the hair’s natural pH level. The best shampoo for chemically treated hair maintains a slightly acidic pH of 4.5-5.5, which helps close the hair cuticle and lock in colour and treatment results.
Protein content in shampoos can benefit chemically treated hair by helping to strengthen the hair shaft and improve elasticity. However, too much protein can make hair feel stiff and brittle, so finding the right balance is essential.
Ingredients to Look For
Sulfate-free formulations are generally recommended for chemically treated hair, as sulfates can be overly stripping and may fade colour or weaken chemical treatment results. Look for gentle cleansing agents like cocamidopropyl betaine or sodium cocoyl glutamate instead.
Moisturising ingredients such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and natural oils help combat the dryness that often accompanies chemical treatments. These ingredients help maintain your hair’s moisture balance and improve its overall condition.
UV protection ingredients like benzophenone-4 or ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate help protect your hair colour and treatment results from sun damage, which is particularly important in Perth’s sunny climate.
Keratin and amino acids can help strengthen chemically treated hair by temporarily filling in gaps in the hair’s protein structure. These ingredients are particularly beneficial for hair that has undergone bleaching or straightening treatments.
Specific Product Recommendations
Colour-safe shampoos are essential for maintaining vibrant hair colour and preventing premature fading. These formulations are typically sulfate-free and contain ingredients that help lock in colour molecules.
Smoothing shampoos work well for chemically straightened hair, containing ingredients that help maintain sleek results and control frizz. These shampoos often include silicones or natural oils that provide smoothing benefits.
Clarifying shampoos should be used sparingly, perhaps once a week or bi-weekly, to remove product buildup that can weigh down chemically treated hair and interfere with styling results.
Deep cleansing treatments can be beneficial for removing chlorine, hard water minerals, and styling product buildup that can accumulate on chemically treated hair, but should be used judiciously to avoid over-stripping.
Shampooing Techniques
Frequency of washing should be reduced for most chemically treated hair, as overwashing can strip colour and weaken treatment results. Most chemically treated hair benefits from washing 2-3 times per week rather than daily.
Water temperature matters significantly for chemically treated hair. Use lukewarm water for washing and finish with a cool rinse to help seal the hair cuticle and lock in moisture and colour.
Application technique should focus the shampoo on your scalp rather than the lengths of your hair, allowing the runoff to gently cleanse the rest of your hair without over-manipulating chemically treated strands.
Safe Chemical Treatments for Damaged Hair
When dealing with previously damaged hair, finding safe chemical treatments for damaged hair becomes a delicate balance between achieving desired results and preventing further harm. Understanding your options and limitations is crucial for making informed decisions about chemical processing on compromised hair.
Assessing Hair Damage
Before considering any chemical treatment, a thorough damage assessment is essential. This evaluation examines factors like elasticity, porosity, strength, and the extent of existing damage to determine what treatments, if any, are safe to perform.
Elasticity testing involves stretching a wet strand of hair to see how much it extends before breaking. Healthy hair should stretch 40-50% of its length and return to its original state. Hair with poor elasticity may not be suitable for chemical treatments.
Porosity testing helps determine how well your hair absorbs and retains moisture. Highly porous hair from previous damage may not process chemicals evenly and could be more prone to further damage from additional treatments.
Strand testing becomes even more critical with damaged hair, as it helps predict how your hair will respond to chemicals and allows for adjustments to processing time and chemical strength.
Treatment Options for Damaged Hair
Reconstructive treatments should typically precede any chemical processing on damaged hair. These treatments help strengthen the hair’s protein structure and improve its ability to withstand chemical processing.
Gentle chemical alternatives may be more appropriate for damaged hair. For example, a demi-permanent colour instead of permanent colour, or a keratin smoothing treatment instead of a chemical relaxer.
Progressive treatments involve breaking down desired changes into multiple, gentler sessions rather than attempting dramatic changes in a single appointment. This approach allows hair to recover between treatments and reduces the risk of severe damage.
Corrective colour work requires particular expertise when dealing with damaged hair, as multiple processes may be needed to achieve desired results while maintaining hair integrity.
Professional Recommendations
Consultation with experienced professionals is essential when considering safe chemical treatments for damaged hair. These experts can assess your hair’s condition and recommend appropriate treatments or alternatives.
Treatment spacing becomes crucial with damaged hair, often requiring longer periods between chemical services to allow for proper recovery and conditioning treatments.
Alternative solutions might be recommended for severely damaged hair, such as temporary styling methods, clip-in extensions, or protective styles that give the appearance of chemical treatment results without further damage.
Realistic expectations need to be established when working with damaged hair, as the results may not be as dramatic as those achieved on healthy hair, and the process may take longer to complete safely.
Aftercare for Chemically Treated Damaged Hair
Intensive conditioning protocols are typically necessary for hair that has undergone chemical treatment while already damaged. This may include weekly deep conditioning treatments, regular protein treatments, and daily leave-in conditioners.
Heat styling limitations become even more important with chemically treated damaged hair. Reducing heat exposure and using lower temperatures when heat styling is necessary can prevent further damage.
Protective styling can help shield chemically treated damaged hair from environmental stressors and reduce daily manipulation that could lead to breakage.
Regular monitoring of hair condition allows for quick intervention if additional damage occurs, potentially saving your hair from more severe problems.
Professional vs. At-Home Chemical Treatments
While at-home chemical treatment kits are readily available in Perth stores, understanding the differences between professional and DIY treatments is crucial for making informed decisions about your hair’s health and the results you can expect to achieve.
Professional treatments offer expertise, custom formulations, and proper damage assessment that at-home kits simply cannot match. Professional stylists understand hair chemistry, can adjust formulations based on your hair’s specific needs, and can handle unexpected situations that may arise during chemical processing.
Quality control in professional settings ensures that chemicals are fresh, properly mixed, and applied evenly. Professional products are typically stronger and more effective than consumer versions, requiring expert knowledge for safe application.
Insurance and liability coverage protects you in the unlikely event that something goes wrong during professional treatment, providing recourse that isn’t available with at-home applications.
Maintaining Your Chemical Treatment Results
Long-term success with chemical hair treatments depends heavily on proper maintenance and care. Establishing a routine that supports your treatment results while keeping your hair healthy requires commitment and the right products and techniques.
Regular touch-ups are necessary for most chemical treatments, with timing varying based on your hair growth rate and the specific treatment you’ve received. Planning and budgeting for these maintenance appointments ensures your results remain optimal.
Product selection plays a crucial role in maintaining treatment results. Using products specifically designed for your type of chemical treatment helps preserve results and prevent premature fading or damage.
Lifestyle adjustments may be necessary to protect your chemical treatment investment. This might include wearing UV protection, avoiding chlorinated water, or adjusting your exercise routine to minimise sweating immediately after treatment.
Understanding how Perth’s climate affects your chemically treated hair allows you to make seasonal adjustments to your care routine, ensuring optimal results year-round.
Conclusion
Chemical hair treatments offer exciting possibilities for transforming your hair and achieving the look you desire. However, success depends on understanding the various types of chemical hair treatments available, properly preparing for the process, investing in quality professional services, and committing to appropriate aftercare.
At Contact Hair Services, we’re committed to helping Perth residents navigate their chemical treatment journey safely and successfully. Our experienced team understands the unique challenges of maintaining chemically treated hair in Perth’s climate and can provide personalised recommendations based on your hair’s specific needs and your lifestyle requirements.
Whether you’re considering your first chemical treatment or looking to better care for previously treated hair, remember that your hair’s health should always be the top priority. With proper care, professional expertise, and realistic expectations, chemical treatments can enhance your natural beauty and provide you with the hair you’ve always dreamed of having.
