The practice of hairdressing or styling is undoubtedly not a brainchild of post-modernism. In fact, despite being a widely popular technique since the 1890s, hair straightening or relaxing dates back to the New Kingdom or the Egyptian Empire.
During the time of Queen Cleopatra, flat iron plates were used to straighten hair. Being of Greek descent, it is believed that the Queen naturally possessed curly locks. In any case, one thing is certain she comes down in history as a ‘woman with irresistible charm and beauty.’
Even today, hair straightening methods aim to achieve a certain flowy, cascading look often associated with femininity. The only difference is that there are plenty of options to choose from. The two most common choices women have include heat-based hair straightening and chemical-based relaxing.
Which one is the best? If you’re also sitting on the fence with this question, this article will clear your doubt. We will compare the two hair straightening treatments to conclude whether one is truly better than the other.
Understanding How Each Hair Straightening Treatment Works
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Now, heat-based hair straightening is similar to the ancient practice of the Egyptians. The contemporary heat hair straightener is even designed somewhat similarly to the aforementioned flat iron plates.
The heating elements become hot when the straightener is plugged in, and the straightening plates transfer the heat to the hair shaft. The principle here is to break down a hair’s natural hydrogen bonds. Also, keratin is a unique protein that imparts the hair strand its strength.
When tightly held between straightening plates, the heat causes the keratin chains to move from their original position. As a result, the hair strands assume a more relaxed look. Heat-based hair straightening is temporary and usually lasts up to five days or until the next wash.
Chemical hair straighteners are available in the form of lotions and creams. According to Healthline, this treatment can be done at home or in a salon by a professional. A chemical solution is applied to the hair strands which alters the proteins in the hair.
One needs to wait for several hours so that the solution infuses the hair for maximum results. This method of hair straightening is said to be ‘permanent’ in the sense that its effects can last for several months or until new hair starts growing.
Pros and Cons of Each Method
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Let’s start with a word of caution – there is no failsafe method to straighten your hair. This is because there are risks involved with each treatment. In terms of benefits, we can talk about suitability.
In other words, heat hair straightening is ideal for those who switch between curly and straight hairstyles. That way, it becomes possible to rock a whole different look every other day. Also, the heat-based method is the best for women with wavy hair or mildly coiled curls.
On the other hand, chemical-based hair straightening/relaxing is a more powerful treatment ideal for those who want a permanently straight hair look. Just a reminder – the ‘permanence’ is relative depending on in-home (six weeks) or salon treatments (four to six months).
Moreover, women with kinky curls or tightly coiled hair would find chemical hair straightening more effective. It is precisely why this method is the most popular among Black women. With that being said, let’s talk about the risks involved with each method.
When it comes to heat-based hair straighteners, the majority of risks boil down to using the tool responsibly. The heat can easily cause burns, dry out the strands, and make the hair more brittle and prone to breakage. Also, if the tool is used on damp hair, it will only accelerate the damaging process. Some women may even complain about itchy scalp or split ends issues.
As for chemical hair straightening, its complications are more serious. Does this process involve the risks of heat treatment? Yes, the hair follicles may permanently lose their ability to hold their natural shape, the strands may become dry and brittle, and the scalp may itch.
However, what’s truly concerning is formaldehyde – a chemical and known carcinogen commonly used in permanent hair relaxing treatments. Studies have discovered that this chemical has caused women to develop cancer of the uterus and breasts. The incidence is higher among Black women who commonly rely on chemical hair straightening treatments.
Thousands of women have sued chemical hair relaxer manufacturers like Revlon and L’Oreal. Plaintiffs of the hair straightener lawsuit have alleged that the manufacturers chose to hold back information regarding the injuries despite being aware of them.
So, it turns out that it was all a matter of keeping profits over women’s lives. According to TorHoerman Law’s latest update, over 8,200 lawsuits have been filed to date. Attorneys are still accepting more filings, and trials will be held to determine individual payouts.
When in Doubt, Rock Your Natural Hair!
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As we discussed, both hair straightening treatments have their pros and cons. However, the only question one needs to ask is whether they’re willing to take a risk with their life for a certain hairstyle.
Heat-based hair treatments are at least non-toxic in the sense that they do not carry the risk of cancer. So, women can enjoy the straight hair look every once in a while. Even so, it is always best to wear nature’s gifts with pride.
In other words, a woman should rock her natural hair. Not only is it the healthiest option, but wearing natural hair promotes better growth, helps save money, and is an unmistakable sign of self-acceptance. What’s more is that numerous natural hairstyles are available like buns, puffs, braids, crowns, blow-outs, etc.
As per GlobeNewswire, the worldwide hair straightener market is expected to reach a value of $759.9 million by 2028. It is currently growing at a rate of 4.2% each year. Hair straightening products are vital personal grooming tools to manage hair effectively.
However, it is best to stick with safe alternatives to chemical-based treatments like flat irons, keratin treatments, thermal reconditioning, and Brazilian blowouts. The best of all would certainly be rocking a natural hair look no matter the color, texture, or length!
