What Products Should I Use After Japanese Thermal Reconditioning?

After investing in a Japanese Thermal Reconditioning treatment, it is natural to wonder whether you need to overhaul your entire product routine to maintain your results. The good news is that your day to day routine does not need to change dramatically. That said, using the right products can make a noticeable difference in how your hair looks and feels between appointments.

YOU CAN KEEP YOUR EXISTING PRODUCTS

Japanese Thermal Reconditioning does not require a specific product regimen to maintain the straightening results. The treatment permanently restructures your hair, so it will stay straight regardless of what shampoo or conditioner you use. You do not need to throw out what you already have.

WHY WE RECOMMEND MILBON

At Junko Hair Studios, we use and retail the Milbon product line because it is the same brand behind the LISCIO system we use for all of our JTR treatments. Milbon products are formulated with the health and condition of professionally treated hair in mind, which makes them a natural fit for clients who have had JTR. 

For clients looking to get the most out of their JTR results, we recommend two products from the Milbon line that we carry in the salon:

• Milbon Repair Restorative Shampoo is a gentle, conditioning shampoo designed to cleanse while supporting the strength and integrity of chemically treated hair. It cleans thoroughly without stripping the hair of moisture, which helps keep JTR treated hair feeling smooth and healthy between appointments.

• Milbon Repair Restorative Treatment is a deep conditioning treatment that replenishes moisture and reinforces the hair's structure from the inside out. Used regularly, it keeps your hair looking its best from your initial JTR appointment all the way through to your next touch-up.

Together these two products work well as a simple, effective routine for maintaining the condition of your hair after JTR without overcomplicating things.

ASK US IN THE SALON 

If you are not sure which products are right for your specific hair type, ask your stylist at your next appointment. We are happy to walk you through what we carry and make a recommendation based on what we see in your hair.

How Often Will I Need Japanese Thermal Reconditioning Touch-Ups?

One of the things clients appreciate most about Japanese Thermal Reconditioning is that once the treatment is done, it is done. The hair that has been treated stays straight permanently. The only thing that changes over time is your roots growing in with your natural texture. Here is what to expect when that happens.

THE AVERAGE TOUCH-UP TIMELINE

Most clients come back for a touch-up every 6 to 12 months. That said, this varies from person to person depending on how quickly your hair grows and the strength of your natural curl or wave. Some clients find they want to come in a little sooner, others are comfortable waiting longer. Your stylist can help you figure out the right schedule for your hair.

WHAT HAPPENS AT A TOUCH-UP APPOINTMENT

At your touch-up appointment, your stylist will apply the JTR treatment only to the new growth at your roots. The previously treated hair does not need to be retreated. In addition to the root touch-up, your stylist will also provide a complete conditioning treatment for the rest of your hair to keep it healthy, smooth, and shiny from root to tip.

Touch-up appointments generally take 3 to 4 hours.

HOW TO KNOW WHEN IT IS TIME

The most obvious sign is visible new growth at your roots with a different texture than the rest of your hair. Some clients are comfortable with a bit of contrast and wait until it becomes more noticeable, while others prefer to come in as soon as they start to see new growth. Either approach works.

Can I Curl My Hair After Japanese Thermal Reconditioning?

A question we hear often from clients considering Japanese Thermal Reconditioning is whether the treatment locks them into wearing their hair straight forever. The answer is no. Here is what you need to know about styling your hair after JTR.

JTR IS PERMANENT BUT NOT LIMITING

Japanese Thermal Reconditioning permanently straightens your hair, meaning it will not revert back to its natural curl or wave pattern on its own. However, that does not mean you are limited to one look. After the recommended waiting period following your treatment, you are free to use a curling iron, wand, or any other styling tool to create waves, curls, or volume whenever you want.

The difference is that now you are choosing when to add texture rather than fighting to remove it every day.

THE WAITING PERIOD

During the first 72 hours after your JTR treatment, your hair needs time to fully complete the neutralizing process. During this window you should avoid all heat styling tools, hair ties, and accessories. Once the 72 hours have passed and you have washed your hair at least once, you can style it however you like. 

STYLING AFTER JTR

Many of our clients find that their hair actually holds curl better after JTR because it starts from a smooth, consistent base. Rather than fighting frizz and uneven texture, you are working with hair that responds predictably to whatever style you want to create.

For clients who enjoy variety in their look, JTR offers the best of both worlds. Straight and sleek on days when you want easy and effortless, and curled or wavy when you feel like something different.

HAVE MORE QUESTIONS? 

Our team at Junko Hair Studios in Atlanta is happy to answer any questions about what life looks like after Japanese Thermal Reconditioning. All JTR services begin with a complimentary consultation.

Does Japanese Thermal Reconditioning Contain Formaldehyde?

If you have been researching hair straightening treatments, you may have come across concerns about formaldehyde. It is a fair question and one we hear often at Junko Hair Studios. Here is what you need to know.

JTR AND FORMALDEHYDE

Japanese Thermal Reconditioning does not contain formaldehyde. This is one of the key differences between JTR and other straightening treatments on the market, and it is an important one.

The confusion often comes from lumping all hair straightening treatments into the same category. Brazilian Blowouts and some keratin treatments have been associated with formaldehyde exposure, which has raised legitimate health concerns over the years. Japanese Thermal Reconditioning is a fundamentally different process and does not involve formaldehyde at any stage.

WHAT JUNKO USES INSTEAD

At Junko Hair Studios, our stylists use the LISCIO line of products by Milbon for all Japanese Thermal Reconditioning treatments. LISCIO is a professional grade Japanese straightening system that works by restructuring the hair's natural protein bonds using a conditioning solution and a flat iron. No formaldehyde, no harsh chemical fumes.

The result is permanently straight, silky hair that has been treated with a conditioning focused approach rather than a chemical relaxing one.

WHY IT MATTERS

For clients who spend hours in a salon chair during a JTR appointment, knowing what is in the products being used matters. The LISCIO system is designed with both results and hair health in mind, which is part of why it has been the professional standard for Japanese Thermal Reconditioning for decades.

If you have specific product sensitivities or concerns, bring them up during your consultation. Our stylists are happy to walk you through exactly what is used and answer any questions before you commit to the treatment.

Can I Color My Hair After Japanese Thermal Reconditioning?

One of the most common questions we hear after a Japanese Thermal Reconditioning appointment is whether it is safe to color the hair afterward. The short answer is yes, but there are a few things worth knowing before you schedule your color appointment.

WAIT AT LEAST FOUR WEEKS

After your JTR treatment, we recommend waiting a minimum of four weeks before coloring or highlighting your hair. The treatment alters the structure of your hair at a molecular level, and coloring too soon adds additional stress to hair that is still in its recovery period. Giving your hair a full month to stabilize before introducing another chemical process leads to better results and healthier hair overall. 

TALK TO YOUR STYLIST BEFORE YOUR JTR APPOINTMENT

If you are planning to color your hair and are also considering Japanese Thermal Reconditioning, bring it up during your consultation. The order and timing of these services can affect the outcome of both, and your stylist will be able to put together a plan that works for your hair specifically. Coming in with a clear picture of what you want makes it much easier to get there.

USE YOUR JTR STYLIST FOR COLOR IF POSSIBLE

If you do decide to color your hair after your JTR treatment, we recommend using the same stylist who performed your Japanese Thermal Reconditioning. Your JTR stylist is already familiar with your hair's history and condition, which puts them in the best position to tailor the color process to your specific situation. This is especially important for more complex color work like highlights or balayage on JTR treated hair.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Coloring your hair after Japanese Thermal Reconditioning is absolutely possible and many of our clients do it regularly. The key is giving your hair enough time to recover first and communicating openly with your stylist so they can guide you through the process safely.

If you have questions about combining JTR with color services, our team at Junko Hair Studios in Atlanta is happy to talk through your options during a consultation.

How to Care for Your Hair After Japanese Thermal Reconditioning

You just completed your Japanese Thermal Reconditioning treatment and your hair has never looked better. To get the most out of your results, there are a few simple guidelines to follow in the days after your appointment. Your stylist will walk you through everything before you leave, but here is a helpful overview to refer back to.

THE FIRST 72 HOURS

For the first three days after your treatment, your hair needs time to fully complete the neutralizing process. Keeping it dry and free of any tension during this window gives you the best possible long term results.

A few things to keep in mind during this time:

• Keep your hair dry. Avoid shampooing, swimming, and exposure to rain or humidity. A steamy bathroom can introduce enough moisture to affect your hair, so leave the bathroom door open when showering.

• Skip your workout for three days. Even light perspiration can introduce moisture at your roots, so it is best to hold off on exercise until the 72 hours are up.

• Wear your hair down. Hair ties, headbands, clips, and accessories should all be set aside for now. Leaving your hair completely down, including while you sleep, allows it to settle into its new position without any creasing or tension. 

If your hair does get wet, simply blow dry it with the dryer pointed downward toward the ends, keeping it moving to distribute the heat evenly. Follow up with a gentle pass of a flat iron on a low setting and you will be fine.

AFTER THE 72 HOURS

Once three days have passed, you can return to your normal routine. Before pulling your hair up into a ponytail or any other style, wash it at least once first to allow it to fully settle.

You do not need to switch to any special products. Your existing shampoo, conditioner, and styling products are all fine to use. If you would like product recommendations tailored to your hair, your stylist at Junko Hair Studios is happy to help. 

LONG TERM CARE

Japanese Thermal Reconditioning permanently straightens the hair that has been treated. As your natural texture grows back in at the roots, most clients come in for a touch up every 10 to 12 months. Your touch up appointment will also include a full conditioning treatment for the rest of your hair to keep it healthy and looking its best.

READY TO BOOK?

If you have not yet experienced Japanese Thermal Reconditioning, our team at Junko Hair Studios in Atlanta would love to help. All JTR services begin with a complimentary consultation so we can take a look at your hair and make sure the treatment is a good fit for you.

Knowing your hair type/Natural Hair

If you read this blog, you will see that I write about Atlanta a lot. What can I tell you? I was born and raised in our fair city and lets just face it, you wouldn't be on this site reading this if you weren't either currently in Atlanta, or coming.  Atlanta has a lot of weather issues that demand attention so that you can wear your best head of hair, let's be honest, Atlanta is one of the most sought after places in the nation. People want to look their best all the time. We have developed a stylish culture, and we create trends that suite our individuality, as well as hit the mainstream and speak for multiple generations. 

One of the largest and most satisfying trends that I have seen come back is the natural hair movement. AND IT IS A MOVEMENT. There are diverse nationalities of people with all different types and textures of hair that have done away with extensions, relaxers, straightening systems and the like. Pop culture calls for it, the carefree embrace it,  and the professional world is more accepting of the individuality of the people that make their business work. 

As I write this, it calls to mind that in order for this to work, you have to know what works for you. What is the proper way to care for your natural state of hair no matter the length?Conditioning, styling, how can you change it up? You have to get in touch with your hair type  in order to be able to answer all of these things that arise. 

Hair classification systems range from straight, fine hair, to kinky thick hair. Knowing your hair type can help you determine what it is that you can and can't do, and what will look best on you as far as your personal style is concerned. 

Types of Hair

2A Wavy- this is a light and fine curl pattern that is easily manageable. Think of a light "s". Styling is usually pretty easy and you should stick with a light to medium hol depending on the style that you are going for.

2B Wav- this is a pattern that is a bit more of a proper "s" pattern. There will be more frizz and it sticks closer to the head. Not very good when it comes to styling. You should probably use a medium hold mousse or hairspray/gel when styling with this hair type. 

2C Wavy- this is a thicker and courser hair type. It does not like being styled at all and the frizz is on high. There is usually (with most people with this hair type)  and underlayer of straight to ringlet like hair with this curl pattern.  When styling you are going to want to use a firm gel to make sure that the product isn't worn off

3A Curl- these are your big loopy/springy curls. Easily straightened, this hair type is also very affected by the environment. Here in Atlanta, there will be a definite change in your style. Alot of people like this hair type to show off those curls! use curl defining cremes for this result or to haintain your straight look make sure that you are using a good conditioner and a medium hairspray at the least. 

3B Curl- This hair type is a springy curl. They can range from that springy to a tight ringlet. Not as style friendly, and hard to straighten, but these things can still be done. For styling you should use a creme or a gel to define curls and manage. 

3C Curl- Thick and course, this hair type is one that can be straightened with some work, but it isn't as friendly as the other type 3 curls. Your curls sit off of the head and are great for a wild rebellious look. Use products that are high in hold, gives definition and use a good conditioner. use olaplex if you are coloring because these curls don't hold moisture as well so it is easily damaged. Condition as often as possible. 

4A Coil- This hair pattern has a tight coil with a definitive "s" pattern. It can be wiry or fine, but its very dense. Because of its layering (there's less) it is more prone to damage. It's summer time in Atlanta and the sun is hot. If you are constantly in this heat or you work out alot, make sure that you wash with a conditioning cleanser (or Co-Wash) for regular use. You don't want to strip out you natural oils. I suggest that you do a deep cleanse at least once a week to make sure that you are cleaning the build up and dirt, but daily maintenance and cleaning should be done with a co-wash. Deep Condition as often as possible, or you can use natural Jojoba Oil, which is the closest thing to sebum to prevent breakage and naturally scrape away build up. 

4B Coil- this has a tighter curl pattern than 4A. It is known to shrink and can do so up to 3/4 of its length, so it can be tricky to cut or style so be sure to guide your stylist if they don't know your hair already. Co-washing is a must. Deep conditioning with a masque or a cream will be your best answer for moisture. 

4C Coil-This is generally the most course, although this curl pattern CAN be baby soft and thin. Its a very dense curl pattern and mostly lacks definition due to the tightness of the curls. Care is basically the same as with 4B. Deep conditioning treatments are always a good idea. 

So there you have it! With Atlanta being a very fashion forward city and the natural hair movement thriving, its so important that when you are getting your hair cut, colored, styled, straightened, locked. braided, or if you are are just flying free and 'froed out, proper care and maintenance is key to healthy natural hair. With the tips provided above, you will be able to withstand this Atlanta heat. 

The Fall

Atliens! We are here. This great city is about to turn its colors and its time for you to do the same.  Now summer isn't completely gone and the fun isn't quite over, so the highlights aren't leaving us yet, however they are being toned down with low lights and transmuted into honeys and strawberry tones for the fall. 

For those of you that want to take this a little further, Bronde is a new thing.  I'm not saying that Ombre is going anywhere, but Bronde's presence is strong this year. What I've noticed is a strong presence of your base color with subtle hues of a highlight (here are the honeys) showing in shimmering fashion. 

Another form of the "bronde" is a style that is becoming popular is Tortoiseshell Hair. What I've read is that this is a general blend of Ombre and Sombre. Atlanta we have enough stars around here to see this up close and personal should you run into them. Its a color style that add dimension showing roots and is easily kept. Touch up time is generally 8 weeks and even longer depending on your stylist and care. 

Copper is Gold! Period. You can mix them add dimension, volume can even appear with the right stylist. Add a few highlights or go full on to soften your entire look. Allow me to refer back to the strawberry copper movement that I mentioned earlier. When I say that this is a movement it is. You can dress it up or rag it out for an alternative fashion easy weekend. 

Buttery Blonde is another way to soften those highlights or when you have just been in the sun entirely too long.  The mellow yellow brings warmth for the cooling weather and is a great response to the changing of the leaves.

These are simply a few trends that I'm seeing that are super hot for this fall. There are many more available for you on line. The biggest importance is your originality and doing what works best for you. Its okay to take on a new look or style. Give us a call to schedule a consultation, we will make sure that we give you the perfect color for your individual style.

COLOR!

Here we are in the spring time and today the weather is almost 80 degrees and the sun is shining.  Tis the season for highlights, color, brightness. We need the hues of the spring. It puts that extra bounce in our step and reflects the moments that we create in our lives. 

Right now in Junko Hair Studio there is a continuing education class on color that we have done for our stylists. this helps more that just us, it helps you the client, because the more that we know the more opportunities  you have to have fun with your colors for this wonderful spring. 

Winter Time Worry!!!

Wintertime doesn't mix with your hair very well. The drying effects of the cold weather (and we are about to have some Atlanta) bring a whole lot of issues. Cold air strips your hair of moisture and can cause breakage, dry frizz (when mixed with static electricity- I know about this as it happens to me constantly), and can even cause dandruff if not taken care of promptly and correctly.

You CAN Beat This!!

Aveda's Damage Remedy Restructuring Shampoo works wonders for these issues. Its a great combination of a moisturizing shampoo that is sulfate free, (uses a secondary cleanser instead of sulfate surfactants) and has conditioning properties infused with proteins to strengthen the follicle. It's important not to strip your scalp and hair of its moisture with harsh cleansers, especially with the dryness that winter weather brings.

Conditioning regularly is important. It keeps down static electricity when dry frizz blows your hair every which way and can make for the worst hair day. The wind is blowing in  Atlanta tonight so make sure that you are conditioning and guarding your hair from the element with a silk scarf or something that won't allow the static to build up.

Make sure that you are trimming the split ends. Your hair works really hard to fix them and it can cause extra frizz. Come by the salon for a quick trim to beat that damage. You can give us a call at (404) 814-1827 or book an appointment online.

Keep warm and keep it up. Your hair will appreciate it.

Products

Products are super important when styling, coloring, or maintaining your hair. What's important, is that you find the product that fits your specific needs. We have a product list and they vary for each individuals needs. Deep conditioning, styling, blow-dry, volumize, color care, What does it all mean? well it means that you have to do a lot of digging and there is a lot of trial and error involved. make sure that you let your stylist know what you need/want. For example, maybe your hair has a brassy tone to it after some time goes by or maybe its just in the transitioning. It happens. Instead of paying for a touch up, you can use Aveda's Blue Malva. One of the highlighted ingredients in its formulation is Centurea Cyanus Flower Extract (cornflower).  The reason this specific ingredient blend is important is because of its anti-irritant, antioxidant, and astringent properties, cornflower may help increase tone while minimizing oxidative stress and delivering a soothing aesthetic.  In other words, you are able to take out this brassy color tint that you see happening and save yourself the trouble of coming to see us for nothing. There are other active ingredients that generate moisturizing effects as well to help protect the hair.

Welcome!

We are VERY excited to start off a new year in 2015 with a bang. We are Located in the Atlanta/ Buckhead area, in between Lenox and Lindburgh. We are under new management and have a great list of stylists that we are going to be introducing to you one by one. We have plans for renovations to freshen our look, and as always, our product lines are amazing. We are going to use this blog to feature products and styles that you will definitely enjoy.