Specialty Service · Atlanta, GA
Japanese Thermal
Reconditioning
The gold standard for permanently straight, frizz-free hair. Our stylists are among Atlanta's most experienced practitioners of this precise, transformative treatment.
Your Questions, Answered
Everything you need
to know about JTR
Japanese Thermal Reconditioning — also known as thermal straightening or ionic straightening — is a permanent hair straightening treatment that restructures each strand at the molecular level. Using LISCIO products by Milbon and a flat iron, our stylists loosen the hair's cysteine protein bonds and permanently restructure them into a smooth, straight position. Once sealed with a neutralizing agent, the result is silky, shiny, maintenance-free hair. No curls, no frizz — just smooth, straight hair until new growth comes in. Junko Hair Studios has offered JTR since our founding and it remains one of our most requested specialties.
How long does Japanese Thermal Reconditioning last?
JTR is a permanent treatment — once your hair has been thermally reconditioned, it will remain smooth and straight until it grows out. Most clients need a root touch-up 10 to 12 months after their initial treatment, though this varies depending on individual hair growth. When you come in for your touch-up, your stylist will treat the new root growth with JTR and also provide a complete conditioning treatment for the rest of your hair to keep it healthy, smooth, and shiny. The touch-up appointment takes 3 to 4 hours — significantly shorter than the initial treatment. With regular touch-ups, you can maintain perfectly straight, fully conditioned hair indefinitely and eliminate the time and money previously spent on hot tools and styling products.
How long does the appointment take?
A full JTR service at Junko takes up to 5 hours depending on your hair's length, density, and texture. Our stylists use the LISCIO line of products by Milbon — a professional-grade Japanese straightening system — along with a flat iron to loosen the hair's cysteine protein bonds and restructure them into a permanently straight position. The hair is then sealed with a neutralizing agent that lowers the pH balance and closes the cuticle, locking in the results. We never rush this process — precision at every stage is what separates a flawless result from a damaging one. We recommend clearing your schedule for the day of your appointment. Bring a book, enjoy our beverage service, and leave with permanently transformed hair.
Who is a good candidate for JTR?
JTR works best on clients with naturally curly, wavy, or frizzy hair who want permanently straight results. It is ideal for anyone who spends significant time and money fighting frizz or straightening their hair daily. That said, JTR is not for everyone — hair condition, texture, and history all play a role in determining whether you are a good candidate. Our stylists are trained to thoroughly assess your hair during an initial consultation before any commitment is made. Clients with chemically relaxed hair are generally not candidates, as the two processes are incompatible. Color-treated hair may be eligible depending on its current condition. The consultation is the essential first step, and our team will give you an honest recommendation based on what they see.
What is the aftercare like?
The first 72 hours after your treatment are critical. Your hair must stay completely dry — no shampooing, rain, swimming, or sweat. Avoid all exercise during this period, as even minimal perspiration can affect your results. Do not use headbands, hair ties, elastics, or any hair accessories, and leave your hair fully down — including while sleeping. If your hair does accidentally get wet, blow-dry it with the dryer pointed downward toward the ends, keeping it moving, then gently flat iron the area at a low temperature. After the full 72 hours, wash your hair at least once before putting it up in a ponytail or any other style. Your stylist will provide detailed aftercare instructions at your appointment, and you may continue using your existing shampoo, conditioner, and styling products as normal.
