Hair Relaxer: Permanent Straightening
A relaxer is a chemical treatment that permanently alters the hair’s structure, breaking the disulfide bonds that create curl or coil patterns. The result is permanently straight hair that remains straight until new growth appears. Relaxers are the most dramatic of the three options and are typically used on tightly curled or coily hair.
Because relaxers permanently alter the hair structure, they require consistent maintenance. New growth — the natural texture at the roots — must be relaxed every 6 to 8 weeks. Relaxers can be drying, so a consistent conditioning routine is essential.
Keratin Treatment: Semi-Permanent Smoothing
A keratin treatment coats the hair with keratin protein and uses heat to seal it into the cuticle. The result is smoother, frizz-free hair with reduced curl pattern. Keratin treatments do not completely straighten hair — they loosen texture and eliminate frizz for a more manageable, polished look.
Results last 3 to 5 months and gradually fade with washing. Keratin treatments require a 48 to 72 hour waiting period before washing and require sulfate-free, sodium-chloride-free products to maintain the result.
Brazilian Blowout: Smoothing With Immediate Washability
A Brazilian blowout seals the cuticle and eliminates frizz while maintaining the hair’s natural movement. Unlike traditional keratin treatments, a Brazilian blowout can be washed immediately after the service — no waiting period. The result is smooth, shiny hair with natural body.
Results last 10 to 12 weeks. Brazilian blowouts are ideal for clients who want frizz reduction without a waiting period and who want to maintain some natural texture. The treatment is compatible with color-treated hair.
Comparison Table
The table below summarizes the key differences.
| Feature | Relaxer | Keratin | Brazilian Blowout |
|---|---|---|---|
| Permanence | Permanent | Semi-permanent (3–5 months) | Semi-permanent (10–12 weeks) |
| Straightens? | Yes, completely | Loosens texture | Smooths, maintains movement |
| Waiting period | None | 48–72 hours | None |
| Maintenance | Root touch-up 6–8 weeks | Reapply every 3–5 months | Reapply every 10–12 weeks |
| Best for | Tightly curled/coily hair | Frizzy, curly, wavy hair | Frizz with natural movement |
Choosing the Right Option
If you have tightly curled or coily hair and want permanently straight results, a relaxer may be appropriate. If you have frizzy, curly, or wavy hair and want smoother, more manageable styling without losing all texture, a keratin treatment is a strong choice. If you want frizz reduction with immediate washability and natural movement, a Brazilian blowout fits.
Your hair condition matters. Heavily damaged hair may need conditioning before any chemical smoothing. Hair that has been previously relaxed may not be compatible with additional chemical services. A consultation is essential.
Consultation Considerations
During a consultation, your stylist will assess your hair texture, condition, chemical history, and goals. They will recommend the safest and most effective option. If you color your hair, discuss sequencing — most smoothing treatments work best after color.
Be honest about your previous chemical services, including at-home treatments. Withholding information can lead to unexpected reactions and damage.
Aftercare and Maintenance
All three treatments benefit from sulfate-free, professional products. Keratin treatments specifically require sodium-chloride-free products. Minimize heat styling, use a heat protectant, and avoid chlorine and saltwater for at least a week after any service.
Regular conditioning treatments help maintain hair health, especially after relaxers which can be drying. Your stylist will recommend a Kérastase product routine for your specific treatment.
Pricing
Women's relaxer is $330, men's relaxer is $120. Keratin treatment is $390, men's keratin is $120. Brazilian blowout is $450. Hair botox, a conditioning treatment that does not straighten, is $320. View our straightening pricing for details.