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Hair Care

Japanese Straightening vs. Keratin: Which Smoothing Treatment Lasts Longer?

By Revathi, Founder, Revs Beauty Studio

October 11, 20266 min read
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Japanese Straightening vs. Keratin: Which Smoothing Treatment Lasts Longer?

Japanese straightening and keratin treatments both smooth hair, but they do different jobs. Japanese thermal straightening gives pin-straight hair that lasts until it grows out, while a keratin treatment smooths frizz and reduces volume without changing your hair's shape for good. At Revs Beauty Studio, Japanese straightening is $300 and a keratin treatment is $199, based on our current menu.

The Short Version

Japanese straighteningKeratin treatment
Price$300$199
AppointmentAbout 3 hoursVaries with hair length and thickness
ResultUltra-sleek, pin-straight hairSmoother, less frizzy, easier to style
How long it lastsUntil the treated hair grows outA gradual fade over time
Best forAnyone who wants permanently straight hairFrizzy or unruly hair that you still want to move

How Japanese Straightening Works

Japanese straightening is a permanent thermal treatment. It reshapes the hair so that it stays straight, and the result lasts until the treated hair grows out. Because only the new growth at the roots comes in with your natural texture, many people schedule a touch-up on the regrowth rather than treating the full length again. The appointment takes about three hours, so plan to set aside the afternoon.

How a Keratin Treatment Works

A keratin treatment coats the hair to smooth the cuticle, which reduces frizz and makes hair softer and easier to manage. It does not permanently change your hair's structure, so the effect gradually fades. You keep some natural movement, which suits people who want smoother hair rather than a pin-straight finish. For how it compares with a Brazilian blowout, read Keratin Treatment vs. Brazilian Blowout.

Which One Is Right for You?

  • Choose Japanese straightening if your goal is sleek, straight hair and you are happy for it to stay that way until it grows out.
  • Choose keratin if you mainly want to tame frizz in humid weather but still like some wave or body.
  • Not sure? Book a consultation. We will look at your hair's texture, history and condition before recommending either.

Before You Book

  • Tell us about any previous color, bleach or chemical treatments, because they affect how your hair responds.
  • Ask how the treatment suits your hair type and what aftercare it needs. We will go through it with you.
  • Expect the cost to be higher for very long or thick hair; confirm when you book.

See our full list of hair treatments or book a consultation.

Expert Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

Japanese straightening is $300 at Revs Beauty Studio, based on our current menu. Final pricing can depend on your hair's length and thickness, so confirm when you book.
Experience The Difference

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