Ask the doctor: Is hair straightening safe?
Several products popularized in Brazil and Japan have come into widespread use for hair straightening. Also known as hair relaxers, keratin treatments, and hair smoothing products, they are generally applied in a salon and are usually not available directly to consumers. After a prolonged application, the hair is blown dry or ironed. The process can take two to three hours and cost $300 or more. One treatment lasts two to three months. Newly straightened hair is not supposed to be washed, pulled back in a band, or put up with clips for 72 hours.
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