Hair relaxing and rebonding are both popular hair styling methods that involve the use of chemicals to alter the hair’s natural texture. However, there are some key differences between the two processes, including the longevity of the results, the cost, and the time required for each treatment.
Key Takeaways
- Hair relaxing uses chemicals to straighten the hair but does not provide a completely straight result, while hair rebonding changes the hair’s natural texture to create a smooth, straight style.
- Relaxed hair is less long-lasting than rebonded hair, lasting 2-3 months compared to 6-7 months for rebonding.
- Hair relaxing treatments are generally less expensive and less time-consuming than hair rebonding treatments.
What is Hair Relaxing?
Hair relaxing involves the use of chemicals, typically lye-based, to break down and reform the hair’s components, resulting in softened curls rather than completely straight hair. This process can cause scalp irritation if not done correctly, and it is essential to apply the chemicals properly and rinse on time to prevent severe side effects. Hair relaxing is more affordable and less time-consuming than rebonding, but it also requires touch-ups every 6 to 8 weeks and may result in a brittle or coarse hair texture.
What is Hair Rebonding?
Hair rebonding, also known as chemical straightening or Japanese straightening, uses a mixture of perming solution and strong chemicals to break the hair bonds in the hair follicle. A heated flat iron is then used to reset the bonds, resulting in straight hair. This process can lead to permanent hair damage if not done or maintained properly, and it is not suitable for certain hair types, such as kinky curls or previously bleached hair. Hair rebonding is more expensive and time-consuming than relaxing, but it provides a smooth, straight style that lasts up to 6 to 7 months with proper maintenance and touch-ups.
Difference Between Hair Relaxing and Rebonding
The primary difference between hair relaxing and rebonding is that relaxed hair is not as long-lasting as rebonded hair. Additionally, hair relaxing treatments tend to be less expensive and less time-consuming than rebonding treatments. Both methods require professional guidance and proper maintenance to ensure the best results and minimize potential hair damage.
Summary – Hair Relaxing vs Rebonding
In summary, hair relaxing and rebonding are chemical hair styling methods that offer different levels of straightening and longevity. Hair relaxing is more affordable and less time-consuming but provides only softened curls and lasts for 2-3 months. In contrast, hair rebonding is more expensive and time-consuming but results in a smooth, straight style that lasts for 6-7 months with proper maintenance. Both treatments require professional guidance and careful maintenance to minimize potential hair damage and achieve the desired results.
