Japanese ironing or Yuko method: what it is and how it works
Curly hair is the envy of many women, but it's not always easy to manage. In fact, many of us prefer to have smooth hair that is certainly easier to style and comb in situations that are not exactly favorable such as the sea, rainy days or particular humidity. However, not all straightening techniques work when you have wavy, frizzy and / or voluminous hair.
At the moment, one of the few systems that is having success is Japanese straightening, also ideal for those who have to face rebellious curly hair every day and who know these problems very well:
What is Japanese ironing
This particular hair straightening technique dates back to 1996 and was born from the idea of the Japanese hairstylist Yuko Yamashita. Unlike other straighteners, Yuko's system lasts longer and does not particularly weaken or damage the hair. It combines the effect of a ceramic plate and that of a smoothing product that acts through the sulfur bonds, so as to unite the hair's keratin molecules.
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Putting Japanese ironing into practice
A good Japanese straightening is developed in two phases: once the hair has been dried, it is smoothed with the help of ceramic plates. After this step, a specific product is applied for straightening, dividing the hair strand by strand. Leave the product on for about half an hour and then straighten and dry the hair for the last time.
This process works in such a way that the structure of the hair changes, making the hair look smooth and silky. Their internal conformation remains profoundly altered for a long period of time, certainly greater than other types of ironing.
The advantages
Together with the keratin one, this is the most radical and effective straightening technique, even the most unruly curls will not be able to resist and the hair will remain smooth for at least six months.
In addition to guaranteeing a remarkable result that lasts over time, the Yuko system is respectful of the hair: unlike other straighteners which, in the long run, can ruin them, the Japanese one respects them, because it does not involve any risk. It doesn't hurt your hair when you apply the straightener as it is based on soy protein and sulfur, so not dangerous chemicals.
In the pool, in the shower, in the rain, on the wettest days, your hair will continue to remain smooth and silky just like the first day of treatment. Obviously, when the hair grows, it will do so naturally and the original waves and curls will return. But don't worry: having your hair straightened a couple of times a year is more than enough. There are fairly strong straightening products on the market, but at the moment real Japanese straightening is only possible in beauty centers.
How much?
Saying goodbye to the usual plates has a price: a good Japanese smoothing costs between 300 and 500 euros. The price varies depending on the length of the hair and their texture. Usually the minimum cost for this treatment is never less than € 250, so be wary of the quality of the products if you find it cheaper. In fact, even if the price may seem a bit excessive, it must be remembered that Japanese ironing lasts at least six months.
The risks
As with any other hot iron, there are some precautions to take before opting for a Japanese straightening: if your hair is fragile, sensitive or if you have already straightened it with other techniques recently, it is better not to undergo this technique because, over time, you could ruin or burn them.In order not to have to cut them when it is too late, it is better to opt for the recommendations of reliable people, professionals in the sector or someone who has already done this type of treatment.
Maintaining a Yoko method smoothing is not complicated, because practically nothing needs to be done. The only precaution is not to use abrasive shampoos, so your hair will be smooth and silky for a long time!
