Most stylists you talk to about a Japanese straightening procedure will want to consult with you before performing it for the first time on your hair. You can read about the questions that you will likely be asked here. But it’s also important that you be prepared to ask some questions of the stylist.

This is a time consuming and delicate procedure. You don’t want to waste your time and money on someone who isn’t qualified.

Here are 6 questions you should consider asking a potential stylist.

1) What type of training did you go through?

This may be the most important question to ask at your consultation. Different thermal reconditioning systems require different amounts/methods of training.

Some stylists have invested significant time, energy, and finances in seminars or classes. The Yuko system, for example, offers several different types of classes to equip stylists. Other systems, however, simply provide an instructional DVD as a resource.

The more hands-on the training was, the better equipped the stylist is likely to be.

2) How many Japanese hair straightening procedures have you performed?

This will give you another means of gauging their experience. Of course, the more times they have done the procedure before, the more variables they’ve encountered and dealt with. Some good follow up questions would be:

• Have you ever performed thermal reconditioning on someone of my hair type before?
• Can you provide me testimonials from any of your satisfied clients?

3) What system(s) do you use for your Japanese hair straightening? Why?

Many stylists will use and be familiar with more than one system. This helps them meet the varied needs of their clients. It is good to hear them talk about the system that they prefer as it demonstrates their familiarity with the product.  Liscio and Yuko are the two original systems from Japan.

Other systems include: Straight Tio, Bio Ionic, iStraight, iStyle, Alacial, Magic Straight, CHI Transformation System, Rusk Str8.

4) How often will a retouch be needed?

As your hair continues to grow, your natural hair texture and curl will be present in the new growth. With Yuko and Liscio straightening systems a touch up should typically be needed between 5 or 6 to 9 months.

The variation in the time needed between procedures is based on how fast your hair grows and how curly it is. The faster your hair grows and the more curly it is, the more frequent touch ups will be needed.

It should be a red flag to you if the stylist says that touch ups are needed every 2 to  3 months. This means that the system they are using is probably a relaxer, not a thermal reconditioner.

This isn’t bad necessarily. Just make sure you know what you are getting out of the procedure.

5) What are my options if I no longer want straight hair?

For all intents and purposes, Japanese hair straightening is a permanent change to the hair that is treated. This means that you will not be able to curl your hair. Your only option for recovering your original hair texture is to let it grow out.
That said, a wave procedure may be able to restore some body in the hair. This is sometimes done to match the natural wave of new hair growth. If you are looking to get out of your commitment to straight hair, a wave procedure may be your best option to transition back to your natural style.

Read: Caring for Your Newly Reconditioned Hair

6) What is your policy if I am not satisfied or if something goes wrong?

This is an extremely important question! Japanese hair straightening is not easy, and things can go wrong. Your salon and stylist should have a policy in place. Be sure that you are comfortable with that policy before moving forward.

You may even be asked to sign a waiver or release form. Be wary of any waiver that requires you to give up your right for a refund. Click here to view a sample release form.

If something does go wrong with your procedure, read our Help! page.