Keratin Smoothing Complex vs. Yuko Permanent Straightening, which one is better?

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For years many women have longed to have that Barbie straight, smooth hair. It was about 10 years ago that the YUKO Permanent Straightening came into play for women of all nationalities. I’ve had clients ask me, “is this treatment only for African-American hair?” My response to them is “No”. In fact it’s for women of all races who have extremely curly hair and have a very difficult time managing it. Since then there have been a variety of different Straightening systems that have tried to reach the top without the certain success of the YUKO. One contender that is fighting to become top dog in the hair straightening world is the Keratin Smoothing Complex Treatment by Coppola.


The Keratin Smoothing Complex Treatment is relatively new to the hair smoothing world. It is a semi-permanent way to straighten hair. It uses keratin to tame even the curliest locks. But while it may be taking the world of hair by storm, it does have its drawbacks…

If you are considering straightening your hair for more than just an occasional night out, you may be thinking of a permanent hair straightening system. Here is the best – and the worst – of the two most popular systems currently on offer. Remember, success will depend not only on your type of hair and how rigorously you adhere to its upkeep, but also on the skill of your stylist – as well as the products they choose to use.

Keratin Smoothing Complex Treatment. It was introduced in 2007. The stylist applies active keratin, a protein found in the top layer of our skin which makes it both waterproof and tough. The formula is then sealed into the hair using a hot iron, taking away frizz, curls and unruly waves. It takes about two hours, more for longer or more unruly hair. All Keratin Complex treatments and styling products are specially formulated to contain natural keratin protein, which rebuilds, restores and rejuvenates all types of hair. Using the shampoo and conditioner will help maintain the longevity of the treatment.

PROS: It will fade away gradually, meaning that it will eventually grow out and leave you with natural waves once more. There is no new growth to retouch or painful growing out stages if you decide to grow it. It takes less salon time and generally costs less than the Yuko system. It leaves the hair with more body than the Yuko and it can be used on dyed, bleached, heavily highlighted hair as well as virgin hair. It’s perfect for the client who is not looking for that pin straight hair. It eliminates frizz while it maintains a smooth yet silky feel.

CONS: It’s not permanent. The effect doesn’t last as long as Yuko– about four to five months. It will not perfectly straighten the hair. Depending on how curly your hair is to begin with, you may still have curl to deal with. A blow dryer may have to be used to straighten out the remainder of the waves or curls.

The Yuko System. It was created in the 1990s in Japan and can make any type of curly hair straight in about five hours – for about six months or so, depending on hair. After a consultation with your stylist, your hair will be washed and divided into segments. The application will be put on for roughly 20 minutes, depending on hair length etc. It will then be flat-ironed and a neutralizer will be put on to reset the bonds of the hair. It will then be rinsed, followed by a blow-dry, style and perhaps a cut.

PROS: It lasts forever, meaning you won’t see any curly hair until new hair grows in.

CONS: It lasts forever. That means that when new curly hair grows in, you will have a ring of frizz or curl on the top followed by dead straight hair. The only way to look “normal” is to have your hair redone, in about six months’ time, or to straighten the top bits with a flat iron. Also, repeated application of the Yuko system can cause extensive damage or breakage to hair –if not done properly by a certified stylist. It’s not recommended for use on bleached or heavily highlighted hair as it will damage it too much. It is preferable to have virgin hair.

If you decide to go the permanently straight route, it’s important to find a salon you trust. Take heed if your hair is colored or highlighted, even if it hasn’t been done for 6 months, as this may affect the outcome of the straightening process!

Please keep in mind that if you want the versatility of wearing your hair sometimes curly and sometimes straight, this is probably not for you. Your best bet is to do the Keratin Treatment since there is absolutely NO damage to the hair.

Remember, also, that all chemically straightened hair will require a good hair-care routine to keep it looking good. This means using a protein-rich shampoo, conditioner and other anti-frizz products, as locking in all the moisture possible will be crucial in maintaining that salon style.

For more beauty tips please visit our site at www.MarBellaHair.com. For more information on any other beauty concern or to schedule an appointment, please feel free to call me at (512) 653-3773.