Hair smoothing treatments are often shrouded in mystery, with clients left wondering if they’ll ever find the perfect solution to reduce frizz while keeping hair healthy and full of life. In this week’s post, I break down some of the most popular smoothing treatments on the market to help you find the perfect fit for your hair goals—and introduce you to a game-changing solution.

Understanding Hair Smoothing Treatments

Smoothing treatments aren’t just an intensive blowout. These treatments involve carefully applied products, a processing period, and a detailed blow-dry and flat-ironing process to lock in results. While each method varies, choosing the right treatment can transform your hair routine, cutting styling time and keeping frizz at bay.

As you explore options, consider these questions:

  • Hair Condition: Is your hair strong and healthy, or does it need gentle care to rebuild its integrity?
  • Desired Look: Are you looking for a sleek, straight look, or would you like to keep some natural wave?
  • Commitment Level: Do you want a semi-permanent solution, or something that fades after a few months?

Comparing Popular Smoothing Treatments

Each treatment has unique qualities and considerations, from toxicity levels to effectiveness. Here’s a look at three of the most popular options:

Brazilian Blowout

This pioneering treatment offers a powerful straightening solution that lasts several months. However, Brazilian Blowouts gained a reputation for high toxicity due to the release of formaldehyde when heated, raising health concerns for both clients and stylists. Although newer “Zero” formulas claim reduced toxicity, results are often less effective.

  • Results: 5/5 for straightening and frizz control
  • Longevity: 5/5 for long-lasting effects
  • Toxicity: 1/5 due to high formaldehyde levels

Keratin Treatment

Known for smoothing frizz and slightly straightening the hair, keratin treatments last around three months. Keratin, a natural protein in our hair, strengthens and smooths. However, keratin treatments can be overly protein-rich for damaged hair, potentially making it feel coarse and brittle. Like Brazilian Blowouts, keratin treatments release toxins when heated, though slightly less than Brazilian Blowouts.

  • Results: 3/5 for smoothing and straightening
  • Longevity: 3/5 for semi-permanent results
  • Toxicity: 3/5 for moderate formaldehyde release

Cezanne Smoothing Treatment

Cezanne offers a breakthrough solution in hair smoothing. Tested extensively for safety, it’s free of harmful chemicals, even when heated, passing stringent toxicity exams in both Oregon and Korea. Ideal for clients who want frizz-free hair without sacrificing health, Cezanne uses a blend of vitamins, botanicals, and silk protein to nourish and hydrate. It softens natural wave patterns without removing body, giving you flexible styling options—whether you want sleek hair or voluminous curls.

Lasting up to five months, this treatment gradually fades out, giving you the freedom to refresh or change treatments without residual effects. With the Cezanne Smoothing Treatment, you’ll experience reduced styling time, heat protection, and incredible softness, ideal for any lifestyle.

  • Results: 5/5 for smoothing and gentle straightening
  • Longevity: 5/5 for flexibility and lasting results
  • Toxicity: 5/5 as the safest smoothing option available

Why Health Standards Matter in Smoothing Treatments

When it comes to hair treatments, health standards are paramount. Many smoothing treatments undergo testing for harmful chemicals, especially formaldehyde—a known carcinogen linked to respiratory issues, skin irritation, and potential long-term health risks. Formaldehyde is often released when heated, making it particularly concerning during the blow-dry and flat-ironing stages of traditional treatments like Brazilian Blowout and certain keratin treatments. In response, regulatory bodies in regions like Oregon and Korea, known for their rigorous testing, have set some of the strictest health standards worldwide for products.

The Cezanne Difference: Safety and Results Without Compromise

The Cezanne Smoothing Treatment sets itself apart with its commitment to health and safety. Free from formaldehyde and other harmful chemicals, Cezanne has passed extensive safety exams even under high heat, ensuring it won’t compromise your well-being or the health of your stylist. Using a blend of vitamins, silk proteins, and botanicals, it achieves frizz reduction and smoothness without exposing you to toxic fumes or chemicals.

By choosing a treatment like Cezanne, you’re opting for a scientifically safe, tested solution that protects both your hair and your health. With each application, you get frizz control, nourishing ingredients, and a healthy shine—all without the health risks of more traditional treatments. If you’re ready for a smooth, manageable style without the compromise, Cezanne might just be the ideal choice for you.