Hair texture treatments like smoothing and perms are popular ways to enhance or change the way your hair looks and feels. While both treatments offer a chance to transform your hair’s texture, they serve different purposes and create distinct results. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision on which treatment is right for you.

At J.Bentley Hair Studio & Day Spa in Powell, OH, we offer both smoothing treatments and perms, designed to suit every hair type and desired outcome. Whether you’re seeking sleek, frizz-free locks or voluminous curls, our expert stylists can guide you to the perfect texture treatment.

What Is Hair Smoothing?

Smoothing treatments are designed to eliminate frizz and straighten hair, creating a sleek, polished look. They work by relaxing the hair’s natural curl pattern and sealing the cuticle, resulting in smoother, more manageable hair.

How Smoothing Treatments Work

Modern smoothing treatments typically use a combination of heat and specialized formulas, such as keratin, to transform the hair's texture. These treatments work by infusing the hair with protein and sealing it with a layer of protective coating.

The most well-known smoothing treatment is the keratin treatment, which is great for individuals with curly or frizzy hair looking for a straight, shiny, and frizz-free finish.

Benefits of Smoothing Treatments

• Eliminates frizz
• Reduces styling time
• Adds shine and smoothness
• Long-lasting, usually up to 3-6 months
• More manageable hair without permanent straightening

These treatments are ideal for those who want a polished, straight look without permanently altering their natural hair pattern.

What Are Perms?

Perms (short for "permanent waves") are a way to add curl or wave to straight hair. Unlike smoothing treatments that straighten hair, perms introduce texture by creating controlled curls or waves. Perms are a great option for anyone wanting more volume, body, and a long-lasting curl pattern.

How Perms Work

Perms work by chemically altering the structure of your hair. The hair is wrapped around rods and treated with a perm solution that breaks and reforms the hair’s natural bonds. This process allows the hair to take on the shape of the rod, creating curls or waves that last for months.

Perms come in different styles, from tight curls to loose waves, depending on the size of the rod and the specific technique used by your stylist.

Benefits of Perms

• Adds volume and body to flat or limp hair
• Long-lasting curls or waves
• Customizable for tight curls or loose waves
• Great for those with naturally straight hair looking to add texture
• Lower maintenance once curls are set

Perms are perfect for anyone looking to achieve permanent texture changes that add volume, fullness, and movement.

Smoothing vs Perms: The Key Differences

While both smoothing treatments and perms can alter your hair’s appearance, they do so in different ways, and the results are unique to each technique.

Purpose of the Treatment

• Smoothing: Designed to straighten hair and reduce frizz. It provides a sleek, polished look and is ideal for those with curly or frizzy hair who want a smoother, straighter finish.
• Perms: Designed to add curls or waves to straight hair. It’s a great option for people seeking more volume, body, and texture, and it can work on any hair type.

Duration of Results

• Smoothing: Typically lasts for 3-6 months, depending on the product used and how well you care for your hair.
• Perms: The results of a perm last much longer—usually 6 months or more—until your natural hair grows out and the curls lose their shape.

Maintenance Requirements

• Smoothing: Requires regular maintenance to keep hair looking sleek. Avoiding humidity and using gentle hair products can help maintain the results.
• Perms: Minimal upkeep is needed after a perm. However, you will need to protect your curls from damage with moisture-rich products, and regular trims help maintain the shape.

Hair Type Suitability

• Smoothing: Ideal for individuals with naturally curly, wavy, or frizzy hair who want a straight, sleek appearance.
• Perms: Ideal for individuals with straight hair who want to introduce volume, curls, or waves for a more textured look.

Which Treatment Is Right for You?

Choosing between smoothing treatments and perms depends on your desired look and hair goals. Here are some tips to help you decide:

Choose a Smoothing Treatment If:

• You have naturally curly or frizzy hair
• You want a sleek, shiny, and frizz-free look
• You prefer straight hair without permanently changing your natural texture
• You want to cut down on daily styling time
• You want long-lasting results for easier hair maintenance

Choose a Perm If:

• You have straight, flat, or limp hair
• You want curls, waves, or added volume
• You’re looking for long-lasting texture changes
• You want body and movement to your hair
• You don’t mind a bit of maintenance to keep your curls looking fresh

Your stylist can help guide you through the process and recommend the best option based on your hair type and goals.

Why Choose J.Bentley Hair Studio & Day Spa for Your Smoothing or Perm Treatment?

At J.Bentley Hair Studio & Day Spa in Powell, OH, our expert stylists are trained in the latest techniques for both smoothing and perm treatments. Whether you want sleek, shiny hair or voluminous curls, we customize each treatment to meet your unique hair needs and preferences.

We take the time to understand your desired results and create a plan that will leave you with healthy, beautiful hair. Both smoothing and perm treatments are personalized to ensure you get the look you want while maintaining the integrity of your hair.

Schedule your consultation today to explore your options for smoothing or perms, and let us help you achieve the hair texture you’ve always dreamed of.