Smoothening vs. Straightening: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Published on January 31, 2024
Hair smoothening is a chemical process that reduces frizz & adds softness to the hair, often resulting in a natural look, whereas hair straightening is a styling or chemical process aimed at achieving perfectly straight hair, often with a flat appearance.
Key Differences
Smoothening primarily aims to reduce frizz and improve the hair's texture, offering a more natural and softer look. Straightening, on the other hand, is focused on achieving completely straight hair, whether through temporary styling or permanent treatments.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 31, 2024
Smoothening treatments often use chemicals that are less harsh than those used in permanent straightening processes. These treatments realign the hair's structure without completely breaking down its bonds. Straightening treatments, especially permanent ones, use stronger chemicals to break the hair's natural bonds and restructure them to achieve straightness.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 31, 2024
Smoothening treatments typically last a few months and require less maintenance, as the hair gradually returns to its natural state. Permanent straightening results last longer but may require more frequent touch-ups as new hair grows.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 31, 2024
Smoothening is generally considered less damaging than straightening, as it uses milder chemicals and preserves some of the hair's natural texture. Straightening, particularly chemical straightening, can be more damaging and may lead to dryness and brittleness if not properly maintained.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 31, 2024
Smoothening is suitable for a wide range of hair types, especially those with mild to moderate curls or waves seeking a natural look. Straightening is often sought by individuals with very curly or frizzy hair who desire a completely flat and sleek appearance.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 31, 2024
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Comparison Chart
Primary Objective
Reduce frizz, enhance softness.
Achieve perfectly straight hair.
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Jan 31, 2024
Chemical Intensity
Milder chemicals, less structural alteration.
Stronger chemicals, complete bond restructuring.
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Jan 31, 2024
Treatment Longevity
Lasts a few months, gradual return to natural state.
Longer-lasting, requires touch-ups for new growth.
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Jan 31, 2024
Impact on Hair Health
Generally less damaging, maintains some natural texture.
More damaging, may cause dryness and brittleness.
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Jan 31, 2024
Ideal Hair Types
Suitable for all hair types, especially wavy or mildly curly.
Best for very curly or frizzy hair.
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Jan 31, 2024
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Smoothening and Straightening Definitions
Smoothening
Smoothening reduces hair frizz for a sleeker look.
After smoothening, my hair feels much less frizzy.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 02, 2024
Straightening
Straightening involves flattening and styling hair.
I straightened my hair for a sleek look.
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Jan 02, 2024
Smoothening
Results in a natural, softer hair appearance.
My hair looks natural and soft after smoothening.
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Jan 02, 2024
Straightening
Uses heat tools for temporary hair straightening.
I use a flat iron for straightening my hair.
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Jan 02, 2024
Smoothening
Enhances hair texture for softness and shine.
The smoothening treatment improved my hair's texture.
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Jan 02, 2024
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Straightening
A chemical process to permanently straighten hair.
Chemical straightening gave me permanently straight hair.
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Jan 02, 2024
Smoothening
A chemical process that alters hair structure gently.
I chose hair smoothening for its gentle chemical approach.
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Jan 02, 2024
Straightening
Achieves a completely straight hair texture.
Straightening made my curly hair completely straight.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 02, 2024
Smoothening
Offers a semi-permanent alteration to hair.
The effects of smoothening will last a few months.
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Jan 02, 2024
Straightening
Offers a long-lasting or permanent straightening effect.
The straightening effect on my hair is very durable.
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Jan 02, 2024
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Is smoothening less damaging than straightening?
Yes, smoothening is generally less damaging due to milder chemicals.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 31, 2024
Can straightening be temporary?
Yes, using tools like flat irons offers temporary straightening.
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Jan 31, 2024
What does hair straightening do?
Straightening makes hair completely straight, either temporarily or permanently.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 31, 2024
What is hair smoothening?
Smoothening is a chemical treatment to reduce frizz and soften hair.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 31, 2024
Does smoothening require special hair care?
Post-smoothening, using sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners is recommended.
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Jan 31, 2024
Can I dye my hair after straightening?
It's advisable to wait a few weeks before dyeing hair post-straightening.
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Jan 31, 2024
What hair types are suitable for straightening?
Straightening is suitable for curly or frizzy hair.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 31, 2024
Does smoothening work on all hair types?
Smoothening works well on most hair types, especially wavy or mildly curly hair.
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Jan 31, 2024
Is smoothening good for frizzy hair?
Smoothening is effective in reducing frizz and enhancing hair smoothness.
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Jan 31, 2024
Does straightening work on very short hair?
Straightening can be challenging on very short hair due to limited length.
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Jan 31, 2024
Is smoothening better than keratin treatment?
Smoothening and keratin treatments have different results; smoothening is for frizz reduction, while keratin adds protein to hair.
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Jan 31, 2024
Can I style my hair after straightening?
After straightening, styling options may be limited due to the hair’s flatness.
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Jan 31, 2024
What should I avoid after smoothening my hair?
Avoid harsh chemicals and heat styling soon after smoothening.
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Jan 31, 2024
Can I smoothen my hair at home?
Home smoothening kits are available, but professional treatment is recommended for best results.
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Jan 31, 2024
How do I maintain my hair after straightening?
Use heat protectants and avoid excessive washing to maintain straightened hair.
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Jan 31, 2024
Can straightening cause split ends?
Yes, frequent straightening, especially with heat, can lead to split ends.
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Jan 31, 2024
Are straightening treatments expensive?
The cost of straightening treatments varies, but they can be expensive, especially for permanent methods.
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Jan 31, 2024
Can smoothening cause hair loss?
When done properly, smoothening shouldn’t cause significant hair loss.
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Jan 31, 2024
How often should I straighten my hair?
Frequent straightening, especially with heat, can damage hair, so moderation is key.
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Jan 31, 2024
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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