V For Hair · Christchurch
Permanent Hair Straightening
Straight, smooth, genuinely easy-care hair. A serious chemical service done by people who will tell you the truth about it first.
Everything you need to know about permanent straightening
Permanent straightening rids hair of kinks, curls and waves, leaving it straight, shiny and far more manageable. It is life-changing for the right client — and the wrong service for the wrong one.
We have spoken to technician hairdressers and trichologists, and researched extensively to bring the latest thermal techniques to Merivale. Here is the honest version before you book.
What the service actually involves
Treatments vary from salon to salon and go by many names — straight perms, hair relaxing, thermal reconditioning. Usually a mix of chemicals breaks down the bonds that hold the shape of your curl, and heat is passed through the hair to oxidise the chemicals and hold it straight.
It is not suitable for all hair types. Extensively damaged hair should not be straightened this way, which is why we assess condition before we agree to do it.
Is it bad for your hair?
Honestly? It carries risk. Anything that can transform spiral curls into sleek straightness involves intense chemical processes. The chemicals are almost identical to a perm lotion — the difference is how the hair is arranged while they work.
In expert hands the results are excellent. That is the whole argument for choosing carefully rather than cheaply.
Things to think about before you book
- Straightening can break too many bonds in the hair, leaving it damaged and prone to snapping.
- It is not a permanent solution to your whole head — new growth still comes through curly, so you will eventually have curly roots and straight ends.
- Hair straightened more than once has a far greater chance of breaking.
- We always suggest a test strand first. A piece of your hair is treated so you can see both the result and the condition it leaves behind.
- Once you start, it is hard to stop without living through a multi-textured grow-out.
Your stylist should talk you through all of this and discuss your hair's quality with you, so the decision is made together.
Aftercare
The process leaves hair dehydrated, so a decent home routine is essential. Permanently straightened hair does not have to look parched — the right products after your treatment prevent breakage and split ends from the beginning and keep the shine.
We will put together a routine for you at your appointment and show you how to use it.
How we approach a straightening service
01
Test strand first
We treat a small piece so you can see the result and the condition before committing to a full head.
02
Condition assessed honestly
If your hair is not strong enough, we will say no. That is the service.
03
Latest thermal techniques
Ongoing research and training so we are using current methods, not what worked a decade ago.
04
Aftercare built in
You leave with a routine that protects the investment, not just a result that looks good today.
Straightening pricing
| Service | From |
|---|---|
| Permanent straightening | from $245 |
| Permanent wave — classic wind | from $175 |
| Keratin smoothing (a gentler alternative) | $299.99 |
| Fibreplex bond protection — short to long | $20 – $37 |
Permanent straightening is quoted after a consultation and a test strand. Prices start with our Next Generation Stylist; Executive and Master Stylist rates are on the full price list.
View the full price listAftercare is not optional
Straightening leaves hair dehydrated. A decent home routine is what prevents breakage and split ends from the start.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is this different from keratin smoothing?
Keratin smooths and reduces frizz but does not change your hair's structure. Permanent straightening breaks and reforms the bonds, so it genuinely changes the texture. If you want a gentler option, start with keratin smoothing.
Will my roots grow back curly?
Yes. Only the hair treated is straightened, so new growth comes through with your natural texture and will need a retouch.
Can I have it done if my hair is coloured or damaged?
Coloured hair often can be, but extensively damaged hair should not be. We assess condition first and may recommend strengthening treatments before we proceed.
Do you do a test strand?
Always recommended. It is the only way to see honestly what your hair will look like and how it will hold up.
Appointments
Consultations
We offer complimentary consultations with one of our expert stylists and barbers before any service. If you are after a new look, or have an occasion coming up, come in for a coffee and an obligation-free chat about what will work for you.
Quotes
We are happy to quote your service before we begin — just ask your stylist during your consultation. We can also give you options to suit your budget, including our combo deals.
Gift Vouchers
Give the gift of a V For Hair gift box. Our vouchers come presented in a gift box, can be made to any dollar or service value, and can be couriered anywhere in the country. Browse vouchers.
Ready for change?
Book a consultation and we will assess your hair honestly, run a test strand, and quote you before anything permanent happens.
