Want Shiny, Silky, Straight and Healthy Looking Hair?
By: Andrew Cunningham

Is your hair dull, dry or damaged? Are you tired of your curls or the frizzy look? If you want your hair straightened without losing its healthy vibrancy and natural bounce over time, a pioneering alternative has hit Hong Kong and Healthy Times sat down with Ms. Mojdeh Kazemi, the director of Tala’s Hair and Beauty Centre, to find out all about this new trend.

Clients walk in to your salon wanting a change all the time. What are the reasons or benefits for changing your look?
“Making a change in the way you look every now and then is healthy and therapeutic. Psychologically, maybe they feel it is time to move on from an episode in their life or a moment to start over. Whatever the reasons, the simplest thing to change about your life is your appearance. Of course, the easiest route is to head straight to the hair salon, whether on an impulse or just a wish to follow the latest celebrity hairdo. Unfortunately, colouring, straightening or perming your hair is a damaging process. All salons in Hong Kong offer these run-of-the-mill services.”  

Why exactly are these processes so damaging?
“Well, a bad hair day is usually the result of weather, pollution and all that we put our hair through on a daily basis, like blow drying, mousse, gels etc. Add chemical treatments like hair colours, which are high in ammonia content, and it’s easy to see why hair, one of the most attractive features on a person, can feel and look unhealthy. These harmful treatments contribute to the loss of shine, elasticity and the natural movement in your hair. It’s interesting to know that what you see in the mirror, in this case, your hair, can change the way you feel emotionally. This focus on health is the reason a lot of people are interested in products such as organic hair colours. It’s not a big reach to say that healthy hair contributes to a healthy inner you.”

And how is the Brazilian Keratin Hair Treatment different?
“Unlike other straightening methods, it leaves your hair shiny, soft and frizz-free for up to four months, and can be used on all types of hair. That’s why hair stylists in my business call it “A Four-Month Blow Dry!” After application of the Brazilian Keratin Hair Treatment, you do not have to worry about getting a kink in your hair or about new growth. Your full head of hair goes back to the way it was before the treatment after four months. Currently, this product is not available in many salons in Hong Kong due to the fact that it is a relatively new and supply is limited. It is offered in certain select salons only.”

What exactly is keratin? Is it really important for hair?
“Yes it is! Approximately eighty-eight per cent of your hair is comprised of keratin. It is a natural substance, the main protective component in your hair, skin and nails. High in sulphur and the amino acid cystine, it is a tough, elastic and insoluble protein found in nature. Keratin aids in keeping the skin waterproof. You can help yourself produce good quality keratin by eating lots of “carotene” (yellow coloured vegetables, a good source of vitamin A).”

How does this treatment work?
“Keratin’s strong protective qualities improve the hair both inside and out. It blends with your hair, repairing, strengthening and giving it elasticity. It is a treatment that gives you the silky look others will envy.”

Lastly, what should our readers do if they are interested in getting “A Four-Month Blow Dry”?
“That’s easy. If you, a friend or a family member wishes to try out the Brazilian Keratin Hair Treatment, look for an authorised, experienced and professional hair salon that offers this service.”

The information for this article came from Tala’s Hair & Beauty Centre which has locations in both Sai Kung and Central. These salons offer a variety of hair and beauty services including the Brazilian Keratin Hair Treatment for straightening hair. Call 2335 1694 (Sai Kung) or 2521 9333 (Central) for an appointment.