Tag: salon hair care

  • SHISEIDO Crystallizing Hair Straightener 400g Set: Step-by-Step

    SHISEIDO Crystallizing Hair Straightener 400g Set: Step-by-Step

    The SHISEIDO Crystallizing Hair Straightener + Neutralizer Cream 400g Set is a two-step rebonding system: Step 1 Hair Softener softens the hair, and Step 2 Neutralizer locks the straight shape in place. Three numbers decide the result – 10 to 20 minutes of room-temperature processing for Step 1 (up to 25 minutes for very coarse, thick hair), a flat iron at 180°C/356°F for 2-3 seconds per section, and 20 to 30 minutes for Step 2. Step 1 must never touch the scalp; keep it 1-2 cm away from the roots.

    How do you apply Step 1 Hair Softener?

    The short answer: apply it to the hair only, never the scalp, keeping 1-2 cm away from the roots and working evenly from the mid-lengths to the ends.

    • Salon warning: if Step 1 touches the scalp, it can cause inflammation, blistering, or snap the hair root off completely.

    How long does Step 1 stay on, and how do you know it is soft enough?

    The short answer: 10 to 20 minutes at room temperature, extended to a maximum of 25 minutes for very coarse, thick hair – and the stretch test is what tells you it is done.

    How to do the stretch test

    • Take 2-3 strands of hair and pull gently.
    • If the hair stretches like rubber to 1.5x its original length, the softener has processed enough.

    Do you iron straight after rinsing?

    The short answer: yes. Rinse with warm water until it is completely clean with no product residue, dry the hair 100%, then use a flat iron to set the shape.

    • Flat iron temperature: 180°C/356°F.
    • Iron one thin layer at a time and hold for only 2-3 seconds per section.

    How do you use Step 2 Neutralizer?

    The short answer: apply it evenly from roots to ends, comb it through, and leave it for 20 to 30 minutes – its job is to lock in the straight shape you just ironed.

    • Use a wide-tooth comb to comb it straight and make sure the product reaches every part.
    • Let the hair hang straight down and process for 20 to 30 minutes.
    • Rinse thoroughly – leftover neutralizer can make the hair brittle later. Once rinsed, you can blow dry as usual.

    Step 1 comes in 4 types – how do you choose by hair type?

    The short answer: the range runs from strongest to gentlest as EX, H, N and S – the healthier, thicker and more resistant the hair, the stronger the type; the more damaged, the gentler.

    • EX Straightener (strongest): for healthy, thick and very curly hair.
    • H Straightener (strong): for healthy to slightly damaged hair.
    • N Straightener (medium): for coloured hair or moderate damage.
    • S Straightener (gentlest): for bleached or severely damaged hair.

    What is the Neutralizer Cream n in Step 2?

    The short answer: it is the shape-locking cream that gives the straight, heavy, moist and glossy finishing effect. The product page also describes this 400g set as the gentlest permanent rebonding system, aimed at very sensitised, bleached and severely damaged hair, with a long-lasting salon-quality straight finish and a heavy, moist gloss.

    Why does bad timing ruin the hair?

    The short answer: rebonding with a premium product like Shiseido needs skill and care, especially when reading the stretch test. Get the timing wrong and the hair can turn frizzy like wire, go “gummy”, or break off completely from being over-processed.

    Summary

    Follow the sequence – Step 1 kept 1-2 cm off the scalp for 10 to 20 minutes with a stretch test, ironed at 180°C/356°F for 2-3 seconds, then Step 2 for 20 to 30 minutes – and the SHISEIDO 400g set gives you a salon-grade straight finish. Before starting a DIY project, read our professional rebonding basics and technique guide, or WhatsApp our salon team to confirm your hair type; you can also view the SHISEIDO Crystallizing Hair Straightener + Neutralizer Cream 400g Set product page.

  • Safe Bleaching Hair Guide: 9% Peroxide & Scalp Protection

    Safe Bleaching Hair Guide: 9% Peroxide & Scalp Protection

    When you bleach your hair, the real danger is not damaged hair – it is a chemical burn on the scalp. Written for the Hari Raya season, this guide keeps it to three things: swap 12% peroxide for 9% and go through the process in 2 rounds, prime the scalp with half a tube of Labbell Bio Protein before you start, and keep the bleach 5 cm away from the roots so it never touches the scalp. Hold a few extra details before and after, and you still get the lift you want without the burn risk.

    Why 9% peroxide instead of 12%?

    The short answer: 9% is a lower concentration, so it irritates less, yet doing 2 rounds still gives you a gradual lightening effect.

    • Instead of high-concentration 12% peroxide, do 2 rounds with 9% peroxide.
    • Why: the lower concentration reduces irritation while still achieving stage-by-stage lightening.

    How do you protect the scalp with Labbell Bio Protein?

    The short answer: use Labbell Bio Protein as a protective ampoule before the bleaching process starts.

    How to apply

    • Spread half a tube evenly over the scalp and leave it for 10-15 minutes.
    • Wipe off the excess with tissue before applying the bleach.

    Can the bleach touch the roots?

    The short answer: no. Make sure the bleach does not touch the scalp – keep it 5 cm from the roots.

    • Tip: use a fine brush and work on the ends first.

    What should you watch during the process?

    The short answer: watch the colour of the scalp. If it turns red or bright pink, that is your stop signal.

    • Stop immediately and rinse with cold water.
    • Note: darker scalp skin is more sensitive – do a 24-hour allergy test beforehand.

    Should you wash your hair before bleaching?

    The short answer: no. Do not wash your hair for 2 days before bleaching, so the scalp’s natural oil stays as a protective layer.

    When must you stop, or check with a professional first?

    The short answer: never repeat the process on an irritated scalp, and speak to a professional if you have a history of reactions or are using scalp medication.

    • DO NOT repeat the process if the scalp is already irritated.
    • Consult a professional if you have had an allergy to hair products before, or are using scalp medication such as corticosteroids.

    How do you recover after bleaching?

    The short answer: put moisture back and give the hair a rest from heat.

    • Use Labbell Bio Protein as an after-procedure treatment to moisturise the hair.
    • Avoid heat (hair dryer, straightener) for 1 week.

    Summary

    Do it in 2 rounds with 9% peroxide, prime the scalp with Labbell Bio Protein, and keep the bleach 5 cm off the roots – with the small details like not washing your hair for 2 days before, you get the lightened hair you want without risking a chemical burn. To check whether your scalp and hair type can take a bleaching session, WhatsApp our salon team or look at the Schwarzkopf Igora Vario Blond bleach on the product page.

  • Labbell Vitalist Yogurt Hair Treatment Mask 1000ml

    Labbell Vitalist Yogurt Hair Treatment Mask 1000ml

    Labbell Vitalist Yogurt Hair Treatment Mask 1000ml is a salon-tested yoghurt masque that hydrates deeply, repairs damaged hair and improves manageability. It contains Yogurt Extract, which is rich in amino acids, to add moisture and prevent dryness and split ends, leaving the hair soft, smooth and shiny straight away. In the salon you leave it on for 2-3 minutes and steam for 15-20 minutes; at home you swap the steamer for a warm towel wrap of 20-25 minutes.

    What is Labbell Vitalist Yogurt Hair Treatment Mask 1000ml?

    It is a salon-grade masque from Labbell Professional in a 1000ml size, built around the idea of salon results at home.

    The source describes it as a moisture-rich formula tested in the salon that restores the hair’s natural moisture, repairs damaged hair and improves manageability. The Yogurt Extract in it is rich in amino acids, which adds moisture, prevents dryness and split ends, and gives hair that is soft, smooth and shiny immediately.

    How do you use it in the salon? Four steps

    The flow is clean, apply and massage, steam, then rinse – and the steaming time is the part that matters most.

    1. Clean the hair thoroughly before the treatment and dry it with a towel.
    2. Apply evenly from the roots to the ends and massage carefully.
    3. Leave it for 2-3 minutes, then steam for 15-20 minutes.
    4. Rinse thoroughly.

    What if you don’t have a steamer at home?

    The steps are exactly the same, except you replace the steamer with a warm towel wrap for 20-25 minutes.

    What is in it?

    The ingredients listed in the source are: Air, Cetyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Gliserin, Propylene Glycol, Dimethicone, Glyceryl Stearate, Minyak Mineral, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Polyquaternium-11, Cetrimonium Chloride, Ekstrak Yogurt, Panthenol, Polyquaternium-10, Behentrimonium Chloride, Asid Laktik, Laktosa, Selulosa, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Jojoba Esters, Tocopheryl Acetate, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Magnesium Nitrat, Magnesium Klorida, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, CI 77007, CI 42090, Q16035.

    What are the three key features?

    • Intensive moisturising: a formula rich in yogurt extract and amino acids.
    • Heat protection: Cyclopentasiloxane protects the hair during styling.
    • Salon results at home: flexible, whether you steam or use a warm towel.

    The source says it suits all hair types, especially hair that is dry, damaged or frequently exposed to heat styling.

    What do customers say?

    The customer reviews in the source keep coming back to smooth, soft, easy-to-comb hair with a pleasant scent:

    • One reviewer uses it as a conditioner: after shampooing, apply and leave for 3 minutes, then rinse.
    • Another has ordered it twice and says the hair becomes fine, easy to comb and as smooth as if oil were applied.
    • One says it makes the hair soft and nicely scented; another says the hair turned straight and smooth.
    • One describes the hair feeling silky and protected from heat damage.
    • Others mention it restores elasticity to brittle hair, strengthens strands from root to tip and repairs damaged hair effectively, while nourishing the hair with essential nutrients and reducing tangles.

    What warnings should you note?

    The source lists three points:

    • Avoid contact with the eyes. If it happens, rinse with water until clean.
    • For external use only.
    • Sold only in professional beauty salons.

    How often to use it and how long an opened tub keeps are not stated in the source, so follow the product packaging or ask your salon professional.

    Summary: Labbell Vitalist Yogurt Hair Treatment Mask 1000ml uses yogurt extract and amino acids for deep hydration and repair – steam for 15-20 minutes in the salon, or wrap with a warm towel for 20-25 minutes at home. To find out which mask suits your hair, WhatsApp us or have a look at the product page.

  • Labbell Professional Vitalist Yogurt Masque for Damaged Hair

    Labbell Professional Vitalist Yogurt Masque for Damaged Hair

    Labbell Professional Vitalist Yogurt Masque is a salon-grade deep repair mask for dry, damaged, frizzy or frequently heat-styled hair. Yogurt extract (amino acids) and glycerin rehydrate the hair and smooth the cuticle, while Panthenol (B5) and silicone ingredients fill gaps in the fibre to reduce breakage and split ends. It works as a Hair Salon treatment and as an at-home conditioner for a quick rescue.

    Why Barbers Recommend It

    • Dry or frizzy hair: yogurt extract (amino acids) and glycerin restore moisture fast and smooth the cuticle immediately, so hair leaves the salon with a just-treated shine and feels smooth and easy to comb.
    • Chemical damage (after perming or colouring): Panthenol (B5) and silicone ingredients such as Dimethicone fill gaps in the hair fibre, reduce breakage and split ends, repair hair weakened by perming and colouring, and extend the life of the style.
    • Heat damage (blow dryer or flat iron): Cyclopentasiloxane (a volatile silicone) forms a light protective film on the surface of the hair, reducing direct heat damage from hot tools – ideal for clients who style often.

    Salon and At-Home Use

    • Hair Salon level treatment: use it with a steamer for 15–20 minutes to speed up penetration; suited to deep repair programmes for severely damaged hair (for example 1–2 times a month).
    • Home maintenance: wrap the hair in a warm towel instead of using a steamer for 20–25 minutes, as regular upkeep that maintains the salon result and cuts down return visits.
    • Quick rescue: after shampooing, use it as a conditioner for 3 minutes when a client is short on time.

    Feel, Scent and Instant Results

    • Feel and scent: lactic acid and lactose create a mildly acidic environment that neutralises residual alkalinity such as hair dye, while the light yogurt scent adds a natural feel to the treatment.
    • Visible instant effect: Cyclopentasiloxane combined with mineral oil leaves hair instantly smooth with a weighty fall after rinsing.

    Barber Tips

    1. Diagnose the hair before recommending it
      • Coarse, rough hair: focus on softening frizz and adding shine, and pair with a low heat setting plus a round brush for double the effect.
      • Fine, flat hair: avoid the scalp and apply only from mid-length to the ends so silicone does not build up and weigh the hair down.
      • Bleached or coloured hair: use it after colouring to help lock in colour and reduce pigment loss during washing (lactic acid adjusts the pH).
    2. Avoid potential problems
      • Sensitive scalp: because it contains the preservative methylisothiazolinone, do a patch test behind the ear first or use it on the ends only.
      • Long-term use reminder: silicones can accumulate, so use a deep-cleansing shampoo (for example one with SLES) once every 2 weeks.

    What Clients Say

    • On repair: “The amino acids in this yogurt mask are like a drip for your hair – it repairs fragile ends after perming, and my split ends are at least halved.”
    • On shine: “After the treatment it feels like hair oil, but not greasy at all, and the shine photographs beautifully.”
    • For busy clients: “I use it in the shower as a conditioner, done in 3 minutes, and it holds 3 times more moisture than a normal conditioner.”

    Summary and Next Step

    For a barber, Labbell Professional Vitalist Yogurt Masque is the all-rounder in the toolbox: instant smoothness, repair plus heat protection, and at-home care that keeps clients coming back. Not sure whether it suits your hair type? Ask us on WhatsApp or see the full details on the product page.

  • Shiseido Crystallizing Straight for Thick, Resistant Hair

    Shiseido Crystallizing Straight for Thick, Resistant Hair

    Shiseido Crystallizing Straight is a two-step permanent straightening system built for thick, resistant and uncoloured hair. It reorganises the keratin structure inside the hair with a chemical softener, sets the new shape with a high-heat flat iron, then locks it with a neutraliser. One session can last 3 to 6 months — but one wrong step can snap the hair or burn the scalp.

    What Is Shiseido Crystallizing Straight?

    Shiseido Crystallizing Straight is a two-step permanent straightening system developed by Shiseido, designed for thick, resistant hair that has not been bleached or coloured.

    Unlike an ordinary “straightening cream”, it does not just coat the surface. It uses a chemical softener to reorganise the keratin structure inside the hair strand, sets the shape with a hot flat iron, and finally uses a neutraliser to lock the new straight form in place.

    How It Works

    • H1 Softener (straightening cream): Contains alkaline ingredients that open the cuticle and soften the inner structure so the hair becomes workable.
    • 2 Neutraliser (setting cream): Applied after flat-ironing. It helps the keratin reconnect and locks the new straight structure. This is the most overlooked step in the whole process, yet the most important.

    Step 1: H1 Softener — The Most Critical Step

    1. Section and apply: Divide the hair into 4-6 sections. Keep 1-2 cm away from the scalp and apply evenly from that point to the ends. The gap protects the scalp and prevents softener build-up that leads to breakage.
    2. Wait for softening: Leave it at room temperature for 10-20 minutes. Thick hair can go up to 25 minutes, but you must check every 5 minutes. Correct softening test: pull one strand gently — it should stretch and bounce back to about 1.5 times its original length. Do not leave it longer than needed.
    3. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse with warm water (never hot) for more than 5 minutes until there is no residue left. Use your fingertips to gently clean around the roots.
    4. Blow-dry and flat-iron: Dry the hair completely, then use a professional flat iron at 180°C / 356°F. Take small sections (no thicker than 1 cm), glide from root to tip at a steady speed, and hold 2-3 seconds per section.

    Step 2: 2 Neutraliser — Where Success Is Decided

    1. Full coverage: As soon as flat-ironing is done, apply the H2 neutraliser from root to tip over the whole head. Make sure every strand is coated, especially the areas that were flat-ironed.
    2. Comb and wait: Comb gently once or twice with a wide-tooth comb to help absorption. Leave for 20-30 minutes. Never exceed the time, but never shorten it either.
    3. Final rinse: Rinse thoroughly with warm water until completely residue-free. Any residue will keep softening the hair and eventually cause breakage.

    Shiseido Crystallizing Straight vs Ordinary Straightening Creams

    PointShiseido Crystallizing StraightOrdinary straightening cream
    Target hair typeThick, resistant, healthyFine or medium hair
    Softening systemCrystalline keratin restructuring technology, more controllableTraditional strong alkali, hard to control
    Durability3-6 months2-4 months
    Operating riskNeeds professional judgement of the softening stageEasy to over-soften and break the hair
    Guidance includedClear steps, suitable as a professional referenceMost give no detailed temperature or timing guide

    3 Red Lines You Must Never Cross

    • ❌ Scalp contact: H1 softener contains strong alkaline ingredients. Direct contact can cause chemical burns, redness and even hair loss. Always keep a 1-2 cm safety gap.
    • ❌ Too much heat: A flat iron above 180°C will damage hair that has already been softened and cause irreversible protein damage.
    • ❌ Incomplete neutralising: Neutraliser that is not rinsed out properly is the number one reason hair keeps getting softer and breaks after a straightening session. Rinse longer rather than shorter.

    Who Is It For — And Who Must Avoid It?

    • ✅ Suitable: Naturally curly, thick or resistant hair that has not been bleached or coloured and is in good condition.
    • ⛔ Avoid: Bleached or coloured hair, severely damaged hair, hair that feels spongy or is extremely porous; a scalp with wounds, eczema or allergies; pregnant and breastfeeding women (consult a doctor first).

    Aftercare Decides How Long It Lasts

    • Shampoo choice: Use a mildly acidic shampoo such as LB-II Ionic Shampoo to stop the cuticle opening too early and to protect the straight result.
    • Regular hair masks: A deep repair mask 1-2 times a week to top up keratin or amino acids and prevent dry, split ends.
    • Do not colour immediately: Wait at least 2 weeks after straightening before colouring, so the keratin has time to stabilise.

    My Advice: For the First Time, Let a Professional Do It

    Shiseido Crystallizing Straight is an excellent product, but its difficulty and risk level are not beginner-friendly for home use. Judging the softening stage and controlling the flat iron temperature are skills that no manual can fully teach.

    If you are unsure about your own hair condition, or your scalp is sensitive, have a professional hairstylist handle it the first time. Once you have seen the correct process with your own eyes, you can decide whether to try it yourself later.

    Bottom line: with Shiseido Crystallizing Straight, discipline with timing, temperature and rinsing matters more than the brand itself. If you are unsure whether your hair type is suitable, message us on WhatsApp, or see the full details on the Shiseido Crystallizing Straight product page.

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