Frizzy Hair Treatments: Do You Need Straightening, Smoothing, or Just Humidity Protection?

Not All Frizz Is Created Equal

Frizz is often treated as a single problem, but there are actually several different causes.

According to Color Wow Chief Chemist, Dr. Joe Cincotta, frizz typically occurs when the hair's cuticle becomes raised, allowing moisture to enter and exit the strand unpredictably.

This can happen because of:

• Humidity
• Damage
• Porosity
• Heat styling
• Chemical processing
• Dehydration
• Environmental exposure

That's why the best treatment for frizzy hair depends on what's causing the frizz, and what kind of result you're hoping to achieve.

Some people want permanently straight hair; others simply want smoother, shinier hair that doesn't puff up the second they step outside.

Those are two very different goals.

Treatment #1: Japanese Straightening

Best for: People who want permanently straight hair.

How It Works

Japanese straightening, sometimes called thermal reconditioning or rebonding, uses a chemical solution (typically containing ammonium thioglycolate) to break down the internal bonds that give hair its natural shape.

Once these bonds are broken, the hair is straightened and then neutralized to lock the new shape into place.

The process usually takes several hours depending on hair length and density.

Pros

• Creates permanently straight hair
• Eliminates waves and curls
• Dramatically reduces styling time
• Long-lasting results

Things to Consider

This is the most permanent anti-frizz treatment available.

While the treated hair remains straight, new growth will return to its natural texture.

And because the treatment fundamentally alters the internal structure of the hair, it can be too aggressive for weakened, fragile, or heavily processed hair.

If you decide you no longer want the treatment, the only option is to grow it out and cut it off.

Treatment #2: Keratin Treatments

Best for: People who want smoother, less frizzy hair for several months.

How It Works

Keratin treatments work differently from Japanese straightening. Instead of permanently changing the internal structure of the hair, they apply a keratin-rich formula to the hair's surface, which is then sealed using heat from a flat iron.

The result is smoother, shinier hair with reduced frizz and easier styling. Most keratin treatments last between three and six months.

Pros

• Reduces frizz significantly
• Creates smoother, shinier hair
• Shortens styling time
• Temporary rather than permanent

Things to Consider

One common misconception is that keratin treatments simply remove frizz. In reality, they often reduce volume and soften texture as well.

For some people, that's exactly what they're looking for. For others, it can leave hair feeling flatter than expected.

If you have fine, heavily bleached or fragile hair, it's worth discussing suitability with your stylist before booking.

It's also important to note that some keratin treatments have historically been associated with formaldehyde-containing formulas, so always consult your stylist about the specific treatment being used.

Treatment #3: Brazilian Blowouts

Best for: People who want a smoother version of their natural texture.

How It Works

Brazilian Blowouts use amino acid-based smoothing formulas that coat the outside of the hair shaft.

Unlike Japanese straightening, the results can be customized.

Some clients choose maximum smoothness, while others opt to maintain their natural waves and curls while reducing frizz.

The final result depends on:

• The amount of product applied
• Application technique
• Blow-drying and ironing process
• Heat settings used during the service

Pros

• Customizable results
• Reduces frizz
• Adds shine
• Maintains some natural movement
• Easier grow-out process than permanent straightening

Things to Consider

Because Brazilian Blowouts can preserve some of your natural texture, many people find them easier to maintain over time.

However, they are still chemical services that require upkeep and periodic reapplication.

Like keratin treatments, some formulas have historically contained controversial ingredients, so speak with your stylist about the specific treatment being used.

What If You Don't Want To Straighten Your Hair?

Historically, the beauty industry approached frizz and straightening as the same challenge. The smoother the result, the straighter the hair became.

Today, many people are looking for something different. They don't necessarily want pin-straight hair; they want their own hair, just with less frizz.

They still want waves to look like waves and curls to look like curls. They simply want them to appear smoother, shinier and less affected by humidity.

That's why it's important to understand the difference between treatments that change texture and treatments that target frizz. While both can create smoother-looking results, they achieve them in very different ways.

The New Alternative: Humidity-Proof Smoothing

For many people, frizz isn't caused by texture—it's caused by humidity.

Hair looks smooth indoors, then suddenly expands, swells, and frizzes the moment moisture enters the air.

That's why Color Wow developed Dream Coat Supernatural Spray.

Unlike keratin treatments, Brazilian Blowouts or Japanese straightening, Dream Coat doesn't alter your hair's internal structure. Instead, it works on the surface of the hair.

When activated by the heat of a blow dryer and tension from a brush, Dream Coat:

• Compresses and smooths the cuticle
• Creates a sleek, glossy finish
• Repels humidity
• Prevents frizz before it starts

The result is smoother, shinier hair that remains resistant to moisture and humidity for up to 4 shampoos.

Most importantly, it does all this without permanently changing your hair texture.

Which Dream Coat Is Right For You?

1. Dream Coat Supernatural Spray

Ideal for straight, wavy, and frizz-prone hair that wants sleek, glossy, humidity-proof results.

2. Extra Strength Dream Coat

Designed for extremely dry, dehydrated, coarse, or curly hair that requires extra smoothing power.

3. Dream Coat for Curly Hair

A one-step styling spray that enhances natural waves and curls while reducing frizz and preserving curl pattern.

Which Frizz Treatment Is Right For You?

The Bottom Line

The key to choosing the right frizz treatment is understanding what's causing the frizz in the first place. If the issue is texture, a straightening or smoothing treatment may help.

But if humidity is the real culprit, Dream Coat can deliver smoother, glossier, more manageable hair — without altering your natural texture.