Smoothing treatments have come a long way in recent years, as various brands have launched solutions that offer clients long-lasting results, while strengthening and conditioning the hair.
“Over the last decade, smoothing treatments have changed dramatically,” says Ronan Markey, Dublin-based stylist and ProAddiction educator. “Early systems often relied on harsh chemicals, high fumes or ingredients that could compromise the integrity of the hair. While they provided temporary results, they were not always suitable for every client, and could be unpredictable.
“Thanks to cutting-edge advancements, the industry today has moved towards healthier, more versatile and customisable solutions that not only smooth and tame frizz, but also improve the condition of the hair.”
“Years ago, most smoothing treatments relied heavily on harsh chemicals, but many of today’s ones work to strengthen the hair, rather than damage it,” agrees Yvonne Aherne, owner of Yvonne Aherne Hair Creative in Newtownshandrum, Co Cork. “We offer Rejuvenum’s Amino-15 system, which is free from formaldehyde, parabens and other toxins. It’s not just about straightening – it actually rejuvenates the hair, and helps to make it stronger, shinier and healthier. Clients notice the difference, and as a stylist, it feels great to offer something that transforms hair, without compromising its health.”
“I have been working with hair smoothing treatments for over 20 years, and they have changed a lot in that time,” says Paula Higino, owner of Miss Bliss Hair & Beauty in Cork. “Among the treatments we offer is ‘hair botox’, using the Exo Hair Exoplasty brand. This provides smoothness and volume control, while
also adding shine, hydration and preserving hair health.”
“There are many different brands available now; we offer ALFAPARF Milano Professional’s Keratin Therapy Lisse Design treatment, which is one of the safest in the market,” says Della Mac Sweeney, co-owner of Carrigaline Organic Hair Studio in Carrigaline, Co Cork. “Its ngredients include keratin, vegetable collagen and babassu oil, which comes from the Amazon region.”
As with all treatments, training is imperative, stresses Mac Sweeney. “This is required in order to fully understand the product, and how it works on different hair types. Training will also help you to learn more about what the client can expect to achieve.”
“My team and I have all completed in-depth training and certification,” says Aherne. “This ensures we understand application techniques, along with clientconsultation best practices, so that results are consistent and safe.”
“In order to offer any type of smoothing treatment, specific training is essential,” says Higino. “Each technique has its own particularities in terms of application, processing time and finishing. My entire team has undergone specialised training to master each step, ensuring personalised results and complete safety for every hair type.”
Years ago, most smoothing treatments relied heavily on harsh chemicals, but many of today’s ones work to strengthen the hair, rather than damage it
Popularity and demand
As smoothing treatments have evolved and become safer and more beneficial for hair, demand for them has risen. They are also good for repeat business, with clients returning every few months, depending on the length of time the treatment lasts.
“Our smoothing treatment lasts up to 12 weeks – sometimes longer if the client is committed to using the homecare shampoo, conditioner and refill fluid,” says Mac Sweeney. “It’s very popular with clients who have unruly or curly hair – once they have it done, they tend to come back regularly for a refresh.”
“Clients who struggle with frizz, humidity or highly textured hair love this treatment,” agrees Aherne. “I find that after they experience it once, most become a returning client because the results last between six and 12 months, and the condition of their hair actually improves over time. It appeals to a wide demographic too, from busy professionals to older clients.”
“I find the treatment is especially popular with clients who have unmanageable or damaged hair,” says Markey. “But ProAddiction can be tailored to virtually every client’s needs, whether they want to simply reduce frizz and improve manageability, embrace curl or want completely straight hair that can be easily dried. Younger clients love the sleek, glass-like results, while more mature clients value the lowmaintenance manageability. They almost all return for repeat services because of the transformative results.”
Invest in continuous training to keep up with the latest technology and products, and make sure you understand hair diversity
Business benefits
Offering smoothing treatments in your salon can be good for profits, not least because they are cost-effective.“The results are premium and long-lasting, so clients are willing to invest,” says Aherne. “From a salon perspective, the product yield and treatment duration make it a profitable service, especially since it builds loyalty with repeat clients.”
“It’s a cost-effective service with excellent margins,” says Markey. “It can attract new clients while retaining existing ones, all while bringing in an additional revenue stream, especially if you stock the at-home retail products. And by offering the latest innovations in the sector, you are setting yourself apart from other salons.”
“Smoothing treatments are a great service both for the client and the salon,” says Higino. “The client benefits from having healthier hair, with lasting results and less need for intensive daily care, while the salon benefits from an increase in demand and loyalty, and opportunities to combine the treatments with other offerings. The product investment is well worth it. And with homecare being as important as the treatment, this will generate additional sales for the salon.”
“The retail opportunities are excellent because the homecare products are a must in order to maintain the treatment results,” adds Mac Sweeney. “And because clients are happy with the results, they recommend it to family and friends. That word of mouth is very important and great for business.”Higino has some advice for salons that are offering smoothing treatments. “Invest in continuous training to keep up with the latest technology and products, and make sure youunderstand hair diversity. Offer special packages to increase revenue. And don’t forget to showcase real results on social media. By building a solid reputation for your high-quality services, you will turn satisfied clients into promoters of your salon.
This article was published in the November/December 2025 issue of PB/HJ Ireland.
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