September is all about that new season, 'back to school', fresh start feeling (even if school days are behind you). And, while a little frizz might have passed for beachy texture over summer, fall is calling for smoother styling, with glossy blow-dries, slicked-back ponies and soft, bouncy curls and coils ranking high this season.
But if darker mornings have you hitting snooze on your alarm, you need a quicker solution to frizz. Smoothfiller is a demi-permanent smoothing service that delivers smoother, more manageable hair, lasting up to four months. What's more, it's formulated without formaldehyde, so not only do you get a speedy styling routine that lets you claw back sleep – you can enjoy a smoothing service without formaldehyde in the mix.
So, whether you're heading back to the classroom, back to the office or simply back to your usual routine, let's explore what a formaldehyde-free smoothing treatment could mean for your hair this season...
Why is Formaldehyde a Concern in Hair Smoothing Treatments?
Between its distinctively pungent smell and strong fumes, formaldehyde in smoothing treatments can make for a less-than-enjoyable salon experience. But, according to the FDA, other harmful effects have triggered concerns around its use, with exposure linked to respiratory problems, skin irritation, headaches, asthma and, potentially, cancer.
The agency warns that formaldehyde gas is "a known human carcinogen as classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer". The FDA adds that it can lead to "serious irritation of your eyes, nose and lungs" and may "also cause skin sensitivity or allergic dermatitis".
With the introduction of formaldehyde-free smoothing treatments, you can now enjoy smoother hair without compromise. Less frizz, low fumes, longer lie-ins... It's all adding up.
What is Demi-Permanent Smoothing and How Does it Work?
Demi-permanent smoothing treatments, like Smoothfiller, help to reduce frizz, improve manageability, and keep hair smooth in the face of harsher weather without permanently altering your hair's structure. Plus, the results gradually fade over time so, unlike permanent straightening treatments, your demi-permanent service leaves none of those telltale grow-out lines.
But 'demi-permanent' doesn't automatically mean 'formaldehyde-free'. Even gentler smoothing services may use the ingredient to temporarily smooth your hair. So, if you're concerned about the effects of formaldehyde, talk with a salon professional about your options. Or head to your nearest Wella Professionals salon for a Smoothfiller service, which is both demi-permanent and formulated without formaldehyde.
How Demi-Permanent Smoothing Compares to Keratin Treatments
Both demi-permanent smoothing treatments and keratin treatments can reduce frizz and make your hair more manageable, but they each approach smoothing in different ways.
Keratin treatments are typically designed to create a sleeker, straighter look by altering the shape and texture of your hair. Depending on whether or not the treatment is permanent, you may experience harsh regrowth lines.
Meanwhile, our demi-permanent treatment, Smoothfiller – which is not a keratin treatment – controls frizz while protecting your hair’s natural texture and movement. Waves, curls and coils are kept intact, but with a smoother finish. And, because it’s demi-permanent, the results of Smoothfiller gradually fade over time, so your natural texture is restored without any telltale regrowth lines at the root.
Who Benefits Most From Formaldehyde-Free Hair Smoothing Treatments?
If you want long-lasting frizz control without the strong fumes and pungent smell of formaldehyde, a formaldehyde-free smoothing treatment may be perfect for you. While the chemical ingredient was once a staple of traditional keratin treatments (like Brazilian blowouts) you can skip its harmful effects while still enjoying smoother hair for longer.
At Wella salons, we offer the benefits of formaldehyde-free smoothing with Smoothfiller, a professional service that refills and restructures the hair fiber from the inside out. By building more bonds inside the hair, it helps to calm down fluffy, frizzy lengths, while maintaining your hair's natural movement and texture.
Smoothfiller is ideal for anyone who wants:
- Up to four months of more manageable hair with reduced frizz;
- Anti-humidity benefits that help keep flyaways in check;
- Faster, easier styling for busy mornings;
- Cumulative results, so frizzy hair becomes more manageable over time;
- No post-service restrictions – you can wash your hair as soon as you like with any shampoo;
- Natural movement that's maintained as the treatment gradually fades.
- A low-fume, odor-free, silicone-free, mineral oil-free and vegan service;
- Color and smoothing in the same appointment – Color Touch can be applied straight after Smoothfiller.
In other words, it's a great fit for anyone whose fall schedule could use one less thing to worry about. Basically, all of us.
What Happens During a Smoothfiller Service?
Before you head to your nearest Wella salon, find out what to expect from your Smoothfiller service. This three-step process makes smoothing simple and stress-free – perfect for streamlining your morning routine.
Step 1: Preparation
Your Wella stylist will begin by washing your hair to remove any buildup and create a clean base for the treatment. They’ll then blow-dry your hair until it’s around 80% dry, leaving it slightly damp and ready for Smoothfiller to be applied.
Step 2: Application
Next, Smoothfiller is applied evenly through the hair, avoiding the scalp. Your stylist will leave it to develop for 20 minutes, giving the formula time to work through the hair. Once the development time is complete, the product is thoroughly rinsed out.
Step 3: Activation
With the treatment rinsed out, your stylist will blow-dry your hair until it’s completely dry. They’ll then work through the hair in small sections with a flat iron, making multiple passes to activate Smoothfiller’s smoothing technology. Once the heat-activation process is complete, your smoother, more manageable hair is ready to style.
Formaldehyde-Free Hair Smoothing FAQs
What Is a Formaldehyde-Free Hair Smoothing Treatment?
A formaldehyde-free hair smoothing treatment is a professional service formulated without formaldehyde. It helps reduce frizz and improve manageability without using formaldehyde as part of the formulation.
How Long Does a Formaldehyde-Free Hair Smoothing Treatment Last?
It depends on the treatment, but Smoothfiller delivers smoother, more manageable hair for up to four months. Results gradually fade over time as your natural texture returns.
What Is the Healthiest Hair Smoothing Treatment for Frizzy Hair?
There isn't one smoothing treatment that's healthiest for everyone. A demi-permanent smoothing treatment can be an option for reducing frizz while allowing your natural texture and movement to return over time.
Is a Formaldehyde-Free Smoothing Treatment Safe for Color-Treated or Chemically Processed Hair?
Smoothfiller is suitable for color-treated and chemically treated hair. You can even have your hair colored in the same appointment with demi-permanent Color Touch. So, not only will you start the season with smoother, more manageable hair, but that fall-ready color switch you've been debating will be possible too.
Talk to Your Stylist About Formaldehyde-Free Smoothing Treatments
Ready for a smoother start to the season? Head to your nearest Wella salon to find out whether Smoothfiller is right for your hair, and discover a more manageable approach to your new-season hair routine.