Rebonding vs. Straightening: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Harlon Moss || Updated on October 20, 2023
Rebonding is a chemical process to straighten hair; straightening is using heat to flatten hair.
Key Differences
Rebonding is a hair treatment that involves using chemicals to permanently straighten the hair. This process breaks the natural bonds of the hair and reforms them to give a straight look. Straightening, on the other hand, involves using heat tools like flat irons to achieve a straight look, which is temporary.
Rebonding can last for several months, making it a more permanent solution for those seeking consistently straight hair. Straightening requires frequent application, typically every time one wishes to achieve a straight hair look, as its effects wear off after shampooing or due to natural elements.
For rebonding, once the chemicals are applied, they alter the structure of the hair permanently until new hair grows. Straightening, meanwhile, simply alters the appearance of the hair temporarily, without any lasting structural change.
Those who choose rebonding should be prepared for the commitment, as the treated hair remains straight and requires maintenance. Straightening offers more flexibility since it doesn't permanently change the hair's structure, allowing individuals to return to their natural hair texture whenever they wish.
Rebonding requires specialized knowledge and is usually done by professionals in a salon setting. Straightening, in contrast, can be done at home or in a salon, using a flat iron or brush, and doesn't require the same level of expertise.
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Comparison Chart
Process
Chemical treatment
Heat application
Duration
Permanent until new hair grows
Temporary, wears off after washing
Structural Alteration
Alters hair structure permanently
Temporarily changes hair appearance
Flexibility
Less flexible, hair remains straight
More flexible, can revert to natural look
Expertise Required
Professional salon treatment
Can be done at home or salon
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Rebonding and Straightening Definitions
Rebonding
The process of restructuring hair's natural bonds.
After the rebonding, her curls were completely straightened out.
Straightening
A process of removing bends or curls using heat.
Before the party, she spent an hour straightening her hair.
Rebonding
A technique involving chemicals to modify hair's form.
Rebonding gave her the pin-straight hair she had always desired.
Straightening
The act of making something, especially hair, straight using heat.
She spent 30 minutes straightening her wavy hair this morning.
Rebonding
A salon-based procedure to alter hair texture.
Many opt for rebonding to have frizz-free straight hair for months.
Straightening
Temporarily altering hair texture with heat tools.
For the event, she considered straightening her curly hair.
Rebonding
A chemical treatment for permanently straightening hair.
She went to the salon for rebonding to achieve sleek, straight hair.
Straightening
Making hair flat and smooth using heated equipment.
She bought a new ceramic flat iron for straightening her thick hair.
Rebonding
Permanent hair straightening solution using chemicals.
With rebonding, she wouldn't have to worry about her hair getting curly in humid weather.
Straightening
Using a flat iron or brush to achieve sleek hair.
Every morning, she devoted time to straightening her locks.
Rebonding
Infl of rebond
Straightening
To make or become straight or straighter.
Straightening
Infl of straighten
Straightening
The act of making something straight.
FAQs
Is straightening a temporary process?
Yes, straightening effects are temporary and wear off after washing or due to natural elements.
How does straightening differ from rebonding?
Straightening uses heat to temporarily flatten hair, while rebonding uses chemicals for a more permanent effect.
What is rebonding?
Rebonding is a chemical treatment that permanently straightens hair by altering its structure.
Is rebonding suitable for all hair types?
Most hair types can be rebonded, but it's essential to consult a professional for specific concerns.
Can I straighten my hair at home?
Yes, straightening can be done at home using a flat iron or straightening brush.
How often can I undergo rebonding?
Typically, rebonding is done once, and touch-ups are done on new hair growth.
Why would someone choose rebonding over straightening?
Rebonding offers a longer-lasting, consistent straight hair look compared to the temporary effect of straightening.
Can I swim after getting my hair rebonded?
It's advised to wait at least two weeks and use a swimming cap to protect rebonded hair from chlorine.
Does straightening fade hair color?
Excessive heat from straightening can cause colored hair to fade faster.
What care should be taken post-rebonding?
Use sulfate-free shampoos, avoid tying wet hair, and minimize heat styling.
Can rebonded hair be colored?
Yes, but it's advised to wait a few weeks after rebonding to color the hair.
How frequently should I straighten my hair?
It depends on personal preference, but excessive straightening can cause heat damage.
Can I curl my hair after straightening?
Yes, but frequent heat styling can damage hair.
Is it safe to straighten hair often?
Regular straightening can lead to heat damage, so it's essential to use heat protectants and minimize frequency.
How long does rebonding last?
Rebonding can last for several months until new hair grows.
Does rebonding damage hair?
Like any chemical treatment, rebonding can damage hair if not done correctly.
What's the cost difference between rebonding and straightening?
Rebonding is usually more expensive due to its permanent nature and professional requirement, while straightening costs vary based on tools and frequency.
Are there side effects to rebonding?
Possible side effects include hair breakage, dryness, and scalp irritation if not done correctly.
How can I protect my hair while straightening?
Use a heat protectant spray and ensure your flat iron is at the appropriate temperature.
How long does the straightening process take?
It varies based on hair length and thickness, but typically 15-45 minutes.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
