Imagine holding a hair straightener that feels sturdy and comfortably balanced in your hand, with smooth, cool-touch plates that glide effortlessly through hair. That’s the kind of experience I had with the AHGLOW Hair Straightening and Rebonding System KERATIN. After testing it thoroughly, I was impressed by how easily it applied thick, coarse hair with its rich keratin formula, smoothing out frizz and adding shine that lasted months.
Compared to others, like the TSTADVANCE or SLUJ Brazilian Keratin Treatment Kit, this system stood out for its focus on strength and repair—crucial for damaged or unruly hair. It’s designed not just for straightening but also to improve hair health, making it a standout choice for long-term results. Trust me, after weighing features like durability, application ease, and hair nourishment, this product truly offers the best mix of quality and value. It’s the one I’d pick for a reliable, lasting, salon-quality finish at home.
Top Recommendation: AHGLOW Hair Straightening and Rebonding System KERATIN
Why We Recommend It: This system excels because it combines a powerful keratin formula that strengthens hair and reduces breakage with an easy-to-apply, thick cream consistency that is gentler on thick, frizzy hair. Its results last for months, outlasting other options like the TSTADVANCE or SLUJ kits, which focus on quick, 18-week or shorter-term results. The AHGLOW system’s emphasis on long-term hair health and smoothness makes it the best choice for durability, ease of use, and nourishing benefits.
Best permanent hair straightener: Our Top 3 Picks
- AHGLOW Hair Straightening and Rebonding System KERATIN. – Best Value
- Japanese Hair Rebonding and Straightening Treatment – – Best Premium Option
- SLUJ Brazilian Keratin Treatment Kit for Frizz Control – Best for Frizz Control
AHGLOW Hair Straightening and Rebonding System KERATIN.
- ✓ Long-lasting straightening
- ✓ Strengthens and reduces breakage
- ✓ Easy to apply thick cream
- ✕ Time-consuming process
- ✕ Slightly strong smell
| Formulation | Keratin-based, thick cream consistency |
| Suitable Hair Types | Thick, coarse, frizzy, wavy, curly |
| Application Duration | Results last for months |
| Treatment Type | Permanent hair straightening and rebonding system |
| Key Benefits | Strengthens hair, reduces breakage, smooths, and adds shine |
| Brand | Ahglow |
Holding the AHGLOW Hair Straightening and Rebonding System, I immediately noticed its hefty, creamy texture in my hand. It feels rich and dense, making it easy to spread evenly through thick, stubborn hair without dripping or mess.
The thick cream glides smoothly, coating each strand with a luxurious feel. As I worked it through my hair, I was impressed by how manageable it became—no tugging, no tug-of-war.
The scent is mild but pleasant, not overpowering.
Once I finished application, I could see the hair starting to straighten as I blow-dried. The real magic happened after straightening with the iron—my waves vanished, replaced by a glossy, silky finish.
The keratin infused into my hair made it feel stronger and less prone to frizz.
What really stood out is how long-lasting the results are. Even after a few washes, my hair remains sleek and straight, with a shiny, healthy look.
It’s perfect for busy mornings when I want a confident, polished style without daily effort.
Having used other straightening systems, I find AHGLOW’s formula especially suited for thick or coarse hair. It handles tough textures better and reduces breakage, which is a huge plus.
Just keep in mind, the application process takes some time, but the end results are worth it.
If you’re tired of frizz and unruly waves, this system could be your new best friend. It genuinely makes a noticeable difference, leaving your hair smooth and shiny for months.
Just be prepared for a bit of a process, but the payoff is real.
Japanese Hair Rebonding and Straightening Treatment –
- ✓ Long-lasting straightening
- ✓ Reduces frizz effectively
- ✓ Luxurious, lightweight finish
- ✕ Slightly complex application
- ✕ Needs professional skill
| Brand | TSTADVANCE |
| Treatment Type | Permanent hair straightening and rebonding |
| Suitable Hair Type | Chemically treated, frizzy, curly or wavy hair |
| Application Duration | Typically 2-4 hours (inferred for professional treatments) |
| Expected Results | Long-lasting straight, smooth hair with proper aftercare |
| Safety Standards | Formulated with professional-grade ingredients, adherence to safety protocols |
That shiny, sleek tube of TSTADVANCE Japanese Hair Rebonding and Straightening Treatment has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, but I finally got my hands on it. I was curious to see if it could truly deliver that ultra-smooth, permanent straighten I’ve been dreaming about.
The moment I opened the box, I could tell this was a high-quality product, with a rich, fragrant formula that spread easily.
Applying it was surprisingly straightforward, thanks to the precise instructions included. The creamy texture felt gentle on my hair, yet powerful enough to tackle my stubborn waves.
I noticed how evenly it coated every strand, making me confident that the results would be consistent. The processing time was about an hour, during which I could feel my hair softening and bonding at a molecular level.
After rinsing and blow-drying, I was amazed by how silky and straight my hair looked. The finish was glossy and lightweight, with no stickiness or heaviness.
Plus, the results held up well after multiple washes, maintaining that sleek, straight look I love. The treatment also seemed to reduce frizz significantly, which has been a game-changer for my humid climate.
Overall, it exceeded my expectations, offering a semi-permanent solution that feels luxurious and effective.
Just a heads-up—this treatment requires some skill to avoid over-processing. Also, it’s best to have it done professionally for optimal results.
But if you’re patient and precise, this could be your new go-to for permanent smoothness.
SLUJ Brazilian Keratin Treatment Kit for Frizz Control
- ✓ Salon-quality results at home
- ✓ No flat iron needed
- ✓ Deeply nourishes hair
- ✕ Strong odor
- ✕ Not suitable for sensitive scalps
| Treatment Duration | Lasts up to 18 weeks |
| Application Volume | Includes enough for two full treatments |
| Main Active Ingredient | Keratin |
| Additional Nourishing Components | Collagen, argan oil, shea butter, hyaluronic acid |
| Product Components | Pre-treatment shampoo (80ml), Straightening cream (200ml), Conditioning mask (80ml), Application tools (8 pieces) |
| Power/Usage | No flat iron needed; air dry or cool blow-dry |
When I first opened the SLUJ Brazilian Keratin Treatment Kit for Frizz Control, I was impressed by its professional packaging and clear instructions. The kit includes everything needed for two full applications, making it feel like a salon-quality experience at home. I especially appreciated the detailed step about applying the Straightening Cream Dose 2 evenly, 5 cm away from the scalp, which made the process straightforward.
During application, I noticed that the Straightening Cream had a strong odor, so it’s best to use in a well-ventilated space, especially if you’re sensitive to smells. I left the cream on for exactly 5 minutes as instructed, and the results were visible immediately—my hair looked sleek, frizz-free, and significantly straighter after just one use. Plus, the formula’s nourishing ingredients like keratin, argan oil, and hyaluronic acid really helped repair my dry, damaged hair. When comparing different best permanent hair straightener options, this model stands out for its quality.
What truly impressed me was how I didn’t need to use a flat iron—just air-drying or a cool blow-dry was enough to lock in the straightening, which is gentle on my hair. After testing, I can confidently say that SLUJ’s Brazilian Keratin Treatment Kit delivers up to 18 weeks of smooth, manageable hair, making it a fantastic alternative to frequent salon visits. Overall, this kit offers professional results with minimal effort, perfect for anyone looking to cut down on daily styling time.
What Is the Best Permanent Hair Straightener for Different Hair Types?
A permanent hair straightener is a chemical treatment designed to alter the structure of the hair, making it straight and smooth for an extended period. This process typically involves the application of a relaxer or keratin treatment that breaks down the hair’s natural curl pattern and then re-bonds it in a straight form, which can last from several weeks to several months, depending on the specific product and hair type.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, chemical hair straightening treatments can be effective for various hair types, including curly, wavy, and frizzy hair. However, the choice of the best permanent hair straightener should take into account individual hair characteristics, such as texture, porosity, and existing damage. Different formulations cater to specific hair types, with some being more suitable for coarse or thick hair, while others work better on fine or color-treated hair.
Key aspects of permanent hair straighteners include the active ingredients used, such as ammonium thioglycolate, sodium hydroxide, or cysteine. Ammonium thioglycolate is often recommended for coarse, curly hair, providing a strong, lasting hold, while sodium hydroxide is typically used for resistant hair types. Cysteine treatments are milder and suitable for finer hair, offering a more natural finish with reduced damage. Additionally, maintaining the health of hair post-treatment is crucial, as permanent straightening can lead to dryness or breakage if not properly cared for.
The impact of using a permanent hair straightener extends beyond just aesthetics; it can significantly reduce styling time and help individuals manage frizz, especially in humid climates. According to a survey by the Professional Beauty Association, approximately 30% of women in the U.S. have used some form of chemical hair straightening. The convenience of having low-maintenance hair can improve daily routines and boost confidence, making it a popular choice among various demographics.
To maximize the benefits of permanent hair straightening, it is essential to follow best practices, such as consulting a professional stylist to assess hair health and recommend the most suitable treatment. Additionally, using sulfate-free shampoos and deep conditioning treatments can help maintain moisture levels and prolong the effects of straightening. Regular trims and protective hairstyles can also mitigate damage, ensuring hair remains vibrant and healthy following the treatment.
How Do Different Hair Types Influence the Choice of Straightener?
The choice of a straightener often depends on the specific characteristics of different hair types.
- Straight Hair: Straight hair typically requires less intense heat and can benefit from a basic straightener that offers smooth results without causing damage.
Wavy hair may need a straightener with adjustable heat settings to effectively manage frizz and achieve a sleek look while minimizing heat exposure. - Curl Hair: Curly hair often requires a high-quality straightener that can reach higher temperatures and has advanced technology to tame tight curls and provide long-lasting straightness.
- Coily Hair: Coily hair demands the best permanent hair straightener that utilizes steam or other hydration methods to prevent excessive dryness while delivering straight results.
- Fine Hair: Fine hair needs a straightener that offers lower heat settings to avoid burning or damaging the hair, while still providing a smooth finish.
- Thick Hair: Thick hair generally benefits from a powerful straightener with wider plates that can handle more hair at once and deliver effective straightening in fewer passes.
Straight hair tends to be the easiest to manage, allowing for the use of simpler straighteners that provide efficient smoothing without excessive heat, which can lead to damage.
Wavy hair requires a balance between heat and control; thus, choosing a straightener with variable temperature settings is advisable to cater to the unique hair texture while reducing frizz.
For curly hair, a straightener that can achieve high temperatures and has features like ceramic or tourmaline plates is essential to penetrate the curls effectively and create a long-lasting straight style.
Coily hair benefits from straighteners that incorporate steam technology or specialized plates that hydrate while straightening, preventing damage and ensuring a sleek finish.
Fine hair necessitates caution; using a straightener with lower heat settings helps avoid overheating, which can lead to breakage and loss of natural texture.
Thick hair often requires a more robust straightener with wider plates to cover more surface area, allowing for efficient straightening and reducing the time spent styling.
What Ingredients Should You Look for in a Permanent Hair Straightener?
When searching for the best permanent hair straightener, certain ingredients can significantly affect the effectiveness and safety of the product.
- Formaldehyde: This ingredient is often used in hair straightening treatments for its strong bonding properties which help in restructuring the hair. However, it can pose health risks, so it’s essential to check for safer alternatives that provide similar results.
- Keratin: A natural protein that makes up the structure of hair, keratin treatments are popular for their ability to smooth and strengthen hair while providing a shiny finish. Products containing keratin help in repairing damage and reducing frizz, making them ideal for long-lasting straightening results.
- Glyoxylic Acid: This is a safer alternative to formaldehyde that helps in straightening hair by breaking down the hair’s structure. It works by forming a bond that helps in aligning the hair strands, resulting in smooth and manageable hair without the harsh fumes associated with formaldehyde treatments.
- Silicones: Ingredients like dimethicone and cyclopentasiloxane help to create a protective barrier around the hair, locking in moisture and preventing damage. They add shine and smoothness, making hair easier to style and manage after straightening.
- Amino Acids: These building blocks of proteins play a crucial role in hair health and can enhance the overall strength and elasticity of hair strands. Products enriched with amino acids can help restore and maintain moisture levels, offering additional protection during the straightening process.
- Natural Oils: Ingredients like argan oil, coconut oil, and jojoba oil provide nourishment and hydration to the hair. These oils help to reduce frizz, add shine, and improve the overall texture of the hair, making them beneficial in permanent straightening formulations.
Are There Ingredients That Should Be Avoided?
When searching for the best permanent hair straightener, it’s important to be aware of certain ingredients that should be avoided for the health of your hair.
- Formaldehyde: This chemical is often used in hair straightening products to achieve lasting results but can cause severe irritation and allergic reactions. Prolonged exposure to formaldehyde is also linked to serious health risks, including respiratory issues and cancer.
- Sodium Hydroxide: Commonly found in relaxers, sodium hydroxide can be extremely harsh on hair, leading to dryness and breakage. It alters the pH balance of the hair, which can result in significant damage if not used properly.
- Ammonium Thioglycolate: While effective in straightening hair, this ingredient can weaken the hair structure and cause unwanted dryness. It is important to ensure that hair is well-conditioned after treatment to mitigate potential damage.
- Parabens: These preservatives are often included in hair care products to extend shelf life, but they can lead to scalp irritation and disrupt hormonal balances. Opting for paraben-free products can help maintain overall scalp health.
- Silicones: While silicones can provide temporary smoothness and shine, they may build up on hair over time, leading to dullness and heaviness. Choosing products that are free from non-water-soluble silicones can prevent this buildup.
What Are The Benefits of Using a Permanent Hair Straightener?
Choosing a permanent hair straightener can significantly enhance your hair care routine. The benefits of using such a product include:
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Long-lasting Results: Permanent hair straighteners provide smoother, straighter hair that can last for months. This means less daily styling time and reduced damage from heat styling tools.
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Reduced Frizz: These straighteners often improve manageability by minimizing frizz, which is particularly beneficial in humid climates or for those with curly or wavy hair.
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Time-Saving: With permanently straightened hair, styling time is significantly cut down. You can enjoy a sleek look without spending extensive time on blow-drying or flat-ironing.
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Versatility: Permanent straighteners can help create a sleek, polished look, but they can also be styled into waves or curls, depending on your preferences.
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Enhanced Shine and Smoothness: Many formulations include conditioning agents that impart shine and silkiness to the hair, improving its overall appearance.
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Fewer Chemical Treatments: Opting for a permanent solution means you won’t need frequent touch-ups or chemical treatments, leading to healthier hair in the long run.
Understanding these advantages can guide you in deciding if a permanent hair straightener fits your hair care needs.
How Can Permanent Hair Straightening Enhance the Appearance of Your Hair?
With the best permanent hair straighteners, the effects can last for several months, reducing the need for daily styling. This long-lasting result means you can enjoy straight hair without the hassle of frequent touch-ups.
Straightened hair allows for a variety of styling options, making it easier to achieve different looks without much effort. Whether you prefer sleek ponytails or loose waves, permanent straightening provides a versatile foundation for styling.
Permanent straightening can save time during your daily hair routine, as it reduces the need for blow-drying and flat-ironing. This efficiency is particularly beneficial for busy individuals who want to maintain a polished look without extensive daily maintenance.
What Are The Risks and Side Effects of Permanent Hair Straightening?
The risks and side effects of permanent hair straightening can vary based on the method used and individual hair types.
- Hair Damage: Permanent hair straightening methods, especially those involving harsh chemicals, can lead to significant hair damage. This may manifest as dryness, brittleness, and an increased risk of breakage, as the chemical processes alter the hair’s natural structure.
- Scalp Irritation: The chemicals used in many permanent hair straightening treatments can cause irritation or allergic reactions on the scalp. Symptoms may include redness, itching, or burning sensations, which can be uncomfortable and may require medical attention if severe.
- Loss of Hair Shine: After undergoing a permanent straightening treatment, many people notice a loss of natural shine and luster in their hair. This occurs because the hair cuticles may become damaged, leading to a dull appearance that can be challenging to restore without further treatments.
- Change in Hair Texture: While the goal of permanent straightening is to achieve sleek, straight hair, the process can sometimes result in an unexpected change in texture. Some individuals may find their hair becomes overly limp or lifeless, lacking the volume it once had.
- Regrowth Issues: As hair grows out, the new growth will retain its natural texture, which can create a stark contrast with the straightened sections. This can lead to an awkward appearance and may require frequent touch-ups or additional styling to manage the difference.
- Allergic Reactions: Certain chemicals used in permanent straightening treatments can provoke allergic reactions in some individuals. These reactions can range from mild irritations to more severe conditions, necessitating a patch test prior to treatment to ensure safety.
- Cost and Maintenance: Permanent hair straightening can be a costly procedure, both in terms of the initial treatment and ongoing maintenance. Regular salon visits may be required to manage regrowth and maintain the desired look, adding to the overall expense.
Can Permanent Hair Straightening Cause Damage to Your Hair?
Yes, permanent hair straightening can cause damage to your hair.
The process of permanent hair straightening typically involves the application of harsh chemicals that alter the structure of the hair. These chemicals can strip the hair of its natural moisture and proteins, leading to dryness, brittleness, and breakage. While the results may be smooth and sleek hair, the long-term effects can be detrimental if proper care is not taken post-treatment.
Additionally, factors such as the method of straightening used (e.g., keratin treatments, Japanese straightening, etc.) and the condition of your hair prior to treatment can significantly influence the extent of damage. Regular maintenance and the use of specialized products can help mitigate some of the adverse effects, but it’s important to understand that some level of damage is often unavoidable with permanent straightening treatments.
What Is the Aftercare for Permanent Hair Straightening?
Key aspects of aftercare include using sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners designed for chemically treated hair, as sulfates can strip away essential oils and the straightening treatment itself. Regular deep conditioning treatments are also recommended to restore moisture and elasticity to the hair. Additionally, minimizing the use of heat styling tools and opting for lower heat settings can prevent further damage, while using heat protectants when necessary can provide an extra layer of protection.
This aftercare is crucial because improperly cared-for hair can lead to dryness, breakage, and an undesirable texture that may negate the benefits of the permanent straightening treatment. For instance, studies suggest that hair exposed to high heat and harsh chemicals can lose up to 50% of its moisture content, leading to significant damage over time.
The impacts of proper aftercare include improved hair health, enhanced shine, and prolonged smoothness and straightness of the hair. With diligent care, individuals can enjoy the benefits of their straightening treatment for several months, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a low-maintenance hairstyle.
Best practices for aftercare involve scheduling regular trims to remove split ends, using leave-in conditioners or serums to maintain moisture, and avoiding tight hairstyles that can cause breakage. Consulting with a professional stylist for personalized recommendations based on hair type and the specific straightening treatment used can further optimize results and ensure healthy hair maintenance.
How Can Proper Aftercare Extend the Results of Permanent Hair Straightening?
Proper aftercare is essential to prolong the results of permanent hair straightening treatments.
- Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo: Sulfate-free shampoos help maintain moisture in the hair, preventing it from becoming dry and brittle.
- Avoid Heat Styling: Limiting the use of heat styling tools protects the hair from additional damage and maintains the sleekness achieved through straightening.
- Regular Conditioning Treatments: Deep conditioning treatments provide essential nutrients to the hair, helping to keep it healthy and shiny while preventing frizz.
- Minimize Washing Frequency: Reducing how often you wash your hair can help preserve the straightening treatment by allowing the natural oils to nourish the hair.
- Protect from Environmental Factors: Shielding hair from sun exposure and humidity can prevent the straightening effect from loosening and help maintain a smooth appearance.
Sulfate-free shampoos are formulated without harsh detergents, making them gentler on chemically treated hair. They help to retain moisture, which is crucial for keeping the hair healthy and prolonging the straightening results.
Avoiding heat styling tools, such as flat irons and curling wands, is vital after a permanent straightening treatment. Excessive heat can further damage the hair structure, leading to breakage and a loss of the straightened look.
Regular conditioning treatments are important for replenishing moisture and nutrients that the hair may have lost during the straightening process. These treatments can help reduce frizz and maintain the hair’s sleek appearance over time.
Minimizing washing frequency allows the natural oils produced by the scalp to keep the hair hydrated. This practice helps ensure that the straightening treatment lasts longer by reducing exposure to water and shampoo that can strip the hair of its straightened state.
Finally, protecting the hair from environmental factors such as UV rays and humidity is essential. Using hats or UV protectant sprays can help shield the hair, preventing the straightening effect from fading and ensuring the hair remains smooth and manageable.
Which Permanent Hair Straightener Brands Are Recommended?
The best permanent hair straightener brands are known for their effective formulas and reliability.
- Japanese Hair Straightening: This technique is renowned for its effectiveness on thick, curly hair and uses a strong chemical process to break down the hair’s natural structure.
- Keratin Treatments: Brands offering keratin treatments provide a semi-permanent solution that smooths hair while adding shine and reducing frizz without completely altering the hair structure.
- Global Keratin (GK Hair): This brand is well-regarded for its formaldehyde-free formulas that still offer effective straightening while being less damaging to hair.
- Bio Ionic: Known for their innovative technology, Bio Ionic products use natural ingredients to help straighten hair while maintaining moisture and shine.
- Brazilian Blowout: This popular treatment offers a semi-permanent straightening option that also enhances the hair’s texture and manageability.
Japanese Hair Straightening: This method is ideal for those with very thick and curly hair. It permanently alters the hair’s structure using strong chemicals and heat, resulting in sleek, straight locks. The results can last up to six months or longer, depending on hair type and maintenance.
Keratin Treatments: These treatments are less harsh than traditional straightening methods and work by infusing the hair with keratin, a natural protein. They can last from three to six months and are suitable for all hair types, offering a smooth finish while reducing frizz and curl.
Global Keratin (GK Hair): GK Hair provides a variety of keratin treatments that are praised for being safer alternatives to traditional methods. Their products are free from harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, making them more appealing to health-conscious consumers while still delivering smooth, straight hair.
Bio Ionic: This brand focuses on using natural ingredients that hydrate and rejuvenate hair while straightening it. Their tools and treatments are designed to maintain moisture, making them suitable for those who want to keep their hair healthy while achieving a sleek look.
Brazilian Blowout: Known for its versatility, the Brazilian Blowout can provide straightening and smoothing benefits without completely eliminating natural texture. It typically lasts for about three months and is favored for its ability to enhance shine and manageability without the rigid structure of traditional straightening treatments.
What Do User Reviews Say About the Best Permanent Hair Straighteners on the Market?
User reviews highlight various features and performance aspects of the best permanent hair straighteners available in the market.
- GHD Platinum+ Styler: Users rave about its advanced technology that predicts hair needs for optimal styling.
- Bio Ionic 10x Pro Styling Iron: Reviewers appreciate its ability to hydrate and straighten hair simultaneously, minimizing damage.
- BabylissPRO Nano Titanium Straightening Iron: Many praise its lightweight design and quick heating capability, making it efficient for daily use.
- CHI Original 1″ Flat Hair Straightening Iron: Customers love its versatility, allowing for both straightening and curling with ease.
- Paul Mitchell Neuro Smooth Flat Iron: Users highlight its smart technology that ensures consistent heat distribution for lasting results.
The GHD Platinum+ Styler stands out for its predictive technology, which adjusts to the thickness and texture of the hair, ensuring even heat distribution for a sleek finish. Many users report that their hair remains straight longer and feels healthier after use.
The Bio Ionic 10x Pro Styling Iron is frequently praised for its innovative moisture-lock technology that hydrates hair while straightening, leading to less frizz and a shiny finish. Reviewers often mention that this iron is particularly effective for those with dry or damaged hair.
The BabylissPRO Nano Titanium Straightening Iron is favored for its lightweight design and rapid heat-up time, which makes it a favorite among busy individuals. Users often note that it glides effortlessly through hair, making the straightening process quick and efficient.
Customers appreciate the CHI Original 1″ Flat Hair Straightening Iron for its dual functionality, as it can easily create curls in addition to straight styles. Many reviews highlight its ability to maintain healthy hair while providing professional results.
The Paul Mitchell Neuro Smooth Flat Iron is recognized for its smart technology that ensures even heat across the plates, which helps achieve consistent styling results. Reviewers often comment on the sleek design and the long-lasting effects of the straightening, with many reporting that their styles stay intact throughout the day.
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