Bumble and bumble CONCEN-Straight Professional In-Salon Treatments

New from Bumble & Bumble! Introductory pricing starts between $150

Finally, a safe alternative to Brazilian keratin treatments from one of the biggest, most trusted names in hair, Bumble & bumble.

Have you ever wished that your hair was more manageable? Frizz-free? Softer? Smoother? A Bumble & bumble CONCEN-Straight Professional in-salon treatment (part of the Bumble & bumble Straight line of products) is your answer.

CONCEN-Straight treatments rejuvenate and revitalize your hair, giving it a softer, silkier feel that everyone raves about.

The effects are cumulative - with continual use of the line - smoothing and straightening benefits are increased. With each treatment, your hair will be:

• Smoother and silkier
• Straighter and shinier
• Easier and faster to blow-dry
• Resistant to the effects of humidity

CONCEN-Straight is NOT a Brazilian keratin. It is Formaldehyde free, Cysteine free, & Lye free. It is gentle enough to use on ALL hair types: color treated, chemically processed, bleached or highlighted. The Straight line provides customizable straightness inspired by naturally straight hair's variations, undulations and personalities. For pin to pretty straight results, it reins in and reforms the rounded and most reluctant shapes and textures.

At Stella Luca Salons Winter Park, you will find several of the first Bumble & bumble Concen-Straight certified stylists in Orlando. Many of our stylists have been performing smoothing treatments since 2007. Since then, they've performed over 1500 keratin treatments for our clients in Orlando. With the introduction of CONCEN-Straight, we are now one of only 8 salons in Orlando able to provide an effective non-toxic alternative to keratin treatments.

Bumble & bumble CONCEN-Straight vs. a Brazilian Keratin? The results speak for themselves. Smoother is better!

The images below show individual strands of hair under a Scanning Electron Microscope. They show undamaged, smooth virgin hair compared to typical results provided by Bumble & bumble CONCEN-Straight Pro, a typical formaldehyde-based keratin product, and a cystein-based keratin product. If you desire frizz-free smooth hair without the toxic chemicals, Bumble & bumble CONCEN-Straight is your answer.

Bumble & bumble CONCEN-Straight FAQ's:

The Product

Is this product safe?

YES! CONCEN-Straight is a safe, non-damaging, non-toxic product. It is NOT a Brazilian keratin (most keratin treatments are a formaldehyde based and they release formaldehyde vapors during application). Bumble & bumble CONCEN-Straight contains NO formaldehyde, NO cysteine, and NO lye.

How does CONCEN-Straight work?

The technology offers a four-pronged approach to hair straightening:

• Sodium Metabisulfite (Pro only) - gently alters the inner s-bonds that give hair natural curve
• A Gemstone Blend – Tourmaline, Brazilian Green Malachite, Pearl and Sapphire – plus heat – energize to loosen the inner s-bonds
• Polylysine – An Amino Acid – realigns bonds into smoother shapes
• Featherlight Silicones – seal and set hair for lasting results and heat protection – without weight.

Is this the same as a Brazilian Blowout, Brazilian Blowdry, or other Brazilian Keratin Treatments on the market?

NO! There are now over 300 different "Brazilians" out there. Most "Brazilian" treatments contain dangerous formaldehyde and other undisclosed, unregulated chemicals. The Bumble & bumble brand product is not a keratin treatment. Beyond the safety difference, it is VERY unique in that it has only 24 hours of downtime (where you can not wash your hair), NO harsh, dangerous, toxic chemicals, and it lasts up to 30 shampoos. Remember - if the bottle does not say "Bumble & bumble", it's not CONCEN-Straight!

How is CONCEN-Straight different from Japanese straightening?

Japanese hair straightening changes the actual structure of the hair. It is a permanent service and, as such, needs to be repeated on the new growth hair. Unlike Keratin procedures, a Japanese straightener leaves the hair perfectly straight and smooth. Japanese straightening is a more costly service. We have 2 stylists who were some of the first in Florida certified to perform Japanese straighteners. Should you wish, they can discuss the differences thoroughly.

Can any salon offer this product?

NO! Salons must be authorized to carry Bumble & bumble and must have completed training and certification for this product line. Bumble is a very exclusive line and is found only in top salons. We are proud to be one of only 2 salons in Winter Park and one of only 8 salons in Orlando to offer this amazing product.

Do all of your stylists offer this product?

No. To be sure we provide the highest level of service to our clients, we are requiring that each stylist must be thoroughly trained and certified in the proper use of this product. We currently have 9 stylists who have received training directly from Bumble & bumble and who are able to provide the service. We have more scheduled for intensive hands-on training on November 7th. This training is NOT required by Bumble.

Your Hair

Do I need a consultation?

No, CONCEN-Straight is appropriate for almost every hair type. Of course, if you prefer to have a consultation, one of the stylists at either of our 2 Winter Park locations will be happy to analyze your hair and make sure all of your questions are answered. Alternately, we are available to answer questions regarding this treatment over the phone.

Who is the best candidate for CONCEN-Straight?

It has been our experience, that good candidates for CONCEN-Straight are anyone who has frizzy, damaged or processed hair. We have performed the treatment on every hair type (fine, course, frizzy, curly), as well as hair that has been permed, Japanese straightened and on extensions. In our experience, we have found that with proper communication and a well considered application, everyone can benefit from the Bumble & bumble smoothing treatment. The only exception we've found is that smoothing treatments, in general, do not work as well on a person of strong Middle-Eastern descent or on persons with thick, wiry, very coarse hair. It is recommended that you not have any perms, relaxers, or straighteners within the 2 weeks prior to your CONCEN-Straight treatment.

How long does my hair need to be?

Your hair should be at least 4-5 inches long before it can be considered for a CONCEN-Straight treatment.

Can you perform CONCEN-Straight if I have extensions?

Yes, CONCEN-Straight performs perfectly on hair extensions. It would be best for the stylist to perform CONCEN-Straight separately on the extensions prior to putting them into the hair. If you wish to perform the treatment on extensions that are already in the hair, the stylist will need to be extremely careful when applying the solution to the bonded area. CONCEN-Straight solution acts as a conditioning agent, and may create slip resulting in the extensions separating from the hair. If the stylist is careful and works to first separate the extension hair from the client's own hair, a great result can be achieved.

Can I still receive CONCEN-Straight if I have highlights and/or color?

Yes, CONCEN-Straight will actually improve the look of color-treated/highlighted hair by conditioning the hair while sealing the cuticle for enhanced color, reduced frizz and added shine.

Can I receive CONCEN-Straight if I have over-processed blonde hair? What if my hair is platinum blonde?

For most clients, this is not a concern. Your stylist will assess the condition of your hair to make sure it is in a healthy enough state to apply heat through the use of a flat iron. If it is felt that the hair is in questionable condition, the stylist will have to determine the appropriate amount of heat to apply.

Can this be done on African American or Hispanic Hair?

Yes, ethic hair generally responds very well to this service. If you prefer a natural look with soft, smooth, shiny hair; CONCEN-Straight may be the right choice for you.

Can you apply the CONCEN-Straight directly on top of other relaxers and strengtheners?

Yes. CONCEN-Straight actually works best on chemically treated hair, and helps to improve the hair's condition. CONCEN-Straight works great directly on top of a relaxer. Perform the relaxer first, CONCEN-Straight next, and then neutralize at the very end of both treatments. CONCEN-Straight is great to perform when someone is trying to move away from having relaxers or Japanese straighteners. It puts movement back into the hair, allowing the hair to look its best.

Can I receive CONCEN-Straight if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

There have been no clinical tests performed on the safety of performing CONCEN-Straight on pregnant women or women who are breastfeeding. As a result, we advise pregnant or breastfeeding women to consult with their doctor before any salon service that involves color or other chemicals.

The Results

What kind of look will you get from CONCEN-Straight?

The hair will be left smooth, frizz-free, more manageable, and with plenty of body and bounce. The texture of the hair will be straight but the hair does not have to be worn straight. There will still be the option to wear hair curly/wavy (depending on the hair type) and the freedom to blow dry hair smooth and straight in a fraction of the time invested prior to receiving the treatment.

Is CONCEN-Straight going to make my hair straight?

CONCEN-Straight is designed to give you the texture of straight hair. You will not end up with pin-straight hair and you will not necessarily have to style your hair straight. You will have the ability to go back and forth between natural and straight styles. If your hair is wavy, straight will make your hair appear naturally straighter and healthy. If your hair is very curly, it will minimize frizz while enhancing the appearance of the natural wave/curl. If you have straight, frizzy hair, this treatment will eliminate frizz, provide smoothness, and promote radiant shine.

What do you mean by "the texture of straight hair"?

Very simply, straight hair is smooth hair. To understand this, you will need to know a little bit about the shape of the hair shaft. The shaft of straight hair is round where the shaft of wavy or curly hair is oval-shaped. Curls prevent natural oils, produced by your body, to spread evenly along the hair fiber. Without lubrication, the fibers become dry. This causes the strands to flake and roughen, resulting in hair that is coarse to the touch. The smoothness of straight hair is a result of the natural distribution of oils. Straight hair is shinier, healthier, stronger, and smoother than curly or wavy hair.

Will I lose all my curl?

A lot depends on the current condition of your hair. CONCEN-Straight is designed to smooth your hair and remove frizz. It would generally be safe to expect at least a 50% reduction in your curl with CONCEN-Straight. If you want to keep some curl, make sure to tell your stylist. They will adjust their ironing technique to give a more desired result. If you start with a lot of curl and you prefer straight hair, you may still end up with some curl or waves if you just let your hair dry naturally. Either way, you will see a dramatic reduction in flat iron time.

Will my hair lose volume if I receive CONCEN-Straight?

No, your hair will not lose volume as a result of receiving CONCEN-Straight. Your hair will maintain its natural volume and you will still receive great bend and memory when blow-drying and/or using a curling iron.

How long does CONCEN-Straight last?

CONCEN-Straight will last for about 30 shampoos if the Bumble & bumble Straight after-care maintenance product line is used. CONCEN-Straight is a cumulative treatment, in that the more you receive it, the smoother the hair will be and the longer the result will last. Because you will spend less time using heat tools (irons & blowdryers), your hair will receive less heat damage and will, in turn, become shinier and healthier on its own.

Will my hair return to its original state after the CONCEN-Straight treatment has completed its life cycle?

Yes, the hair will gradually revert to its original state once the CONCEN-Straight treatment has completed its life cycle of 30 shampoos, however, the condition of the hair will actually improve as a result of the fortifying and conditioning nature of the product.

The Service

How long will the service take?

This depends on certain factors, which include hair length, type, and texture. Your hair will first be cleansed with Bumble & bumble Sunday (clarifying) shampoo. The Concen-Straight solution is then applied and combed through every 5 minutes for 30 minutes. Finally, Your hair will be thoroughly rinsed, blown dry & flat ironed. Typically, a CONCEN-Straight treatment will require between 90 & 120 minutes.

How much does the service cost?

Prices vary by stylist. Introductory pricing starts between $150 and $175 (longer and/or thicker hair will be additional). Please see our individual stylist's service menus for pricing. We require that all of the stylists who offer this service at our salon are fully trained by Bumble & bumble.

Can you color your hair the same day you receive CONCEN-Straight?

For single process color, yes. Your color must be applied by the stylist who performs your CONCEN-Straight treatment directly before your service. To obtain the proper color, the color application technique must be adjusted for the treatment.

Will this damage my hair?

NO! CONCEN-Straight will improve the condition of your hair and protect your hair from humidity and pollutants. The only possible damage could be from a stylist who applied too much heat. Our stylists are properly trained and certified to be sure that they stay well within the recommended heat range.

What will my hair look like for the 24 hours directly after my treatment?

Most clients will have beautiful shiny straight hair. Clients with short fine hair may have a few "fly-aways" (which are easily tamed with a small shot of hair spray) and an/or an oily feel directly after your treatment. After your first shampoo (as early as 24 hours after your treatment), this will go away and you will see the desired result; frizz-free, smooth hair.

Aftercare

How soon can I wash my hair after the CONCEN-Straight treatment?

Your hair should stay completely dry for 24 hours after the CONCEN-Straight treatment. You should also avoid hair ties and/or leaving your hair behind your ears for 24 hours.

What aftercare is involved with this product?

The use of support shampoos and conditioners is required to ensure the desired result.

What type of Shampoo/Conditioner should I use after I receive this treatment?

Bumble & bumble Straight shampoo and conditioner have been developed to provide the proper support for your treatment. Both the shampoo and conditioner contain Concen-Straight ingredients that will extend the life of your treatment. Used regularly, they will help keep hair soft, smooth, silky, and will help reduce frizz. Straight shampoo and conditioner have been clinically proven to improve hair's smoothness and increase manageability.

Alternately, you may use Bumble & bumble Quenching shampoo/conditioner or Bumble & bumble Mending shampoo/conditioner. While Quenching & Mending are free of ingredients that will shorten the life of the treatment, it should be noted that they do NOT contain Concen-Straight support ingredients which help smooth your hair and reduce frizz. It is recommended that do not you use any other shampoo or conditioner, even those designed for keratin treatments. Concen-Straight is not a keratin treatment and keratin support products may shorten the life of your Concen-Straight treatment!

Can I treat my hair the same as before?

For most people, it is easier to care for your hair after a CONCEN-Straight treatment. You will spend less time getting ready and will achieve a better, frizz-free result that will last throughout the day. The correct brushes, cleansing and styling products will be recommended. It is important to follow the recommendations made by your stylist to get the most out of the application. This will be explained during your treatment.

Which styling products should I use after I get a CONCEN-Straight treatment?

Bumble makes a companion styling product that specifically supports the Pro treatment. "Straight Blow-Dry" is a heat-activated styling balm with a combination of ultra light, modern silicones that reduce frizz and add shine. It also contains Panthenol and Glycerin to protect hair against heat and humidity. It's perfect for all hair types and it lasts until your next shampoo.

How easy will my hair be to handle after having this process done?

After a Concen-Straight treatment, all you will need to do when you wash your hair is a quick blow dry style; that's pretty much it! You will spend less time than you normally spend in your quest to achieve straight hair. Once dry, you are ready to face the Orlando humidity and, if you do get caught in some rain, you won't end up with frizz.

How soon can you touch up your color after you receive the CONCEN-Straight treatment?

You should wait at least two weeks to administer color to the hair after you receive CONCEN-Straight, as the color will not deposit as effectively. If you need to touch up color/roots in between treatments, this is ok, as the hair being touched up is new growth and does not have the treatment on it.

Can you swim in the pool or ocean after you have the CONCEN-Straight treatment?

While you can swim after a Concen-Straight treatment, each time you wet your hair, you will shorten the life of the treatment by about 1 shampoo. We strongly recommend that you apply Kerastase Aqua-Seal on your hair, prior to swimming, to act as a protective barrier to maintain the smoothest possible result for the longest period of time.

How soon can I receive another CONCEN-Straight treatment after I receive my first treatment?

CONCEN-Straight is just like a conditioning treatment, so you will not harm the hair by performing them too soon or too much.

Is there an at-home treatment that will give me similar results?

Yes. While it will not be available until December 2011/January 2012, Concen-Straight Smoothing Treatment is available in a non-professional version for at-home use. Sold as a single use treatment, it smoothes hair for improved manageability and frizz reduction for up to 30 shampoos (based on length and texture of hair, number of washes and use of the Straight support shampoo and conditioner). It is perfect for all hair types and it contains Concen-Straight Technology (in a lower dose than the Professional in-salon only product). It is gentle yet potent and non-damaging. As with the Professional product, it is formaldehyde free, cysteine free, and lye free. This product sells for $45 and will be available at both Stella Luca locations.

Yuko Japanese Straightening or a Bumble & bumble CONCEN-Straight Treatment - Which One is Right for Me?

Both products work well to provide their intended result. Both treatments need to be done at the hands of a skilled stylist. But which one is right for ME? That really depends on the result you want. We've given you a quick comparison below to help you select. If you are still unsure after you read through, Stella Luca stylists have been working with these products for a long time and they can review the benefits and limitations of each. Either way, rest assured that our stylists have more combined experience than any other salon in Winter Park or Orlando when it comes to hair straightening.

CONCEN-Straight: PROS: It will fade away gradually, meaning that it will eventually leave you with your original natural hair once more. There is no new growth to retouch or growing out stage if you decide not to maintain the look. It takes less salon time and generally costs less than the Yuko system. It leaves the hair with more body than the Yuko (because it does not remove all of the curl) and it can be used on dyed, bleached, heavily highlighted hair. It's perfect for the client who is mainly looking to add shine, fight frizz, and tame overly curly hair. Hair can be worn straight or with curls. It eliminates 95% of frizz while it maintains a smooth yet silky feel.

CONS: It's temporary. The effect doesn't last as long as Yuko; about two to four months. It will not perfectly straighten the hair. CONCEN-Straight usually removes 50% of the curl in your hair. Depending on how curly your hair is to begin with, you may still have to flat iron or use a blow dryer to straighten out the remainder of the waves or curls.

Yuko Japanese Straightening: PROS: It lasts forever, meaning you won't see any curl or frizz until new hair grows in. Yuko will deliver beautiful, shiny, smooth, frizz-free board-straight hair as it improves the overall health of your locks. Removing almost 100% of the curl from your hair, Yuko can provide much more dramatic results. Clients who have had a lifelong hatred for their unruly, curly hair have literally cried with joy after they saw the end result. Although you will see regrowth in 5 to 6 months, you will appreciate only having to manage the new growth during your morning routine. The treated section of your hair will remain smooth.

CONS: It is permanent. As new hair grows in, your new growth will look as it did before your Yuko. To manage this, you will need to have your hair redone in about 6 to 12 months or you will need to flat iron your roots. Alternately, you could reverse the Yuko and add curl back to the treated section.

So which one is better, Yuko or CONCEN-Straight? It really depends on the result you desire and your lifestyle. If you still have questions regarding either Yuko Japanese straighteners or Bumble & bumble smoothing treatments, just call to schedule a consultation with one of the stylists at either of our Stella Luca Salons in Winter Park.