The Bettjeman's Permanent Blowave - the real deal if you want to go straight

Since I first wrote abut the process of infusing the hair with Keratin to give it a super shiny, just-out-of-the-salon look every day, it seems that literally thousands of practitioners have popped up. With seemingly every man and his colourist giving Keratin treatments a bash, some have been of dubious efficacy, effectively tarnishing the good name of the real thing. This lead to New Zealand salon owner – and highly respected stylist - Grant Bettjeman patenting the name The Permanent Blowave, so as to assure his customers that at his Orakei salon you really will get the real thing. Like much of the treatments that happen in the Bettjeman’s Hair Spa – a serene oasis separate from the main salon – the process begins with a Japanese Tea Ceremony, the donning of a fluffy robe and a thorough hair consultation. The stylist in charge of the treatment is a seemingly unflappable, tiny blonde named Valeria, who is such a sweetheart that I defy anyone not to be able to spend the four hours plus required for the treatment in her more than capable hands. They use the KeraStraight formula for the task – and you leave with the same brand’s shampoo and conditioner to keep things sleek at home – which adds 22 carat gold and white clay to keratin to give it a major boost. Gold is well known for its ability to affect negative ions, so you get extra shine and manageability, as well as long-lasting, instant repair. The usual rules apply post-treatment – no tying hair back, washing or products for 72 hours etc. – then you’re good to go. Like Stephen Marr, Bettjeman’s pride themselves on their technique and the quality of their product, so if you’re in the market for a keratin treatment then I recommend that you stick with the best. Buyer most definitely be aware!