Once upon a time, harsh, damaging chemicals were the only way to smooth and straighten the hair but – thanks to the Guava Latino Keratin Smoothing System – those days are long gone. Developed by Pierre Haddad of Pierre Haddad Hair Management, after investing a number of years into finding a solution, the Guava Latino is a professional salon-only hair smoothing treatment designed to leave hair smooth, manageable and shiny for up to four months. In addition to straightening and relaxing the hair, the Guava Latino is also a deep restorative treatment, making the hair more manageable, healthy and beautiful. The blend of keratin proteins and unique amino acids penetrates deep into the hair, as well as coats the cuticle layer. It works through disulfide bond realignment, but doesn’t damage the essential hair fibre.
How it works
During the smoothing process, powerful nutrients are placed along the hair, revitalising and reconditioning it. Unlike some keratin-based smoothers, Guava Latino Keratin replenishes and conditions the hair without changing or damaging its molecular structure. ‘When used on damaged, coloured, permed or chemically treated hair, it rejuvenates cuticles, vastly improving the health and vitality of hair. Latino’s unique blend of keratin and amino acids work together to smooth, soften, enrich and protect hair. It even helps protect the hair from intense heat process like flat ironing, hot curling and blow-drying,’ says Haddad.
The treatment
The process can take up to two and a half hours for long hair and can be used on all hair types, coloured, bleached, relaxed or virgin hair – respecting the sensitivity and history of every hair type. ‘The results, in fact, can be more prolonged for fragile hair because the active components have a deeper, longer-lasting action,’ says Haddad. To maintain results, Haddad recommends using the Guava Latino Keratin Shampoos and Conditioners as directed. The unique Latino formula in these after-care products helps to smooth the hair and this process is vital for the longevity of the treatment. To maximise the relaxing effect, leave the treatment in for 48 hours before the first wash. It is best to wait two days before using ties or bands in the hair, helping to keep the hair kink and frizz free. According to Haddad, leaving the treatment in longer than 48 hours has no benefit, as it stops working after the 48 hour time frame. ‘The Latino treatment can be applied as soon as every 20 days, and it is strongly recommended that any colour services are done after the Guava Latino Treatment to avoid premature colour fading,’ Haddad explains. ‘For permanent colour treatments, a one week break is essential, as the quality and longevity of the Latino Smoothing System will be affected by pH exposure if the hair is not given seven days to settle. Semi-permanent colours and toners can be done on the same day as the Latino treatment but still after the colour treatment.’
Looking for a more permanent solution?
For those with extremely dry and damaged hair looking for a permanent option, the Guava Japatino, also at Pierre Haddad Hair Management, might be the answer. Combining the benefits of Japanese thermal reconditioning and Latino protein treatments, the Guava Japatino adds softness and shine to the hair while leaving it permanently sleek and straight. Japanese thermal reconditioning uses heat to restructure the bonds in the hair, while the Latino protein infuses the hair with proteins. This works to trap moisture, hydrating the hair and adding a glossy veneer. The combined treatments take between three and four hours and can cost between $450 and $750 depending on the amount of hair that needs treating.
