Let’s be real— selecting the right straightening or smoothing treatment can feel a bit complicated.
Plex, Nanoplasty, Keratin… they all sound fancy, they all promise glossy, frizz-free hair, and every salon will tell you their version is the “healthier” one.
But here’s the thing: not all treatments are equal, and not all are right for your hair.
I’m Tania, hair repair expert here at our St Kilda Road salon, and I’m going to help you to cut through the noise.
Plex: The Hair Strengthener
Plex isn’t a straightening treatment—it’s a bond builder. Originally created to protect hair during colouring and bleaching, it works inside the hair shaft to rebuild broken bonds and restore elasticity.
Think of Plex as a rehab program for stressed or over-processed hair.
It won’t give you pin-straight strands, but it will stop your hair snapping off when you blow-dry or style.
If your hair feels fragile, brittle, or overworked, a Plex is the foundation to get you back on track before considering smoothing.
Nanoplasty: The New Tech Straightener
Nanoplasty is the latest buzz—straightening with amino acids and nano-particles instead of harsh chemicals. It restructures the hair fibre at a microscopic level, giving you sleek, shiny hair with less damage.
Results last 3-6 months and are often more permanent than Keratin.
It’s usually formaldehyde-free (a huge plus for scalp and salon safety)
Some formulas are vegan, paraben-free, and sulfate-free.
But here’s the catch: Nanoplasty isn’t for everyone. On finer textures, it can feel too flat. And yes, it can take up to to 4 hours in the chair.If you want long-lasting straightness without chemical relaxers, Nanoplasty might be your best bet—just make sure your stylist tailors it to your texture.
Keratin: The Classic Smoother
Keratin treatments have been around for years—and there’s a reason. They coat the hair shaft with keratin protein, sealed in with heat, to give smoother, shinier, frizz-free results.
Also Lasts around 3-6 months.
Straightens, softens and removes frizz.
Choose a formaldehyde-free formula—always.
Comparing Results
Plex Repair = strength and repair, not straightening
Nanoplasty = sleek, straighter finish, long-lasting
Keratin Straightening = frizz-free, soft, super straight
Aftercare is Everything
No matter which treatment you choose, results live or die by how you treat your hair at home.
Always use sulfate-free shampoo + conditioner
Avoid saltwater, chlorine, and heat for a few days post-treatment
Plex usually comes with ongoing at-home care (masks, serums, etc.)
Final Thoughts from Tania
There’s no one-size-fits-all.
If your hair is fragile: start with Plex.
If you want straighter, longer-lasting results: go Nanoplasty
If you want softer, frizz-free hair with movement: Keratin is your best friend.
The most important part? Consultation!
Let’s talk about your hair history, your lifestyle, and your goals before deciding. When done right, the right smoothing treatment doesn’t just change your hair—it changes your mornings, your confidence, and your time.
