Frequently asked questions
Your hair questions, answered honestly.
53 honest answers from Melbourne’s hair repair specialists, after 13 years of answering them in the chair.
Answers from our specialistsChecked and updated October 2026
- 4.8★ from 366 Google reviews
- 30-Day Happy Hair Guarantee
- Formaldehyde-free · independently lab-tested in Australia
Start with what’s on your mind
What are you worried about?
-
Yes. No formaldehyde in any form, independently tested in Australian laboratories.Read our answer
Is it safe?
Formaldehyde, ingredients, pregnancy -
Almost always, from tight afro curls to fine blonde hair. If it isn’t right for you, we’ll say so first.Read our answer
Will it work on my hair?
Curly, afro, fine, bleached -
From $395 for Express Smoothing, $565 for Keratin or Nanoplasty,
What will it cost?
Prices, consultation, memberships$1,125$845 for Fusion (50% off your 2nd treatment). Consultation always free.Read our answer -
Express up to 3 months, Keratin and Nanoplasty 4–6 months, Fusion up to 8 months.Read our answer
How long will it last?
Results, curls, colour -
No downtime. Wash, tie it up and train as normal. Just wait 48 hours before swimming.Read our answer
What about aftercare?
Washing, swimming, shampoo -
It depends on your hair and what you want. Text us a photo and we’ll tell you honestly, with your exact price.Read our answer
Which treatment?
Keratin, nanoplasty, Express Smoothing (BTX)
Choosing your treatment
8 questionsIt depends on your hair and what you want it to do. Text us a photo of your hair, and we’ll tell you honestly which treatment suits you and exactly what it will cost. The consultation is always free.
- Express Smoothing: softer, frizz-free hair that keeps some natural movement.
- Premium Keratin: genuinely straight, glossy hair.
- Plex Nanoplasty: smoothing with bond repair, for coloured or damaged hair.
- Keratin Plex Fusion: combines both for the longest-lasting, most repaired result.
Not sure? Ask yourself: do I want straight or just smooth? Is my hair damaged or breaking? How much time do I want to spend on it each morning? Then text us a photo on 0493 309 849.
“She took the time to assess my hair, explain the differences between options, and recommend what would work best for me each time.”
Keratin straightens and seals the hair. Nanoplasty smooths while repairing the hair's internal bonds. Express Smoothing (BTX) softens frizz with a lighter, quicker result. Fusion combines keratin and nanoplasty in one visit.
| Express Smoothing | Keratin | Plex Nanoplasty | Fusion | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Result | Smooth, keeps movement | Straight and glossy | Smooth to straight, with bond repair | Our straightest, most repaired |
| Lasts | Up to 3 months | 4–6 months | 4–6 months | Up to 8 months |
| Time in the chair | From 1.5 hours | From 2.5 hours | From 2 hours | From 3 hours |
| Price | From $395 | From $565 | From $565 | From |
No. Nothing is injected, and there are no needles. Express Smoothing (BTX) is a deep-conditioning smoothing treatment for your hair.
It fills and smooths the hair's surface so frizz calms down and the hair feels softer. It's our quickest treatment and a good first step if you want smoother hair without going fully straight.
Only if you want it to. We adjust the treatment to the result you're after, whether that's sleek and straight or smooth with movement.
“I was worried it would be too flat / straight but it isn’t, it’s just nice and smooth, and I can put waves in if I want (5 minute job).”
No. "Brazilian blowout" is one brand's name, and some versions of it have been linked to formaldehyde. Terreamer uses our own formaldehyde-free formulas, independently tested in Australian laboratories.
People use "keratin", "Brazilian" and "smoothing" to mean the same thing, but every brand's formula is different, and the formula decides both the result and the safety. That's why we developed our own.
Japanese straightening and relaxers permanently change the hair's structure, and your new growth comes through curly. Our treatments are semi-permanent: they gradually soften as they wash out, with no hard regrowth line.
Permanent straightening can't be reversed, and damage builds up over time. Ours are designed to improve the hair's condition while they smooth it. If you've had a relaxer or Japanese straightening, text us a photo so we can check what's safe for your hair and how long to wait first.
Fusion is our most advanced treatment, combining keratin and nanoplasty in one visit. It lasts up to 8 months, gives the most repair, and is only available at Terreamer.
Choose it if you want straight, glossy hair and your hair is also dry, coloured or damaged. Clients choose it before holidays and for humid weather.
“I was able to swim multiple times a day for two weeks straight and my hair would just dry nicely.”
Yes. Men's treatments start from $260 for Express Smoothing, $340 for Keratin or Plex Nanoplasty, and $675 $510 for Ultimate Fusion (50% off your 2nd treatment).
They tame frizz, curl and cowlicks, and cut styling time to a couple of minutes. We keep the finish natural, not obviously "done". The consultation is free, so text us a photo for an exact price.
Safety and suitability
9 questionsYes. Our treatments contain no formaldehyde in any form, and they have been independently tested in Australian laboratories. The test certificate is available on request.
Some products labelled "formaldehyde-free" still release formaldehyde when they're heated, which is why regulators have warned about misleading labels. Ours were developed to avoid this: there are no stinging eyes or harsh fumes in the salon.
“No streaming eyes or horrible smells during or after the treatment...”
The main active ingredients are Glyoxyloyl Carbocysteine and Keratin Amino Acids. They smooth and strengthen the hair, with no formaldehyde.
Keratin amino acids are the building blocks of your hair's own protein, so the treatment rebuilds where hair is weak or porous. Glyoxyloyl carbocysteine is the smoothing ingredient that relaxes frizz and curl while the keratin seals the hair. Every chemical matters in what it is, how much is used and who applies it, which is why only our trained specialists apply our formulas.
“he was upfront saying everything is a chemical but what matters is are they harmful?”
Almost always. We've treated thousands of clients with every hair type, from tight afro curls to fine blonde hair. If a treatment isn't right for your hair, we'll tell you before you pay anything.
We adjust the formula and technique to your hair's condition, the result you want and your lifestyle. Very curly and coily hair can be straightened, fine hair can be smoothed without being weighed down, and bleached hair can be treated with our bond-repair options.
“I have 3C curly African hair and after straightening my hair felt and looked like 1a hair.”
No. Our treatments are designed to repair while they smooth. Your hair is made mostly of keratin, and our treatments put that protein back where it's missing.
Damage from straightening usually comes from harsh formulas, the wrong heat, or rushed technique on the wrong hair type. That's why we check your hair first and adjust the treatment to it. Many clients find their hair grows longer afterwards because it stops breaking.
“The other main difference I noticed was my hair finally grew longer over time, due to no longer breaking as much at the ends.”
Often we can help, and fixing damaged hair is what we specialise in. Text us a photo and we'll tell you honestly what's possible before you book.
We use bond-repair treatments (Plex Nanoplasty or Fusion) to rebuild over-processed hair. Sometimes a small trim is still needed for ends that are completely broken, and we'll always tell you before we start.
“The product used was too strong for my hair and left it matted, broken and brittle for any further washing, brushing or straightening. … I still have a way to go to repair the breakage but my hair is protected and stronger already and feels softer and not matted at all. My self confidence is back and I cant thank Terre A Mer enough for that and their complete knowledge of all types of hair.”
Please check with your doctor first, and follow their advice.
Our formulas are formaldehyde-free, but they haven't been tested specifically in pregnancy, so we can't make a promise either way. We're happy to tell you and your doctor what the main ingredients are. Many clients choose to wait until after pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Tell us when you book. We protect the scalp during the treatment and we'll talk you through what's in the treatment before we start.
Some people with sensitive scalps notice a little oiliness or flaking in the first week while the scalp settles. It's temporary. A hydration mask on the scalp helps, or a Hydration Hair Spa treatment.
Yes, from 8 years old, with written consent from a parent or guardian, who stays with them. We check their hair and scalp first.
Long, thick, curly hair can be a daily struggle for kids and parents alike. We keep the appointment comfortable, and yes, dance breaks have been known to happen.
Yes. Terreamer products are cruelty-free: tested on people, not animals.
Our promise
Not happy within 30 days? We make it right, free.
The 30-Day Happy Hair Guarantee is our own promise, only at Terreamer.
Results and how long they last
7 questions- Express Smoothing: up to 3 months
- Keratin: 4–6 months
- Plex Nanoplasty: 4–6 months
- Fusion: up to 8 months
How long it lasts depends on your hair's condition and thickness, and above all on your aftercare. The right shampoo can add months, and protecting it from pool and sea water helps too. Results build on each other, so each treatment tends to last longer than the one before.
“Some people might think it is expensive but it is absolutely worth it in the time I save managing my hair for 6 months.”
Smoother, shinier, stronger hair with far less frizz, and straight hair if that's your goal. Most clients style their hair in about 5 minutes afterwards.
Results are visible straight away and settle in after the first few washes. We'll show you real before and afters of hair like yours at your consultation.
“It now only takes me 5 minutes with a straightener for beautifully smooth straight hair that lasts”
Yes. It's semi-permanent, so your natural texture gradually returns over the months, with no harsh regrowth line like permanent straightening leaves.
New growth comes in with your natural texture, and the treated lengths slowly soften. Most clients book their next treatment when the frizz starts creeping back.
It can lift artificial colour slightly, usually by a shade or less, and natural colour isn't affected. If it happens, we can tone it on the same day.
The heat in the process can gently lighten colour that's been dyed in. We check this at your consultation, and blonde clients usually find brassiness is reduced rather than increased.
“Being very blonde I had concerns of brassiness. Sandra is a miracle worker.”
Yes, occasionally. Keratin is a protein that contains natural sulphur, and heat can leave a faint smell that fades within a few washes.
It's usually one of three things: the wrong shampoo, salt or chlorine, or the treatment reaching the end of its life. Message us and we'll help. If it's within 30 days, our guarantee covers you.
Check your shampoo and conditioner are free of salt (sodium chloride) and sodium hydroxide, protect your hair before swimming with Intensive Rescue Therapy or Hair Protector Leave-In, and use a hydration mask weekly.
No. Smoothing treatments don't cause hair to fall from the root. Most clients actually lose fewer hairs, because smoother hair tangles and breaks less.
We all shed some hair every day, and it's easier to notice on smooth hair. If you're worried about your scalp, ask us about a Hydration Hair Spa treatment.
“I lose a lot of hair when i shower and brush after shower. I had my first shower after the treatment and wahlaa, literally like 4 hairs fell out that's it during the shower. Nothing fell when i brushed.”
Price and value
4 questions- Express Smoothing: from $395
- Keratin: from $565
- Plex Nanoplasty: from $565
- Fusion: from $1,125
- Hydration Hair Spa: from $350
- Men's: Express Smoothing from $260, Keratin or Plex Nanoplasty from $340, Ultimate Fusion from $675
The exact price depends on your hair's length and thickness. Your consultation is always free, so text us a photo for an exact quote.
Your price is fixed before we start. It never goes up in the chair. You can also see your price in about 30 seconds on our memberships page, which shows single-treatment prices too.
You're paying for a specialist, our own lab-tested formulas, a 30-Day Happy Hair Guarantee, and results that last for months.
Smoothing is all we do. Cheaper treatments often use generic products or rushed techniques, or last only a few weeks. Worked out per month, a treatment that lasts 4–6 months often costs less than weekly blow-dries.
Yes, it's always free. The quickest way is to text us a photo of your hair on 0493 309 849, and we'll reply with advice and a quote, usually within minutes.
Prefer to talk it through in person? Book a free consultation at the salon. There's no obligation to book a treatment.
Yes. Our memberships (Essential, Signature and Ultimate) plan your treatments across the year, with complimentary aftercare and 10–20% off products and services for you and your direct family. Pay by card or Afterpay at checkout, by bank transfer, or in cash at the salon.
- Essential: 2 visits a year, 1 Ultimate Fusion and 1 Premium Keratin or Plex Nanoplasty, 10% off.
- Signature: 3 Ultimate Fusion visits, plus 3 Deep Hydration Treatments and a trim at every visit, 15% off.
- Ultimate: 4 Ultimate Fusion visits, plus 4 Deep Hydration Treatments, scalp treatments and red light therapy, 20% off.
Every membership is priced around your hair's pattern, density and length. Answer four quick questions to see yours: Terreamer Memberships. The full membership terms are in our Terms and conditions.
Booking and your appointment
5 questions- Express Smoothing: from 1.5 hours
- Plex Nanoplasty: from 2 hours
- Keratin: from 2.5 hours
- Fusion: from 3 hours
Long or very thick hair takes a little longer.
We don't rush, because we finish when your hair is finished. Bring a book, and ask about our hot chocolate.
Come as you are. We'll take care of the rest. Tell us about any colour, bleach or treatments you've had in the last few months.
A $147 deposit secures your appointment ($197 for Ultimate Fusion) and comes off your treatment price. Need to change? Give us at least 48 hours' notice and we move your deposit to your new time, or refund it less the card fee we were charged.
- Less than 48 hours' notice: we keep your deposit, because we usually can't fill that time at short notice.
- Missed appointments: we keep your deposit, and next time we ask you to pay for your treatment in full when you book.
- Members: membership treatments don't need a deposit. See changing a membership appointment.
- Reminders: we text and email you before your appointment, so please let us know if your mobile number or email changes.
- If something serious comes up, such as illness, talk to us. We look at every case fairly. Full booking terms.
We're appointment only. You're welcome to walk in, but we may be with a client, or occasionally closed, so book or call ahead and we'll be ready for you.
Ground floor, Shop 2, 456 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne.
- On weekdays, the Secure Parking at 416 St Kilda Rd is $20 for the whole day.
- On weekends, parking outside is free.
- Tram stop 23 is Arthur St/St Kilda Rd.
Aftercare
7 questionsStraight away. There's no downtime: you can wash your hair with Terreamer shampoo and conditioner, tie it up and go to the gym the same day. The one thing to wait for is swimming: give it 48 hours before the pool or the ocean.
After those 48 hours, protect your hair before swimming with Intensive Rescue Therapy or our new Hair Protector Leave-In, and rinse afterwards. Chlorine and salt left in your hair can wear the treatment down faster.
Use Terreamer's Pure Hydration or Deep Fortifying range. We developed them to protect your treatment: both are free of salt (sodium chloride) and sodium hydroxide, the two ingredients we ask you to avoid.
- Pure Hydration: for dry hair that needs moisture.
- Deep Fortifying: for weak or damaged hair that needs protein.
- Many clients alternate between the two.
- Free Australia-wide shipping on orders of $100 or more.
No, not for a Terreamer treatment. What matters is that your shampoo and conditioner are free of salt (sodium chloride) and sodium hydroxide.
Some brands recommend sulphate-free shampoo because their formulas can wash out with sulphates. Ours is formulated to perform and isn't affected by sulphates. That's why our own aftercare can contain sulphates and still protect your treatment.
Choosing another brand? Check the ingredient list for sodium chloride and sodium hydroxide, rather than looking for a "sulphate-free" label.
You can, as long as your shampoo and conditioner are free of salt (sodium chloride) and sodium hydroxide. Many everyday shampoos contain one or both, and we see treatments wear off sooner on clients who use them. For the first 30 days, use Terreamer shampoo and conditioner to keep your 30-Day Happy Hair Guarantee. Our range is made to protect your treatment, so your investment lasts longer.
If you use another brand, check the ingredient list for sodium chloride and sodium hydroxide. A "sulphate-free" label doesn't tell you either way (see 6.3).
Shampoos and conditioners that contain salt (sodium chloride) or sodium hydroxide, and swimming without protecting your hair first.
Chlorine and salt water can fade the treatment faster. Before swimming, coat your hair with Intensive Rescue Therapy or Hair Protector Leave-In, which helps protect hair from salt water, chlorine, UV and colour fade. Rinse after.
Use Terreamer shampoo and conditioner from your first wash, use a hydration mask weekly, wait 48 hours before swimming and protect your hair when you swim, and rebook every 4–6 months.
A Hydration Hair Spa treatment every 4 weeks, from $350, keeps the scalp and lengths balanced between treatments.
Every 4 months for the healthiest hair, or every 6 months if you're on a budget. Each treatment builds on the last.
A membership plans your visits across the year and costs less than booking them one by one. See 4.4.
Colour, bleach and other treatments
3 questionsBleach or lighten before the treatment, never after it. Colour and toner can go on after it, the same day or within 48 hours, done by us or after checking with us.
Lightening strips the hair and would strip the treatment too, so it has to come first. Colour that deposits sits on top of the treatment and can correct any slight colour lift. Ask us how long to leave between bleaching and your treatment. To keep your 30-Day Happy Hair Guarantee, don't bleach or henna your hair afterwards, and have colour or toner done by us, or check with us first.
Ask us first. It depends on the type of extensions and how they're attached, so text us a photo and we'll tell you what's safe.
Often, yes. Text us a photo and your treatment history, and we'll tell you if it's safe and how long to wait first.
Our 30-Day Happy Hair Guarantee
2 questionsIf your hair isn't doing what we promised within 30 days, come back and we'll make it right, free. It's our own promise, only at Terreamer.
Before you pay, we tell you honestly what we can promise for your hair. Keep up the four simple aftercare steps and you're covered. See how the guarantee works.
“They also offer a 30-day guarantee, which shows the confidence they have in their product and service.”
Tell us within 30 days and we'll make it right. That's what our guarantee is for.
Products and orders
4 questionsOur moisture range for dry hair, with amino acids and Moroccan argan oil. It's designed to maintain your Terreamer treatment.
Pure Hydration Shampoo, Conditioner and Intensive Treatment (mask).
Our strengthening range, with keratin protein and argan oil. It's for hair that's weak, damaged or breaking.
Deep Fortifying Shampoo, Conditioner and Intensive Treatment (mask).
Shipping is free Australia-wide on orders of $100 or more, and $14.95 under $100. International shipping starts at $45. See our shipping policy and refund policy.
Yes. Salons can buy wholesale through Hair Straightening Store, and our co-founders train salon professionals in our smoothing systems.
About Terreamer
4 questionsSmoothing, straightening and hair repair are all we do. We use our own lab-tested formulas, and every treatment comes with our 30-Day Happy Hair Guarantee.
Our co-founders, Sandra Issa and Peter McGuinness, have spent 13 years perfecting this one specialty, and they train other salon professionals in it. Every treatment is adjusted to your hair's condition, the result you want and your lifestyle.
Our own. We don't buy in a generic product. Our formulas were developed with a leading Colombian laboratory and independently tested in Australian laboratories, and ours is the only treatment backed by a 30-Day Happy Hair Guarantee.
One of our experienced specialists, trained in our own Terreamer system. Every one of them adjusts the treatment to your hair.
Ask five things:
- What are the main ingredients, and has the product been independently tested?
- Is there a guarantee?
- Has the stylist trained in that specific system?
- Can they show before and afters of hair like yours?
- Will they adjust the technique to your hair?
Didn’t see your question?
Text us a photo of your hair.
Send 2–3 photos in daylight: front, back and the ends. You’ll get honest advice on what we can do, and your exact price. The consultation is always free.
- 4.8★ from 366 Google reviews
- 30-Day Happy Hair Guarantee
- Formaldehyde-free · independently lab-tested in Australia
Messages · Terreamer
Hi! My hair’s bleached and really frizzy. Could it be straightened?
Hi, thanks for the photos! Yes, we’d recommend Plex Nanoplasty for your hair. It repairs the bonds while it smooths. Would you like your exact price and a time this week?