TECHNIQUE
One & Done service guide
The full smoothing service: up to three levels of curl reduction, lasting up to five months with a three-month average. Glyoxylic acid (pH 1.0–1.5) works with plant-based proteins, amino acids, and tourmaline to deliver the result. No formaldehyde, no formaldehyde-releasers, no animal keratin.
Iron temperature and passes
| Hair | Flat iron | Passes | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Normal hair | 400–420°F | 6–12 | More passes = straighter. |
| Blonde or compromised | 350–375°F max | 6–12 | Rinse 100% before ironing. Strand test if extremely compromised. |
| Keep the curls (less reduction) | Dial the temperature down | 6–8 | Rinse 100% and skip the extra rinse step. |
Volume is a function of pass count and temperature. Six to eight passes preserves volume with less curl reduction; ten to twelve gives the straightest result.
Rinse strategy
For normal hair, leave roughly 30% of the product in before the iron stage — more product is infused during ironing, which means maximum smoothing. For blonde or compromised hair, or for clients keeping their curls, rinse 100%.
Same-day color
Color on the same day is fine. Wash with Classic Mineral Shampoo, apply Classic Mineral Mask for ten minutes, rinse, then color.
Stacking with other services
- Prior relaxers: wait a minimum of seven days.
- Bond builders stack safely — but do not add a bond builder into color on the same day as smoothing. Let the treatment work at full strength.
- Clients can wash the same day. There is no downtime.
Blonde and compromised hair
The formula is made to work on every color and should not stain. Keep the iron at 350–375°F maximum and rinse 100%. If the hair is extremely compromised, strand test first.
Malina formulas contain hydrolyzed wheat protein and are not gluten-free. Advise clients with gluten concerns to consult their doctor before the service.