ANSWERS TO SOME OF OUR MOST COMMON QUESTIONS

What kind of results can my clients expect from Cezanne treatments?

All Cezanne Keratin Smoothing Treatments reduce frizz, resist humidity, and soften curl while delivering smoother, stronger, healthier, more manageable, and exquisitely beautiful hair that lasts months.

Are Cezanne results similar to other formaldehyde-based keratin smoothing treatments?

Yes, clients get very similar results to their previous formaldehyde treatments, without the health risks. In some cases, frizz and curl reduction will be less than the results achieved by the formaldehyde-based systems. However, your client will enjoy several distinct advantages over other systems. Their hair can be colored on the same day, before or after the treatment. Hair will still hold a curl if the client desires. They can go right from the salon to the gym or the pool, wash hair, use pins, or put hair up in a ponytail directly after the treatment. Your client leaves the salon with beautiful, healthy, manageable hair—no strings attached.

What are the active ingredients?

Cezanne’s Tri-Fusion Smoothing Technology is a proprietary blend composed of vegan glyoxylic acid, hydrolyzed keratin, and hydrolyzed quinoa seed working together to elongate curl, smooth the cuticle, and reduce frizz.

How long will Cezanne Treatments last?

Classic and Classic Blonde can last up to 5 months, and Express and Express Blonde can last up to 10 weeks. Longevity will vary based on hair type, texture, maintenance, routine, and lifestyle.

RESULTS

Will stylists see similar results from Cezanne when compared to formaldehyde-based keratin smoothing products?

Yes, Cezanne is easier, faster, and safer, and gives very similar results to formaldehyde-based formulas without the formaldehyde-related eye and respiratory irritations. Although some stylists will continue to use formaldehyde-based formulas, increasing numbers of stylists and their clients are requesting an alternative to this toxic ingredient. Stylists also like the distinct advantages including:

  1. Ability to color hair the same day before or after a Cezanne treatment.
  2. Hair still holds a curl after treatment.
  3. No waiting period, meaning the client can work out, swim, wash their hair, use pins, and wear hair ties immediately after the treatment.
The client said the results are not there, why?

Here are some things that might have happened with the client who did not experience the same longevity as your other clients:

  1. Treatment coverage was not adequate. Be sure to comb through the hair with a fine-tooth comb to ensure complete coverage. Leave the treatment in the hair for 30 minutes for Classic and Classic Blonde Treatments and 15 minutes for the Express and Express Blonde Treatments.
  2. Over-rinsing. After the rinse, the hair should feel like it has had a deep conditioning treatment. 
  3. Less-than-thorough blowdry. Do a meticulous blowdry, per the directions: “Using a blow-dryer set on medium heat and high airflow, use a vent brush or fingers to remove excess water if dripping wet. Section the hair and use a round brush to make the hair as smooth as possible. Make sure the hair is 100% dry.
  4. Less-than-thorough flat ironing. Using an average flat iron heat setting of 380-410 F (193-210 C), take small one-half-inch sections, concentrate at the roots, and meticulously flat iron until the hair is shiny. Remember that you need enough heat for each hair type and texture to get the silky, shiny, sealed result you’re looking for. Fragile, delicate hair may require less heat while stronger, coarse hair may require more heat.
  5. Schedule a post-treatment consultation with the client to see and feel the client’s hair. A redo can be done after 2 weeks with 3-4 shampoos during that timeframe.
Does Cezanne give the super straight results as a Japanese straightener or lye relaxer?

No, while it reduces frizz and delivers smoother and more manageable hair, it is not a lye relaxer or Japanese straightener and will not deliver identical results.

Are the results from Cezanne more like a Japanese straightener or a formaldehyde-based keratin smoothing treatment?

The results achieved are more like a formaldehyde-based keratin treatment without formaldehyde and the associated risks.

Do the Express treatments give the same visual results as The Classic Treatments?

Yes, Express & Express Blonde treatments will resist humidity & frizz and deliver smoother, more manageable hair similar to the Classic & Classic Blonde treatments, but will not last as long.

When would I use the Express Treatments instead of the Classic Treatments?

The Classic Treatments are the platinum standard and will deliver the best results and last the longest. Express takes about half the amount of time to perform than the Classic Treatment does. Some clients may not want to pay the price for The Classic Treatment but still want a great result at a more affordable price. The Express Treatments are great for the client who wants to get in and out of the salon faster or for the client who comes in frequently and would like a smoothing treatment on a more regular basis. It’s also ideal for quick touch-ups like taming baby hair, bangs, or an unruly cowlick. Express treatments will last up to 10 weeks. The amount of time varies by the client's hair type, texture, and maintenance routine.

Why does my client's hair smell bad after the treatment?

The lingering scent is a natural byproduct of keratin and may be present after the first shampoo and last three to four shampoos, only when hair is wet. If the scent is excessive and lasts longer than five shampoos, please consult with the client so you can address the issue on sight.

How soon can the client wash their hair, work out, and wear ponytails or clips?

Unlike most smoothing treatments, clients can wash their hair, work out, wear ponytails or clips, and use styling products immediately after getting a Cezanne treatment.

Can Cezanne Keratin Smoothing Treatments be used on all hair types?

Yes, any hair type and texture—no matter how colored, bleached, highlighted, or damaged—can receive a Cezanne Keratin Smoothing Treatment. Cezanne can also be applied over other chemical treatments, such as Japanese straighteners and relaxers.

Does Cezanne Keratin Smoothing Treatments work on textured-curly hair?

Yes, it works great on natural/kinky-curly hair and can be applied directly over relaxed hair. For women whose hair is natural or transitioning from a relaxer, it will reduce bulk, soften hair, and define curl. The Cezanne Express Treatments will reduce frizz and deliver smoother, more manageable results, but please advise the Express client that it will not be as effective or long-lasting as the Cezanne Classic or Classic Blonde Keratin Smoothing Treatment.

Does Cezanne damage the hair with repeated use, like formaldehyde-based keratin treatments?

No, Cezanne makes hair stronger, healthier, and improves texture with repeated use.

Why didn't The Classic or Express treatments last as long as it should have?

Here are some things that might have happened with the client who did not experience the same longevity as your other clients:

  1. Treatment coverage was not adequate. Be sure to comb through the hair with a fine-tooth comb to ensure complete coverage. Leave the treatment in the hair for 30 minutes for Classic or Classic  Blonde and 15 minutes for the Express Treatment.
  2. Over-rinsing. After the rinse, the hair should feel like it has had a deep conditioning treatment. 
  3. Less-than-thorough blowdry. Do a meticulous blow dry, per the directions: “Using a blow-dryer set on medium heat and high airflow, use a vent brush or fingers to remove excess water if dripping wet. Section hair and use a round brush to get hair as smooth as possible. Make sure the hair is 100% dry.
  4. Less-than-thorough flat ironing. Using an average flat iron heat setting of 380-410 F (193-210 C), take small one-half-inch sections, concentrate at the roots, and meticulously flat iron until the hair is shiny. Remember that you need enough heat for each hair type and texture to get the silky, shiny, sealed result you’re looking for. Fragile, delicate hair may require less heat while stronger, coarse hair may require more heat.
  5. Schedule a post-treatment consultation with the client to see and feel the client’s hair. A redo can be done after 2 weeks with 3-4 shampoos during that timeframe.
Why does the color and texture of the treatment coming out of the bottle look different than last time?

Sometimes, a slight color and texture change happens over time or by the batch you receive. It may even appear a bit lumpy, but this is just the nature of the aloe vera when combined with our low pH technology. This is not a problem and does not impact performance. Remember to shake well before using. A gentle whisking of the treatment while in the application bowl will return the treatment to its original viscosity. 

How long should I wait to redo a client’s treatment?

It is recommended to wait at least two weeks or three to four shampoos. This will help remove possible residual keratin and allow for more even absorption of the treatment.

Ingredients

Were the formaldehyde vapor analysis tests conducted in a salon setting consistent with test protocols of the National Institute of Safety and Health (NIOSH)?

Yes, an accredited independent laboratory tested samples taken in salons while stylists were using Cezanne Classic Treatment. There was no detectable formaldehyde in the samples.

Does Cezanne contain Thio?

No, Cezanne does not contain Thio. Our proprietary blend of ingredients does not break the bonds of the hair. Thio relaxers use ATG, ammonium thioglycolate, which is also used in permanent waving but at a much higher pH and concentration than what's used in permanent waves. It is usually higher than a pH of 10. These relaxers are also thicker, with a higher viscosity or thickness, which makes for an easier relaxer application. Thio relaxers break the disulfide bonds in hair, similar to the permanent waving process. When enough of the disulfide bonds in the hair are broken, the relaxer is rinsed from the hair and the hair is towel dried. After towel drying, a neutralizer is applied to the hair.

What botanical extracts does Cezanne contain?

Cezanne Smoothing Treatments contain argan oil, tocopherol, olive fruit oil, aloe vera leaf juice, sugar cane, apple and green tea extracts, and meadowfoamate. 

Do the treatments smell bad, give off fumes, or cause breathing difficulty in the salon?

No, the fumes are safe and will not present eye irritation or breathing difficulties. No mask or special ventilation is required. If too much treatment is applied to the hair or if the hair is not 100% dry before flat ironing, there could be some smell—this is not dangerous at all. Follow the directions for the rinse, make sure the hair is 100% dry before you flat iron, and you should not have any odor issues. In some cases, a slight scent may be present when the hair is wet post-treatment, which will disappear after a few washes. The scent can be minimized or eliminated if the hair is thoroughly blow dried and not air-dried.

Is it safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women and children?

Although Cezanne contains no formaldehyde, carcinogens, or dangerous chemicals, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding and elect to use the product or if you elect to use it on children, check with your physician for a professional recommendation first.

Does Cezanne break the bonds like a perm, relaxer or reverse perm?

No, when you break bonds you permanently restructure the hair, which often leads to long-term damage. You also see a line of demarcation when the treated hair grows out. With Cezanne, there’s no line of demarcation—the treatment simply washes out over time. It improves the health and strength of the hair and does not break bonds like a perm, relaxer, or reverse perm.

How do I explain the difference between Cezanne and other treatments to my clients?

Unlike formaldehyde-based keratin systems that simply coat the hair, Cezanne uses a revolutionary low-pH system to open up the cuticle and infuse the cortex with keratin, and botanical extracts. When heat is applied with a flat iron, the blend of keratin, and botanical extracts is sealed inside the cuticle, protecting and smoothing the hair.

DOES CEZANNE CONTAIN GLUTEN?

Although Cezanne products do not contain gluten-based ingredients, we cannot certify they are completely free from gluten contact during the production process.

TECHNICAL

Do my client and I need to wear a mask with Cezanne?

No. You may see vapor when you blow-dry or flat iron, but this is primarily steam and does not contain any carcinogens. A large amount of vapor is not normal and is the result of too much product left in the hair or not enough blow-drying before applying the flat iron.

Do I need to wear gloves when doing the treatment?

You do not need to wear gloves while applying Cezanne. You may want to wear gloves, however, since the treatment has a low pH and may irritate abrasions on hands and cuticles.

How long is the professional rinse?

The average rinsing time is 20 seconds to 3 minutes. The timing is determined by the length and density of the hair, and how much treatment has been applied.  Leaving too much product in the hair will not impact the result, but it will be harder on you and take longer to get the hair 100% dry during the blow dry. It can also cause unnecessary color lifting. A lingering scent is a natural byproduct of keratin and may be present after the first shampoo and last three to four shampoos. If an excessive scent is present, shampoo twice with Cezanne Clarifying Shampoo and condition with Cezanne Perfect Moisture Conditioner.

Are Cezanne Treatments more difficult to apply than formaldehyde-based keratin treatments?

No, many stylists report it is easier and takes less time to apply.

Why did my client feel tingling on their scalp during the treatment?

The low pH of the product might cause a slight tingling if they have sensitive skin or abrasions on the scalp. Avoid aggressively scrubbing the scalp during clarification and apply the product 1/4” (6.35 mm) from the scalp. Do not apply directly to the scalp. During the rinse, remove the treatment from the scalp by turning the water pressure down and concentrating the nozzle on the scalp.

An allergy alert test must be performed 48 hours prior to the application of a Cezanne Keratin Smoothing Treatment even if you have used Cezanne or another smoothing product in the past. To perform an allergy alert test, gently cleanse a small area behind the ear. Using a sterile cotton swab and the exact treatment, apply a small amount to the skin area behind the ear. If the test area does not show signs of redness or irritation, it is safe to proceed with the treatment. If the area becomes red or does show signs of irritation, do not proceed with the Cezanne treatment service.

How does Cezanne Classic and Classic Blonde Treatment work on virgin or coarse/resistant hair?

Since virgin or coarse/resistant hair is generally resistant to all treatments, here are some tips that may help:

  1. When clarifying the hair, mix half Cezanne Clarifying Shampoo and half 20 volume cream developer. Let sit on hair for 3 minutes, rinse, and repeat.
  2. Make sure the hair is 100% dry before applying the treatment.
  3. Comb the hair to evenly distribute the treatment during the application.
  4. Place the client under a heat lamp on low to medium heat while the treatment is in the hair, rotating the hair position every 10 minutes. If their hair is long, use a clip to put it up. A processing cap is optional.
  5. Allow hair to cool 100% before rinsing. Rinse per instructions.
  6. Blow dry the hair thoroughly, getting it as smooth as possible. Follow up with meticulous flat ironing, using small one-half-inch sections until the hair is very silky. Increasing the flat iron temperature will get the silky result faster, but you need to make that decision based on the individual client and the health of the client’s hair.
How does Cezanne Express and Express Blonde work on virgin hair?

Cezanne Express and Express Blonde Keratin Treatment is easy to use on virgin hair. Follow these simple tips to get great results.

  1. When clarifying the hair, mix half Cezanne Clarifying Shampoo and half 20 volume cream developer. Let sit on hair for 3 minutes, rinse, and repeat.
  2. Softly towel dry the hair before applying the treatment.
  3. Comb the hair to evenly distribute the treatment during the application.
  4. Place the client under a heat lamp on low to medium heat during the 15 minutes the treatment is in the hair, rotating the hair position every 5 minutes. A processing cap is optional. 
  5. Allow hair to cool 100% before rinsing. Rinse per instructions. Do not over-rinse!
  6. Blow dry the hair thoroughly, getting it as smooth as possible. Follow up with meticulous flat ironing, using small one-half-inch sections until the hair is very silky. Increasing the temperature of the flat iron will get the silky result faster, but you need to make that decision based on the individual client and the health of the client’s hair.
How important is it to completely saturate the ends of the hair with the treatments?

All the hair must be completely covered, but it’s crucial that the ends are completely saturated, since they tend to be the driest and most porous.

How important is it to do a meticulous blow-out after rinsing the treatment from the hair?

It is very important. Doing a meticulous blowout and getting the hair 100% dry is the first step in sealing the treatment into the hair. The smoother the blow dry, the less flat ironing will be necessary to get the silky, shiny results, which is healthier for the hair.

Will an increase in heat give me better results and longevity with treatments?

No, practice good judgment when using the flat iron. While increased heat and more passes may yield an immediate sleeker, shinier result, the high heat may affect the integrity of the hair. Increased heat may also impact lifting of color as you are adding that to a product with a low pH.

Can I add a bond repairing product to a Cezanne treatment to make it even better for my client's damaged hair?

We do not recommend adding anything to the Cezanne Treatments as that changes the formulation and can cause unsatisfactory results. Cezanne is already a product that helps repair and strengthen the hair strand. If you use a bond repairing product with your client's color, we recommend not to color the same day as a Cezanne Treatment. 

Can I use Cezanne Keratin Smoothing Treatments on hair extensions?

Yes, as long as the extensions are made of human hair and the bond is avoided during flat ironing. For recommendations, please contact the manufacturer of the extension brand.

Can I use a Cezanne treatment over previously permed hair?

Yes, but use caution when blow drying and flat ironing the hair. The line of demarcation is delicate. You will likely not need the average recommended temperature of 380-410°F (193-210°C). Start low and work your way up to a temperature where you only need a few passes to get the hair silky.

I forgot to rinse Cezanne Keratin Smoothing Treatment before blow-drying and flat ironing! Will that be a problem?

If you miss this step, don’t worry. Although it’s not recommended, there will be no damage and your client’s hair will be fine. It may take longer to blow dry the hair and get it silky with the flat iron. You’ll also get more steam during the blow dry and flat iron. The hair will feel heavier and won’t look as shiny as you want. If you forget to rinse, add one step at the end—simply wash your client’s hair after the service with the Cezanne Perfect Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner and style as desired. The client may experience a lingering scent to the hair for the first three to four shampoos. This scent will dissipate after a few shampoos and is only noticeable when the hair is damp. 

Will leaving too much product affect my client's hair?

No, this will not affect the condition of the hair or the treatment. It may, however, cause unnecessary color lifting if too much product is left in the hair. If you feel that too much was left as you are blow-drying, take the client back to the shampoo bowl and rinse again. If you are finished with the treatment and the hair feels heavy or gummy, your client may need to wash their hair a few times before that heavy, gummy feeling goes away. They can wash hair immediately with Cezanne Perfect Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner.

Have I rinsed enough before the final blow-dry and flat iron?

The average rinsing time is 20 seconds to 3 minutes. The timing is determined by the length and density of the hair, and how much treatment has been applied. You will get used to this very quickly. Leaving too much product in the hair will not impact the result, but it will be harder on you and will take you longer to get the hair 100% dry during the blow dry. It can also cause unnecessary color lifting.

What should I do if my client's hair feels gummy and looks heavy after the treatment?

Hair can feel gummy and difficult to blow-dry if too much product was applied during the treatment and was not fully rinsed out. This is common with very long, thick, or coarse hair, which may require a longer rinse. If this happens, you can re-rinse the affected areas before the final blow-dry. If the hair feels heavy and gummy after the treatment, take the client back to the shampoo bowl to wash and style again. Clients can also wash and style their hair at home immediately, as there is no wait time to wash after the treatment.

Can Cezanne be done over another keratin treatment?

A strand test is recommended to determine if the hair is suitable for a Cezanne treatment based on the condition of the hair and the results of the strand test.

Can a client receive a treatment if they are currently using hair products with minoxidil?

No, Cezanne does not recommend using our treatments with clients who are actively using Minoxidil. Minoxidil stimulates the scalp to encourage blood flow for hair growth. The active ingredients can irritate the areas of the scalp where Minoxidil is applied. It is best to wait one week after a client stops actively using Minoxidil to get a Cezanne treatment.

Color

My client's hair turned brassy/yellow. Why and what should I do?

There is nothing in the product itself to turn the hair yellow, but blonde or white hair can turn yellow for a variety of reasons. This could occur during the treatment and it may be outside your control. Causes could include type of color or treatments already in the hair, type of water, or medication—even aspirin can affect hair color!

A flat iron that’s too hot can also cause problems with delicate white or blonde hair. Try starting at a very low temperature, even lower than the average 380°F (193°C). Simply adjust the temperature only to the point where the hair gets easily silky. If you see the hair getting yellow, stop and turn the temperature down. Once it’s silky, there is no reason to keep flat ironing.

Remember, you can always adjust the color after the service if you wish. If toning does not work, a corrective color will be needed. It is recommended to use the Classic Blonde Treatment or Express Blonde to reduce unwanted warmth while smoothing on levels 8 and up. Use Ultimate Blonde Shampoo and Conditioner for proper maintenance.

Why is my blonde/white haired client's hair slightly yellow after flat ironing? How can I avoid?

There is nothing in the product itself to turn the hair yellow, but blonde or white hair can turn yellow for a variety of reasons. This could occur during the treatment and it may be outside your control. Causes could include type of color or treatments already in the hair, type of water, or medication—even aspirin can affect hair color!

A flat iron that’s too hot can also cause problems with delicate white or blonde hair. Try starting at a very low temperature, even lower than the average 380°F (193°C). Simply adjust the temperature only to the point where the hair gets easily silky. If you see the hair getting yellow, stop and turn the temperature down. Once it’s silky, there is no reason to keep flat ironing.

Remember, you can always adjust the color after the service if you wish. If toning does not work, a corrective color will be needed. It is recommended to use the Classic Blonde Treatment or Express Blonde to reduce unwanted warmth while smoothing on levels 8 and up. Use Ultimate Blonde Shampoo and Conditioner for proper maintenance.

Can Cezanne lift color?

As with all keratin smoothing treatments, there is a potential to lift color because of the heat involved. Whether or not any color is lifted and how much color is lifted is a function of the particular hair or color type and condition as well as the temperature of the blow-dryer and/or flat iron. When coloring before the treatment, some stylists adjust the level of the color to allow for any lift that may occur. If your client has pink, blue, green, yellow, or any other bright fashion colors, there may be a greater tendency for lift. You can eliminate the issues related to lifting color if you color after the treatment. If unwanted warmth does occur during the smoothing step, decrease the iron temperature and increase the number of passes of the flat iron.

If color is lifted, can touch-ups be done after the treatment?

Yes, their color can be done immediately following the treatment. You may want to use Cezanne Perfect Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner before the color service to remove any remaining treatment residue.

Should I color before or after Cezanne?

Color can be done before or after the treatment. If color is done after the treatment, you eliminate issues of lifting color. However, if there is excess residue in the hair after the flat iron, you should wash the hair again before you apply the color.

If I'm going to color my client's hair after a Cezanne treatment, what steps can I follow to make sure that the color is flawless?
  1. If you're coloring immediately after a Cezanne treatment and the hair feels heavy, use our Perfect Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner to ensure that any leftover residue from the treatment is gone.
  2. If you’re dealing with gray or normally stubborn, resistant hair, you may need to adjust your developer up a level as our treatment seals the cuticle.
  3. If you normally use a 30 or 40 volume developer, we recommend coloring before and adjusting the shade 1/2 to 1 shade darker to allow for the slight lifting that may occur.
What should I recommend to a client who likes to swim in the ocean or chlorine pool?

Yes, you can swim immediately after the Cezanne treatment but chlorine and salt water can dry the hair. Instruct your client to apply Perfect Moisture Conditioner before swimming and to rinse with warm water immediately after getting out.

Can Cezanne treatments be used with Henna?

No, Cezanne does not recommend using Cezanne in conjunction with Henna. If someone chooses to use henna, we cannot guarantee the service or the results.

Aftercare

How soon can my client work out, use styling products and wear clips or ponytails?

Unlike most smoothing treatments, clients can wash their hair, work out, wear ponytails or clips, and use styling products immediately after getting a Cezanne treatment.

What aftercare should clients use?

Cezanne aftercare with keratin-extending ingredients is recommended. If Cezanne aftercare is not used, avoid products that contain sodium, sulfates, baking soda, parabens, phthalates, and vinegar.

What should I recommend to a client who likes to swim in the ocean or chlorine pool?

Yes, you can swim immediately after the Cezanne treatment but chlorine and salt water can dry the hair. Instruct your client to apply Perfect Moisture Conditioner before swimming and to rinse with warm water immediately after getting out.

Can I curl my hair after Cezanne?

Yes, although Cezanne delivers similar results as formaldehyde-based smoothing treatments, it does not make your hair flat and allows you to curl and add volume.

What should I recommend to a client who likes to swim in the ocean or chlorine pool?

Yes, you can swim immediately after the Cezanne treatment but chlorine and salt water can dry the hair. Instruct your client to apply Perfect Moisture Conditioner before swimming and to rinse with warm water immediately after getting out.