No — and here's why. The processing time in our instructions is precisely calibrated to let the active ingredients work at their best. Leaving the product on longer won't improve results and may compromise the finish. Also important: never let a client leave the salon before completing the full process. Hair has memory — if it's tied up or pinned overnight, it can set into waves or bends that undo your work.

Yes — this step makes a significant difference. Before any Epiphany professional treatment, wash the hair 3–4 times with a salt-free, neutral shampoo — no conditioners, no silicones. These ingredients coat the cuticle and block the treatment from penetrating where it needs to go. Our Deep Cleansing Shampoo is specifically formulated for this step, with PROCAPIL and Hydraminerals to prep the fiber without drying it out.

Always. Toning treatments seal the cuticle and can significantly reduce how well the product absorbs. If your client has recently toned their hair, we recommend preparing the hair 8 days in advance — washing daily with a neutral, salt-free shampoo to gradually open the cuticle before the service.

For best results, use a professional flat iron with titanium or tourmaline plates that reaches high temperatures — the Lizze Extreme (up to 480°F) is a top choice. BaBylissPRO and GHD titanium plate irons are also excellent alternatives. Temperature guidelines:

• Processed, bleached, or damaged hair: 300–350°C
• Natural or virgin hair: 375–450°C

Working in thin sections with 12–15 passes per section ensures even heat distribution and the best possible result.

Yes — all Epiphany professional treatments are suitable for virgin hair. Because virgin hair tends to have a tighter, more closed cuticle, we recommend washing with a neutral shampoo approximately 8 days before the appointment. This gently opens the fiber and helps the treatment penetrate more effectively.

Yes, with preparation. Wait at least one month after henna application before proceeding with any straightening treatment. In the 8 days leading up to the appointment, wash the hair with a neutral shampoo daily to open the cuticle and ensure the treatment can absorb properly.

Our formulas are free of formaldehyde and harsh chemicals, so gloves are not required for safety reasons. That said, wearing gloves is always recommended as a professional best practice — especially during long services.

Always use a salt-free shampoo after an Epiphany straightening treatment. Regular everyday shampoos — especially those with sulfates or salts — can strip the treatment and shorten its longevity significantly. Our Restore Shampoo is sulfate-free and specifically formulated to protect straightening and color treatments while keeping hair hydrated and healthy.

No. The final rinse should always be done with a salt-free shampoo. Using a regular shampoo at this stage can remove active ingredients still bonding to the fiber and reduce the treatment's effectiveness and durability.

Professional treatments like Sleek Reactive, Gold Elixir, Aminos+, and Regeneris Pro are designed for licensed salon professionals. The flat iron step requires precision, consistent technique, and the right equipment to achieve safe, optimal results. For at-home care between salon visits, our Home Care Line — including Restore Shampoo, Conditioner, Repair Mask, and Instant Repair SOS — delivers professional-quality results without the complexity.

We do not recommend bleaching immediately before a straightening treatment. Bleaching weakens and opens the hair fiber significantly, which increases the risk of breakage during the flat iron step. If a client wants both services, it's best to schedule them separately with adequate recovery time in between.

Pass the flat iron 12–15 times per strand, working in thin sections. Each pass should be smooth and deliberate — continue until the strand is completely dry and falls with a natural, smooth finish. Working in smaller sections ensures even thermoactivation and consistently better results throughout the hair.

No — do not comb or brush while applying. This can physically remove the product from the strand before it has a chance to absorb. Instead, use your fingers or a scissor-grip technique to distribute the product evenly from 1cm of the root to the tips. Pay extra attention to the ends, which are typically the most porous and damaged area.

No. During the blow dry step, let the hair dry naturally with airflow only — no brushing. Brushing at this stage can displace the product and reduce its effectiveness. Once the hair is 80% dry, move on to the flat iron step as instructed.

No. Epiphany professional treatments are applied starting 1cm from the root, ensuring no direct scalp contact. This approach protects the scalp's natural balance while allowing the active ingredients to fully treat the hair fiber. Our formulas do not contain formaldehyde or aggressive agents that could cause scalp irritation.

No. Hair loss is caused by disruption at the follicle level — and our treatments work exclusively on the hair fiber, not the scalp or follicle. In fact, our amino acid-based formulas are designed to strengthen the fiber from within, reducing breakage and improving the overall health and resilience of the hair.

The amount varies based on hair length, density, and condition. As a general guide: apply evenly section by section from root to tip, ensuring full coverage without excess buildup. Fine or short hair requires less; long, thick, or very curly hair may need more. Always follow the specific application guidelines included with each product.

Always ask your client about any known allergies, respiratory conditions, or health concerns before beginning a service. Although Epiphany treatments are formaldehyde-free, high-heat styling can intensify fragrances and vapors in any formula. Clients with respiratory sensitivities should consult their doctor before proceeding. Always work in a well-ventilated salon space.

No — not until the process is fully complete and the final blow dry and flat iron steps are done. Clips, pins, elastics, or any accessories applied while the product is still active can leave marks or create bends in the hair. Hair has memory and will set in whatever shape it dries in.

Yes — this is completely normal and temporary. The amino acids and active ingredients bonding to the hair fiber can cause the roots to feel oilier than usual during the first 10–15 days after treatment. During this time, wash only with a salt-free shampoo. Avoid anti-grease, clarifying, or anti-dandruff shampoos as these will strip the treatment.

When applied correctly following our step-by-step instructions, results are visible immediately after the service. Product performance is directly tied to proper application technique — particularly the pre-wash, processing time, blow dry, and flat iron steps. Any concerns must be raised no later than the day after the service so we can help troubleshoot and find a solution.