So out of the necessity for “smoothing” in today’s marketplace came new innovation that makes the need for formaldehyde in haircare obsolete. As a matter of fact, this new reducing agent (oxoacetamide carbocysteine and oxoacetamide amino acids) is one of the most impressive innovations I’ve seen in 38 years of manufacturing beauty industry products.

In order to smooth hair, a product must contain a reducing agent or chemistry that works as such. Reducing agents are chemicals or systems that soften or break the disulfide bonds in the hair shaft. Common reducing agents include “thio,” which is in most permanent waves and sodium hydroxide that is in most relaxers. And formaldehyde works as a reducing agent when combined with heat.

One of the qualities that make the new technology so impressive is that it can be used on hair that has been treated with any of the older technologies. That is not the case with the other reducing agents. For example, if one applies sodium hydroxide to hair that has been treated with “thio,” the hair will break off.

By now, you have likely experienced or will soon experience Thermafuse’s new amino express treatment; another example of innovation replacing formaldehyde. And with this new formula, there is no longer a need to use carcinogens in salons. Whether it’s an Express treatment or a full on smoothing treatment, innovation has now eliminated the need for harmful chemistry.

Toni Rae and I grew up in the beauty industry. It’s an industry filled with some of the most creative, talented and fun people on the planet. Our love of the industry only increases our concern for stylists that continue to use products that are harmful to health. Especially now that innovation has replaced the need for carcinogens.
Many years ago as a teenager, I was a compounder for Dad. The compounder is the person that takes the formula from the lab and creates the batch on the production floor. During that time in the 70’s, it was common to use formaldehyde as a preservative in haircare. All brands used it. And I remember that about 1 quart of formaldehyde was necessary to preserve about 1000 gallons of shampoo.

Eventually, the “powers that be” decided that it is not safe to have formaldehyde in hair care and innovation created new safe preservatives. So it’s worth noting that if a quart in 1000 gallons isn’t safe, how could 2 gallons in 100 gallons be safe? That is about the least amount used in most so-called “keratin” smoothers and express treatments.

Thermafuse is very fortunate to own the factory where its products are made. Similar to the way new brands and new products are constantly being introduced to the salon market, chemical vendors are constantly introducing Thermafuse to new technology. This keeps us on the cutting edge of innovation. And it also allows us to make the best formulas in the industry at a price that is reasonable (no middle man).

So let’s make a toast to innovation. And let’s hear it for beautiful hair that is also beautiful for your health.

Our Best,
Van D. Stamey, CEO
Toni Rae Stamey, Owner/Stylist

The Beauty Apothecary is a retailing and merchandising happening within the salon. A 1200 sq. ft. retail boutique offering hair care, skin care, and body care from leading domestic and international brands. “We place a strong emphasis on our retail presence to enable our team to readily recommend the best home care for every client. It’s important to give clients the “tools” they need to replicate in-salon styling. Plus, retail fosters client loyalty. Retail profits also support staff benefits, as well as our immense educational commitment,” Ginny says proudly. Buyer Alita Marengi adds “Our retail shelves are well-stocked. We commit to the full line – not just pieces; and we present products at the recommended retail price.”

INTERLOCKS fuels their retail program with event marketing, seasonal programs, and a full representation of all Thermafuse brands. Salon favorites – HeatSmart Serum dry oil treatment, HeatSmart Serum Shampoo, Volume and Color Care S&C. “The new Redefiner for curly hair is a huge hit, and we anticipate it to be very popular for Spring and Summer,” adds Ginny.

INTERLOCKS salon.spa.cosmetics …You are HOT!

This got me to thinking – has the formaldehyde scare still not reached a level of urgency to change behavior, or is the information regarding its carcinogenic properties just not reaching stylists? Health complications related to formaldehyde are real! 1% formaldehyde is still formaldehyde. And now, it is becoming harder to detect as products may camouflage its use by substituting one of its many variants in the ingredient deck. Products reach the salon contending formaldehyde-free status.

We are so relieved and proud of our R&D Department to have the scientific and ethical vision to reject formaldehyde as an option for our f4500 Smoothing Category. Instead, amino fusion® Smoothing Treatment relies on amino acid technology, independently tested to be 100% formaldehyde-free, to create smooth hair, control volume and wave.
Amino acids are of a lower molecular weight than keratin. They penetrate deeper into the hair shaft providing numerous benefits beyond just smoothing. Amino acids help re-build the hair and have an affinity for moisture to help hold and balance moisture content. This leaves hair soft and pliable, and easier to style-in a soft wave or curl. Keratin on the other hand may cause hair to become dry and brittle, partly because they can be film- forming, limiting styling versatility.

As stylists we are generally reliant upon manufacturer information when making product choices. While product performance is high on the list of expectations, so should safety for yourself and client. After all, our business is about making people look and feel good.

My Best,
Toni Rae Stamey, Owner/Stylist