For many women, hair care is about balancing style with health, versatility with manageability, and beauty with self-care. At Head 2 Toe, master stylist Chanelle Garrett knows that many of her clients love the sleek, smooth look of straightened hair — but aren’t always looking to commit to the long-term effects of a relaxer. That’s why she's excited to offer the Design Essentials STS Express Smoothing System, a salon treatment that delivers smooth, frizz-free results without permanently altering your natural curl pattern.

What is the STS Express Smoothing System?

STS (Strengthening Therapy System) Express is a temporary smoothing treatment created by Design Essentials. Unlike chemical relaxers that permanently break down the bonds in your hair to straighten it, STS Express works by infusing the hair with amino acids and conditioning agents that help strengthen and smooth from the inside out.

Think of it as a middle ground. You get the sleekness and shine you want with the flexibility to return to your curls when you’re ready.

Who is it for?

This system is ideal for women who:

• Love switching between straight and natural styles

• Want smoother, more manageable hair without committing to permanent chemical changes

• Have frizz-prone hair and desire longer-lasting blowouts

• Want to strengthen their strands while styling

For many women, this option is a game-changer because it makes at-home styling easier and helps cut down on daily maintenance without sacrificing your natural texture in the long run.

What are the benefits of STS Express?

• Smooth, sleek results without permanent change – Your curl pattern remains intact, so you’re free to go back to your natural look whenever you choose.

• Frizz control – Humidity doesn’t stand a chance. Your hair stays smooth and polished for weeks at a time.

• Strengthened strands – The amino acid–based formula fortifies hair from within, making it healthier with each treatment.

• Reduced styling time – Blow-drying and flat ironing take less time and effort, perfect for busy women balancing work, family, and personal care.

• Lasts up to 12 weeks – You can enjoy beautiful results for months at a time, depending on your lifestyle and maintenance routine.

How does it work?

The treatment begins with a thorough cleansing to prep your hair. The STS Express formula is then applied section by section, infusing strands with smoothing agents and conditioners. After blow-drying and flat-ironing, your hair is left silky, shiny, and full of movement.

Best of all, because this isn’t a permanent chemical treatment, your curls will gradually return over time as the product wears off—leaving you with total styling freedom.

What's the difference between relaxers and STS Express?

While relaxers are still a great option for women who want permanently straight hair, STS Express is perfect for those who want versatility and flexibility. It’s not so much about choosing one over the other as it is about finding the solution that best fits your lifestyle, hair goals, and personal preferences. Head 2 Toe offers both because every woman’s journey with her hair is personal and unique.

Is STS Express right for you?

If you’re curious about trying something new that smooths, strengthens, and adds shine without the long-term commitment, the Design Essentials STS Express Smoothing System could be your perfect match.

Book your appointment and to discover the freedom of a smoothing system that works with your lifestyle.