Keratin protein occurs naturally in hair. Keratin treatments are an exceptional process that effectively straightens even the coarsest, curliest hair. Products that contain keratin give many of the same effects of a treatment, to a lesser degree (shine, straightness, smoothness and reduced frizz). We’ve put together a guide on Keratin so you can figure out which treatments and products are best for you!
What is a Keratin treatment?
A keratin treatment is a temporary straightening process that transforms frizzy hair into straight, shiny, healthy hair. Using a high-temp flat iron, the keratin treatment is infused into hair, sealing the cuticle and repairing damage. Hair is stronger, smoother, and more manageable. Keratin treatments are not permanent, instead, the treatment is temporary but the results last about six weeks. The more often you wash, the more quickly hair returns to normal.
Will a Keratin treatment work for my hair?
Keratin treatments and products are best for thick, curly, frizzy or coarse hair. Because they actually repair hair, keratin treatments are also good for damaged or chemically treated hair (colored, permed, relaxed, highlighted or bleached). Keratin treatments are not intended for fine, straight or thin hair, but hair care products containing keratin are awesome for these hair types looking to repair the damage, fight frizz, and protect strands.
Do Keratin treatments damage hair?
No. Sealing keratin into cuticles can actually repair and strengthen hair. Formaldehyde, which is found in salon keratin treatments, is not harmful but is a strong solution if not used correctly, so check with your salon before you receive a keratin treatment. Haircare products with keratin are the best option for formaldehyde-free options.
Japanese Straightening vs. Keratin Treatments vs.
Brazilian Blowouts
Japanese straightening makes hair extremely straight and flat. Keratin treatments allow hair’s natural texture to emerge, especially as they slowly wash out. While the keratin treatment washes out over time, Japanese straightening treatments are permanent and will grow out, which will require lots of upkeep to maintain results. Therefore, Keratin doesn’t last as long as Japanese straightening, but it also doesn’t involve a grow-out phase. Brazilian blowouts are “lighter” than keratin treatments. You might consider them a blowout with a bonus, which leaves hair frizz-free but not as straight as a keratin treatment. While Keratin treatments have a 3-day no washing period, Brazilian blowouts can be washed immediately. Also, Brazilian blowouts do not contain formaldehyde, which is a big bonus for many salon clients.
The Benefits of Keratin
- Adds shine and softness to strands
- Smoother, frizz-free strands that are unfazed by humidity
- Moisture and damage repair
- Dramatically decreases drying and styling time
- Seals hair color
- Won’t grow out, so with regular shampooing, the hair slowly returns to its pre-treatment state.
Maintenance
- Wash hair less frequently to maintain the look longer. For maximum longevity, use a shampoo that doesn’t contain Sodium Chloride or sulphates. A product with UV protection is important too.
- Exposure to chlorine, saltwater, or excessive sun exposure will shorten the lifespan of the treatment
- Hair can be cut immediately after the treatment
- Hair can be colored before or two weeks afterward (coloring hair prior to the treatment seals in the color, helping to prevent fading)
The Ultimate Keratin Kit
