Keratin hair treatment

Types of keratin hair treatments

Keratin hair treatment is a smoothening treatment that can give one straight and shiny hair for several months. There are two main types of keratin hair treatments:

• Keratin Permanent Hair Straightener

  One can use a Keratin hair straightener, also called a "permanent wave" or "perm," to modify the structure of one’s hair. These straighteners work differently than regular hair color because they change the hair's internal structure. After using a Keratin straightener, one can wash and style their hair without worrying about frizz. The hair will remain smooth and straight for 4-6 months. After this time, new hair will grow with its original texture, and the treated hair will slowly fade away. To maintain the straight and smooth look, one will need to regularly use Keratin hair treatment products at home.

• Keratin Blowout

  A Keratin blowout is a hair treatment that adds Keratin, a natural protein, to the hair shaft. After the hair is infused with Keratin, it is then blow-dried and styled using a flat iron to seal the Keratin into the hair cuticle. This process helps the hair become smoother, shinier, and more manageable. Unlike a Brazilian blowout, which fully coats the hair with Keratin, a Keratin blowout only partially coats the hair. This means the effects won't last as long and may require more frequent touch-up treatments. However, the hair still looks healthy and frizz-free for several months. The blowout can also help reduce damage from heat styling.

How to choose keratin hair treatments

• Identify Hair Type and Condition:

  Determine if the hair is straight, curly, or wavy. Check if the hair is damaged or healthy. These factors will guide which keratin treatment to pick. Curly hair may need more intense treatments to become straight. Hair that is damaged may do better with a restorative keratin treatment.

• Consider Treatment Longevity:

  Think about how long the treatment will last. Some treatments can last 3-5 months, while others may need reapplication every month. Choose a treatment that will fit one's maintenance schedule and how much they intend to spend on future treatments.

• Assess Product Formulas:

  Look for treatments with nourishing ingredients like natural oils and vitamins. Avoid products with formaldehyde or other harsh chemicals. Select a keratin treatment that strengthens and repairs the hair instead of just straightening it.

• Evaluate Potential Side Effects:

  Consider if one's hair and scalp will react badly to the chemicals in the keratin treatment. Look for symptoms like irritation, allergy, or hair loss. Choose a treatment that does not harm the hair or scalp.

• Think About Aftercare:

  Some keratin treatments require special, high-priced shampoos and conditioners to be used after the treatment. Find out what products need to be used after the treatment. Think about the time needed to do aftercare and the expense of any extra products.

• Research Reviews and Recommendations:

  Read reviews and ask friends about their experience with different keratin treatments. Get recommendations from people with similar hair types. See how well others think a particular treatment works.

• Consult a Professional:

  If unsure which treatment is best, consult a hair stylist. They can analyze the hair type and condition. A stylist can recommend the ideal keratin treatment tailored to individual needs.

How to use, install, and product safety

How to use

• Wash the hair

  The first step is to wash the hair with a clarifying shampoo. This shampoo removes all the product build-up and opens the hair cuticles so the keratin will penetrate the hair shafts. It is advisable not to use any other shampoo but a clarifying one. Washing the hair will also take away any dirt or oil that could block the absorption of keratin.

• Apply the keratin treatment

  Once the hair is washed, the keratin treatment can be applied. It is better to apply the treatment on damp hair for better absorption. One can use a comb to distribute the product evenly, but it must be done with care so it does not get on the scalp. After applying the treatment, one can use a brush to spread it more evenly and then gently comb the hair.

• Process the hair

  The hair must now process the keratin treatment. One can use a hair dryer to dry the hair, but it is advisable not to use any hot tools for at least 48 hours. During this time, the keratin will keep locking into the hair strands, and it is crucial not to wash the hair or use any other products like hairpins or shampoos. The treatment will last longer if the hair is not washed for more than 72 hours.

• Seal the keratin

  After the waiting period, one can wash the hair and seal the keratin with a sealing shampoo. This will help the keratin to stay longer in the hair shafts. It is also recommended to use sealing hair masks or conditioners that will last for weeks. It is, however, advisable to avoid swimming and the sun for a long time.

Product Safety

• Use the right shampoo

  It is advisable to use the right products on the hair after a keratin treatment. It is recommended to use shampoos that do not contain sodium chloride as they will take away the keratin. The right shampoos will help the treatment last longer and prevent any damage to the hair.

• Avoid other hair treatments

  It is advisable to avoid using other hair treatments or products simultaneously. For example, if one has just done a keratin treatment on the hair, it is better not to use coloring or bleaching products. These chemicals can react with the keratin and damage the hair. It is best to wait until the keratin treatment is over, which can last up to 3 months, before using any other hair treatments.

• Avoid tight hairstyles

  Using tight hairstyles can cause damage to the hair. Damaged hair can cause the keratin to start shedding off. After a hair treatment, the hair is still fragile, and using tight hairstyles can break the hair shafts. It is advisable to use soft hair ties that will not put pressure on the hair to avoid further damage.

• Protect hair from sunlight

  Keratin treatments can make hair more sensitive to sun exposure. After a hair treatment, the hair cuticles are wide open, and it becomes more sensitive to UV rays. It is advisable to protect the hair from direct exposure to the sun. One can use hats or scarfs to protect the hair from direct sunlight.

Features, functions and design of keratin hair treatments

• Frizz reduction

  Keratin smooths the cuticle of the hair, reducing frizz and making the hair more manageable. This is especially beneficial for people with curly or frizzy hair. Less frizz means the hair looks shinier and more professional.

• Long-lasting results

  With proper aftercare, keratin treatments can last for up to five months. This is a longer time than some other hair treatments. The hair stays smooth and professional-looking for a more extended period without needing regular salon visits.

• Customized treatment

  Keratin treatments can be tailored to each person's hair type and needs. The stylist can adjust the amount of keratin used and the heat applied to get the best results for that particular client's hair. This provides a more personalized hair care experience.

• Keratin shampoos and conditioners

  Using keratin-enriched hair products at home can help maintain the results of the keratin treatment. These products are usually sulfate-free to avoid stripping the keratin from the hair. They also contain nourishing ingredients that keep the hair smooth and shiny. Using these products can help extend the life of the treatment.

• Keratin is a natural protein

  Many keratin treatments contain formaldehyde or formaldehyde-releasing ingredients. These chemicals help bond the keratin to the hair. However, some treatments use alternative methods to bond the keratin. These alternatives are less damaging to the hair. They do not expose it to high heat levels.

• Shiny hair

  When frizz is reduced and the cuticle smoothed, hair looks shinier. Keratin treatments make hair look healthy and well-groomed. This shine is long-lasting and does not require frequent touch-ups.

Q&A

Q1. How long does keratin treatment last?

A1. The keratin treatment can last up to 6 months. How long it lasts will depend on the hair type, amount of washing, and aftercare.

Q2. Can treated hair be colored?

A2. It is recommended to wait at least 2 weeks after the keratin treatment before coloring the hair. On the other hand, colored hair can benefit from keratin treatment.

Q3. What products should be avoided after treatment?

A3. Sulfates and sodium-rich products should be avoided, as they will strip the keratin from the hair. Drying and clarifying shampoos will also remove keratin.

Q4. Can keratin treatments be done at home?

A4. Depending on the product, some hair keratin treatment can be done at home. However, it is always best to get professional treatment to ensure it is done correctly and safely.

Q5. How often should keratin treatments be done?

A5. Depending on the hair condition, keratin treatments can be done every 3 to 4 months. Hair with more damage may need to be treated more often.