Keratin hair

Market Insights on Keratin Hair Treatments

Market Size: The global market for keratin hair treatments is experiencing significant growth, projected to reach approximately $2.1 billion by 2030 with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.1% during the forecast period. The increasing prevalence of hair damage due to environmental factors such as pollution and UV exposure is driving demand for effective hair care solutions. In the Asia Pacific region, the market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.0%, indicating robust consumer interest and diverse hair care needs.

Consumer Insights: The primary consumers of keratin hair treatments include women aged 18-45, with a growing segment of men increasingly adopting these treatments. Purchasing decisions are heavily influenced by factors such as product efficacy, ingredient transparency, and certifications. Consumers are particularly concerned about hair health, seeking treatments that address issues like frizz, damage repair, and overall hair vitality. Reports indicate that a significant portion of consumers prefers products with organic and natural ingredients, aligning with a broader trend towards sustainable beauty.

Top Brand Dynamics and Innovators: Leading brands are innovating by incorporating advanced ingredients like peptides and botanical extracts into their formulations. For instance, L'Oréal's recent product launches include keratin-infused treatments aimed at enhancing hair strength and smoothness. Additionally, the rise of e-commerce platforms is facilitating greater access to these products, with online sales expected to account for a substantial share of the market, as consumers prefer the convenience and variety available through digital channels.

Types of keratin hair

Keratin hair refers to hair that has undergone a treatment involving keratin, a naturally occurring protein essential for hair health. Keratin helps in repairing damaged hair, reducing frizz, and enhancing smoothness and shine. There are various types of keratin treatments, including:

• Brazilian Blowout

  This is a type of keratin hair treatment that originates from Brazil. It is a coating that controls frizz and adds shine to hair. The treatment can last up to 3 months, and it is advisable not to shampoo the hair for 3 days after the treatment. The Brazilian blowout also protects the hair from heat damage, and the process takes 90 minutes. However, it contains formaldehyde, which can cause skin and eye irritation.

• Keratin Smoothing Treatment

  This treatment is sometimes referred to as a 'pre-styling treatment.' It takes a short time to perform, and the process usually takes 30 to 40 minutes. It does not contain any harsh chemicals, and the hair can be washed after a few hours. It is more affordable than other keratin treatments and can last up to 6 months.

• Full Keratin Treatment

  This treatment involves the use of a flat iron and can take up to 4 hours. It offers a variety of textures and keratin treatment types, such as body waves, loose waves, straight hair, and more. The hair can be washed after 48 hours, and the treatment can last up to 6 months. It uses minimal to no formaldehyde, which can be an expensive process.

• Keratin Express Treatment

  This is a less intensive treatment that takes 1 to 2 hours. It provides a temporary frizz treatment that lasts up to 6 weeks. The hair can be washed after 24 hours, and it is more affordable than the full keratin treatment. It is a good option for people who want to test keratin treatment before going for the full treatment.

How to choose keratin hair

• Hair Type:

  Different hair types can benefit from keratin in various ways. For those with frizzy, curly, or wavy hair, a keratin treatment can help smooth the hair cuticle, making it more manageable and reducing frizz. Even straight hair types can benefit from keratin by adding shine and reducing style time. Consider hair type when deciding on keratin treatment or products.

• Damage Level:

  If hair is significantly damaged, such as by chemical processes, coloring, or heat styling, an in-salon keratin treatment with a higher concentration of protein may be more beneficial. These professional treatments penetrate the hair shaft deeper to repair it from the inside out. On the other hand, if hair is only mildly damaged, regular use of keratin products like shampoos, conditioners, and masks can help strengthen and repair it.

• Maintenance Commitment:

  Keratin treatments require a certain level of maintenance to keep the hair looking its best. If opting for an in-salon treatment, it is important to use sulfate-free hair products to prolong the effects of the treatment. These products help maintain the hair's smoothness and shine. Consider the maintenance required when choosing treatment or products.

• Budget:

  How much keratin treatment costs depends on the hair's length and thickness and whether an at-home or salon treatment is chosen. Consider budget when deciding on treatment or products.

• Desired Results:

  Consider the outcome that is wanted. Salon treatments provide faster results that last for several months. On the other hand, keratin hair products offer a more temporary solution that can be incorporated into a regular hair care routine.

How to use, install, and product safety

Using keratin treatments at home can benefit from salon treatment. They will look more polished and frizz-free. Here is how to use them.

• Shampoo hair

  Use a keratin shampoo to wash the hair. Ensure all dirt and buildup are gone. Then, rinse the shampoo with water. Repeat this process two to three times.

• Towel dry hair

  Gently towel dry the hair. Get rid of all the water. However, do not rub the hair, as it can cause breakage. Leave some moisture in the hair.

• Apply keratin treatment

  Divide the hair into small sections. Use a brush to apply the treatment. Ensure each section has enough treatment. Then, comb through the hair with a wide-tooth comb.

• Process the keratin

  Process the keratin treatment with a blow dryer. Use a round brush to dry the hair. This will ensure the treatment penetrates the hair shaft. Do not dry the hair completely.

• Use a flat iron

  Process the keratin with a flat iron. It will seal the keratin treatment into the hair shaft. Section the hair and pass the flat iron through each part. Do this until the hair is completely dry.

• Cool down the hair

  Let the hair cool down for 48 hours. During this time, do not get the hair wet. Do not tie or clip the hair. Do not use styling products like gel or mousse.

• Wash hair

  After 48 hours, wash the hair with a sulfate-free shampoo. Use a keratin conditioner to maintain the treatment.

Product Safety

Keratin treatments can damage hair when misused. They have formaldehyde, which is a preservative. It releases gas when the hair is blow-dried. This gas can cause skin and respiratory problems. So, take the following precautions when using keratin treatments.

• Wear gloves when applying keratin treatment to the hair. This will protect the hands from chemical burns.
• Use a well-ventilated room to apply the treatment. Open windows and turn on exhaust fans. It will get rid of all the toxic gases.
• Use a medical-grade mask to cover the nose and mouth. It will filter out all the toxic gases.
• Avoid using the treatment near the eyes. It can cause damage to the eyes.

Functions, features, and design of keratin hair

• Keratin treatment

  Keratin hair treatment smooths and strengthens the hair. It seals the hair cuticle with a coating of keratin. It reduces frizz and creates a glossy look. It also makes the hair soft and straight. Keratin treatments are good for people with curly or frizzy hair. They get long-lasting, silky hair. The treatments also strengthen weak hair. They repair hair damaged by chemical processes or by the heat of styling tools. Keratin treatments are available in different types and formulas. They come as shampoos, conditioners, masks, and leave-in treatments. Some treatments are done in salons by professional hairstylists. They use stronger formulas to give better results.

• Keratin Hair Products

  Keratin hair products have keratin as the main ingredient. They are used for all hair types, especially those prone to frizz and damage. The hair products come in different types. They include shampoo, conditioner, hair masks, serums, and hair oils. The keratin in the products has a variety of functions. It helps to strengthen the hair strands. It keeps the hair looking healthy and shiny. Keratin hair products are available in many brands. They have different scents, textures, and consistencies. Some are vegan and cruelty-free. They are suitable for people who avoid using animal-derived ingredients.

• Keratin Hair Extensions

  Keratin hair extensions are human hair strands bonded together with keratin. They are famous for their natural look and feel. The keratin bond can fuse to the natural hair using a special heating tool. It creates a strong bond that lasts for several months. The extensions come in different shades and textures. They are suitable for people who want to add volume and length to their hair. Keratin hair extensions look realistic and blend well with natural hair. There are no visible clips, wefts, or stitches. They allow users to style, color, or cut them to their preference.

Q&A

Q1. Can keratin be left in the hair?

A1. Keratin treatment can be left in the hair for as long as desired. It will continue to nourish and strengthen the hair. However, it is recommended to leave the keratin treatment in the hair for at least 72 hours before washing it out. This will give the treatment time to deeply penetrate the hair shaft for long-lasting results.

Q2. Does keratin treatment cause hair loss?

A2. Keratin itself does not cause hair loss. Hair loss after keratin treatment may be due to other factors such as chemical damage from over-processing, tight hairstyles, or use of high-heat styling tools causing damage to hair follicles.

Q3. Can keratin treatment make hair grow faster?

A3. Keratin treatment does not make hair grow faster. It works by smoothing the hair cuticles, reducing frizz, and giving the appearance of longer, shinier hair. Although it does not speed up hair growth, it makes hair more manageable and reduces breakage, which can help hair retain its length.

Q4. When should keratin be applied to wet or dry hair?

A4. Keratin can be applied to damp hair after washing it. Hair should be towel-dried to remove excess water but not fully dried. This allows the keratin to penetrate the hair shaft more effectively for better results. Applying keratin to wet hair also helps it spread more evenly and absorb faster.

Q5. How many times a week should hair be washed with keratin?

A5. Hair washed with keratin should be washed 2-3 times a week. Less frequent washing helps maintain the benefits of the keratin treatment for longer. Overwashing can strip the hair of its natural oils and the deposited keratin, reducing smoothness and shine.