Confused about Keratin? Here’s Your Complete Guide to Keratin Treatment
Keratin Hair Treatment
Keratin is a fibrous protein found in hair, skin, and fingernails. A keratin hair treatment is a temporary smoothing treatment that is applied to your hair, and infuses it with keratin. This chemical process eliminates frizz by smoothing and adding shine to your hair. A keratin hair treatment is great for someone who wants to tone down their natural curl texture and make styling a seamless process. Getting keratin treatment is ideal if you want to turn thick, wild, and uncooperative curl patterns into smoother, shinier hair that lasts for months at a time. However, it might not be suitable for you if you already have very thin or brittle hair. Read on for your guide to keratin treatment…
How to Get Keratin Treatment for Hair?
In order to achieve the glossy look, you could opt for an at-home keratin hair treatment probably found at the drugstore, or else choose a suitable, reliable salon for the treatment. Hairstylists encourage getting a keratin hair treatment done by a professional, as an expert will match the strength of the formula to the hair’s needs and also help you set expectations. This is unlike the over-the-counter one-size-fits-all formula, which might not be as effective or long-lasting. Do note that keratin hair treatments have different chemical levels ranging from mild to strong. Treatments vary from full keratin hair treatments to partial treatments to smooth out frizz at the top. Hence, it is important to discuss with your hair expert on the type of treatment recommended for you, before getting keratin treatment.
What Is the Process of Keratin Hair Treatment?
Here’s a quick guide to keratin treatment, which is basically a chemical treatment.
Hair is washed and blow-dried. The keratin hair treatment is then applied to hair section-by-section. It is combed through the hair. The strong formula works to nourish the hair as it repairs damage from within as it strengthens the bonds in your hair.
The formula is left on for around 90 minutes or so, depending on the length of hair.
The treatment is finally sealed in with heat via a blow-dryer or flat iron.
The keratin hair treatment creates a finish that is humidity-resistant and frizz-free.
Keratin – After-Care
Here’s your guide to keratin treatment after undergoing the procedure…
Hair has to remain untouched for 72 hours. This means no wetting or washing hair for three days. Other important tips: hair should not be tucked behind the ears, or tied into a ponytail or bun, as the ties or clips used might create a strange dent or curl pattern. After the first wash, a regular hair-care routine can be resumed, using sodium- and sulphate-free products in order to maintain the treatment. After following these keratin treatment tips, the treatment is generally expected to last for around two to two and a half months.
How Does Keratin Treatment Benefit Hair?
A keratin hair treatment is a semi-permanent solution that works to create smoother and straighter hair for a long period of time. Keratin hair treatments work to repair split ends by restoring the protein bonds in your hair, causing them to reform, seal and straighten. It coats the pores, seals the hair cuticle, adds shine, and eliminates frizz.
Who Should Do Keratin Hair Treatment?
Keratin hair treatments are ideal for those with curly or frizzy hair who desire straight and smooth locks. Getting keratin treatment could also help those who constantly blow-dry or flat-iron their hair, and are looking to reduce styling time. More importantly, for those seeking healthier hair, keratin treatments can make hair feel more nourished over time. Keratin hair treatment works on a range of hair textures, from natural hair to colour-treated hair. Keratin treatments can help repair damaged hair, making it stronger and less prone to breakage.
Does Keratin Treatment Damage Hair?
If keratin treatments are done too often, it can eventually lead to hair damage.
A keratin smoothening hair treatment involves chemicals and they are not suitable for all hair types. Getting keratin treatment is not beneficial for those with straight, fine hair, or hair that has been excessively bleached or over-processed. Also, as some keratin formulations might have higher concentrations of chemicals, pregnant women getting keratin smoothing treatment should discuss with their doctor. Precautions also need to be taken to maintain keratin-treated hair so that the treatment lasts longer.
Some keratin treatments used formaldehyde, a possible carcinogen. This put salon workers at risk. However, there are now formaldehyde-free options available which are effective and safer.
How Long Does a Keratin Hair Treatment on Hair Last?
On an average, a keratin smoothing treatment lasts about three to six months with standard maintenance. However, it can wash out sooner in case you over-wash or swim regularly in the ocean or pool. This is because sea salt and chlorine are not conducive to the treatment.
