Keratin treatments have become increasingly popular over the past decade as an effective way to smooth, relax, and straighten curly or wavy hair. The main active ingredient in these treatments is keratin, a fibrous protein that is naturally found in hair, skin, and nails. When applied properly, a keratin treatment can make hair look and feel softer, shinier, and easier to style for 2-4 months.
How Do Keratin Treatments Work?
Keratin treatments typically involve applying a formulated keratin solution to the hair and then using a flat iron to seal it in and smooth the hair cuticle. The heat from the iron helps the keratin bond to and penetrate the hair strands. This helps fill in gaps and micro-fissures in the hair cuticle caused by damage from styling, sun exposure, chemical processing, or other factors.
The end result is hair that looks smoother, frizz-free, and straighter. However, keratin treatments are not permanent straightening like a relaxer. They simply relax the natural curl pattern and make hair more manageable. The effects last until the keratin bonds naturally break down and are washed away over time. Treatments generally need to be repeated every 2-4 months to maintain the results.
Benefits of Keratin Hair Treatments
There are many potential benefits to getting a professional keratin hair treatment, such as:
- Smoother, frizz-free hair - Keratin fills in damaged areas in the hair cuticle and makes hair look sleeker.
- Straighter, more manageable hair - Keratin treatments relax curls and waves to straighten or loosen the curl pattern.
- Less time styling - The smoother hair texture cuts down on blow drying and styling time.
- Lasting results - Effects can last up to 4 months with proper at-home care.
- Works on all hair types - Keratin treatments are safe and effective on straight, curly, wavy, coiled, and tightly curled hair. The results may vary depending on the curl pattern.
- Repairs damage - Keratin fills in gaps in the hair cuticle caused by chemical, heat, or environmental damage.
- Protective barrier - The keratin coating helps protect against future damage from styling and UV rays.
- Boosts shine and softness - Keratin makes the hair cuticle smooth to increase light reflection and softness.
The top brands used by salons for keratin straightening treatments include Brazilian Blowout, Keratin Complex, Global Keratin, and Keratin Treatment Perth. These professional-grade products produce consistent, long-lasting results when applied properly by a trained stylist. At-home keratin treatment kits are also available but the results are generally shorter-lived.
The Keratin Treatment Process
Getting a salon keratin treatment is a multi-step process that usually takes 1-2 hours from start to finish:
Consultation - The stylist will assess your hair's condition, texture, and curl pattern and recommend the appropriate formulation and method.
Cleansing - Hair is shampooed and conditioned to prepare it for the treatment.
Blow drying - Hair is thoroughly dried to avoid steam from damp hair affecting the treatment.
Application - The keratin solution is brushed evenly through clean, dry sections of hair until fully coated.
Sealing - A flat iron set to a high heat between 380-450°F is run over each section to seal in the keratin and straighten the hair.
Neutralizing - A neutralizer solution is applied and rinsed out to complete the process.
Styling - The hair is styled straight and smooth to showcase the finished results.
Maintenance Tips
To maintain the smooth, straight results from a keratin treatment for as long as possible:
- Wait 2-4 days before washing hair to allow the keratin bonds to fully set.
- Use sulfate-free shampoo and cold water when washing to extend the life of the treatment.
- Avoid chlorine, salt water, and sweat which can cause the keratin bonds to break down faster.
- Use a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove product buildup.
- Apply a daily keratin-infused conditioning treatment.
- Avoid putting hair in tight ponytails or buns.
- Use heat protectant spray when heat styling and minimize the use of hot tools.
- Get a touch-up treatment after 2-4 months.
- Potential Side Effects
- When properly done by a trained professional, keratin treatments are safe for most people. However, there are some potential side effects to be aware of:
- Formaldehyde - Older keratin treatments used high levels of formaldehyde. Newer formulations use alternatives for less risk of irritation.
- Flat, lifeless hair - If the hair is overprocessed, too much keratin can make it look limp or limp.
- Damage - High heat can damage hair if the iron is too hot or moved too slowly through sections.
- Frizzy regrowth - New growth at the roots may revert back to natural texture and frizz until the next treatment.
- Skin or eye irritation - Some people may experience mild redness or itching from the keratin solution if it gets on the scalp or skin.
Overall, keratin treatments offer an effective way to smooth, relax, and straighten curly hair for long-lasting results. When done properly, they can make hair more manageable without permanent straightening or damage. Consult a professional stylist to determine if a treatment is right for your hair type and texture.