If you’re a fan of straight and silky hair, keratin treatment might just be what you need. This hair treatment technique smoothens frizz and waves, adds shine and volume, and reduces tangled ends, all while making your hair more manageable and healthy. But if you’re doing it for the first time, the five to six hours of sitting in the salon chair might seem daunting. Also, there are aftercare steps to consider to maintain your beautiful locks.
First things first, before you book your appointment, it’s best to know what to expect when getting a keratin treatment. Typically, this five-step hair treatment process includes washing and clarifying your hair, drying it completely, applying the keratin solution, flat ironing it to seal the treatment, and refraining from washing or putting your hair up for 72 hours. This helps the keratin to penetrate and coat the strands correctly, resulting in long-lasting shine and smoothness.
Moreover, after getting a keratin treatment, it’s crucial to take care of your hair the right way. This means avoiding chlorine, saltwater, and sulfates for a week or two and using shampoos and conditioners that are specifically designed for keratin-treated hair. Also, be mindful of heat styling tools. Using a heat protectant spray can help minimize damage and prolong the effects of your keratin treatment.
Benefits of Keratin Treatment
Keratin treatment has gained a lot of popularity lately, especially among individuals who struggle with frizzy, unmanageable hair. It is a salon treatment designed to smooth and straighten hair, leaving it shinier, more manageable, and healthier-looking. There are several benefits of keratin treatment:
- Smoother and straighter hair: Keratin treatment can help make your hair smoother and straighter. The treatment works by coating the hair shaft with a protective layer of protein, which can eliminate frizz and make your hair easier to manage.
- Reduced styling time: When you have smoother, straighter hair, you can reduce the time it takes to style your hair in the morning. You’ll be able to spend less time blow-drying and straightening your hair, so you can get out the door faster.
- Increase hair strength: Keratin is a protein that is naturally found in hair, so the treatment can help repair damaged hair and strengthen it. It can also help protect your hair from environmental damage, such as exposure to sun, wind, and pollution.
- Long-lasting results: With proper care, your keratin treatment can last for up to six months. This means you can enjoy smoother, more manageable hair for an extended period of time without any extra effort.
- Protects hair: Keratin treatment acts as a protective barrier between your hair and harmful elements such as UV rays, pollutants, etc. which can cause hair damage.
Different types of keratin treatment
Keratin treatment, also known as Brazilian Blowout, is a popular hair straightening method that uses keratin protein to smooth and straighten hair. Keratin treatments are suitable for all hair types, including colored and chemically treated hair. There are different types of keratin treatments available in the market, each with its own unique formula and method of application.
Here are the four most common types of keratin treatments:
- Traditional Keratin Treatment: This is the most popular type of keratin treatment. It involves applying a keratin solution to the hair and then flat-ironing it to seal in the product. This treatment can take up to three hours and lasts for three to six months.
- Express Keratin Treatment: This is a shorter version of the traditional keratin treatment. It takes about an hour to complete and lasts for up to six weeks. This treatment is perfect for those who want to try keratin treatment for the first time.
- Keratin Hair Botox: This treatment is a combination of keratin and collagen. It is designed to repair damaged hair and improve its texture. It takes about two hours to complete and lasts for up to four months.
- Keratin Relaxer: This is a mild form of keratin treatment that is designed to straighten curly or wavy hair. It lasts for up to eight weeks and is suitable for those who want a temporary change in their hair texture.
Traditional Keratin Treatment
The traditional keratin treatment is also known as the Brazilian Blowout. It is a process that involves applying a keratin solution to the hair, blow-drying it, and then flat-ironing it. The heat from the flat iron seals the keratin into the hair, creating a protective layer that makes the hair smoother and shinier. The traditional keratin treatment can take up to three hours to complete, depending on the length and thickness of your hair.
Here is the step-by-step process of the traditional keratin treatment:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any buildup or residue. |
| Step 2 | Dry your hair completely with a blow dryer. |
| Step 3 | Apply the keratin solution to your hair in sections. |
| Step 4 | Blow-dry your hair until it is completely dry. |
| Step 5 | Flat iron your hair in small sections, sealing the keratin into your hair. |
| Step 6 | Wash your hair after 48 hours and avoid getting it wet during this time. |
After the treatment, you may experience smoother and shinier hair that is easier to style. You should avoid washing your hair too often and using harsh shampoos or styling products that contain alcohol or sulfates, as they may dry out your hair and cause the keratin treatment to fade faster.
Preparation before Keratin Treatment
Getting ready for a keratin treatment is crucial to ensuring its effectiveness and longevity. Before booking your appointment, consider the following steps:
- Clarify your hair: Use a clarifying shampoo one week prior to the treatment to remove any buildup from products, minerals, or chemicals that may prevent the keratin from penetrating your hair shaft. Avoid using any conditioning or styling products afterwards as this can coat your hair and prevent the keratin from being absorbed.
- Do not wash your hair: Do not wash your hair the day of the treatment – oily hair can actually help the keratin to penetrate better into the hair shaft.
- Leave your hair loose: Avoid styling your hair with pins, clips, or elastics on the day of the treatment. This will ensure that the keratin is distributed evenly throughout your hair and prevents any indentations or marking caused by tight hair accessories.
By following these preparation steps, you are setting the foundation for a successful keratin treatment experience that will leave your hair looking healthy, smooth, and shiny for several months.
Keratin Treatment Process
Keratin treatment is a popular method to achieve shiny, smooth, and frizz-free hair. This process involves the use of keratin protein, which penetrates deep into the hair follicles to give it a healthy and polished look. If you are planning to undergo keratin treatment, here are the steps involved:
Step 1: Consultation with an expert stylist
Before starting the keratin treatment, it is essential to consult with an expert stylist who can examine your hair and recommend the best approach. The stylist will determine if the keratin treatment is suitable for your hair type and discuss the process.
Step 2: Preparing the hair
The next step is to thoroughly wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any residue or buildup of oils and products. After washing, the hair must be dried and combed well.
Step 3: Application of keratin solution
Once the hair is dry, the stylist applies the keratin solution evenly onto each section of the hair using a brush. The keratin solution must be applied from roots to ends.
Step 4: Heat treatment
After the keratin solution is applied, the hair is then blow-dried with a hair dryer. Then, using a flat iron, the hair is straightened to lock the keratin solution into place. The heat treatment helps to infuse keratin into the hair, making it smoother and shinier.
- The stylist will repeat the application process on each section of your hair until all hair is covered with the keratin solution.
- It is essential to check the temperature of the flat iron, as too much heat can damage your hair. The stylist will adjust the temperature according to your hair type.
Step 5: Rinse and dry the hair
After the hair has been treated with the keratin solution and heat, it is rinsed and dried. The stylist will then blow-dry the hair and use a flat iron again to seal the keratin and create the final look.
Step 6: Post-treatment care
After the keratin treatment, it is essential to maintain the look by taking proper care of your hair. To prolong the effects of the keratin treatment, avoid washing your hair for up to 72 hours. Use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, and avoid using hair accessories that may cause breakage or damage.
| Benefits of keratin treatment | Drawbacks of keratin treatment |
|---|---|
| Smooth and shiny hair | Expensive compared to regular hair treatments |
| Reduces frizz | Incompatible with relaxed or permed hair |
| Long-lasting effects | May cause allergic reactions |
| Can be customized based on hair type and texture | Requires special care after the treatment |
In conclusion, keratin treatment is an effective method to achieve smooth and shiny hair. It can provide long-lasting results, and with proper post-treatment care, you can maintain the healthy look of your hair. However, it’s important to consult with an expert stylist before deciding to undergo the treatment and be aware of the potential drawbacks and special care required after the treatment.
Post-treatment care for keratin treatment
Getting a keratin treatment is a huge investment, not just financially, but in terms of time and effort as well. You don’t want to waste your precious time and money by not taking care of your hair post-treatment.
Here are some steps that you can follow for the post-treatment care of your hair to make your investment worth it:
- Don’t wash your hair for at least 72 hours after the treatment.
- Avoid tying your hair up in a ponytail or a bun for the first few days after the treatment as this can cause kinks in your hair.
- Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and a moisturizing conditioner to wash your hair. Avoid shampoos and conditioners that contain harsh chemicals or sulfates as they can strip the keratin from your hair.
In addition to the above steps, there are a few other things that you can do to take care of your hair post-keratin treatment:
- Avoid exposing your hair to chlorine or saltwater as they can cause damage to your hair and strip the keratin treatment from your hair.
- Avoid using hair styling tools such as flat irons or curling irons for at least a week after the treatment as they can damage your hair and reduce the lifespan of your treatment.
- Use a heat protectant spray if you must use heat styling tools and don’t use them on a high setting. Use a medium or low heat setting to style your hair.
Post-treatment care is essential to maintaining the life of your keratin treatment and keeping your hair healthy and strong. By following these steps, you can extend the lifespan of your keratin treatment and enjoy beautiful, smooth hair for months to come.
Maintenance of keratin treated hair
After having a keratin treatment, you need to take care of your hair properly. By maintaining your hair, you can make the treatment last longer and retain your hair’s smoothness and shine for as long as possible. Here are some steps you can do to take care of your keratin treated hair:
- Use sulfate-free shampoo – sulfate can strip your hair of its keratin treatment, so it’s important to use a sulfate-free shampoo. Brands like Brazilian Blowout, Keratin Complex, and Coppola Keratin Concept have their own line of sulfate-free shampoo.
- Avoid salt water and chlorine – salt water and chlorine can cause your hair to dry out, which can damage your keratin treatment. If you are going swimming, make sure to wear a swim cap.
- Avoid high heat styling tools – high heat can also damage your keratin treatment. If you are going to use a blow dryer, set it on low or cool. Limit the use of flat iron as well because it can cause breakage and split ends.
In addition to these steps, you should also consider using a hair mask or deep conditioner once or twice a week. This can help you maintain the health of your hair and prevent it from becoming dry and brittle. Here are some of the best deep conditioners you can use for your keratin treated hair:
- Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask
- Living Proof Restore Mask Treatment
- It’s a 10 Miracle Hair Mask
It’s always a good idea to consult with your hairstylist about the proper maintenance for your keratin treated hair. They can give you more specific advice on how to maintain your hair type and the brand of keratin treatment you had. Below is a table that summarizes the tips on how to maintain your keratin-treated hair:
| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Use sulfate-free shampoo | Use sulfate shampoo |
| Wear a swim cap when swimming | Expose hair to salt water or chlorine |
| Use low or cool heat styling tools | Use high heat styling tools |
By following these simple steps, you can maintain your keratin-treated hair for a long time and enjoy the benefits of having smooth, shiny, and healthy hair!
FAQs about Keratin Treatment
Keratin treatment is a popular hair treatment option for people looking to tame frizzy or unmanageable hair. It is a process that involves the use of a keratin-based formula to smooth and straighten the hair shaft. Below are some frequently asked questions about keratin treatment:
- Q: How long does the keratin treatment last?
- A: The results of keratin treatment typically last for about three to six months, depending on several factors like the hair’s texture, the frequency of washing, and the quality of the treatment used.
- Q: Can I wash my hair immediately after the treatment?
- A: It’s advisable to wait up to 72 hours before washing your hair after the keratin treatment to ensure the formula can fully penetrate the hair shaft. This is to help achieve better results and make the treatment last longer.
- Q: Will keratin treatment damage my hair?
- A: Properly done, keratin treatments should not damage your hair. In some cases, however, improper application or overuse of heat styling tools can cause damage to the hair.
- Q: Can I wear my hair up or put it behind my ears after the treatment?
- A: It is recommended not to tie your hair or put it behind your ears for the first few days immediately after the treatment. This is to prevent kinks or curls from forming that may compromise the desired straightening effect.
- Q: Can I color my hair after the treatment?
- A: It’s advisable to wait at least two weeks after your keratin treatment before coloring your hair to help maintain the desired results of the treatment.
- Q: Can I still use hair products after the treatment?
- A: Yes, you can still use hair products like shampoos, conditioners, and styling sprays after keratin treatment. However, it’s best to use paraben and sulfate-free products to help prolong the effects of keratin treatment.
Pre-treatment and Post-treatment Care for Keratin Treatment
Pre-treatment care is critical to ensuring that you get the best possible results from your keratin treatment. During the consultation, the stylist will advise you on the dos and don’ts before and after the treatment. Some of the best practices to follow are:
- Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo before the treatment to remove any buildup that may compromise the absorption of the treatment.
- Avoid applying any hair products before the keratin treatment.
- Avoid pulling your hair back in a ponytail or wearing any hair clips or hair ties during the first few days after the treatment.
- Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to maintain the results of the treatment.
- Avoid chlorine and saltwater for the first week after the treatment.
Post-treatment care is equally essential to maintaining the results of your keratin treatment, extending the longevity, and preserving the health of your hair. Below are some guidelines:
- Avoid washing your hair for at least three days after the treatment.
- Use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to ensure you don’t strip the treatment from your hair.
- Avoid exposing your hair to excessive heat and direct sunlight as this can compromise the longevity of the treatment.
- Avoid using hair products that contain alcohol or harsh chemicals as these can cause the treatment to break down faster.
- Avoid wearing your hair in tight ponytails or curls, as these can create kinks in the hair shaft.
The Pros and Cons of Keratin Treatment
Keratin treatments are suitable for people with frizzy, curly, or wavy hair who are looking for a longer-lasting solution for straightening their hair. It has several benefits, including:
- It provides long-lasting results, making it a cost-effective solution compared to regular salon treatment and at-home hair straightening methods.
- It makes the hair smooth and shiny while reducing frizz and flyaways.
- It can make your morning routine more manageable with reduced styling time.
- Keratin treatments can also help repair damaged hair.
However, there are also some potential drawbacks of keratin treatment, such as:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Long-lasting results | Expensive compared to other salon treatments and at-home products |
| Reduces frizz and flyaways | Might cause hair damage if not applied correctly |
| Makes hair smoother and shinier | Requires post-treatment care and specific hair products |
| Reduces styling time | Might not work for all hair types or styles |
In summary, keratin treatment can be a great option for people looking to enhance their hair texture, reduce frizz, and make their hair more manageable. However, it’s crucial to consult an expert stylist and follow the right pre-treatment and post-treatment care to ensure you get the best possible results from your keratin treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions – What are the steps for keratin treatment?
Q: What is Keratin treatment?
A: Keratin treatment is a chemical process that helps to straighten and smooth hair and restore damaged hair.
Q: What are the steps for keratin treatment?
A: The steps for keratin treatment involve washing the hair, blow-drying, applying keratin solution, sealing, flat-ironing, rinsing, and styling.
Q: How long does keratin treatment last?
A: Keratin treatment usually lasts for up to six months, depending on your hair type, the brand of treatment, and how well you maintain your hair after the treatment.
Q: Is keratin treatment safe for all hair types?
A: Keratin treatment can be safely done on all hair types, but it is best to consult your hairstylist before getting the treatment to ensure it is right for your hair.
Q: Can I still color my hair after keratin treatment?
A: Yes, you can color your hair after keratin treatment. However, it is recommended to color your hair before the treatment to avoid damaging your hair.
Q: How do I maintain my hair after keratin treatment?
A: To maintain your hair after keratin treatment, you should use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, avoid washing your hair for at least 48 hours after the treatment, and avoid chlorine and saltwater as much as possible.
Q: Is keratin treatment expensive?
A: The cost of keratin treatment varies depending on the salon, the brand of the treatment, and your hair type. On average, it can cost between $150 to $500.
Closing Thoughts
Now that you know the steps for keratin treatment, you can make an informed decision if this is the right treatment for your hair. Remember to consult with your hairstylist and maintain your hair properly for the best results. Thanks for reading, and we hope to see you again soon for more hair care tips!