Keratin treatment has become a popular hair care solution in recent years, with many people seeking to achieve smooth, shiny, and manageable hair. This treatment is said to help reduce frizz, tame unruly hair, and improve hair texture, making it an attractive option for those looking for a long-lasting hair care solution.
However, as with any hair treatment, there are pros and cons to consider, and it’s important to understand the process, the benefits, and the potential risks involved before deciding whether keratin treatment is right for you.
What is Keratin?
Keratin treatment is a hair treatment that aims to smooth and straighten hair while also improving its overall health and texture. It’s a popular option for people who struggle with frizzy, curly, or unruly hair.
Keratin is a protein that’s naturally found in hair, skin, and nails. It’s responsible for giving hair its strength and structure, but factors like heat styling, chemical treatments, and environmental damage can break down the keratin in our hair, leaving it weak, frizzy, and prone to breakage.
What Is Brazilian Keratin Treatment?
Brazilian Keratin Treatment (BKT) is a hair straightening and smoothing method that originated in Brazil. It involves the application of a keratin-based formula to the hair, which is then sealed in using a flat iron. The keratin penetrates the hair shaft, repairing any damage and smoothing the hair’s cuticle.
The result of a Brazilian Keratin Treatment is hair that is straighter, smoother, and shinier. It can also reduce frizz and improve the hair’s manageability. However, it is important to note that some formulations of the treatment may contain formaldehyde, a potentially harmful chemical, so it is essential to research and select a safe and reputable salon or hair stylist for the treatment.
How Does Keratin Treatment Work?
Keratin treatment works by infusing the hair with additional keratin to strengthen and smooth the hair cuticle, reducing frizz and creating a sleek, shiny finish. The treatment typically involves applying a keratin solution to the hair, which is then sealed in with heat from a flat iron.
The entire process usually takes a few hours and can last up to several months.
Benefits of Keratin Treatment
Some of the benefits of keratin treatment include:
- Smoother, more manageable hair:
Keratin treatment can make hair more manageable and easier to style. It can also reduce the amount of time and effort required to style hair. - Reduced frizz:
Keratin treatment can help tame frizzy hair, making it smoother and less prone to flyaways. - Improved hair health:
By infusing the hair with additional keratin, the treatment can help repair damage and strengthen hair, reducing breakage and split ends. - Long-lasting results:
Keratin treatment can last for several months, depending on the hair type and aftercare. This makes it a popular option for people who want to maintain a low-maintenance hairstyle.
Good Products For Keratin Treatment
Here are some good products commonly used for keratin treatment and their benefits:
Keratin Shampoo
A keratin-infused shampoo can help to strengthen and nourish hair, preparing it for the keratin treatment. It also helps to keep the hair smooth and frizz-free after the treatment.
Keratin shampoos usually contain amino acids, proteins, and other nourishing ingredients that can help to restore the hair’s natural health and shine.
Keratin Hair Mask
A keratin hair mask is a deep conditioning treatment that can help to repair and strengthen hair. It contains a high concentration of keratin and other nourishing ingredients that can penetrate deep into the hair shaft to restore elasticity, reduce breakage, and increase shine.
It is usually applied after shampooing and left on for several minutes to allow the hair to absorb the nutrients.
Keratin Hair Serum
A keratin hair serum is a lightweight, leave-in treatment that can help to tame frizz, prevent split ends, and add shine to hair. It contains a blend of oils, vitamins, and keratin that can nourish and protect hair from heat damage and environmental stressors. It is usually applied to damp or dry hair and can be used daily to maintain the results of the keratin treatment.
Keratin Heat Protectant Spray
A keratin heat protectant spray can help to protect hair from heat damage caused by styling tools like flat irons and blow dryers. It contains a blend of keratin, silicone, and other protective ingredients that can create a barrier between the hair and the heat source.
This can help to prevent split ends, breakage, and frizz, while also keeping hair smooth and shiny.
Keratin Leave-In Conditioner
A keratin leave-in conditioner is a lightweight, moisturizing treatment that can help to detangle hair, reduce frizz, and add shine. It contains a blend of keratin, amino acids, and other nourishing ingredients that can penetrate the hair shaft to restore moisture and improve elasticity.
It is usually applied to damp hair and can be used daily to maintain the results of the keratin treatment.
Considerations
It’s worth noting that while keratin treatment can be a great option for many people, it may not be suitable for everyone. People with very fine or damaged hair may find that the treatment makes their hair appear greasy or weighed down.
Additionally, some keratin treatments contain formaldehyde, which can be a potential health concern. It’s important to research the type of treatment you’re considering and to speak with a stylist who is experienced in keratin treatments to determine if it’s a good option for your hair type and needs.
Keratin Treatment FAQs
Keratin Treatment is a hair treatment that involves the use of a protein called keratin to straighten and smoothen frizzy or curly hair.
Keratin Treatment works by infusing the hair with keratin protein, which helps to rebuild and strengthen the hair shaft. This results in smoother, more manageable hair.
Keratin Treatment is generally safe for all hair types, but it is important to consult with a hair stylist to determine if it is right for you. People with severely damaged or processed hair may not be suitable candidates for Keratin Treatment.
Keratin Treatment can last anywhere from 3 to 6 months, depending on how well it is maintained and how often the hair is washed.
Yes, Keratin Treatment can be done on colored or chemically treated hair, but it is important to wait at least two weeks after the coloring or chemical treatment before getting Keratin Treatment.
It is recommended that you wait at least 72 hours before washing your hair after getting Keratin Treatment. This allows the keratin to fully penetrate the hair shaft and provide maximum results.
Yes, you can style your hair with heat after getting Keratin Treatment, but it is important to use a heat protectant spray to protect the hair from damage.
It is recommended that you avoid getting your hair wet or swimming for at least 72 hours after getting Keratin Treatment. This allows the keratin to fully set and provide maximum results.
After getting Keratin Treatment, it is recommended that you avoid using hair products that contain sulfates or sodium chloride, as these can strip the keratin from your hair and reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.
It is recommended that you wait at least two weeks after getting Keratin Treatment before coloring or bleaching your hair. This allows the keratin to fully set and provides maximum results. It is also important to consult with a hair stylist to determine if coloring or bleaching is safe for your hair type after Keratin Treatment.
