What is a Keratin Treatment? All Your Questions Answered
A beginners guide to keratin.
Before diving straight into a keratin treatment, it’s important to know exactly what it is and, even more so, if it’s right for your hair type. Keratin is a naturally occurring protein that is naturally found in your hair, alongside melanin, amino acids, and protein. Known for its durability, keratin is known for creating a longer-lasting treatment when applied to hair—specifically of the dry, coarse, or curly type. Since it’s a protein, it lends to the appearance of overall hair health by smoothing, straightening and eliminating frizz.
Keratin Treatment: What You Should Know
Keratin is broken down over time due to a lot of factors which may include styling and heat damage. Replenishing your hair with a keratin treatment helps rebuild those bonds and restore hair to its former state. Read to find out more about using a keratin treatment:
1. What is a keratin treatment?
A keratin treatment is a temporary straightening process that is used to mend frizzy, unmanageable locks and turn them into super shiny, straight tresses that pretty much epitomize the look of hair health. The keratin treatment is bound to the hair by using a high-temp hair straightener. This process repairs any damage by sealing the hair cuticle.
A keratin treatment, however, isn’t achieved by using keratin but with a solution of formaldehyde or glyoxylic acid. These substances break hair bonds and reseal them in a straight position. There are also some at-home hair care systems that are infused with keratin and are safe to use at home. If you want to try this before getting the real deal, opt for Suave Keratin Infusion Smoothing Shampoo and Conditioner.
2. What are the benefits of a keratin treatment?
From shine and smoothness, to being super soft and frizz-free, keratin treatments bring out the very best in your hair. Not only will it make your hair look gorgeous, but the treatment will also help cut down on drying and styling time.
3. Is a Keratin Treatment The Same as a Relaxer?
Keratin treatments and Japanese treatments (or relaxers) have the same goal of straightening your hair. However, they’re substantially different. The keratin option is less harsh on your hair and is ideal for people who want smoother and straighter hair for a period of time. On the other hand, a relaxer is a permanent straightening treatment that is more effective on coily hair but more damaging.
4. How long will a keratin treatment last?
Sadly, a keratin treatment doesn’t last forever. You can expect your luscious locks to last around six weeks depending on proper care. Just like with color treatments, the more you wash your hair, the quicker the keratin will leave your locks. A top tip is to stay away from ponytails and water for at least three days after your treatment. When you go back into your normal washing routine, opt for a sulfate-free shampoo like Dove RE+AL Bio-Mimetic Repair Coconut + Vegan Keratin Sulfate-Free Shampoo.
5. What hair types will a keratin treatment work on?
If you have thick, coarse, damaged, or curly locks, you’re in luck! Since keratin is a pretty intense treatment, it’s recommended that straight, fine hair types steer clear.
6. Does a keratin treatment cause damage?
The actual process of sealing the cuticles can be very good for your hair. Keep an eye out for treatments with Formaldehyde because problems can arise when levels are too high. Some health professionals note that it’s a good idea to ask your stylist to use a cream barrier on your scalp so that the keratin treatment will only absorb your hair, not your skin.
All in all, if you have additional questions about the risks, it’s a good idea to ask your stylist for all the little details to make sure that you’re as informed as possible before taking a plunge for a super smooth ‘do.
Are you thinking about trying out a keratin treatment? Be sure to share the results with us over @AllThingsHairUS!
