Have you ever dreamed of having glossy, straight hair? If so, a salon keratin treatment might be the answer for you.
However, there are a few things you should know before getting a keratin treatment. This includes the fact that keratin treatments can contain formaldehyde, which may cause health issues.
What is keratin?
Keratin is all over the beauty landscape—in coveted in-salon treatments, like Brazilian blowouts, and in products that promise to strengthen and repair your strands. But while the hair treatment has been linked to amazing results, like mending frizz and making hair softer and more manageable, it also gets a bad rap because of the chemicals in traditional salon formulas that often contain formaldehyde (that’s a known carcinogen).
Keratin, which is made up of protein, naturally occurs in our hair, skin and nails but is extracted from animals’ horns, hooves and feathers to be used as supplements you can ingest or included in cosmetics. You can also boost your body’s keratin production by eating plenty of lean proteins, leafy green veg and vitamin C-rich fruits.
When it comes to keratin for hair, there are two main types. The kind you’ll find in salons uses formaldehyde to straighten the cuticles of your strands. The other type, which many at-home beauty brands use, is derived from hydrolyzed collagen and doesn’t contain any formaldehyde or methyl alcohol. This type of keratin strengthens the hair shaft and helps it look shiny and healthy, plus it decreases blow-drying time.
How does keratin work?
Keratin hair treatments are semi-permanent straightening treatments that smooth and add shine to your locks, making it easier to manage frizzy, thick hair. They also cut down on blow-drying time and can last up to three months, depending on your hair type and how well it maintains.
The keratin in a keratin treatment works by filling in damaged areas of your hair and strengthening it temporarily. However, many traditional salon keratin treatments are not only expensive, but they also use formaldehyde to straighten your hair, which can be dangerous when inhaled. That’s why it is important to seek out a salon that uses formaldehyde-free formulas.
To get a keratin treatment, your stylist shampoos your hair and then divides it into sections before applying the solution to your entire head. The process takes about 1 to 2 hours, and your hair is then blown dry and sealed with a flat iron. After the treatment, it’s best to avoid using any products with sulfates or sodium chloride as they can strip away your hair’s natural oils and damage the keratin bonds.
How long does keratin last?
Keratin treatments can last for up to six months, but the lifespan depends on the formula used and your hair’s texture. A good keratin treatment should leave your hair looking and feeling beautiful and smooth.
However, it is important to note that a keratin treatment does not fix damaged hair. Rather, it treats hair that has been compromised by hair dye processes and heat-based styling tools. If you have damaged strands, it is best to seek professional help.
Tip: In order to prolong the life of your keratin treatment, make sure you use sulphate-free shampoos and conditioners. This will prevent the build-up of residue that can cause your treatment to wear off faster.
You should also avoid putting your hair up in tight styles, like ponytails and buns. This can cause your keratin to wear off quickly. Instead, opt for loose and more comfortable styles such as braids and low buns. Moreover, it is a good idea to stay away from heat-based styling products such as hair straighteners and blow dryers. This will ensure your keratin treatment lasts longer and stays strong.
What are the side effects of keratin treatments?
Keratin hair treatments last from three to six months with proper maintenance, but they can wash out sooner if you overwash your strands or take one too many dips in the ocean or pool. You also can’t touch your strands too often or you might kink them, which can damage the keratin coating.
Those with curly hair will find the treatment especially beneficial, as it will smooth frizz and boost shine. Taylor says keratin is also great for color-treated hair, as it will help to seal in your color and make it look vibrant.
Keep in mind that keratin treatment side effects can include headaches due to the harsh chemicals and high heat involved in the procedure. You might also experience sensitivity to sunlight after your appointment, which can be a result of the treatment breaking down the melanin in your hair. Additionally, you may notice some breakage in your strands after getting a keratin treatment, but this is normal and will resolve itself as the keratin continues to work. It’s important to talk to your stylist about your expectations for the results and what you want to achieve with this treatment before you opt for it.
How can I maintain my keratin treatment?
Keratin treatments are not permanent, and they must be maintained for the best results. There are many things you can do to help keep your hair looking great after a keratin treatment, including washing it less frequently and using sulfate-free shampoos. You should also avoid using bobby pins and hair ties, as these can pull on your hair and cause it to look wavy or frizzy.
If possible, try to wait three days before washing your hair after getting a keratin treatment. This will give the keratin time to set in and bond with your hair. If you have to wash your hair sooner, make sure to use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners. You should also use lukewarm water, as hot or cold water can damage your hair.
As a general rule, you should also try to avoid getting a keratin treatment more than three times a year. This is because repeated keratin treatments can cause your hair to become damaged or brittle.
