Many women believe that the secret to silky, lustrous hair is found at the end of a keratin therapy treatment. The de-frizzing procedure is more popular than ever, but can you afford to get it done? What exactly does it do, and how long will it be in operation? Keratin treatments are shrouded in mystery, so the Cut put together a useful guide to help you understand what you’re getting yourself into.
What Is a Keratin Treatment?
A keratin treatment smooths and polishes unruly hair. “Some fully straighten the hair, while others relax and soften the curl structure,” says celebrity hairstylist Harry Josh. Chase Kusero, co-founder of IGK, suggests thinking of it as a “topcoat” for your hair. “Hair becomes frizzy when the cuticle, the outermost layer of the hair, lifts from its natural position.” This allows moisture and other environmental variables to infiltrate the hair shaft, swelling and frizzing it. Keratin treatments smooth and seal the cuticle, preventing frizz and breakage.
The effects can continue anywhere from a few weeks to as long as six months. This allows moisture and other environmental variables to infiltrate the hair shaft, swelling and frizzing it. Keratin treatments smooth and seal the cuticle, preventing frizz and breakage. Your hair will appear healthier because it is, in fact, healthier.
Steps in Keratin Treatment?
Ansen Gurgov, a SoHo hair stylist, says keratin treatment length varies on formula, hair structure, and amount of hair. Expect your salon visit to take anywhere from two to four hours to complete. On arrival, your hairstylist will wash your hair to begin the process.
Depending on your hairstylist and the needs of your hair, they will either apply the keratin treatment to your wet hair and let the formula saturate each strand for half an hour or blow-dry your hair first and then apply the treatment. The treatment is set off by heat. Then, Gurgov says, “I use a flat iron on low or medium heat to smooth out any rough strands, depending on where the treatment needs to be sealed in.” And that’s it!
Best Keratin Treatment Near Me
Hair Stylists, Blow Dry/Out Services, Hair Extensions
55 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA
- Code Saloon
Hair Salons, Waxing, Skin Care
370 4th St, San Francisco, CA
- Dax and Lindsay’s Therma
Hair Stylists
1045 Bush St, San Francisco, CA
- Marlon Ramos Brazilian Bl
Hair Stylists, Blow Dry/Out Services
555 Sutter St, San Francisco, CA
- B Parlor
Hair Salons, Hair Removal
782 Haight St, San Francisco, CA
- Studio Estrada
Hair Salons
142 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA
How Long Does It Take for Keratin Treatments to Be Completed?
Depending on your stylist and treatment, your keratin application could take two to four hours. Paige began my Cezanne treatment by shampooing and conditioning my hair (which meant we needed to get rid of the layer of dry shampoo that had accumulated in my roots). After that, Paige proceeded with the Cezanne treatment as scheduled.
The moment the timer went off, Paige quickly rinsed my hair, leaving the vast majority of the treatment still clinging to my strands. What’s next? Heat causes the keratin to become active. Paige began by blow-drying my hair to seal in the treatment, and then methodically flat-ironed every single strand of hair on my head using a flat iron. When it comes to flat-ironing, the number of times your stylist flat-irons each section depends on your desired results. Paige decided to hit mine with a heavier hand (read: six to seven passes, rather than the usual five) because I wanted super-smooth results.
When she was done straightening my hair, I could leave the apartment. My hair was too straight and seemed to be stuck to my face. She assured me I’d only have to deal with it for 24 hours (no tying it back or pushing it behind my ears), after which I could wash and style my hair.
Are Keratin Treatments Beneficial to the Health of Your Hair?
Your hair’s health depends on your hairdresser’s formula. If your hairdresser uses a real keratin treatment, you shouldn’t expect long-term harm or unpleasant effects.
According to Meri, “Keratin treatments can be harmful to the hair if the hair is over-heated with a blow-dryer or flat iron throughout the procedure, therefore it’s crucial to consult an expert stylist who is cautious.” Kate O’Connor, a hairstylist and colorist at Eva Scrivo in New York City, says that those who have color-treated hair should definitely start with a consultation before getting their hair colored.
Despite the fact that “every hair reacts differently,” she explains that “smoothing treatments can sometimes lighten color-treated hair, leaving it a bit brassy.” But, as I mentioned, it’s truly on a case-by-case basis, so your stylist should be able to take a look at your hair and come up with a game plan. Basically, practically everybody can benefit from a keratin treatment, but it’s always best to speak with a professional first to make sure.
What Is the Duration of Keratin Treatments?
The way you take care of your keratin treatment has a direct impact on how long your results will remain, although on general, the effects should persist for four to six months on average. “The best part about getting a keratin treatment is that it washes out of your hair, so you don’t have to worry about having to grow it out,” Paige adds. “This means you won’t have to be concerned about your roots becoming frizzy, and you can instead concentrate on keeping your treatment in good condition.”
By the way, maintaining your keratin is quite simple. Remember to pick up a sulfate-free shampoo when you leave the salon, as harsh elements will strip your treatment every time you shampoo your hair (same goes for your styling products). Saltwater and chlorine are also bad for keratin treatments, but if you truly can’t avoid them, Paige recommends rinsing your hair with cold water right after you get out of the pool. When it comes to keratin treatments, “the better you take care of it, the longer it will last,” she says, adding that some clients have reported seeing effects for as long as seven months with proper maintenance.
What Makes Keratin Treatment Different From a Chemical Relaxer?
Absolutely. Unlike keratin treatments, which are temporary and wash out after a few months, chemical relaxers that straighten the hair are permanent. In addition, the two therapies make use of different chemicals that yield contrasting results. With a major ingredient such as sodium hydroxide, lithium chloride, potassium chloride, or guanidine hydroxide, chemical relaxers disrupt and reorganize the links in curly hair, resulting in the hair being weaker and more straight in texture and appearance.
However, rather than changing the chemical composition of your hair, keratin treatments actually infuse protein into the porous sections of your hair, causing it to feel smoother and more manageable. This is easily removed after a few months. When exposed to heat, some treatments may contain a solution that releases formaldehyde into the air (there are also many new formaldehyde-free options). It also differs from a Japanese straightening procedure in that it is more aggressive.
Is It Possible to Carry Out Keratin Treatment at Home?
Although technically possible, don’t anticipate salon-quality results. You’ll need to start by purchasing the appropriate goods – do not purchase professional-grade products for home usage because they require an expert operator to apply correctly. Despite the fact that many therapies contain the word “keratin,” this does not inherently imply that they are “keratin treatments.” Because “keratin proteins” are found in every strand of hair, goods with the word “keratin” in the name are not uncommon.
Furthermore, examine the product’s component list to ensure that you get the greatest experience possible at home. Lots of smoothing treatments are essentially high-intensity silicone and conditioning therapies. After that, pay attention to the directions. If so, do they provide detailed instructions on how to properly wash, dry, and straighten your hair? If this is the case, you are most likely using a normal conditioning product rather than a keratin treatment. Even if you get a keratin treatment from a reputable retailer, your results will not last as long as those obtained from a salon. A salon treatment can last several months, whereas at-home treatments tend to wash away after a few weeks.
When It Comes to Keratin Treatments, How Do Natural Curls Differ?
Most hair types benefit from keratin treatments, and Taylor concurs with Fitzsimmons. It’s especially good for curly hair because it eliminates frizz and adds radiance. When it comes to keratin treatments, “you’ll notice more shine once your hair is straightened,” she explains.
Additionally, it will keep your hair looking its best after it’s been dyed or permed. She advises consulting with your hairdresser and colorist before your keratin treatment to ensure that your hair is in peak condition. To keep the color vibrant and long-lasting, the treatment seals the color in.
Conclusions
Now you have learnt all about Keratin treatment, you should also Keep in mind that the length of time it takes for your keratin application to take effect will vary depending on your stylist and treatment, but you should plan on spending two to four hours at your session
FAQs on Keratin Treatment
How much does keratin add to the thickness of your hair?
Keratin covers the hair shafts to repair and strengthen hair. Hair is less likely to break because of this, which results in reduced hairfall. Hairfall has decreased and the hair seems stronger, giving the appearance that it has thickened; however, this may not be the case.
How Frequently Should I Have Keratin Hair Treatment?
It’s best to let your hair rest for a while. This is because the treatment uses chemicals, and repeated use might have the unintended consequence of making hair more brittle and prone to breakage rather than strengthening it. It would be ideal if there was a three-to-four-month break between the second and final cycle.
Is Keratin Hair Treatment Safe for All Hair Types?
No need for the treatment if your hair is already silky and silky-smooth. Pregnant women should avoid keratin hair treatments, such as Brazilian Blowout, because of the chemicals (formaldehyde) utilized.
References
- https://www.thecut.com/2021/10/everything-to-know-about-keratin-treatments.html
- https://www.yelp.com/nearme/keratin-treatment
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a29088613/keratin-hair-treatment-guide/
- https://www.harpersbazaar.com/beauty/hair/advice/a1266/how-keratin-damages-hair/
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