
What is a keratin treatment and how does it work?
Keratin treatments make hair more manageable, especially if your hair is particularly frizzy or thick. If you constantly heat style your hair, you’ll notice that with a keratin treatment your hair dries more quickly. Some people estimate that keratin cuts their drying time by more than half.
What are the pros and cons of a keratin treatment?
Keratin treatments reduce volume and soften waves and curls but don't completely straighten hair. These smoothing treatments work well on many types of hair, including curly hair, fine hair, coarse hair, African American hair types and color-treated or previously chemically-treated hair.
What should you not do after a keratin treatment?
Salt and sulfate are two venomous things that you need to steer clear of if you have just gotten a keratin treatment. Some swimming pools have salty water and this salt can be really detrimental to your hair. Some hair products, especially shampoos, contain sulphate which is atrocious for your newly treated hair.
How long do the results of a keratin treatment last?
The results of a keratin treatment can last quite a while if the hair is cared for properly, for example by using sulfate and paraben-free shampoos and conditioners and washing hair no more than 2-3 times a week. Reduced drying time. Drying time may be cut by almost half or more after a keratin treatment.

Are sulfates bad for keratin treated hair?
What do sulfates do to colored hair? SLS and SLES can be particularly aggressive on color-treated and keratin-treated hair. That's because, during hair coloring or a professional keratin treatment, your hair can become thinner and more brittle. This makes it become more prone to hair frizz and split ends.
Is sulfate-free good for keratin?
A moisturizing shampoo that's sulfate-free is the best shampoo for keratin-treated hair, Carolyn Aronson, a professional hairstylist and CEO/founder of It's A 10 Haircare, tells Elite Daily. “I would recommend avoiding harsh stripping shampoos and [sticking] to those with low to no sulfates,” she says.
Do I need to use sulfate-free shampoo after keratin treatment?
For lasting results, post-treatment shampoo should be free of sulfates (sudsing agents that can strip hair) or sodium (a thickener that dissolves keratin).
Is sodium laureth sulfate safe for keratin treated hair?
Sodium lauryl sulphate and keratin treatment do not mix well together. Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) is a mild detergent that is used in many shampoo products in order to lather the hair. This ingredient is responsible for stripping out colour from hair and washes out keratin from treated hair.
Does sulfate wash out keratin?
Although there is no scientific proof that sulfate cleansers can negatively affect keratin-straightened hair, most hair professionals recommend using only sulfate-free shampoos after receiving keratin treatment. Generally, sulfate-based shampoos are not recommended for chemically treated hair.
Which shampoo is best after keratin?
Best keratin shampoos:Atulya Keratin & Wheat Protein Shampoo. ... Beauty Garage Keratin Sulphate-Free Shampoo. ... TREsemme Keratin Smooth Shampoo. ... Argatin Keratin Repair Lasting Shampoo. ... Schwarzkopf Professional Smooth Shampoo. ... OGX Ever Straightening Brazilian Keratin Smooth Shampoo. ... Global Keratin Moisturising Shampoo.More items...•
Is it OK to use normal shampoo after keratin treatment?
Wash it at the Right Time But you still can't wash your hair yet. Wait till 72 hrs get completed after getting the treatment otherwise all the time invested in the process will go vain. As keratin treatment is semi-permanent, you will ruin your hair by washing it right after the procedure.
Do I really need to wait 3 days to wash hair after keratin?
Most keratin treatments require that you wait three days before shampooing your hair and come with a laundry list of rules—no tucking your hair behind your ear, no pins, no braids, and especially no ponytails.
Can I oil my hair after keratin treatment?
Did you know? Professional hairstylists use argan oil to mix with keratin treatments so that your hair can withstand damage from the chemical process and high heat during the treatment. Yes, argan oil has incredible benefits when it comes to healing damaged hair.
Can keratin damage your hair?
Keratin treatments shouldn't be done more than three times a year, as over time they can start to damage hair. Summer, when frizz is more pronounced because of humidity, is generally when people want to get them done.
What ingredients are not safe for keratin treated hair?
Parabens. Parabens, commonly used as preservatives in beauty and hair care products, are another ingredient that must be avoided when your hair has been treated with keratin. Parabens are also associated with breast cancer tumors and other health issues and must be avoided.
Is Keratin Complex shampoo sulphate free?
This color-safe, keratin-enhanced shampoo gently cleanses the hair while minimizing frizz and flyaways. Leaves the hair healthier-looking, smooth and shiny. Free of sodium chloride and sulfates to protect color-treated and keratin-treated hair. Gently cleanses without stripping color or causing dryness.
WHAT IS KERATIN?
First thing’s first—what, exactly, is keratin? If you’ve ever been curious about what hair is made of, keratin is likely a term that’s popped up. Keratin is the main protein in your skin, and it makes up your hair, nails, and the surface layer of the skin, per the Cleveland Clinic.
WHAT IS A KERATIN TREATMENT?
So, what exactly does a keratin treatment do? While there are different variations of keratin treatment formulas, the basic premise is this: A professional hairstylist will use a combination of chemicals and heat to straighten and rearrange your hair’s natural bonds, usually using glutaraldehyde or formaldehyde, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).
WHICH HAIR TYPES CAN BENEFIT FROM A KERATIN SMOOTHING TREATMENT?
The keratin treatment process is meant to relax hair, so it generally works best on wavy hair. However, keratin treatments will not work on hair that is tightly kinked because, as the AAD explains, the natural hair bonds are too tight to rearrange.
ARE KERATIN TREATMENTS GOOD FOR YOUR HAIR?
Keratin treatments aren’t necessarily good for your hair, but they aren’t bad either. When done properly, your hair won’t be damaged. That being said, as the NCBI states, because keratin hair straightening affects the chemical structure of the hair fiber, it’s crucial to understand the process and how it can affect your strand’s specific makeup.
HOW MUCH DO KERATIN TREATMENTS COST?
As with any salon service, the cost varies based on your location and the amount of experience your stylist has. That being said, you can generally expect a keratin smoothing treatment to cost between $200 and $500.
CAN YOU DO A KERATIN TREATMENT AT HOME?
While there are at-home keratin treatment kits on the market, and you may save yourself some money, we strongly advise against attempting to chemically straighten your strands at home. Since keratin hair straightening involves restructuring your hair’s natural bonds, your best bet is to go to a professional.
HOW LONG DOES A KERATIN TREATMENT LAST?
The amount of time your keratin treatment lasts depends on how well you care for it (more on that later). Typically, you can expect this type of hair treatment to last for up to six months.
What to know before getting keratin treatment?
6 Things You Need to Know Before Getting a Keratin Treatment. Some words of wisdom and warning. Summer may be winding down, but the humidity doesn't seem to be. This means a lot of us are likely considering getting keratin treatments—for good reason. For many, they're a dream come true (smoother, frizz-free hair and no fighting your strands in ...
Why is keratin confusing?
The reason for the confusion, in part, is the fact that the term "keratin treatment" actually encompasses a range of formulas, application processes, and results.
How hot should a flat iron be for hair?
While the high heat (450 degrees ) of the flatiron used to set the treatment is not the easiest on your hair, it’s still probably better than heat styling yourself day in and day out, says Olson. "Using a flatiron every day is the worse thing you can do," he says. If having a treatment allows you to set aside your iron, the single dose of high heat may be well worth it. "Plus a good technician should be able to actually vary the temperature based on your hair," says Labrecque. "For a client with bleached hair, for example, I’d reduce the heat."
Is keratin a misnomer?
Keratin isn't really the star of the show. "Keratin treatment" is something of a misnomer. The ingredients that actually matter in permanently breaking the hair's bonds—ammonium thioglycolate and sodium hydroxide—are just harder to pronounce. Others, such as methylene glycol, formalin, methanal, and methanediol, ...
Can you use salt for keratin treatment?
salt) should also be on your watch list, says Labrecque. And yes, unfortunately , that means dips in ...
Who is Paul Labrecque?
Paul Labrecque, a stylist in New York City, says that an even better option is to seek out someone who uses a product like the Fume Iron. "This iron evenly distributes the heat while vacuuming away all the fumes from myself and the client," says Labrecque.
How does keratin work?
Keratin treatments work by: smoothing down your hair. filling in gaps in the proteins of each hair strand. helping hair look thicker and smooth.
What does formaldehyde smell like?
Formaldehyde is a strong-smelling, colorless gas. You may have smelled it if you have ever been near embalming fluid that is used in laboratories and funeral homes. Much smaller amounts are used in products.
Does keratin help curly hair?
Keratin hair treatments may sound like a quick fix for curly or wavy hair, but it may cost you more in the long term. Tests show that keratin treatments contain unsafe levels of formaldehyde and other chemicals. Formaldehyde is a known cancer-causing chemical. It can also cause skin reactions and other side effects.
Does keratin make hair straight?
Advertising for keratin treatment hair products claims that it will make naturally curly or wavy hair straighter and smoother. The products are also said to remove hair frizz, improve color and shine, and make hair look healthier. This treatment can also come with some unwanted side effects, and could present some safety issues.
Can you straighten hair while pregnant?
Ask for other safer or natural alternatives to straighten hair. It is especially important to avoid formaldehyde and other harmful chemicals if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Avoid bringing children to beauty salons where they may be exposed to chemicals in the air.
Is keratin good for hair?
Potential side effects. Keratin is a natural type of protein in your skin, hair, and nails. This protein forms fibers that make it strong. Keratin used in beauty treatments is usually from these animal parts. While it is a natural protein, these products are made with several other added ingredients.
Can keratin cause skin reactions?
It can also cause skin reactions and other side effects. Hair and beauty professionals are exposed to formaldehyde and other chemicals regularly. This may also lead to health effects. Ask your hairdresser what kind of keratin treatment they use before you book your hair appointment. Check the labels carefully.
How long does it take for hair to stay water free?
Make Your Hair Stay Water-Free For 72 Hours. Water-proofing your hair is an absolute necessity; this is what you need to get into your consideration no matter what. The moment you get keratin treatment done; the next 72 hours can be really crucial — you have to go the extra mile to take care of your newly treated hair.
Can you use cheap shampoo to treat keratin?
Never Risk Your Keratin-Treated Hair for The Sake of Cheap Shampoos and Conditioners. When you purchase any shampoo or conditioner, do not be a miser. Spend well and save your hair from any potential damage. Cheap shampoos and conditioners cannot help the keratin treated hair last longer or look glossier.
Can you use a hair mask after keratin treatment?
If you crave for a bath right after a keratin treatment like everyone does, wear a hair mask. And, whenever you see a sign of danger, bring this keratin-friendly hair mask into use. It will help you get through on several occasions and not once. For instance, If you wish to jump into a swimming pool, this mask can save your keratin treated hair ...
Does keratin treatment need to be aftercare?
Keratin hair treatment needs constant aftercare, and if you are too lazy to care for your keratin treated hair on a constant note, do not opt for it or ask your hair straightening salon for advice.
Do you wash your hair too often?
Do Not Wash Your Hair Too Often. The more you wash, the earlier your straightening is going to fade. Do not obsess over washing and shampooing your hair too often. Neither it promises to keep your hair fresh and good, nor it does any magic to your keratin treated hair.
Can you use dry shampoo on hair?
Dry shampoos can do wonders; if you really obsess over keeping your hair clean and washed, do keep them with you. This way, you will not have to be watchful of water , you will not have to worry about getting your keratin-treated hair devastated, and at the same time, your hair will be shampooed and scrubbed .
Does deep conditioning work for keratin treated hair?
Obviously, you would never be suggested to go overboard with it, because excessiveness works as a bane in most cases. Do not forget that deep conditioning works like a dose of fresh air to your keratin treated hair; it helps them breath, it helps them nourish and glow.
How to get rid of keratin on hair?
Apply shampoo. Apply a dime-size amount of shampoo and concentrate the shampoo on your roots. Shampoos are not meant to clean the hair; they are meant to clean the scalp. So even though the shampoo is sulfate-free and won’t damage the keratin coating, you should focus only on the scalp.
How to shower after keratin treatment?
How to Shower After Your Keratin Treatment. 1. Have a microfiber towel handy. Before you wet your hair, make sure you have a microfiber towel handy. 2. Make sure your water is not hot. Once you are in the shower, run some water just above the normal body temperature of 38°C.
How long does it take to get your hair wet?
Most hairstylists recommend at least 3 days (72 hrs) before you can get your hair wet. But this rule depends on the product. For example, there are same-day wash keratin treatments that have no downtime. But then there are other products like the GK Keratin that offer a more generous 48-hrs wait time.
How long does keratin smell?
It’s normal. The keratin coating will smell for a few days until it completely absorbs into the hair. You can expect the smell to be slightly stronger after your hair has been washed. Just allow yourself plenty of ventilated space to dissipate the smell.
How long after keratin treatment can you wet your hair?
From my experience, I know it’s not a big deal. You can wet your hair after a keratin treatment in the first 3 days. As long as it’s pure water and you’re not rubbing it with a cotton towel, you’ll be fine. But having said that, don’t do it deliberately.
Can you use dry shampoo on hair without water?
Because you are effectively cleansing your hair without water. Also, since you only apply dry shampoo to the roots, it should not interfere with the keratin coating on the hair shafts. But make sure you apply the dry shampoo close to the roots only. Here’s the best dry shampoo for keratin treated hair.
Can you buy keratin shampoo at home?
If you’re doing it in a hair salon, your hairstylist will most likely sell you the keratin care products, but if you’re doing your keratin treatment at home …. PLAN your aftercare products in advance! Yes. Go and buy your sulfate free and sodium chloride free keratin shampoo beforehand.
What is keratin?
Keratin is a protein that is naturally produced in the body, and both your hair and nails are made up of keratin. In your hair, keratin is a protective protein that protects hair cells and prevents breakage and heat damage.
What are the benefits of keratin treatments?
Smooth, shiny hair. Keratin smooths the hair strands, making hair straight, shiny, more manageable, and less frizzy. The treatment can also reduce split ends by temporarily sealing the hair strand back together.
What are the risks of keratin treatments?
Formaldehyde. Formaldehyde can be dangerous if inhaled, irritating the eyes and nose. Formaldehyde is classified as a carcinogen by the FDA, meaning it can cause cancer in some people. Some brands hide the fact that they contain formaldehyde even if they do.
How long do keratin treatments last?
A salon keratin treatment can take a couple of hours depending on the thickness and length of the hair, and results can last up to 6 months or longer depending on the products used and post-treatment hair care.
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