Keratin treatment is a common hair straightening and smoothing solution that involves the use of keratin protein to repair and protect the hair’s structure.

While the treatment isn’t new, it’s still gaining popularity and receiving significant attention for its benefits. If you’re considering this treatment, here’s everything you need to know.

How Does It Work?

Keratin treatment works by applying keratin protein to the hair cuticle, which smooths down and seals damaged hair. The protein treatment also coats the hair shaft to provide a protective layer.

This form of treatment can last up to six months, depending on the kind of treatment you receive.

Benefits of Keratin Treatment

There are several benefits of keratin treatment; let’s take a look at some:.

Smoother, shinier hair: The keratin in the treatment helps smooth the cuticles, providing a glossy shine to the hair.
Reduce Frizz:The treatment also prevents the formation of frizz in the hair.
Easier to manage: Keratin treatment makes your hair more manageable and easy to style.
Less time needed to style: After receiving the treatment, you’ll find that it’ll take less time to style and maintain your hair.

Types of Keratin Treatment

There are two types of keratin treatment:.

Formaldehyde-based treatments: This type of treatment is more traditional and uses a chemical called formaldehyde, which is responsible for the smooth results it produces.
Formaldehyde-free treatments:This treatment is a safer option that uses chemicals that work as formaldehyde-releasers without fully releasing formaldehyde in the air clients breathe during the process.

Things to Consider Before Receiving Keratin Treatment.

If you’re considering keratin treatment, there are some things you should consider:.

Price: Keratin treatment can be expensive, especially when you consider how long the process takes. Expect to spend $250 or more, depending on the salon’s reputation and your hair’s length and texture.
Duration of Treatment: Keratin treatment can take a while to complete; expect to spend around two hours, depending on the length of your hair.
Risk of Formaldehyde:If you choose a traditional formaldehyde-based treatment, be prepared for potential side effects like headaches, watery eyes, and breathing issues due to the release of formaldehyde.
Cleaning Hair: You can’t wash your hair, swim or exercise immediately after receiving the treatment. The solution needs time to settle into your hair, so try to avoid washing your hair for the first three days after the treatment.

Maintenance Tips for Keratin Treated Hair

Here are some tips to help maintain your hair following keratin treatment:.

Use a mild, sulfate-free shampoo: Sulfates dry out your hair, requiring you to wash your hair frequently. Use a mild, sulfate-free shampoo that will protect and moisturize your hair after treatment.
Avoid Swimming or Exercising: Swimming and sweat can cause your hair to frizz and lose its smoothness. Try avoiding these activities for the first few days after treatment.
Use Heat Protectant: Whenever you use heat styling tools, use a heat protectant spray that will protect your hair from damage.
Avoid Coloring Your Hair: If You need to color your hair, do so before the treatment. Coloring your hair after the treatment can undo the treatment’s effects.

Conclusion

Keratin treatment is a popular solution to hair frizziness and unmanageable hair.

However, before choosing keratin treatment, it is vital to consider some factors such as price, formaldehyde content, and maintenance, which we have covered in this article. Armed with the above knowledge, you can make an informed decision about whether to choose keratin treatment or not.