Keratin Hair Treatment: Benefits, Process, Cost, Side Effects and Aftercare

Hair treatment with keratin is a hair-smoothing process performed in salons in order to give hair a smooth appearance and to make hair less frizzy and easier to comb. This method is very popular for those whose hair is hard to comb due to frizziness and roughness.

During the process, the hair is treated with a smoothing substance which is exposed to heat using a blow dryer and straightener. According to the formula and the technique of the process, the effect can be temporary or permanent.

Nevertheless, despite their popularity, keratin treatments are not free from risks. There are some hair-smoothing products containing formaldehyde which is released during the heating process.

Understanding Keratin Hair Treatment

Keratin is one type of protein present in hair naturally. Keratin hair treatment is one type of smoothing treatment in which a chemical formula is used along with heat in order to minimize the frizziness and increase the smoothness of hair.

Contrary to its name, this treatment does not add keratin to damaged hair and repair them. This smoothing is based on the components used in the particular formula of the treatment.

Various salons have their own formulas and may use other names like keratin treatment, keratin smoothing, Brazilian blowout, or hair smoothing treatment.

Benefits of Keratin Hair Treatment

Helps Reduce Frizz

One of the main reasons people choose a keratin treatment is to manage frizz. The smoothing process can make the hair surface appear more uniform, which may reduce the appearance of frizz and flyaways. This can make the hair look more polished, particularly in humid conditions.

Makes Hair Easier to Manage

After a smoothing treatment, some people find that their hair takes less time to style. Hair may become easier to brush, blow-dry and arrange. This can be particularly useful for people with thick, wavy or frizz-prone hair.

The treatment does not permanently change the natural structure of the hair, and results gradually change as the treatment wears off and new hair grows.

Creates a Smoother Appearance

Keratin treatments can make hair appear smoother and more polished. The surface of the hair may look more uniform, which can improve its overall appearance. However, this cosmetic effect should not be confused with permanent repair of internal hair damage.

Hair that has already been damaged by excessive heat, bleaching or chemical processing may still require a careful hair-care routine.

Can Make Hair Look Shinier

Smoother hair surfaces can reflect light more evenly, which may make the hair appear shinier after treatment.

The amount of visible shine depends on the condition of the hair before treatment and the products used during and after the service.

May Reduce Styling Time

People with naturally curly, wavy or frizz-prone hair may spend considerable time blow-drying and straightening their hair.

A smoothing treatment can make daily styling easier and may reduce the amount of time needed to achieve a smoother appearance.

Who Can Consider Keratin Hair Treatment?

Keratin smoothing treatments may be considered by people who want to manage:

Frizzy hair

Coarse or difficult-to-manage hair

Wavy hair that is difficult to style

Hair that becomes very frizzy in humid weather

Hair that requires frequent straightening

However, suitability depends on the condition of the hair. If the hair is severely bleached, brittle or breaking, applying another chemical treatment may not be the best option. A professional stylist should assess the condition of the hair before proceeding.

Keratin Treatment for Different Hair Types

Keratin Treatment for Curly Hair

People with curly hair may choose a keratin treatment to reduce frizz and make curls easier to manage.

The final result depends on the formula. Some treatments mainly reduce frizz and preserve some natural texture, while others can create a considerably straighter appearance.

Therefore, tell your stylist whether you want smoother curls, reduced volume or a straighter finish before the treatment begins.

Keratin Treatment for Wavy Hair

Wavy hair may become smoother and easier to style after treatment. The procedure can reduce unwanted frizz while making the waves appear more controlled.

The exact result depends on the original hair texture and the treatment formula.

Keratin Treatment for Straight Hair

People with naturally straight hair may also use smoothing treatments to reduce frizz, improve manageability and create a smoother-looking finish.

However, if your hair is already straight and relatively healthy, you may not need an intensive chemical smoothing treatment.

How Keratin Hair Treatment Works

The exact process varies between products and salons, but a professional treatment generally involves several steps.

Step 1: Hair Assessment

The stylist first examines the hair and discusses the desired result.

This is an important step if the hair has previously been bleached, coloured, relaxed or chemically treated.

Step 2: Hair Cleansing

The hair is washed using a cleanser appropriate for the treatment. This helps prepare the hair before the smoothing solution is applied.

Step 3: Application of the Smoothing Formula

The treatment product is applied section by section.

The stylist should follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the amount of product, application method and processing time.

Step 4: Blow-Drying

The hair is generally dried before the next heat-processing stage.

Step 5: Flat-Ironing

Flat irons are often used to heat up the hair and to seal or set the product, following instructions given by the manufacturer.

This is the point where some hair products may emit formaldehyde or other compounds into the atmosphere.

According to the FDA, certain hair straightening products, once heated up, emit formaldehyde in gaseous form.

Step 6: Finishing and Aftercare

Depending on the product, the stylist may finish the hair immediately or provide specific instructions about washing and styling after the service.

Always follow the instructions for the specific treatment rather than assuming every keratin treatment has the same aftercare requirements.

Keratin Treatment Duration and Results

The duration of results varies.

It depends on factors such as:

Hair texture

Treatment formula

Washing frequency

Hair-care products

Exposure to moisture and humidity

Chemical treatments performed afterward

Individual hair characteristics

Some salon treatments are marketed as lasting for several months, but results gradually reduce as the treatment wears off.

It is better to ask the salon about the expected duration of the specific product being used rather than assuming that every keratin treatment lasts for the same amount of time.

Keratin Hair Treatment Aftercare

Aftercare can help maintain the cosmetic results and reduce unnecessary stress on the hair.

Use Suitable Hair-Care Products

Ask your stylist which shampoo and conditioner are appropriate for the specific treatment.

Some treatments come with product-specific aftercare instructions, so following those instructions is preferable to choosing products based only on general internet advice.

Avoid Excessive Heat

Even after a smoothing treatment, excessive heat can damage the hair.

Try to avoid unnecessary high-temperature styling and use appropriate heat protection when heat styling is required.

Condition the Hair Regularly

Conditioners can help improve manageability and reduce the rough feeling associated with dry hair.

Choose products according to your hair type rather than assuming that the most expensive product is automatically the best.

Be Careful With Additional Chemical Treatments

Repeated bleaching, colouring, relaxing or chemical straightening can place additional stress on the hair. If you regularly use more than one chemical treatment, discuss the timing with your stylist.

Keratin Hair Treatment Side Effects

The possible side effects depend largely on the product and the chemicals used.

Some people may experience:

Scalp or skin irritation

Eye irritation

Strong chemical fumes

Headaches

Coughing or throat irritation

Hair dryness or breakage

Allergic skin reactions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a keratin hair treatment?

A keratin hair treatment is a salon-based smoothing procedure designed to reduce frizz and make hair smoother and easier to manage. It generally involves applying a chemical solution followed by heat processing.

What are the main benefits of keratin treatment?

The main cosmetic benefits include reduced frizz, smoother-looking hair, improved manageability and potentially shorter styling time.

How long does a keratin treatment last?

Results vary depending on the treatment formula, hair type, washing habits and aftercare. Many salon treatments are marketed as lasting for several months, but the effect gradually decreases over time.

Does keratin treatment permanently straighten hair?

Not necessarily. The result depends on the product and technique. Some treatments mainly reduce frizz and enhance smoothness, while others can make the hair appear significantly straighter.

Can keratin treatment damage hair?

Chemical processing and high heat can contribute to dryness or breakage, especially when hair is already damaged. A professional should assess the condition of your hair before treatment.

Is keratin treatment good for curly hair?

It can reduce frizz and make curly hair easier to manage, but the final result depends on the formula and application technique. Some treatments preserve more natural curl than others.

Can I colour my hair after a keratin treatment?

The timing depends on the treatment formula and the colour service. Ask your stylist when colouring is appropriate to avoid unnecessary chemical stress on the hair.

Final Thoughts

Hair straightening with keratin can be an effective choice for someone looking for smooth, tangle-free hair that is easier to manage. This can help one save time and give one a professional look, yet how long and successful the treatment will be depends on the product, the hair, and further care.

However, it would be wrong to think of keratin hair treatments as absolutely safe. Some hair smootheners contain formaldehyde that is released when heated and causes irritation of eyes, skin, and breathing passages. It is important to check ingredients and ask specialists about hair smoothening product before its application.

Sources and References

• U.S. FDA – Formaldehyde in Hair Smoothing Products: What You Should Know
• U.S. FDA – Hair Smoothing Products That Release Formaldehyde When Heated
• U.S. FDA – What Consumers Should Know About Hair-Smoothing Products and Formaldehyde
• OSHA – Hair Smoothing Products That Could Release Formaldehyde
• OSHA – Formaldehyde in Hair Salon Products
• OSHA – Protecting Worker Health in Hair Salons