For having silky, frizz-free, and easily manageable hair, keratin treatments have become the popular solution for many. Whether you're fighting humidity, heat damage, or naturally curly locks, a keratin treatment might just be your hair's best buddy. But what is a keratin treatment, you ask? How does it work? And most importantly, is it suitable for you?
In this in-depth guide, we'll demystify everything you need to know about hair keratin treatments—how they work, their long-term benefits, and maintenance.
What is keratin?
Keratin is a protein that naturally occurs in your hair, skin, and nails. Within your hair, it creates the outer casing of each strand, making it strong and shiny. Gradually, exposure to environmental aggressors such as sun, pollution, chemicals, and heat styling can strip away the keratin from your hair, causing dryness, frizz, and damage.
Keratin treatments are formulated to replace this lost protein, restoring the natural smoothness and health of the hair.
What is a keratin hair treatment?
A keratin treatment is a chemical smoothing process that fills the hair shaft with keratin and seals it in with heat—usually a flat iron. The outcome? Silky, shiny, and more manageable hair that resists humidity and cuts styling time by half.
Keratin treatments are not permanent hair straightening but semi-permanent smoothing treatments that gradually fade away over time.
Advantages of Keratin Hair Treatment
✅ 1. Control over Frizz
Humidity and frizz walk hand-in-hand. Keratin fills in the cuticle of the hair, closing it up and making it less porous and less prone to moisture.
✅ 2. Easy Styling
Keratin-treated hair dries quicker and is less prone to heat styling, conserving time and minimizing future damage.
✅ 3. Gives Shine and Smoothness
The protein restructures broken sites, leaving a shiny, sleek finish.
✅ 4. Long-Lasting Results
The results can last 2–6 months based on the product used and how well you take care of your hair.
✅ 5. Protects from Damage
Sealing the hair shaft cuts back on split ends and breaking.
How the Treatment Works: Step-by-Step
A professional keratin treatment generally involves the following steps:
Step 1: Clarifying Shampoo
Your hair is cleansed with a clarifying shampoo to cleanse the hair of residue and open the hair cuticles.
Step 2: Application of Keratin Solution
The keratin solution is applied to your wet or dry hair, depending on the product.
Step 3: Blow-Dry
Your hair is blow-dried to get your hair ready for heat sealing.
Step 4: Flat Ironing
The stylist seals the keratin into the hair strands with a flat iron at a high heat (around 450°F).
Step 5: Waiting Time
Depending on the treatment, you might need to skip washing or styling your hair for 24–72 hours.
Post-Treatment Hair Care Tips
1. Sulfate-Free Shampoo
Skip shampoos containing sulfates and sodium chloride, as they can remove the treatment.
2. Reduce Hair Washing
The less you wash, the longer the results will last. Try 2–3 washes a week.
3. Avoid Heat
Always preheat a heat protectant prior to using hot tools.
4. Do Not Use Salt Water and Chlorine
Pool and ocean swimming may damage the keratin layer.
5. Regular Trims
Remove split ends to keep your hair healthy-looking.
Is It Safe for All Hair Types?
Keratin hair treatments are usually safe for most hair types—curly, wavy, damaged, or color-treated. But for those with very damaged or chemically processed hair, it is best to consult a stylist to prevent over-processing.
In case of sensitive skin or allergies, verify if the treatment is formaldehyde-free, as original formulas can have this chemical, which can be irritating or toxic at high levels.
What Does a Keratin Treatment Cost?
The price is dependent on
· Hair thickness and length
· Salon location
· Style of keratin treatment applied
Price Range:
· Short hair: $150–$200
· Medium to long hair: $200–$350
· Very thick/long hair: $350+
While it's an investment, most consider it worth it for the health and convenience it provides.
Final Thoughts: Is Keratin Right for You?
If you desire smoother, shinier, easier-to-manage hair without the permanence of straightening, keratin treatment is a great choice. It is best suited for individuals who struggle with frizz, dryness, or unruly curls and wish to reduce styling time by half.
Nevertheless, it's important to:
· Have it professionally done by a certified technician
· Select the right product (formaldehyde-free if possible)
· Maintain a good aftercare regimen
With proper care, keratin treatments can transform your hair for months—making your hair routine smoother than ever.
Ready to Try a Keratin Treatment?
Whether you’re prepping for summer frizz or simply want to revamp your hair routine, keratin smoothing treatments offer a luxurious and practical solution. For residents of Perth, there’s no shortage of trusted salons that deliver salon-quality results.
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