What is Keratin Hair Treatment? A Comprehensive Guide

What is Keratin Hair Treatment? A Comprehensive Guide

Summer is here, and that beachy, saltwater hair is calling. However, constant exposure to the sun, salt, and chemicals in pool water can damage your hair, leaving it dry, brittle, and unmanageable. If you’re looking for a solution to this problem, you might consider keratin hair treatment.

In this comprehensive guide, we will take a closer look at what keratin hair treatment is, how it works, its benefits and risks, and some tips for maintenance after the treatment.

1. What is Keratin Hair Treatment?

Keratin hair treatment is a chemical process that uses keratin, a structural protein found in hair, skin, and nails, to smooth and straighten hair. The process involves coating the hair with a keratin protein solution and then using heat, often from a flat iron, to seal it in.

The treatment's main objective is to repair damaged hair, preventing frizz, making it shinier, and easier to manage. Keratin hair treatment can last for several weeks or even months, depending on how you care for your hair.

2. How Does Keratin Hair Treatment Work?

When applied to the hair, the keratin protein fills the gaps in the hair shaft, where proteins have been depleted, caused by chemical treatments or environmental factors like exposure to the sun or swimming pools' chlorine.

The keratin coating provides a protective layer to the hair follicles, preventing further damage from environmental factors. When heated, the treatment seals the keratin into the hair, making it sleek and easy to manage.

3. Benefits of Keratin Hair Treatment

Keratin hair treatment comes with many benefits, such as:

• Smoother texture - the protein coat fills in gaps in hair strands resulting in a more uniform surface and less frizz.

• Easier styling – the smoother the hair texture, the more manageable it becomes. You can enjoy a blow-out that lasts longer than you're used to, with less use of heat tools.

• Faster hair-drying – without frizz or texture problems, the time you spend with your blow dryer is reduced, and you no longer have to worry about humidity.

• Shinier appearance – the keratin coat provides a light-reflecting surface that makes hair strands appear shinier.

• Lasting effect – keratin hair treatment can last for weeks or months, depending on the hair treatment product and hair type.

4. Risks of Keratin Hair Treatment

Although keratin hair treatment can provide many benefits, it is not for everyone. The process involves specific chemical products, some of which may cause scalp irritation or other side effects, including:

• Allergic reactions – some may have sensitivity to the products and develop a rash, itching, or other allergic reactions.

• Exposure to harmful chemicals – keratin treatment uses formaldehyde, which can irritate the eyes and lungs.

• Potential hair damage – excessive heat or incorrect application methods can damage hair strands, making them more prone to breakage.

5. Aftercare Tips for Keratin-Treated Hair

After getting a keratin hair treatment, it is essential to follow specific aftercare instructions to ensure the treatment lasts longer and your hair remains healthy. Here are some of the tips:

• Wait 72 hours after the treatment to wash your hair.

• Use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner made specifically for keratin-treated hair.

• Avoid chlorine and saltwater pools.

• Avoid heat styling or use of hair accessories for the first three days.

• Use a heat protectant when using heat tools and avoid high heat settings.

Conclusion

Keratin hair treatment can be an excellent option for people looking to repair damaged hair and enjoy a more manageable hairstyle. However, it is essential to choose the right product and follow the aftercare instructions to avoid the potential risks and maintain healthy hair.

If you're considering getting a keratin hair treatment, consult with a licensed hair salon professional to determine if the treatment is right for you.