Exploring Natural Hair Care Products and Techniques

What You Need to Know Before Getting a Keratin Treatment

by Ellen Lucas

If your hair is dry, frizzy, and dull, then a keratin treatment, performed in the salon, can help you achieve the smoother locks you've long desired. All in all, this treatment is pretty simple from the perspective of the client. But there are still a few things to know before you call and make that appointment.

1. There are two primary types of keratin treatments.

Any process that involves adding keratin (a specific structural protein found in hair) to the hair is technically called a keratin treatment. There are two major types that salons offer, and it's important to know which one is best for you since they have somewhat different effects.

The first type is called a keratin smoothing treatment. This type of treatment adds shine and takes away frizz, but it does not change the texture of your hair. As in, if you're curly, you'll stay curly. If you're wavy, you'll be just as wavy after treatment.

The second type of treatment is called a Brazilian blowout. This type of keratin treatment adds shine while also loosening your hair texture. Tight curls will become looser curls. Loose curls will become waves.

Either treatment is great; it's just a matter of preference.

2. The chemicals used are not entirely natural.

Keratin itself is a natural protein found normally in your hair. But to get that keratin into your hair shaft, the treatment itself must contain some other ingredients, such as formaldehyde and ammonia. Your hairstylist will do their best to avoid putting these chemicals in contact with your skin, and chances are, the small amount in the occasional hair treatment isn't something to worry about. However, if you are very chemically sensitive or you're pregnant, a keratin treatment may not be for you.

3. You'll have to let the hair rest for a few days.

Try to have your keratin treatment when you don't have anything big planned for a few days. You can't wash your hair for a few days after treatment, and you really should not be heat styling it or putting it into tight ponytails, either, as this can cause the hair to kink. How you care for your hair in the three days after treatment will impact how it looks for the next three months. Yes, a keratin treatment lasts about three months.

Now that you know a bit more about keratin treatments, call and make an appointment! Your new style awaits.

Share