Summer may be winding down, but the humidity doesn’t seem to be. For some of you, this means that your hair is going to be frizzy. And who doesn’t want a frizz-free, smooth hair? Whilst some of you can get it done using styling creams and hot tools but going through the same process every day, isn’t it tiring? What if we tell you that there is a stronger and some but permanent solution to anti-frizz hair that you don’t have to fight your strands in the morning! The answer is keratin treatment (or Brazilian blowouts).
Keratin treatment is your go-to solution for frizz-free and long-lasting shining hair. It’s been deemed the “miracle” way to get frizz-free, shinier, smoother, hair in just one seating at your local salon. For others, keratin still causes confusion, from potential health risks to the outcome of the process. Well, navigating the misinformation on the internet can be completely overwhelming. (We’ve been there!) But you should know that like most chemical-laden beauty treatments, neither all keratin treatments are created equal, nor are they for every hair type.
So before you book an appointment and rush to your favorite salon, here are a few things you must know about this trending treatment.
What is a keratin treatment?
Keratin is a fibrous protein that maintains the structure of hair and acts as a protective shield against humidity (the primary cause of frizz). Over time, the hair starts losing keratin due to exposure to the sun, environment, pollution, styling, and chemical services. This makes porous spots to develop which are just like potholes in a road. Most frizz, damage, and tangled hair are due to overly porous hair. This is where keratin treatment comes in handy.
Keratin treatments have become a general term for any hair-smoothing treatment that softens curls and waves, minimizes frizz, and makes heat styling faster and easier for up to 6 months. There are many different versions of this treatment that go by different names like Brazilian Blowout, Cezanne, and Goldwell Kerasilk, and your stylist can customize a blend of the formula to suit your hair needs. While formaldehyde is conventionally used in this treatment, the latest techniques involve the use of methylene glycol and formalin. However, formaldehyde has got a bad rap given that it can keep your hair straighter longer, but can give health risks to both you and your stylist. That is why keratin treatments are not recommended for regular use.
How long do keratin treatments take?
Always remember that some things are best left for experts and the keratin treatment is one such thing. Visit your favorite salon and make sure you have plenty of time because this process can take up to 2-4 hours depending on the condition of your hair. Now let’s get to the process.
First, your stylist will clean your hair with a shampoo and condition it to ensure that any residual grime and build-up are removed. Depending on your hair, your stylist will either apply the keratin solution directly to your hair, or he/she may blow-dry to your hair first. The next process is to apply the keratin formula to each section of your hair until the whole head is covered. Then you have let the formula sit and saturate each strand for about half an hour. Then your stylist will blow dry your hair to lock in the treatment, and then meticulously flat-iron every single strand of your hair on your head.
This treatment unlike permanent straightening, clasp the split-ends and glue them together forcefully with heat for a temporary time-span. If you have curly hair, the curls only soften and you can expect them back in a few months. With growing out of it, the effects of the treatment lessen and can go back to normal in about two to six months after the treatment.
Are keratin treatments good for your hair?
As advised earlier, anyone can get a keratin treatment as long as you don’t exceed the process three times a year. Reason? Formaldehyde! As already told, the usage of formaldehyde (is a carcinogen) raises some eyebrows as it can possibly cause respiratory problems if exposure is frequent. Chances are that in the keratin treatments that claim to have formaldehyde-free formulas, they may contain the same chemical.
According to hairstylist Brenda Kamt: “Formaldehyde isn’t actually a single ingredient—it’s a gas that’s emitted from other chemicals being exposed to heat. So technically, a product can say it’s formaldehyde-free, but still contain the ingredients that create the gas.”
Post-keratin treatment, hair care is important as you are not required to wash your hair for at least 12 hours. Some stylists may recommend a 24-hour gap. And after the treatment and before washing your hair, your hair will be extra straight, annoying you as you are not supposed to braid it, pin it or even touch it very much.
How long do keratin treatments last?
Depending on how well you are maintaining it, your keratin can last up to 6 months. Maintaining your keratin is very easy. After you leave the salon, make sure you pick up a sulfate-free shampoo, since harsh ingredients will strip your treatment every time you wash your hair. Avoid swimming in the ocean or in the pool, as the chlorine or salt water may not blend with your treatment. The better you maintain your hair, the longer the treatment will last.
How much do keratin treatments cost?
The only downside of getting keratin is that it can be a bit pricey. Typically the treatment can cost between Rs 4000 to Rs 12000 depending on the salon, the stylist, and the volume of your hair. But the texture that keratin will give your hair is worth the price.
Conclusion: As heard from the people who have had keratin, they were confident that they would go for keratin again. Reason? Anti-frizz, smooth, shining hair for months that changes their morning hair routine.