Keratin, a protein naturally found in hair, has been used to create hair treatments that promise to smooth out frizz and give a straight and shiny appearance. These treatments, known as keratin hair treatments, have become very popular over the years. But, are they really as good as they sound? Let’s find out.
What is Keratin Hair Treatment?
Keratin hair treatment is a process in which a stylist applies keratin products to the hair and then uses heat to seal the keratin into the hair shaft. This process takes about three hours, and the result is typically shiny, frizz-free hair that lasts for about three to four months.
The Pros of Keratin Hair Treatment
1. Frizz Reduction
One of the biggest pros of keratin hair treatment is that they reduce frizz. With smoother, sleeker hair, the treatment makes your hair less prone to frizzing up, even in humid weather.
2. Increased Shine
Keratin treatments are known to make hair look shinier and healthier. With the seal of keratin applied to the hair, the hair reflects light better, giving it a shiny appearance.
3. Straightening Effect
Keratin treatments can also make hair straighter. This means less time spent using hot tools such as flat irons, which can damage hair over time.
4. Manageability
Keratin treatments make hair more manageable. Hair becomes easier to comb and style, and it also holds curls better.
5. No Harsh Chemicals
Most keratin treatments are based on natural products and don’t contain the harsh chemicals found in other hair straightening treatments like relaxers.
The Cons of Keratin Hair Treatment
1. Price
Keratin hair treatments are not cheap. They can cost upwards of $300, which may not be affordable for everyone.
2. Time-Consuming Process
The keratin hair treatment process can take up to three hours to complete, which means you’ll have to spend a considerable amount of time at the hair salon.
3. High Maintenance
Keratin hair treatment requires high maintenance, and it’s important to use sulfate-free and sodium chloride-free shampoos and conditioners to prolong its effects.
4. Not Permanent
Keratin hair treatment is not a permanent solution. The treatment lasts for about three to four months, and after that, your hair will return to its natural state.
5. Presence of Formaldehyde
Although many keratin hair treatments are marketed as formaldehyde-free, some still contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, which can cause health problems for both the customer and hair stylist.
FAQs
1. Does Keratin Hair Treatment work on all hair types?
Keratin hair treatment works on all hair types, but it is particularly effective on curly and frizzy hair.
2. Can you color your hair after a keratin treatment?
It’s better to wait at least two weeks after the treatment before coloring your hair.
3. How do you maintain keratin-treated hair?
After keratin hair treatment, it’s important to use sulfate-free and sodium chloride-free shampoos and conditioners.
4. How often can you get keratin hair treatment?
It’s recommended that you get keratin hair treatment every three to four months.
5. Can you wash your hair after a keratin treatment?
You should wait at least 48 hours before washing your hair after a keratin treatment.
6. Can you use hair styling products after a keratin treatment?
It’s better to avoid using hair styling products for two days after the treatment.
7. Does keratin hair treatment work on damaged hair?
Keratin hair treatment isn’t recommended for severely damaged or chemically processed hair.
8. Can you swim after a keratin treatment?
It’s better to avoid swimming in chlorinated or saltwater for at least a week after keratin hair treatment.
9. Can you tie your hair after keratin treatment?
It’s better to avoid tying your hair too tightly for at least two days after the treatment.
10. Is keratin hair treatment safe?
Although many keratin hair treatments are marketed as formaldehyde-free, some still contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, which can cause health problems for both the customer and hair stylist.
Conclusion
Keratin hair treatment has its pros and cons. While it does make hair smoother, shinier, and more manageable, it can also be expensive and time-consuming. The presence of formaldehyde in some keratin treatments also raises health concerns. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons before deciding to get a keratin hair treatment.
