Traditional keratin treatments contain formaldehyde, which is a known carcinogen. Modern formulations usually do not use formaldehyde; rather, glyoxylic acid-carbocysteine mixtures are used instead to strengthen, repair and straighten hair.

Keratin treatments at home or salon both require you to refrain from getting your hair wet for 3-4 days (no showering, using hair ties etc) – while using only gentle shampoos that don’t contain sulfates in order to extend its duration.

How Much Does It Cost?

Costs associated with keratin treatments will depend on your salon of choice and location; typically ranging between $250-500.

Maintaining a healthy hair care routine and forgoing heat styling tools are the keys to prolonging the longevity of keratin treatments. Incorporating sulfate-free shampoo and not swimming in chlorinated or salt water are also effective strategies in prolonging their effects.

Some keratin treatments contain formaldehyde, an airborne chemical which can be dangerous if inhaled. To protect yourself from this risk, seek out salons offering formaldehyde-free alternatives – or ask your stylist about what ingredients may be present in their specific product if unsure. Most modern keratin treatments use less toxic mixes of glyoxylic acid-carbocysteine that strengthen, repair, smoothen and straighten hair simultaneously.

What is Keratin?

Keratin is a natural protein found in hair, nails and epidermis that acts as a structural protein to form these tissues. According to some people who use Keratin regularly as part of their haircare regime, they have experienced increased hair growth since its ends no longer break off as frequently.

Keratin treatments work by smoothing out the layers of cells that overlap to form hair strands, thus making your hair less frizzy and easier to style, while simultaneously making it appear healthier due to keratin being an essential hair protein.

Although some keratin treatments still contain formaldehyde, many salons now provide less toxic versions. Speak with your stylist about what options they have – they should be able to tell if their product releases formaldehyde and offer formaldehyde-free options for those with fine or thin hair textures – these options typically utilize a glyoxylic acid-carbocysteine mix which is gentler than the traditional formaldehyde formulas.

Will It Work on My Hair?

Keratin treatments will both smooth your hair and add lots of shine, as well as make styling much simpler and reduce styling time. However, to maximize its effects it is essential that aftercare instructions from stylist are followed exactly – for instance using silk pillowcases to reduce friction, not washing your hair for at least three days without consultation and not overstyling are among these instructions.

Colombini does suggest professional keratin treatments over at-home versions as these may release formaldehyde gas that could damage your hair (provided the latter are gentle and contain formaldehyde-free formulas). She notes that coloring your hair could benefit from salon keratin treatments; for curly locks it could smooth frizz while helping the curls become more defined and shinier.

Will It Harm My Hair?

Keratin treatments won’t permanently straighten your hair, but they provide a temporary fix to frizzy or tangled locks while making styling simpler. Stylists apply a thin coat of protein liquid that seals cuticles that contribute to frizziness, fizziness, or dullness – which then becomes easier.

Keratin treatments are generally safe for most individuals, though they may not be recommended for those with fine or fragile hair or who use heat styling tools regularly, or who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Keratin treatments involve subjecting your hair to high temperatures and chemicals that can cause dryness, damage and permanent changes in its curly patterns. As alternatives, Fitzsimons suggests Dominican blowouts or silk presses.

How Long Will It Last?

After your keratin treatment, for the first three days it’s best to keep your hair in loose styles such as ponytails or buns for optimal smoothing results. Also try not to sweat excessively; if necessary, rinse your locks out with warm water to eliminate excess sweating.

Use a silk pillowcase to protect your strands from friction and extend the smoothing process. Furthermore, not washing your hair daily will extend its effectiveness as treatment.

Keratin treatments can last six months with proper care, including less frequent washings and using sodium chloride-free products to avoid further damaging to your hair. Keratin also improves its condition, giving your locks the look of healthier locks with its silky surface.