Keratin treatments can last from 3-6 months depending on the formulation used and are an ideal option for those with thick or frizzy locks. When performed in an appropriate, well-ventilated area, this solution may provide maximum effectiveness and benefit.
Utilising sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, washing your hair every three days with lukewarm water, and investing in heat protectant products will extend the effects of a keratin treatment for longer.
Before
Your hairstylist will begin by cleansing and de-residuing the scalp to ensure the keratin will penetrate into each strand effectively. Some stylists will apply it after washing and drying, while others can do it later.
Keratin straightening treatments differ from traditional straightening by not breaking down protein bonds found within your hair shaft and is free from formaldehyde, an extremely harmful chemical which could potentially pose health hazards if inhaled.
Within 72 hours of treatment, avoid getting your hair wet; this includes showers, swimming, saunas and steam showers. If necessary, wear a rain cap on rainy days and carry an umbrella in order to minimize damage.
Reducing how often you wash your hair with hot water and using heat styling tools that strip keratin can extend its benefits over time. If necessary, choose a shampoo and conditioner without sulfates that can prolong results over time.
After
Keratin treatments make hair smoother and frizz-free by flattening the cuticle layer of each individual strand of hair. Natural curly or wavy locks contain tiny scales which crook when left to their own devices; with treatment, these scales lie more flat for more shiny locks.
Traditional salon keratin treatments typically use formaldehyde, an odorless and colorless gas that poses serious health risks if inhaled. But some salons now provide alternatives that do not contain formaldehyde – these solutions contain ingredients which release different chemicals (methylene glycol, formalin or methanal).
After receiving a keratin treatment, it’s recommended that for the first three days following it you refrain from wearing hair accessories or tying your hair up, as this will allow the keratin to settle and prevent dents. Also sleep on silk pillowcase or scarf so as to reduce friction against your locks during sleep. After these initial three days it is acceptable to style your ponytail or braids freely – without tight ties!
Maintenance
After receiving a keratin treatment, taking proper care in maintaining your locks afterward will help ensure maximum longevity of the effect. Most importantly, refrain from washing it for at least three days post-treatment.
Keratin treatments create a protective layer to shield hair from build-up and pollution; too frequently washing can reduce its effectiveness and shorten its lifespan.
Avoid styling products such as gels and hair oils as much as possible; they tend to add weight to your locks, making it harder for them to be washed out completely, shortening the lifespan of keratin treatments.
If you must wash your hair within three days after receiving a keratin treatment, be sure to use only a sulfate-free shampoo and only lukewarm water; hot water may strip the keratin away, rendering it less effective and leading to further damage.
Tips
How you treat your hair for the first three to four days following a keratin treatment will have an enormous impact on its ability to retain its silky-smooth texture for as long as possible. You must avoid getting your strands wet even with a shower cap; swimming, saunas and steam showers should all be avoided; additionally use lukewarm rather than hot water as hot water strips the keratin from strands, which could damage their integrity over time.
Keep your hair dry at all times, even while working out and sweating heavily. Avoid ponytails or braids as these can leave dents in your strands; furthermore, wear your hats and sunglasses carefully!
At the end of your keratin treatment process, use a wide-toothed comb when detangling strands and protect your tresses with silk pillowcase. Also essential to prolonging its effectiveness is investing in quality sulfate-free shampoo that will prolong its effects.
