Keratin is the protein found in hair, nails and skin; daily stressors deplete it rapidly; but with regular keratin treatments can replenish this depleted pool of nourishment.

However, this hair smoothing treatment has received criticism due to safety concerns and incorrect application. We consulted two professional stylists regarding keratin treatments; how they work, and whether or not they’re safe for black hair.

Benefits

Keratin treatments have quickly become an indispensable haircare staple thanks to their ability to transform frizzy, dry locks into shiny, healthy locks. The treatments work by infusing each strand with natural protein keratin that gives hair strength and resilience.

This treatment doesn’t completely straighten hair, but it does reduce frizz, smooth the locks, reduce styling time, repair damage and strengthen strands for increased resilience and less breakage. Furthermore, its natural shine cannot be replicated with other salon treatments.

Many individuals express concern over the possible health risks of getting a keratin treatment, with formaldehyde being linked with cancer. Therefore, it’s essential to find a stylist who uses products containing low levels of formaldehyde that will be safer for the body. Furthermore, getting one could potentially lighten color-treated hair; so it may be best to wait before getting one done.

Side effects

Keratin is a natural protein found in your hair, nails and skin that can also be extracted from horns, wool or feathers. It provides strong protection to strengthen and straighten hair.

However, salon treatments typically combine keratin with formaldehyde which has adverse health consequences. According to the Environmental Working Group’s research, this chemical can lead to nasal, throat, eye and respiratory irritation as well as increased asthmatic risk, allergies and eczema symptoms. It could even adversely impact respiratory systems of people living with chronic illness or being pregnant.

Chemicals can irritate sensitive scalps. A great way to help combat this is massaging with coconut or castor hair growth oils; massaging will improve blood flow and keep the scalp healthy, as will eating healthily for overall better hair health. A balanced diet will also be essential in supporting its wellbeing.

How it works

Keratin treatments work by smoothing out cells that form hair strands, eliminating frizz and creating a healthy sheen to your locks. Plus, it speeds up drying times while lengthening growth potential!

Keratin smoothing treatments provide an easier, healthier solution for curly women than straightening treatments like relaxers. Only an outer layer is affected, making this healthier alternative.

However, many keratin treatments contain formaldehyde (a chemical that can be hazardous if inhaled), leading to irritation of your scalp or respiratory system. To avoid this risk, choose a nonformaldehyde keratin treatment with low odor; your stylist can customize its strength depending on your desired goals – be that frizz reduction or maintaining natural curl pattern maintenance. Furthermore, opt for a shampoo free from sulfates to prevent dry hair after receiving your treatment.

How long does it last?

Keratin hair treatments differ from Japanese treatments or regular relaxers in that they do not permanently alter the structure of your strands; rather, they work by sealing hair cuticles to make them smoother – thus keeping your locks more straight for an extended period.

Treatment requires washing your hair and applying a keratin solution, followed by rough drying it and flat ironing to seal in the keratin – this entire process may take four hours!

Keratin smoothing treatments may last six months with proper care, provided chlorine and salt water do not diminish its lifespan. Furthermore, it’s best to limit how frequently you wash your hair to maintain optimal results.

While keratin treatments are an ideal solution for frizzy locks, they should only be performed three times annually as repeated applications may damage your hair. Also, it is advisable to select a smoothing product without formaldehyde in it for maximum benefits.