Buzz
Keratin, a natural protein, forms the structural foundation of hair, protecting it from damage and stress. Hair care products containing keratin can smooth out curls and frizz, while enhancing hair's shine for up to two and a half months. The keratin product is applied to washed and completely dry hair, without rinsing, followed by blow-drying and straightening. Leave the product on your hair for at least two days before washing it again. During this period, avoid tying or clipping your hair. Wash your hair only when necessary and use a sulfate-free shampoo (avoid conditioner).
Steps
Choose a keratin treatment solution
Decide whether to do it at home or visit a salon. The cost of keratin treatment at a salon typically starts at around 1 million or more. If done at home, the results may not match those achieved at a salon since the product isn't customized for your hair type. At-home keratin treatments are usually less damaging but also less durable than salon treatments.
- For example, if you have light-colored hair, a stylist can adjust the formula to avoid altering your hair tone.
- If you plan to visit a salon, consult with the stylist beforehand so they can select the right formula for your hair.
Read reviews. Whether you choose to visit a salon or purchase a product for at-home use, it’s wise to check online reviews from previous users before making a decision. Prioritize quality over price. If you know someone who has undergone a keratin treatment, ask them for recommendations on brands or salons/stylists.
Understand the keratin treatment process. “Keratin” itself doesn’t smooth hair; it’s the treatment process that achieves this. During the procedure, a keratin straightening product is applied to the hair, and the heat from a flat iron helps the product penetrate deeply. The result is smoother, straighter hair.
Patrick Evan
Owner, Patrick Evan Salon
Owner, Patrick Evan Salon
Patrick Evan, owner of Evan Salon, explains: "Keratin treatment is a technique that infuses keratin into the porous parts of the hair shaft to enhance shine and smoothness while reducing frizz or curls. First, the hair is washed and deeply cleansed to remove impurities. Then, the keratin product is applied section by section, thoroughly dried, and sealed into the hair using a flat iron. On average, the keratin treatment process takes about 90 minutes."
Avoid formaldehyde-releasing products. Some keratin products contain ingredients that release formaldehyde, a chemical harmful to health, causing eye and nose irritation, skin allergies, and even cancer. Other products use formaldehyde-free alternatives. Check product labels or consult a stylist to ensure the product is formaldehyde-free.
- Since formaldehyde is commonly used in salons, it can harm those frequently exposed to it.
- DMDM hydantoin, glyoxal, imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea, methyl glycol, polyoxymethylene urea, quaternium-15, and sodium hydroxymethylglycinate are all formaldehyde-releasing chemicals that may be present in hair care products.
- Products without harmful chemicals are often less effective in softening curly hair.
Wash and section your hair
Use a clarifying shampoo to cleanse your hair. Apply the shampoo and lather it thoroughly. Leave it on for 3-5 minutes, then rinse completely. Repeat the shampooing process, ensuring all residue is washed away.
- Clarifying shampoos are specially formulated to remove buildup from hair care products like conditioners or styling agents. This step prepares your hair to absorb the keratin treatment evenly.
- Clarifying shampoos are also referred to as “deep-cleansing shampoos.”
Dry your hair completely. Run your fingers through your hair while blow-drying on medium heat. Ensure your hair is fully dry unless the product instructions specify otherwise.
- Brazilian blowouts require slightly damp hair (85-90% dry), while keratin treatments demand completely dry hair. Since the terms “Brazilian” and “keratin” are sometimes used interchangeably in hair treatments, carefully review the product label for specific instructions.
Section your hair into parts. Use a styling comb to create a part down the middle of your head. Clip your hair into 4-8 sections (depending on thickness). Secure each section tightly to keep your hair in place during the keratin application.
Apply keratin and dry your hair
Follow all instructions precisely. The type of product and brand you choose will provide specific guidelines for applying keratin. Ensure you read and adhere to all directions and safety measures.
- If the product instructions differ from this article, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Apply the product evenly to your hair. Wear gloves and old clothing or a robe. Take a section of hair and apply the product, starting with a small amount and gradually increasing until the hair is fully coated but not dripping. Use a fine-tooth comb or dye brush to distribute the product from roots to ends. Clip each section up after application.
Leave the product on for 20-30 minutes or as directed. Cover your hair with a shower cap and let the product sit for the recommended time.
Blow-dry your hair. Remove the shower cap and clips. Do not rinse unless the product instructions specify otherwise. Blow-dry your hair while the product is still in it. Use hot or cool settings based on the product label instructions.
Straighten your hair with a flat iron. Set the flat iron to the temperature recommended for your hair type. Once heated, straighten small sections (about 1-2 inches). You may need to clip sections before or after straightening.
- Using a flat iron that’s too hot can burn and damage your hair.
Maintain the keratin coating
Avoid washing your hair for at least 3 days. Washing too soon can reduce the longevity of the keratin treatment. If you can go a week without wetting your hair, that’s even better!
- Consider using dry shampoo if you need to freshen up your hair.
Do not tie your hair for at least 48 hours. Avoid using hair ties for ponytails or clips if possible. Try a bandanna to keep your hair out of your face.
- Hair ties or clips can leave marks, but loose ties are fine.
Avoid heat and certain hair care products. Your keratin-treated hair will last longer if you avoid heat styling or blow-drying. Wash your hair only when necessary and use shampoo only (no conditioner). Always opt for sulfate-free shampoo.
Warnings
- Avoid getting the product near or in your eyes.
- Consult a dermatologist before applying keratin if you have psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis.
What You’ll Need
- Clarifying shampoo
- Hair dryer
- Fine-tooth comb
- Hair clips
- Shower cap
- Old clothes or a robe
- Gloves
- Flat iron
- Sulfate-free shampoo
- Keratin treatment product
