If you have an Instagram account, there’s a strong possibility you’ve come across before and after posts for keratin hair treatments. The before picture may have featured hair with a dry and frizzy texture. The after photo will show off hair that is silky smooth and camera-ready. Although your gut instinct is to run to the nearest salon to book a keratin treatment, here are a few things to consider first.
Not All Keratin Treatments Are the Same
Keratin has become the buzzword for consumers looking for hair services that de-frizz hair. However, keratin smoothing treatments are different than traditional keratin treatments (a treatment also frequently called a Brazilian blowout). Traditional keratin treatments are designed to straighten out curly or wavy hair. Meanwhile, keratin smoothing treatments don’t affect the texture. Instead, the treatment will combat frizz and add shine to the hair.
Results Vary
A common misconception about keratin smoothing treatments is that the product is a chemical relaxer. Relaxers permanently alter the chemical makeup of your hair to keep it straight by weakening the bonds that cause curly hair. Keratin smoothing treatments add proteins into the hair as a way to make your locks smoother and softer. Keratin smoothing treatments will eventually wash out, but results of a single treatment can last an average of three months or longer.
Formaldehyde Free
Keratin treatments received backlash after studies determined that the chemicals used in the treatments released potentially dangerous levels of formaldehyde. The good news is the latest keratin smoothing treatments are free of formaldehyde. A number of products are relying on the ingredient glyoxylic acid to smooth out hair. However, customers should always practice due diligence when visiting a salon for keratin treatments. The stylist should be able to give you a list of ingredients found in the products and tell you whether the solution contains any formaldehyde-releasing chemicals.
Smart After Care
For long-lasting results, a few changes need to be made to your hair regimen. Most importantly, you need to switch to a sulfate-free shampoo. You need to also avoid styling products that have sulfates or salts like texturizing sprays. These products will reverse the effects of the keratin smoothing treatments and cause frizz to reappear.
The Long Island Beauty School trains men and women in the arts of hairdressing and cosmetology. A student salon on campus offers an extensive menu of services including keratin smoothing treatments. Call today for more information.
