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How do Keratin Hair Treatments Work?

Jessica Ellis
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Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 27,263
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Keratin hair treatments promise smooth, straight hair that remains sleek and curl-free for several months. The treatment, which is available in many hair salons, can take up to an hour, and is often a costly process. Hailing from Brazil, this process provides a double treatment by fortifying the hair through the use of keratin, a natural protein, and then altering the structure of the hair with chemicals in order to make it remain straight. There are risks to consider with many versions of the treatment, and customers should be fully aware of the process and possible effects before choosing to have it done.

Keratin is a basic protein found in the bodies of mammals; it is usually present in hair, wool, horns, and nails. Since the salon treatment is known for straightening, it is often assumed that keratin is related to straight hair, but this is incorrect. During keratin treatments, a solution is applied that infuses the hair with keratin, repairing damage and flaws within the hair. Keratin is responsible for increased shine and reduced frizz, but does not directly straighten the hair itself.

After the keratin solution is applied, a cocktail of chemicals is added to the hair that creates the straightened effect by semi-permanently altering the hair's structure. Often, the main component in this cocktail is formaldehyde This dangerous chemical is responsible for much of the controversy surrounding keratin treatments, as some experts believe exposure to formaldehyde increases the risk of certain cancers. In some salons, customers and clinicians may even don filtered-air masks during the process. Typically, hair is then flat-ironed to lock in the new look.

Results of keratin hair treatments vary between users; some find that the process works as described and keeps hair straight for several months, while others are less satisfied with the result. Many are also concerned about the exposure to dangerous chemicals, leading to the creation of several newer versions of the treatment that do not use formaldehyde. Those with an objection to animal-based products may also want to find out the source of the keratin used in the treatment, as it may be animal-based.

Keratin hair treatments are available at many salons throughout the world, and some may offer promotional discounts when a new version of the treatment arrives. Ask to see before-and-after photographs of customers who have undergone the treatment, and do not be afraid to inquire about the chemicals used and available safety precautions. A treatment that changes hair for several months may be a big risk for some customers, but for those permanently struggling with frizzy hair that refuses to straighten through other means, keratin hair treatments may provide a long-lasting alternative.

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Jessica Ellis
By Jessica Ellis
With a B.A. in theater from UCLA and a graduate degree in screenwriting from the American Film Institute, Jessica Ellis brings a unique perspective to her work as a writer for WiseGeek. While passionate about drama and film, Jessica enjoys learning and writing about a wide range of topics, creating content that is both informative and engaging for readers.

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Discussion Comments
By Moto — On Aug 03, 2012

What kind of shampoo do you need to use afterwards?

What about for hair with dandruff? Is there a particular shampoo that would work well with treated hair?

By FirstViolin — On Aug 17, 2010

An alternative to a Brazilian keratin treatment for your hair is Moroccan oil treatment.

Moroccan oil hair treatments aren't as useful for straightening, but they can give you the same conditioning/anti-frizzing effect.

By zenmaster — On Aug 17, 2010

A lot of people come into my spa asking for a Brazilian keratin hair treatment and expecting it to completely change their hair's shape and structure.

While it is a really good treatment, and is better than the best hair conditioner when it comes to making hair sleeker, but it's not magic.

If you've got frizzy hair because you damage it over and over, sure, a keratin hair treatment will help for a time, but if you want long-term healing, then you need to lay off the product and just let your hair heal itself.

By cmsmith10 — On Jul 04, 2010

I use a keratin treatment twice a week on my hair and the results are amazing! I have terribly dry, frizzy, coarse hair and the keratin has made all the difference in the world. The kind I use comes in a tube and it is only to be used two to three times per week. I leave it on for about five minutes and then rinse with cool water.

Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis
With a B.A. in theater from UCLA and a graduate degree in screenwriting from the American Film Institute, Jessica Ellis...
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