I recently calculated that I’ve spent around 26 days (!) of my life straightening my hair which, let me tell you, is not time well-spent. Firstly, there are much better ways to spend your time. Like going to the pub or watching Ru Paul’s Drag Race. Secondly, my hair is guaranteed to frizz if there’s any sign of humidity – or an ex in the vicinity (I swear, it knows). I’m talking bouffant. And not in a chic vintage way.
By Beth Ludolf
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1 What is a keratin treatment?
Keratin treatments are a semi-permanent solution to frizzy, unmanageable hair. The keratin (a protein) nourishes and hydrates your hair, making it smoother, healthier and shinier. The best bit? The keratin forms a protective layer, seals hair cuticles and protects against damage.
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2 Will it work for me?
The treatment works on all hair types but is particularly beneficial for those with frizzy or damaged hair. Results differ depending on your hair type – wavy hair will straighten naturally while curls will be more defined – but all hair types will be overall smoother and shinier (result).
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3 My hair
The main causes for frizzy hair are; genetics (check), humidity (does rain count?) and hair-damage (guilty). My hair is naturally thick – which I am thankful for as a sort-of-recovering bleach addict – but, while I regularly use Olaplex, it’s could definitely be healthier.
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4 The treatment
The treatment can take upward of 2 hours (not one for your lunch break). It involves applying keratin and sealing it into the hair using heat – some salons do this with the product still on the hair, some wash it out first. A warning: the treatment can fade semi-permanent colours (like the pink in mine).
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5 Aftercare
Avoid getting hair wet for at least 48 hours post-treatment so your hair can settle. Results can last as long as 4 months with the right after-care. The key? Steer clear of anything that strips the keratin from the hair. Use sulphate-free shampoo and conditioner, avoid swimming pools and saltwater and don’t bleach the hair.
Want to know my verdict? These are my final thoughts.
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FAQs
What is a keratin treatment and what does it do for your hair?
A keratin treatment is a semi-permanent solution that smooths frizzy, unmanageable hair. It nourishes with keratin protein, making hair healthier, shinier, and adds a protective layer that seals cuticles and guards against damage.
How long does a keratin treatment take at the salon?
A keratin treatment can take upward of 2 hours to complete. This process involves applying keratin and sealing it into your hair using heat. Some salons wash out the product before heat, while others do it with the treatment still in.
How do you care for your hair after a keratin treatment?
You should avoid getting your hair wet for at least 48 hours so your hair can settle. Use sulphate-free shampoo and conditioner, and avoid swimming pools, saltwater, and bleaching. With proper aftercare, results can last up to 4 months.
Will a keratin treatment work on curly or wavy hair?
Keratin treatments work on all hair types but are especially beneficial for frizzy or damaged hair. Wavy hair will become naturally straighter, while curls will be more defined. All hair types experience smoother, shinier results.
Can keratin treatments affect coloured hair?
Keratin treatments can fade semi-permanent colours, such as pink tones. If you have semi-permanent or fantasy colours, expect some loss of vibrancy after the treatment.