For years, keratin treatments have been considered the miracle solution for achieving the appearance and feel of smooth, frizz-free hair.
Salons promote these treatments as a way to strengthen and rejuvenate damaged hair by the infusion of keratin (a natural protein). But behind the picture perfect marketing, many are unaware that these treatments can cause serious, long-lasting damage to their hair and health.
The Promise of Keratin Treatments
For those with frizzy and unmanageable hair, the application of a keratin-rich formula – and then sealing it in with heat (usually a flat iron), the hair is left smooth, shiny, and sleek for weeks or even months. This method temporarily strengthens the hair’s outer layer, giving it a healthier appearance. For those who struggle with humidity-induced frizz or want a polished look without daily styling, it sounds like the perfect solution doesn’t it?
What Salons Don’t Tell You
Despite the appealing results, there’s a darker side to keratin treatments. Here’s what you need to know before booking your next salon visit:
Formaldehyde Exposure (Damage to health)
Many keratin treatments rely on formaldehyde or formaldehyde-releasing chemicals to lock the keratin into the hair. For those who don’t know, formaldehyde is a known carcinogen that can cause serious health issues, ranging from respiratory problems to skin irritation and even increased cancer risk. “Formaldehyde-free” keratin treatments is not the solution either. They can contain chemicals that release formaldehyde when heated, making them just as dangerous.
Hair Damage from Heat (Damage to Hair)
While keratin itself is great for your hair, the process of sealing keratin into the hair involves using a flat iron at extremely high temperatures—sometimes up to 450°F (232°C). The heat exposure can lead to severe hair breakage, split ends, and loss of natural moisture. Over time, this makes the hair more fragile and susceptible to damage, which becomes more visibly noticeable once the keratin has worn away.
Temporary Results, Permanent Damage
The benefits of keratin treatments provide only temporary results, usually lasting three to five months. However, the damage from the high heat and chemicals can be long-lasting or even permanent. It is often reported that the hair feels brittle, dry, and lifeless after the treatment’s effects wear off. Repeating keratin treatments in an attempt to restore the hair’s health can then lead to more cumulative damage, making the hair increasingly weak over time.
Costly and Time-Consuming
It’s tempting knowing that there’s a simple fix to obtain glossy smooth hair, but keratin treatments are not a one-time investment. These treatments can cost hundreds of dollars depending on the salon you go to, and the upkeep requires additional hair care products and follow-up sessions. For those who experience hair damage as a result, the cost of repairing hair health can be significantly higher.
The Painful Upkeep
If you decide to go forward with a keratin treatment, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Do not wash, style, braid, or tie your hair until 3-4 days later, allowing the keratin treatment to fully bond with your hair effectively without any risk of bending
- Limit heat styling as much as possible. When you do use heat, it is recommended to apply a heat protectant spray to prevent further damage
- Sulfate can strip the treatment, so to extend the longevity of the treatment and protect the health of your hair, purchase sulfate free shampoo and conditioner.
- Minimize salt-water exposure. Salt and chlorine tend to be very harsh towards keratin treated hair, resulting in a stripping effect. Always rinse your hair with fresh water as soon as possible if you do come in contact with saltwater or chlorinated water.
