A perfect smooth with keratin straightening
Keratin straightening is one of the most popular options for smooth, manageable hair, especially if you want to reduce frizz and unruliness. This treatment offers a temporary solution, but it allows you to have smooth, silky hair .
How Keratin Straightening Works
Keratin straightening works by penetrating the hair structure to restore and strengthen the natural keratin present. This process involves several key steps. It begins with cleansing the hair to remove any buildup of dirt, oil, and styling products. Next, a solution containing keratin is applied evenly throughout the hair , usually strand by strand, using a brush or comb. The solution may also contain other ingredients such as silicones or essential oils to improve the shine and manageability of the hair.
After application
After application, the entire hair is sealed and wrapped in plastic or foil to allow the keratin to penetrate further into the hair structure. The hair is heated with a dryer or straightener at controlled temperatures , usually between 200°C and 230°C. This is because the heat helps activate the keratin and fix it into the hair structure.
After heating, the hair is left to cool for a short time before being washed with a gentle sulfate-free shampoo. This step helps remove any product residue and further seal the keratin into the hair. Finally, once washed, the hair is dried and if necessary, can be further straightened with a straightener . The end result is smooth, silky and manageable hair, which can last for several weeks depending on its type and the post-treatment care that is put in place.
Benefits of Keratin Straightening for Hair Health
Keratin straightening offers a series of benefits for the health and appearance of hair. These benefits include first of all the reduction of the anti-frizz effect. In fact, keratin penetrates the hair structure, restoring damaged areas and making the surface of the hair smoother and more uniform. This significantly reduces the frizz effect, making the entire hair more manageable and easier to comb.
Unlike other more aggressive straightening treatments, keratin straightening works with the hair’s natural structure , rather than permanently altering it. This means that keratin-treated hair retains some elasticity and natural movement, while remaining smooth and silky. Keratin is also known for its hydrating and strengthening properties, which help improve the shine and brilliance of hair. After the straightening treatment, hair appears visibly healthier and shinier, with increased light reflection.
With its ability to make hair smoother and more manageable, keratin straightening can significantly reduce the time needed for daily styling . Hair requires less effort to be combed and straightened, allowing you to easily achieve more elaborate hairstyles or simply a natural and effortless style.
Keratin-treated hair tends to be more resistant to humidity, which means it retains its shape and smoothness even in high humidity. This is especially beneficial for those who live in humid climates or frequently face adverse weather conditions.
Keratin straightening can also help protect your hair from thermal damage caused by frequent use of hot styling tools like flat irons and hair dryers. Keratin forms a protective layer around your hair, reducing direct contact with heat and minimizing the risk of damage.
Practical considerations before undergoing keratin straightening
Before deciding to undergo keratin straightening, it is important to make some practical considerations to ensure you get the best possible results and minimize the risk of unwanted side effects.
First of all, it is essential to understand your hair type and specific needs before deciding if keratin straightening is the right treatment for you. This is because naturally curly or frizzy hair tends to get the best results, while hair that is already straight may not benefit much from keratin application.
Before proceeding with the straightening treatment, it is also right to consult a professional. In fact, a figure specialized in keratin straightening can evaluate the condition of your hair, advise you on the type of treatment best suited to your needs and guarantee a safe and effective application.
It is also important to pay attention to the safety of the products used during the treatment. Therefore, make sure that the products used are free of formaldehyde and other harmful ingredients, which can cause skin irritation and damage the hair. Opt for high-quality solutions approved by competent regulatory authorities.
Before proceeding with keratin straightening, it is also important to be aware of the potential risks and side effects associated with this treatment. They can include skin and scalp irritation, sensitivity, hair damage, and allergic reactions . Therefore, we recommend that you carefully evaluate these risks and discuss them with your stylist before making a decision.
Finally, to maintain the results of your keratin straightening over time, we suggest following a proper post-treatment maintenance plan. This may include using styling products specifically for keratin-treated hair, limiting exposure to heat and UV rays, and scheduling regular touch-ups to prolong its life. Again, we recommend speaking to your stylist for personalized advice on the best post-treatment hair care routine.
Duration and maintenance of keratin straightening
After completing the keratin straightening treatment, it is important to understand how long its effects will last and what are the best practices to maintain them over time. Obviously, the duration of the keratin straightening results can vary from person to person and depends on several factors , including the type of hair, the quality of the treatment and post-treatment care.
In general, results can last anywhere from four to six weeks to three to four months. It is also important to keep in mind that hair will naturally grow back with its own texture, so you should plan for periodic touch-ups to keep your hair smooth and manageable over time.
To maintain the results of keratin straightening over time, it is important to follow a proper hair maintenance routine. Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner that can remove keratin from the hair more quickly. Limit the use of hot styling tools . In fact, excessive use of hair dryers, straighteners and curling irons can damage keratin-treated hair. So try to limit exposure to heat and always use thermal protective products before styling.
Also avoid aggressive chemical treatments: such as perms, bleaching or aggressive coloring that can compromise the structure of the hair and reduce the duration of the straightening treatment. Then protect your hair during exposure to the sun and salt water that can damage the hair and cause the loss of keratin. You can do this by wearing hats or scarves and always rinsing your hair with fresh water after swimming in the sea, or thanks to the first SPF20 Spray specifically for hair!
Additionally, to keep your hair smooth and manageable over time, it is advisable to schedule regular touch-ups for your keratin straightening. You can schedule them every two to three months, depending on how fast your hair grows and how long the treatment lasts. Consult your stylist to determine the best time for touch-ups and to ensure that you keep your hair in the best condition possible.
Contraindications and possible risks of keratin straightening
Despite the many benefits, keratin straightening is not without risks and contraindications. It is important to be aware of these potential risks before deciding to undergo the treatment. For example, some people may experience skin irritation or sensitivity. This may manifest itself in the form of redness, itching, burning or swelling of the scalp or surrounding skin . It is important to do a skin sensitivity test before the treatment and consult a dermatologist in case of adverse reactions.
Some keratin straightening products contain formaldehyde, a chemical known to be potentially harmful to human health. Exposure to formaldehyde can cause irritation to the eyes, throat, and respiratory tract , as well as long-term health problems. So opt for keratin straightening products that are formaldehyde-free or have a low level of formaldehyde emissions.
If not done correctly, the keratin straightening treatment can damage your hair and compromise its health. Excessive use of heat during the sealing and heating process can cause hair breakage , loss of shine, and excessive dryness . It is important to carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions and rely on an experienced professional to avoid any damage.
Please note that even though keratin straightening is considered a temporary treatment, some long-term side effects can occur with prolonged use over time. These can include weakening of the hair structure, loss of elasticity, excessive dryness, and chemical sensitivity. Therefore, if you experience any unwanted side effects, it is important to carefully monitor your hair health and consult a professional.
A less invasive alternative to chemical straightening or Japanese straightening is professional drying performed by an expert hairdresser. This method uses professional drying and styling techniques to achieve smooth and silky hair without the use of chemicals or excessive heat.
Finally, there are numerous styling products available on the market that can help you achieve smooth, manageable hair without the use of chemical or heat treatments. These include smoothing creams, anti-frizz serums, and hydrating oils that can be applied to the hair to soften and tame curls. Although they offer temporary results, they can be a practical solution for those who want to avoid more invasive treatments.
