If you are like most people, you would love to keep your hair looking vibrant, healthy, and easily manageable. The truth, however, is that not everyone has the best genetics, and our hair may let us down from time to time. Luckily, a few hair treatment and maintenance hacks can enhance your hair’s natural beauty and shine. This article highlights some after-keratin treatment care tips you can incorporate into your hair care routine.
In Case You Are Not Sure What Keratin Treatment Is
Keratin treatment is a structural building block in humans’ skin, hair, and nails. As far as human hair is concerned, Keratin strengthens and protects the hair strands, ensuring they are elastic and in good overall health.
Due to the forces of wear and tear, human hair tends to dry up, becoming frizzy or curly. Individuals with such hair may opt for a keratin treatment where a keratin-based solution is used to straighten the hair to smoothen the hair and create a more manageable texture.
How effective a keratin treatment is varies per individual, depending on how well you pay attention to the after-treatment care routine. Over the years, it has been shown that keratin treatments effectively reduce frizz, improve hair texture, and strengthen and repair damaged hair. Some individuals may, however, be allergic to chemicals such as formaldehyde or related compounds found in keratin treatments. If you are considering what to do with keratin treatment, below are some post-keratin treatment care tips that will ensure long-lasting results.
8+ Tips You Need for Keratin Treatment Aftercare
Once you have decided to treat your hair with Keratin, you must adhere to a couple of restrictions to benefit from the treatment. Before and after keratin treatments are often provided by the product manufacturer. Still, you may not have the time to go through the instructions, especially when visiting a professional hair stylist. That said, our hair stylists at Ladyandthehair will equip you with all the after-treatment tips for convenience. Here’s what you should know:
- Wait Before Washing
- Use Sulphate-Free Shampoo and Conditioner
- Avoid Salt Water and Chlorine
- Minimise Heat Styling
- Prioritise Regular Touch-ups
- Use Silk Pillowcase
- No Hair Tying or Clips
- Use Keratin-Infused Products
1. Wait Before Washing
The first wash after keratin treatment should happen after three days. When bathing, always put on your shower cap. Washing your hair before this time has elapsed could strip your hair of the keratin treatment. This will shorten its longevity.
2. Use Sulphate-Free Shampoo and Conditioner
Once the three days have elapsed, you can shampoo your hair, but you should be cautious, and only use sulphate-free shampoo and conditioner. That said, the best shampoo after keratin treatment should also be free from sodium chloride or similar compounds, as these compounds will strip the Keratin from your hair. Any shampoo or conditioner labelled as Keratin Complex Care or Keratin Colour Care could be what you are just looking for.
Best After Keratin Treatment Nexxus Shampoo
Read more: Best Purple Shampoo for After Keratin Treatment and Sulphate-free Shampoo & Conditioner for Frizzy/Curly Hair.
3. Avoid Salt Water and Chlorine
Saltwater and chlorine are known to strip Keratin off your hair. When saltwater comes in contact with your hair, it causes the hair shaft to swell, which then leads to the opening of the hair cuticle. Once the hair cuticle is open, the keratin protein and all the other essential oils, nutrients, and moisture can leach out. This causes the hair to become brittle and prone to damage. On the other hand, chlorine is a disinfectant that will strip away the proteins and natural oils from the hair. Some people may also be allergic to higher chlorine concentrations, often found in freshly treated swimming pools.
4. Minimise Heat Styling
To maintain the longevity and effectiveness of the treatment, it’s best to minimise heat styling. Excessive heat can alter the structure of the hair cuticle, causing the hair to dry. This may result in the treatment wearing off more quickly. Where possible, you can avoid heat styling altogether to give your hair a break after the keratin treatment.
5. Prioritise Regular Touch-ups
After a keratin treatment, you should pursue touch-ups, preferably after three to four months, based on your individual needs. Typically, keratin treatment isn’t a once-in-a-lifetime solution; instead, it’s a service meant to boost your hair’s health and overall appearance. Over time, the treatment will wash out, hence the need for a touch-up. Additionally, the need for regular touch-ups will become evident as your hair grows. New growth will often affect the overall appearance of your hair, especially if you have had a treatment to straighten or smoothen the hair.
6. Use Silk Pillowcase
Silk pillowcases’ smooth and soft texture creates less friction against your treated hair. This helps prevent breakage, tangles, and split ends, often typical in fabrics like cotton. The silk material allows the hair to glide over the pillow without becoming flattened or creased. Another characteristic of silk is that it is less absorbent compared to cotton. This means that it can help the hair retain natural oils and moisture. If you have a sensitive scalp, a silk pillowcase will reduce the irritation and help promote your overall scalp health.
7. No Hair Tying or Clips
Newly treated hair should be untied for at least three days to ensure the Keratin has blended well with your hair. Tying your hair sooner can stress the hair shaft and newly treated keratin bonds. This tension can lead to premature loosening of the treatment and even breakage. Using clips or hair ties with metal clasps can also create friction, which can cause damage or even weaken the hair shaft. The other reason to avoid tying your hair immediately after a keratin treatment is the risk of flattening the hair, which comprises the smooth results achieved during the treatment. If you must tie your hair after the three days have elapsed, use silk hair bands or scrunchies made from soft fabric such as satin.
8. Use Keratin-Infused Products
To further enhance or maintain the benefits of a keratin treatment, you should consider using keratin-infused hair care products. These products will replenish the lost keratin protein, helping prolong the effects of the treatment.
How to Make Your Keratin Treatment Last Longer
Keep your treatment lasting longer with these key tips:
- Use sulfate-free shampoo: Harsh products reduce keratin longevity.
- Wash less often: Frequent washing speeds up keratin fading.
- Limit heat exposure: Minimize heat styling and protect hair from the sun.
- Avoid chlorine and saltwater: Use protection when swimming.
- Regular touch-ups: Maintain results with touch-ups every 3-4 months.
Keep Your Hair Strong, Stylish and Healthy
Unlock the secret to strong, healthy hair with our keratin treatment. Start your journey with expert care and learn the best after-treatment tips. Book your session now and consult with our experienced hairstylists for keratin treatment of your hair!
FAQ
1. When can I tie my hair after keratin treatment?
You should wait at least 72 hours (3 days) before tying your hair after a keratin treatment. Tying your hair too soon can create creases or kinks that may disrupt the smooth finish of the treatment. After the waiting period, use soft, fabric hair ties like silk scrunchies to prevent hair damage.
2. What are the dos and don’ts after keratin treatment?
Dos:
- Use sulfate-free shampoos to preserve the treatment.
- Wait 72 hours before washing your hair.
- Sleep on a silk pillowcase to reduce friction.
Don’ts:
- Avoid chlorine and saltwater, as they can strip the keratin.
- Don’t tie or pin your hair for the first 72 hours.
- Limit the use of heat styling tools to maintain the smooth texture.
3. Does hair grow faster after keratin?
Keratin treatment doesn’t directly make your hair grow faster. However, it helps your hair look healthier by reducing breakage and frizz, which can make hair growth appear more noticeable. The treatment strengthens your hair, making it less prone to damage, and allowing for longer, stronger hair over time.
4. What happens if I wash my hair too soon after keratin treatment?
Washing your hair too soon after a keratin treatment can strip the keratin from your hair, reducing the treatment’s effectiveness. It may cause your hair to revert to its previous texture, losing its smoothness and shine. Always wait at least 72 hours before washing your hair to allow the treatment to set properly.
5. What should I do to prepare my hair before a keratin treatment?
- Deep Condition: Use a hydrating mask a week before to moisturize and strengthen your hair.
- Clarifying Shampoo: Wash your hair 1-2 days before the treatment to remove buildup and ensure better absorption.
- Avoid Chemical Treatments: Do not colour, bleach, or chemically treat your hair the week before to avoid weakening it.
- Trim Split Ends: A trim ensures the keratin is applied to the healthiest parts of your hair for the best results.
You can read more detailed information about what to do before a keratin treatment.
