This guide on keratin treatments will help you to navigate and assess the many benefits of keratin to one's overall hair health. It will also help you to choose the best salon to get the procedure done professionally in DC, without compromising your health.
What Is a Keratin Treatment?
A keratin treatment is a hair procedure where keratin, which is a natural protein found in the hair, skin, and nails, is infused in the hair and reduces frizz, enhances shine, and repairs damaged strands. It is suitable for various hair textures and needs, such as curly or color treated hair. Keep in mind that it is a chemical procedure that can help make hair look straighter for up to 6 months, but many have complained about keratin treatments including many potentially toxic ingredients. This is why many hair brands and salons are using keratin only haircare products in order to get the same benefits as an overall keratin treatment, without the chemicals. When hydrolyzed collagen proteins are applied to the hair to fix damaged areas, this can help to increase the strength of the hair follicle, which according to Hadley King, a dermatologist, should be distinguished from keratin treatments that may contain harsh chemicals and substances.
Benefits of Getting a Keratin Treatment
Smoother, Frizz-Free Hair
Keratin combats frizz in humid climates like DC. The protein creates a humidity resistant barrier around the hair. After keratin solution is applied to the hair, heat is used to seal everything in. This is where the keratin is locked in and helps to resist the effects of humidity.
Long-Lasting Results
With the proper care, keratin treatments can last anywhere from 3 to 6 months. Many customers have mentioned that you must use sulfate free shampoos and conditioners after your treatment as the sulfates can strip your hair of the keratin. Additionally, don’t tie up your hair frequently as it can break the keratin bonds that have just been formed. When you sleep make sure to protect your hair by investing in a silk pillowcase to prevent hair damage. Also, make sure to avoid chlorine and saltwater. Those customers who may not have reported the best keratin treatment results may have not been following the longevity tips which are essential for positive, longer term results.
Improved Manageability
Keratin treatments can improve manageability of the hair as it will be straight eliminating the need to blow dry or flat iron your hair. Keratin also helps hair to dry faster. Since hair will be less frizzy and require less styling time, it will overall decrease the amount of time you spend on hair when you wake up in the morning making it ideal for those with a busy schedule.
Hair Health Benefits
Keratin treatments have a variety of hair health benefits which make it appealing to a variety of customers. It doesn’t repair hair, but rather protects it. This is an important distinction because repairing means that a problem is temporarily solved while protecting hair means there is a long term, sustainable solution that looks at the root problem to resolve hair damage indefinitely. Keratin has been proven to help strengthen hair that has been previously damaged by either chemical treatments or mechanically. Keratin helps strengthen hair strands by 40%. This is because it fills protein gaps and replenishes lost keratin. It also adds shine and reduces split ends.
What to Expect During a Keratin Treatment
The Consultation
It is essential to discuss your hair type and goals with your stylist before receiving your keratin treatment. This ensures that your stylist is on the same page as you and can implement this treatment in a way that is aligned with your overall hair goals. Make sure to not skip this consultation as this established communication helps the customer to feel comfortable in the hands of their stylist, and prevent negative outcomes or customer dissatisfaction.
The Process
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Step-by-step breakdown:
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Hair cleansing.
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Application of keratin solution.
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Blow-drying and heat sealing with a flat iron.
The first step in the treatment is to have your hair cleansed with a clarifying shampoo that will remove any buildup, oil, and impurities. This will help so that the keratin can really penetrate the hair effectively. Then the keratin solution will be applied. Hair should be left damp but not soaking wet. The second step is the actual application of the keratin solution, where hair is sectioned off and the keratin is applied from root to tip using a brush to make sure the strand is fully covered. The stylist will then comb through it to make sure the product is distributed evenly. The product should then sit for 20-60 minutes depending on hair type. The last step is to blow dry hair with the product in it and then flat iron to seal everything in.
Post-Treatment Care
Post treatment care in some ways is just as important as the treatment itself because if not maintained in the most effective way can worsen results. Make sure to follow the following tips:
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Avoid washing hair immediately after treatment and wait at least 24-72 hours.
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Avoid Tying up Hair
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Limit Hair Washing
Top Salon for Keratin Treatments in Washington DC
Navy Hair Co. is an ideal choice for your next keratin treatment as they excel in quality consultations with stylists to cater this experience to the specific needs and hair goals of the client. There is a lot of conflicting information on keratin treatments where many claim it is toxic and could be cancer causing. Navy Hair Co. has highly skilled stylists and premium keratin treatments, including various high quality keratin brands. These include Brazilian Blowout and Keratin Complex which are staple products used by top salons in the DC area for the best results.