Here's The Truth About Keratin Treatments
The Truth About Keratin Treatments:
Benefits, Misconceptions, and Hair Growth
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If you’ve been considering a keratin treatment for curly hair, you’ve likely heard conflicting information. Some say it straightens curls permanently, while others swear by its ability to make hair healthier. In this blog post, we’ll walk through the keratin treatment process, debunk common myths, and highlight the results of a returning client celebrating her one-year keratin journey.
What Is a Keratin Treatment?
A keratin treatment is a semi-permanent smoothing treatment that helps reduce frizz, enhance shine, and make hair more manageable. Unlike relaxers, which chemically alter the curl pattern, a keratin treatment works by infusing keratin protein (a natural component of hair, skin, and nails) into the cuticle. This smooths the hair, making it easier to detangle and style while keeping the natural texture intact.
For curly hair, this means softer, more defined curls without losing volume. Think of it like the effect of a deep conditioner—your curls are more moisturized, pliable, and easier to style.
One Year of Keratin: My Client’s Journey
This session marks my client’s third keratin treatment in a year, meaning she’s only had two previous treatments. Looking back at her hair’s progress, it’s evident that her curls are still intact but noticeably smoother and healthier. Fine-haired clients, like hers, benefit greatly from keratin because it strengthens strands and reduces breakage, helping them retain length over time.
Virgin hair one year ago
For this treatment, I used my go-to product, Cezanne Keratin Treatment, a plant-based formula that delivers results without harsh chemicals. This is crucial for clients who want to keep their curls healthy while enjoying the benefits of smoother, frizz-free hair.
Hair before third keratin treatment
Debunking Common Keratin Treatment Myths
1. “Keratin Treatments Make Curly Hair Straight”
This is one of the biggest misconceptions. While some treatments can loosen the curl pattern slightly, a properly applied keratin treatment does not permanently straighten hair. Instead, it strengthens the cuticle, locking in moisture and preventing frizz, which enhances the natural curl definition.
The key is choosing the right formula—formaldehyde-free keratin treatments ensure curls remain healthy and intact.
2. “Keratin Treatments Are the Same as Chemical Relaxers”
Keratin treatments and relaxers are not the same. Here’s the difference:
Relaxers break down the protein bonds in hair to permanently alter the texture.
Keratin treatments replenish the hair with protein, making it stronger and healthier over time.
While relaxed hair becomes weaker and thinner, keratin-treated hair remains strong and retains its natural curl after the treatment wears off.
Curls after keratin treatment
3. “You Can’t Wear Your Hair Curly After a Keratin Treatment”
Many people believe that once you get a keratin treatment, you can no longer style your hair curly. That’s simply not true! While the treatment process involves blow-drying and flat-ironing to seal in the keratin, once you wash your hair, your curls return—just with less frizz and more definition.
Some of my clients have even found that their wash-and-go styles last longer after a keratin treatment because their curls are more manageable and frizz-free.
Keratin Treatment Aftercare & Maintenance
Even though keratin treatments make hair easier to manage, they still require proper maintenance to maximize results. Here are a few tips:
Use sulfate-free shampoos to prevent stripping the keratin.
Deep condition regularly to keep hair hydrated.
Stretch out treatments (especially for fine hair) to avoid buildup.
Schedule regular trims to prevent split ends and breakage.
Final Results: One Year of Healthy Hair Growth
After one year of keratin treatments, my client’s hair has seen significant growth and health improvements. Fine hair is prone to breakage, making it difficult to retain length. However, by strengthening her strands with keratin, she has successfully grown her hair while maintaining its integrity.
Hair one year ago
As we finished the session, her hair looked fuller, longer, and healthier, proving that keratin can be a game-changer for fine, curly hair. If you’re on the fence about trying a keratin treatment for natural hair, this might be your sign to give it a go!
Hair today!
Want to see the full process in action? Watch the video for an in-depth look at my client’s keratin treatment transformation. And if you have questions, drop them in the comments—I’d love to help you find the best hair care routine for your curls!