How often should you get a keratin treatment
Everything You Need to Know About Keratin Treatments for Curly Hair:
Benefits, Frequency, and Differences from Relaxers
We're diving deep into the world of keratin treatments—what they are, how often you should get them, and why they may be the game-changer your curly hair needs. If you're looking for ways to manage your curls more easily without sacrificing your natural texture, you’re in the right place.
Whether you're battling frizz or struggling with manageability, a keratin treatment can help you maintain healthier, shinier, and stronger hair. I'll also walk you through the specific products and tools I use, like the Smoothing Keratin Treatment by Cezanne, a favorite in my salon for its gentle, plant-based ingredients.
What is a Keratin Treatment?
Keratin is a natural protein found in our hair, skin, and nails. Over time, environmental stress, chemical treatments, and regular wear and tear deplete the keratin in our hair, leading to dry, brittle strands that are more prone to breakage. A keratin treatment replenishes this lost keratin by penetrating the hair shaft, restoring strength, elasticity, and shine. This treatment can help reduce frizz, improve manageability, and add a silky shine to your hair.
In the salon, I use the Cezanne Smoothing Keratin Treatment, which is 100% formaldehyde-free. I love it because it's gentle enough for curly hair but still effective in smoothing and taming frizz without damaging your natural curl pattern. The treatment infuses keratin into the hair to create a smoother, more manageable texture.
Keratin Treatment vs. Relaxer: What's the Difference?
It's essential to distinguish between a keratin treatment and a relaxer or texturizer, as they serve very different purposes.
Keratin Treatments are smoothing treatments, not straightening treatments. They coat the hair with keratin, filling in any gaps or holes, to create a smoother appearance without changing the internal structure of your curls. Over time (typically between 3-6 months, depending on the product), the treatment fades out and your curls return to their natural state.
Relaxers, on the other hand, permanently break down the bonds in your hair, altering the structure and making it straight. This process weakens the hair and may lead to breakage or thinning over time. Relaxers also require frequent touch-ups every 6-8 weeks to maintain the straightened look.
How Often Should You Get a Keratin Treatment?
The ideal frequency for keratin treatments depends on several factors, including your hair type, the product used, and your overall hair care routine. Here's what you should consider:
Product Longevity
Some keratin treatments, like the Cezanne Smoothing Keratin Treatment, last about 3-4 months, while others may last up to 6 months. It’s important to wait until the effects of the previous treatment have fully worn off before getting a new one. You’ll usually feel a noticeable difference in your hair when the keratin has faded.
Hair Type and Texture
If you have fine or thin hair, like my client in the video, it’s crucial to wait a bit longer between treatments to avoid protein overload, which can lead to loss of curl definition or even damage. For finer hair, waiting 4-6 months between treatments is recommended. On the other hand, if you have thicker or coarser hair, you may benefit from treatments every 3-4 months, depending on how well your hair holds onto the keratin.
Post-Treatment Hair Care Routine
Your aftercare plays a significant role in how long your keratin treatment lasts. By using sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners, and avoiding frequent washing, you can prolong the life of your treatment. Overwashing strips the keratin from your hair more quickly, so reducing shampoo sessions to once a week will extend your treatment's longevity.
Real Client Results
In the video, I shared the journey of a returning client. She is receiving her third keratin treatment. After her second treatment, she noticed that one side of her hair had looser curls that didn't bounce back as quickly as the other. By spacing out her treatments and giving the keratin time to fully fade, she regained her curl pattern on both sides, confirming that 4 months is the ideal time for her to wait between treatments.
Final Thoughts: Is a Keratin Treatment Right for You?
If you're struggling with frizz, long styling sessions, or considering a relaxer, a keratin treatment could be a fantastic alternative. It offers a smooth, more manageable texture without permanently altering your natural curls. Plus, when done correctly, keratin treatments are safe and effective at keeping your curls intact while adding a healthy shine and strength.
Just remember, the key to success with a keratin treatment is knowing how often to schedule them based on your hair type and how well you care for your hair post-treatment.
For more tips on maintaining your keratin-treated hair, make sure to check out my upcoming video on YouTube!