Keratin-infused treatments are becoming increasingly popular among people looking for manageable, lustrous, and smooth hair. The keratin hair treatment turns your frizzy locks into manageable strands, promising better styling. Salon-based treatments have dominated the hair care industry for a long time, but at-home keratin is nevertheless giving tough competition. What to choose and what not, it’s tough, isn’t it?
The advantages and disadvantages of at-home versus salon keratin treatments must be considered. The article delves into the subtleties of both options, covering everything from application, costs and long-term outcomes.
What is Keratin
Keratin, a naturally occurring protein found in hair, skin, and nails, plays a crucial role in maintaining the strength and health of hair. Nevertheless, prolonged exposure to heat styling, chemical treatments, or environmental elements deplete the natural keratin creating gaps on hair strands. Inability to lock moisture, it leads to dryness and frizz making hair susceptible to breakage. Keratin treatments are specifically formulated to address the damage by fortifying hair with much needed protein.
What are at-home keratin hair treatments – their applications and precautions?
These are treatment kits sold online or in-stores that include a clarifying shampoo, conditioner, and a keratin treatment solution. While the process is straightforward, it is important to read the instruction leaflet before using it. The popularity of at-home keratin treatments has increased due to its convenience and affordability. Consumers can purchase kits and apply the products at the comfort of home with booking a salon appointment.
Application process:
To achieve optimal results, it is crucial to follow the step-by-step process while using at-home keratin hair treatment, which typically comes with application instructions. Every step, from hair cleansing and drying to applying the keratin solution and heat sealing with a flat iron, should be meticulously followed by the user.
How is it done?
- Divide your hair into sections.
- Make sure every strand is saturated with the keratin treatment solution by applying it thoroughly.
- Now, let your hair air dry.
- Seal the treatment with a flat iron.
- Remember that the entire process can take up to three hours, and is slightly time-consuming. Finish by blow-drying your hair.
Precautions
Conducting a patch test to check for any allergic reactions or adverse effects is a necessary precaution for successful at-home keratin treatments. If the treatment is overused, it can cause damage to the hair; therefore always sticks to the instructions. Here are some precautions that must be taken:
1. Sensitivities/Allergies: Some people are allergic or sensitive to ingredients used in keratin treatments. A patch test should be done before you use it for the whole hair.
2. Protection of Eyes and Skin: Be careful during application. Be cautious and make sure the solution does not come in contact with eyes or skin. Rinse immediately if required.
3. Follow Instructions: Read the instructions in the kit to avoid undesirable results or damage to hair.
4. Professional Consultation: It is advisable to talk to a professional stylist or dermatologist before applying any treatment if you have an underlying hair or scalp condition(s). Consult to make sure the hair keratin treatment is suitable for your hair type.
What is Salon Keratin Hair Treatment – Its Process, Aftercare, Hidden Costs?
The purpose of salon keratin hair treatment, also known as Brazilian keratin treatment, is to enhance and change the texture of the hair to leave it frizz-free, straight, and smooth. Get glossy, healthier, and shinier hair as the infused keratin replenishes the gaps and smoothens the hair cuticles.
Process
A salon keratin treatment involves a professional stylist applying a keratin formula to the hair. The process is carefully executed to ensure an even distribution and maximum effectiveness. Specialized tools and the stylist’s expertise contribute to achieving superior results.
1. Consultation: Typically, the procedure kicks off with a consultation with a professional stylist. During this phase, you discuss your hair type, expectations, and any concerns you may have.
2. Preparation: To ready your hair for the keratin treatment, it undergoes a cleansing process using a clarifying shampoo. This step eliminates impurities, removes product buildup, and opens the cuticles for better absorption of the treatment.
3. Application: The stylist ensures even coverage by applying the keratin treatment solution to your hair. This solution typically consists of a combination of keratin along with infused oil or botanical extracts.
4. Processing Time: Following application, your hair goes through a processing phase to allow the solution to penetrate the hair shaft. It is allowed to sit for around 30 minutes for the product to settle and penetrate well into the cuticles.
5. Blow Dry and Flat Iron: After blow-drying your hair, the stylist uses a flat iron to seal the keratin into the cuticle. This crucial step is instrumental in achieving the desired straight, smooth, and frizz-free hair.
Aftercare
Post-treatment care is a crucial aspect for salon keratin hair treatments. Stylists often recommend specific shampoos, conditioners, and styling products to maintain the treatment’s effects. Following these guidelines is essential for long-lasting results:
- Avoid washing: To give the treatment time to set, it is advised that you refrain from washing your hair for a specified amount of time, typically up to 72 hours.
- Sulfate-free products: To extend the treatment’s duration, use shampoos and conditioners without sulfites. Use products formulated for keratin-treated hair.
- Regular touch-ups: Salon keratin treatments is a temporary smoothening treatment that lasts for 3 to 5, depending on aftercare. Touch-ups may be necessary to keep the results in place.
- Use hair mask weekly – To keep the strands nourished and deeply moisturized, make sure to use a deep conditioning hair mask to keep hair healthy.
- Gentle styling: Take care not to overheat style, as this may shorten the treatment’s duration. Use a heat protectant spray before using heat styling tools.
What are the hidden-costs to consider?
Apart from the initial cost of the keratin treatment, customers must be prepared for any additional expenses. This includes salon touch-ups or buying the suggested aftercare products. Comprehending these supplementary expenditures is imperative for a precise cost comparison.
- Product Upgrades: Certain salons might provide high-end keratin treatment formulas, and cost of treatment might vary depending on brand used.
- Products for Aftercare: Shampoos and conditioners without sulfates suggested for aftercare may raise the expense.
- Maintenance Sessions: Frequent touch-ups may be required; the expense endured during the visits should be taken into account.
- Stylist Expertise: The total cost may vary depending on the stylist’s background and expertise. Highly skilled professionals may charge higher fees.
Factors to Consider while opting for a keratin treatment
While the outcome of at-home and in-salon keratin treatment vary, it is important to take into consideration various factors that influence the decision.
- Upfront cost
- Hidden expenses (e.g., aftercare products)
- Frequency of touch-ups
- Longevity of results
Longevity, Results, and Maintenance:
The decision is based on understanding or knowing how long the effectiveness of the treatment lasts. Salon treatments typically yield longer-lasting results, whereas at-home treatments might last for shorter duration. For people who lead busy lives, maintenance efforts must be taken into consideration.
Decision Factors / Personal Preferences
Choosing between at-home and salon keratin treatments ultimately boils down to personal preferences and lifestyle. Factors such as budget, time constraints, and the desired level of expertise play a significant role in making an informed decision.
Personalization:
At-home treatments provide a DIY approach, allowing individuals to personalize their experience. Salon treatments, on the other hand, offer a professional touch with customized solutions.
Conclusion
The decision between at-home and salon keratin treatments is subjective in the ever-changing world of hair care. Being aware of the subtle differences between each option—from its applications to its costs and long-term effects—enables people to make decisions based on their preferences and requirements.
FAQs
1. Is it OK to do keratin treatment at home?
Yes, you can definitely try doing keratin at home.
2. What is a recommended professional keratin treatment?
We recommend trying the salon-grade professional keratin hair treatment by Moehair, known as the Hair Repair System.
3. Is a salon keratin treatment worth it?
Yes, salon keratin treatment is absolutely worth it.
4. How long does salon keratin treatment last?
The salon keratin treatment usually lasts for 3 to 5 months depending on the aftercare.
5. What is the process of keratin treatment at a salon?
Hair Stylists wash hair using a clarifying shampoo. They evenly apply the keratin treatment to sectioned hair, allowing it to set for 20 to 30 minutes, initiating the absorption process. This is followed by heat sealing using a flat iron.
