Everything you need to know about Keratin treatments before getting one!

13/05/2021

If you’re someone that struggles with naturally frizzy hair then you will have no doubt been told about keratin treatments aka ‘the Brazilian blowdry’. For many women with unruly locks, the secret to keeping their hair smooth, shiny and manageable is a keratin – it’s their ‘miracle treatment’ that allows them to wear and style their hair in ways they couldn’t’ve imagined possible before it. With many different variations available and so much information out there to trawl through it can feel a little overwhelming when you’re looking to read up on the keratin treatment for you. Franck Provost Manly explains everything you need to know about keratin treatments before getting one as well as answering some of the most popular questions we get asked at our hair salon.

#1 What is a keratin treatment and how does it work?

It’s a semi-permanent treatment/service for your hair that smooths frizz, promotes intense shine, loosens curls, reduces volume and improves manageability by enveloping the hair shaft with protein and sealing the cuticle flat.

Why protein? Proteins are the building blocks of your hair, essentially this is what your hair is made of.

What’s the cuticle? When looking at a strand of hair under a microscope you can see the ‘cuticle’ – it’s the most outer layer of the hair, the protective layer. The easiest comparison to make is to imagine the cuticle as tiles sitting on a roof, they all lay in the same direction overlapping each other to protect everything that’s underneath from the elements. Healthy, shiny and smooth hair has cuticles (or tiles) that do exactly that, however, frizzy, curly, unruly and unhealthy hair has cuticles (tiles) where some are missing, might not be lying flat or are cracked and broken.

When the keratin treatment is applied to hair that is unhealthy, frizzy and curly it seeks to fill in the gaps of the missing cuticles/tiles, repair the breaks and cracks and slam the cuticles shut resulting in smoother, shinier, straighter hair.

#2 What’s the process involved?

The process usually takes around 3 hours depending on hair type, length, thickness etc. Before the treatment can be applied the hair must be squeaky clean, to save time you can arrive at the salon with fresh hair or we can give your hair a wash at the salon for you. The keratin product is then carefully applied to dry hair until all of your hair has been covered. Then it’s time to grab some magazines and a coffee and relax for a little while to let the product work its way into your hair. The processing time is usually around 30 minutes but depends on your hair and the results you’re looking for. (Thick, frizzy, afro hair will need to process longer than fine, slightly wavy hair.)

After your processing time, we’ll give your hair a quick rinse at the basin to remove excess product before drying your hair. Whilst there is no need to use a brush whilst drying your hair, some stylists like to use a brush to help smooth the hair especially if you have lots of it! Once dry your stylist will work methodically, section by section around your hair passing the straightening irons over each panel of hair between 5 – 15 times to seal in the treatment (thicker, curlier hair will generally need more passes with the irons)

Voila, you’re done! You can either leave the salon with your beautifully new sleek and smooth hair or we can give you a shampoo and blowdry if you prefer to wear your hair with a little bit of body and movement.

#3 What’s the difference between a keratin and a chemical relaxer?

There is a big difference! The 2 products use completely different active ingredients that work on different parts of the hair structure. A chemical relaxer works from the inside out, changing the hair’s chemical composition, achieving a very straight result that is permanent and grows out but is ultimately more damaging. Keratin treatments work on the outer layers of the hair and are semi-permanent, gradually washing out of your hair over time.

#4 Is it safe?

Keratin treatments have been around for a number of years now. Originating in Brazil, the very first formulas contained a chemical called Formaldehyde which was released in small amounts during the treatment process. Formaldehyde is considered a carcinogen and is therefore not part of the formulas anymore after the keratin treatment formulations have had to undergo a complete overhaul for safety in recent years. The formulations that we use at Franck Provost are certified Formaldehyde free. During the treatment process, small amounts of vapour are released into the air, these vapours pose no issue for most individuals other than releasing a distinctive smell. Franck Provost recommends you seek advice from your GP before having a keratin treatment if you are worried, have breathing issues or if you are pregnant.

#5 Can I still get a keratin treatment if I colour my hair?

In almost all cases absolutely! Hair that is heavily coloured or bleached may require adjustments to be made to the treatment in order to maintain the hairs condition and integrity. On rare occasions we may not recommend the treatment if the hair is highly sensitised due to colouring/bleaching – this is why we offer a complimentary consultation beforehand.

It is handy to note that keratin treatments can alter your hair colour slightly during the process. Highlighted hair may need a toner to reinvigorate and brighten. Darker or more vibrant colours may require a refresh to restore depth and tone.

#6 How long does it last?

Your treatment will slowly wash out each time you shampoo your hair. Generally, it’ll last up to 6 months; however, results vary from head to head. Improve the longevity of your treatment by using a sulphate free shampoo and conditioner like our favourite Pureology range which is 100% sulphate free.

#7 How much does it cost?

Our treatment is usually priced between $300 – $400*. Price can depend on the length and thickness of your hair. To obtain an accurate quote you’ll need to visit the salon for a complimentary consultation with one of our stylists.

*Prices correct as of April 2021

#8 Are there any special care tips I should be doing after my keratin?

Typically, with many of the 1st generation keratin treatments, there were a few special requirements to bear in mind after your treatment. A little downtime was needed where-by you couldn’t wet your hair for a day or 2 afterwards in order for it to settle in. Colouring your hair was also a no-go for at least a week!

Today, with newer technologies and refined formulas now available at Franck Provost you can shampoo and condition (with a sulphate free product) immediately after your treatment and you also have the opportunity to colour your hair straight after if you like too!

At home, you will maintain your treatment with your sulphate free shampoo and conditioner and treat your hair weekly to a nourishing conditioning mask like the Pureology Hydrate Superfood Treatment.

For more information and advice on how our keratin treatment can work for your hair visit us in the salon for a complimentary consultation.