Brazilian keratin is a popular hair treatment that promises smooth, shiny, and more manageable hair. After a keratin treatment, many wonder if it is safe to continue using heat styling tools on the hair, such as flat irons, curling irons, and hair dryers. In this article, we will explore how heat styling affects the hair after a keratin treatment, what are the best practices for maintaining hair health, and how you can achieve the best results.
How Does Brazilian Keratin Work?
Brazilian keratin is a treatment that involves applying a keratin solution to the hair. Keratin, a natural protein, fills gaps in the hair cuticle, helping to repair damaged hair and give it a smooth, shiny appearance. The treatment includes drying the hair with a blow dryer and sealing the keratin using high temperatures, ensuring long-lasting results.
Using Heat Tools After Keratin Treatment
After a keratin treatment, the hair is already exposed to high temperatures, so it is important to properly care for and protect it from further damage. Here are some key points to consider:
- Time Limit: It is recommended to avoid using heat tools for at least the first week after a keratin treatment. This allows the keratin to fully seal and function optimally.
- Heat Protection: Always use heat protection before using heat tools. Heat protection helps reduce damage that high temperatures can cause and maintains hair health.
Source: Cosmopolitan – Best Heat Protectant Sprays
- Low Temperatures: When using flat irons or curling irons, choose lower temperatures. High temperatures can damage the hair and reduce the effects of the keratin treatment.
- Regular Care: Make sure to regularly care for your hair with moisturizing conditioners and masks. This helps keep the hair soft, smooth, and healthy.
Benefits of Heat Styling After Keratin Treatment
- Increased Manageability: After a keratin treatment, the hair is more manageable, meaning you can achieve desired hairstyles with less effort and in less time.
- Longer Lasting Styles: Keratin treatment helps prolong the longevity of hairstyles by keeping the hair smooth and free from frizz.
- Shine and Smoothness: Heat styling can further enhance the shine and smoothness achieved with a keratin treatment.
Risks of Heat Styling After Keratin Treatment
- Hair Damage: Frequent use of high temperatures can damage the hair, even after a keratin treatment. Hair can become dry, brittle, and lackluster.
- Keratin Loss: Excessive use of heat tools can accelerate the loss of keratin from the hair, meaning the effects of the treatment may not last as long as they could.
- Scalp Irritation: Using high temperatures can irritate the scalp, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Tips for Safe Heat Styling After Keratin Treatment
- Use Quality Heat Tools: Choose heat tools with adjustable temperatures and technology for even heat distribution. This helps reduce the risk of hair damage.
- Avoid Overheating the Hair: Use low to medium temperatures when styling the hair. Avoid using the highest temperature settings.
- Regular Hair Care: Use moisturizing shampoos, conditioners, and hair masks to maintain hair health and shine. Regular trimming of split ends is also recommended to prevent breakage.
Source: Self – Best Hair Masks for Healthy Hair
- Avoid Excessive Use: Limit the use of heat tools to a maximum of three times a week. Give your hair time to rest and regenerate between styling sessions.
Image 3: User Experiences with Keratin Treatment
Alternative Hair Styling Methods
If you want to reduce the use of heat tools, consider alternative hair styling methods:
- Natural Air Drying: Let your hair air dry instead of using a hair dryer. To add volume, use mousse or foam and let your hair dry naturally.
- Heatless Curls: Use heatless curling methods such as braiding, rollers, or curling pads. These methods create curls without using heat.
- Sleeping with Hair Tied Up: Wrap your hair in a soft fabric or use a silk scarf at night to maintain smoothness and hair shape without using heat.
Source: Allure – Heat-Free Hair Styling Tips
Conclusion
Heat styling the hair after a keratin treatment is possible but requires special care and proper maintenance to prevent hair damage. Use heat protection, avoid high temperatures, and regularly care for your hair with moisturizing products. By following these tips, you can enjoy smooth, shiny, and healthy hair even after heat styling.
Sources
- Cosmopolitan – Best Heat Protectant Sprays
- Healthline – How Often Should You Wash Your Hair?
- Shape – How to Protect Your Hair from Chlorine and Salt Water
- Self – Best Hair Masks for Healthy Hair
- Allure – Heat-Free Hair Styling Tips
- WebMD – The Importance of Regular Haircuts
