Keratin hair straightening: Discover a new dimension of straight hair!

Keratin hair straightening is a treatment that aims to smooth and tame unruly, frizzy or curly hair. It is a method that involves applying a special formula containing keratin - the protein that builds hair - to the hair and then fixing it with heat. In this article, I will try to answer the most frequently asked questions about this treatment.

History and origin of keratin hair straightening

Keratin hair straightening has its roots in Brazil, where it was invented by an employee of a funeral parlor who noticed that a substance used to embalm a corpse caused its hair to straighten. Inspired by this discovery, he created a formula containing keratin and other ingredients to smooth and condition the hair. The treatment quickly became popular with Brazilian women who wanted smooth and shiny hair despite the humid climate. In 2008, the treatment made its way to the UK under the name Brazilian Keratin Treatment and became a hit with women with different hair types.

However, keratin hair straightening is not only a modern invention, but also a continuation of a long tradition of hair straightening that dates back to ancient Egypt. There, flat iron plates were used to straighten unruly hair, which often ended in burns. In the 19th century, the first hot styling devices appeared, invented by French hairdresser Marcel Grateau, who curled hair around a heated rod with teeth. His method was the inspiration for Scottish aristocrat Lady Jennifer Bell Schofield, who invented the first straightening iron consisting of hinged metal plates attached to long tongs to avoid burning her hands. In the 20th century, chemical hair straightening methods were developed that involved altering the basic structure of the hair. This treatment, often referred to as 'relaxing', was very popular among African-Americans in the 1950s. However, chemical straightening often had harmful effects and risks, such as hair and scalp burns and hair breakage.

What is keratin hair straightening?

Keratin hair straightening is a treatment that aims to smooth and tame unruly, frizzy or curly hair. It is a method that involves applying a special formula containing keratin - the hair's building protein - to the hair and then fixing it with heat. The keratin penetrates the hair structure and fills in the gaps, making the hair smoother, shinier and more resistant to humidity. Keratin hair straightening does not permanently alter the structure of the hair, but merely surrounds it with a thin layer of keratin, which washes away over time.

Is keratin hair straightening safe?

Keratin hair straightening is a treatment that can be safe or unsafe depending on what keratin formula is used and how it is applied. Some keratin formulas contain formaldehyde - a carcinogen and irritant to the skin, eyes and respiratory tract. Formaldehyde is added to keratin to make it last longer and more effective, but it also poses a health risk to both the client and the hairdresser. Therefore, avoid keratin formulas with formaldehyde or its derivatives (e.g. formaldehyde, methanol or ethanol) and choose those that are free of this substance or have a small amount (less than 0.2%). In addition, follow the manufacturer's recommendations on how long the formula should be kept on the hair, the temperature of the straightener and the frequency of treatment.

How does keratin hair straightening work?

Keratin hair straightening takes place in several steps:

• The first step is to wash the hair thoroughly with a cleansing shampoo to remove all impurities and cosmetic residues. The hair is then towel-dried or blow-dried.
• The second step is to divide the hair into strands and apply the keratin formula to them using a brush or comb. The formula should be evenly distributed throughout the length of the hair, but should not be applied to the scalp. The hair is then dried again with a hairdryer.
• The third step is to fix the keratin using a high-temperature straightener (about 230 degrees Celsius). Each strand of hair is pulled through the straightener several times until the desired smoothing effect is achieved. The hair straightener should be clean and dry so as not to damage the keratin layer.
• The fourth step is to complete the treatment and care for the hair. After straightening your hair, you should wait at least 72 hours before shampooing to allow the keratin to set. During this time, do not use any hair styling products, clips, elastics or hair bands. You should also avoid humidity, sweat and rain. After 72 hours, you can wash your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo and apply a conditioner or moisturising mask. To prolong the effect of keratin hair straightening, special keratin hair care products should be used and frequent washing, drying and straightening should be avoided.

How long does keratin hair straightening last?

The effect of keratin hair straightening can last from 2 to 6 months, depending on the type and condition of the hair, the keratin formula used, the application method and hair care. Typically, the effect is most visible immediately after treatment and then gradually diminishes. The hair growing after the treatment will not have a keratin layer and will therefore differ from the rest of the hair in terms of texture and appearance. To maintain a uniform effect, the treatment can be repeated every few months or only on roots.

How much does keratin hair straightening cost?

Keratin hair straightening is a treatment that comes with a price tag that depends on a number of factors. One of these is the length and thickness of the hair, which affect the amount of keratin formula used and the duration of the treatment. The longer and thicker the hair, the higher the price. Another factor is the type of keratin formula, which can be more expensive or cheaper depending on its composition and quality. Another factor is the hair salon where the treatment is performed. Different salons may have different price lists and promotional offers. The final factor is the region in which the salon is located. Prices can vary depending on the standard of living and competition in the market.

On average, the price of keratin hair straightening ranges from 250 to 500 zloty. For example, for a treatment on short, shoulder-length hair, you can pay around 250-300 zloty, and for a treatment on medium-length hair, around 300 zloty. However, the price can be higher or lower depending on individual conditions and the client's preferences.

Keratin hair straightening is an investment that can pay off if you want to save time and money on daily hair styling. The treatment leaves hair smooth and shiny for several months, eliminating the need to use a hairdryer, straightener or curling iron. In addition, the treatment improves the condition and appearance of the hair, which boosts self-esteem and confidence.

Advantages and disadvantages of keratin hair straightening

Keratin hair straightening has many advantages, but also a few disadvantages that should be taken into account before deciding on this treatment. Here are some of them:

Advantages

• Keratin hair straightening makes your hair smooth, shiny and manageable. You no longer need to use a hairdryer, straightener or curling iron to get the desired hairstyle. All you need to do is wash your hair and dry it with a towel or cold dryer.
• Keratin hair straightening improves the condition and appearance of the hair. Keratin nourishes and moisturises the hair, prevents breakage and split ends. Hair becomes stronger, healthier and more flexible.
• Keratin hair straightening protects the hair from harmful external factors. The keratin layer forms a protective barrier on the surface of the hair, which prevents moisture and colour loss as well as damage caused by UV radiation, air pollution or heat.
• Keratin hair straightening is versatile and suitable for different hair types. It can be used on natural or coloured hair, thin or thick, wavy or curly. The effect is tailored to the client's individual needs and preferences.

Disadvantages

• Keratin hair straightening is an expensive and time-consuming treatment. The treatment can take between 2 and 4 hours, depending on the length and thickness of the hair. The price of the treatment can be high, especially if it is performed at a reputable hair salon or an expensive keratin formula is used.
• Keratin hair straightening is a non-permanent treatment and requires repetition. The effect of the treatment gradually disappears with washing and hair growth. To maintain the effect, the treatment should be repeated every 2 to 6 months or more frequently on roots.
• Keratin hair straightening is a potentially hazardous treatment. Some keratin formulas contain formaldehyde or derivatives of formaldehyde, which can cause skin, eye and respiratory irritation and be carcinogenic. Therefore, it is important to check the composition of the formula before treatment and choose those without or with low levels of formaldehyde.
• Keratin hair straightening is a treatment that requires special aftercare. After treatment, avoid washing your hair for at least 72 hours to allow the keratin to set. You should also avoid humidity, sweat and rain, which can wash away the keratin. After washing your hair, use a sulfate-free shampoo and a moisturising conditioner or mask. Frequent washing, blow-drying and straightening of the hair should also be avoided so as not to damage the keratin layer.

Check also: Ranking of the Best Hair Straighteners

Summary

Keratin hair straightening is a treatment that aims to smooth and tame unruly, frizzy or curly hair. It involves applying a special formula containing keratin to the hair and fixing it with heat. The effect of the treatment can last from two to six months, but requires proper care and repetition. Keratin hair straightening can be safe or unsafe depending on what keratin formula is used and how it is applied. Formulas with formaldehyde or formaldehyde derivatives should be avoided and those with little or no formaldehyde should be chosen. The price of the treatment depends on many factors, such as the length and thickness of the hair, the keratin formula used, the hair salon and the region.