Brazilian hair treatment is a popular method for smoothing and straightening hair, giving it a silky, shiny, and manageable look. The treatment is known for its ability to eliminate frizz and make hair appear straight, glossy, and healthy. Unlike traditional hair straightening methods, a Brazilian treatment doesn’t rely on harsh chemicals that damage the hair shaft. Instead, it uses natural ingredients like keratin to restore smoothness and shine.
In this guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of doing a Brazilian hair treatment at home or in a salon. We’ll also cover the benefits, precautions, and aftercare tips to ensure the best results.
What Are the Benefits of Brazilian Hair Treatment?
Before diving into the steps, it’s important to understand why you might want to try a Brazilian hair treatment. Here are the key benefits:
Frizz Control: Brazilian treatments are excellent for controlling frizz, especially in humid weather, keeping your hair smooth and manageable.
Sleek and Shiny Hair: The treatment leaves hair shiny, smooth, and healthy-looking by sealing the cuticle and locking in moisture.
Time-Saving: Once the treatment is done, it drastically reduces the time you spend styling your hair every day.
Long-lasting Effects: The results of a Brazilian hair treatment can last up to three to five months with proper care.
Healthier Hair: The keratin used in the treatment strengthens hair and helps prevent breakage, leaving it less prone to damage.
Now that you know the benefits, let’s get into the details of how to perform the treatment.
What You Need for a Brazilian Hair Treatment
To start the Brazilian hair treatment process, you’ll need the right products and tools. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
Products:
Clarifying Shampoo: This removes any buildup from hair products or oils, allowing the treatment to penetrate the hair better.
Brazilian Keratin Treatment Solution: This is the main product. Look for a high-quality formula that contains keratin and natural ingredients.
Leave-in Conditioner: This will help protect your hair after the treatment is applied.
Smoothing Serum (optional): Some treatments include a smoothing serum for added shine and control.
Tools:
Wide-Tooth Comb: For detangling hair before the treatment.
Blow Dryer: To dry the hair after applying the treatment.
Flat Iron: To seal the treatment into the hair by applying heat.
Gloves and a Comb: To apply the treatment evenly and avoid direct contact with your skin.
Step-by-Step Guide to Doing a Brazilian Hair Treatment
Now that you have all your supplies, let’s go through the process of doing a Brazilian hair treatment.
Step 1: Wash Your Hair with Clarifying Shampoo
Start by washing your hair thoroughly with a clarifying shampoo. This step is crucial because it removes any oils, styling products, or dirt from your hair and scalp. This will ensure the treatment can properly penetrate the hair.
How to do it: Apply the clarifying shampoo to wet hair, lather it, and rinse thoroughly. Repeat the process if needed, especially if you have a lot of product buildup.
After rinsing out the shampoo, don’t apply any conditioner. You want your hair to remain free from any moisturizing products, as they can interfere with the treatment.
Step 2: Dry Your Hair
Once your hair is clean, gently towel dry it to remove excess water. You want your hair to be damp but not soaking wet.
How to do it: Use a soft towel to blot the excess water from your hair. You can also use a blow dryer to dry your hair until it’s about 80% dry, leaving it slightly damp for easier application of the treatment.
Step 3: Apply the Brazilian Keratin Treatment
Now it’s time to apply the keratin treatment. This is where the magic happens, so take your time to ensure an even application. If you’re using a professional-grade treatment, follow the instructions on the product packaging carefully.
How to do it:Wear gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with the chemicals.
Section your hair into manageable parts, using clips to divide it into 4 or 6 sections.
Using a comb or brush, apply the Brazilian keratin treatment to each section of your hair, starting from the roots and working your way to the ends.
Make sure to apply the treatment evenly to every strand. You can use your fingers to work it through if needed.
Avoid getting the treatment on your scalp. Apply it only to the hair shaft.
Step 4: Let the Treatment Sit
Once the treatment is evenly applied to your hair, you need to let it sit for a specified amount of time. This allows the ingredients to penetrate the hair and work their magic.
How to do it: Let the treatment sit for about 20-30 minutes, depending on the brand of the keratin solution. You can cover your hair with a plastic cap to keep the treatment from drying out during this waiting period.
Step 5: Blow Dry Your Hair
After the waiting time has passed, blow dry your hair using a blow dryer. This step helps to set the keratin treatment into your hair and prepare it for the flat iron.
How to do it:Use a round brush to pull your hair taut as you blow dry it.
Blow dry in sections to ensure even drying. It’s important to dry your hair completely, as damp hair can cause the treatment to not work properly.
Step 6: Flat Iron Your Hair
This step is the most crucial part of the Brazilian hair treatment. The heat from the flat iron helps to seal the keratin treatment into the hair cuticle, making it smooth, shiny, and long-lasting.
How to do it:Set your flat iron to a high heat setting, around 450°F (230°C). Be careful not to go too high, as excessive heat can cause damage.
Starting from the roots, run the flat iron through each section of your hair in slow, steady motions. Repeat this 5-7 times for each section to ensure the treatment is fully sealed into the hair.
Work in small sections to ensure even coverage.
Step 7: Allow Your Hair to Cool
Once you’ve flat-ironed all sections of your hair, allow it to cool completely before touching it. This helps the treatment set and ensures that the hair remains sleek and shiny.
How to do it: Leave your hair to cool for about 15-30 minutes before you touch or style it.
Step 8: Avoid Washing Your Hair
After the treatment, it’s crucial not to wash your hair for 48-72 hours to allow the keratin to bond with your hair. During this time, avoid getting your hair wet or using hair ties, as these can leave marks and disrupt the treatment process.
How to do it: Simply let your hair rest and avoid any water exposure. If you need to tie your hair back, use a loose hairband to prevent creases.
Aftercare for Brazilian Hair Treatment
To make your Brazilian hair treatment last longer and keep your hair healthy, proper aftercare is important. Here are some tips to maintain your results:
1. Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo and Conditioner
Avoid shampoos and conditioners that contain sulfates, as these can strip the hair of keratin and reduce the longevity of the treatment. Look for sulfate-free formulas to help maintain your smooth hair.
2. Avoid Excessive Heat Styling
While your hair will remain smooth and shiny after the treatment, avoid using excessive heat styling tools to preserve its health and shine.
3. Protect Your Hair from Chlorine and Saltwater
Chlorine and saltwater can damage the treated hair, so wear a swim cap when swimming in pools or the ocean. You can also apply a protective leave-in conditioner to create a barrier.
4. Get Regular Touch-ups
To maintain the effects of the Brazilian treatment, you may need to get touch-ups every 3-4 months, depending on your hair type and how quickly it grows.
Conclusion: Achieving Silky, Smooth Hair
Doing a Brazilian hair treatment is a fantastic way to achieve smooth, frizz-free hair without the use of harsh chemicals. By following the right steps and taking good care of your hair afterward, you can enjoy shiny, manageable hair for months. Whether you choose to do it at home or visit a salon, the Brazilian hair treatment will leave your hair looking healthy, sleek, and fabulous.
Related topics:
- How Can You Get Rid of Frizz in 5 Minutes?
- How Can I Regrow My Hairline? Effective Tips & Treatments
- How Can I Stop My Hair Thinning as a Woman?
