Keratin treatments are a popular way to get smooth, straight, and shiny hair. Many people choose keratin treatments to reduce frizz and make hair easier to manage. But after getting a keratin treatment, your hair needs special care to keep the results looking good for as long as possible. If you don’t take care of your hair properly, the treatment may not last long, and your hair could become dry or damaged.
How Do You Keep Keratin-Treated Hair Smooth and Shiny?
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about caring for your hair after a keratin treatment. From how to wash your hair to what products to avoid, these tips are simple, clear, and easy to follow.
What Is a Keratin Treatment?
Keratin is a protein that your hair naturally contains. A keratin treatment adds more of this protein to your hair, making it smoother and stronger. It works by sealing the hair cuticle with a coating of protein. This helps to get rid of frizz and can even make curly or wavy hair look straighter.
There are different types of keratin treatments. Some are formaldehyde-based (these last longer but may contain chemicals), while others are formaldehyde-free and milder. No matter which type you choose, the aftercare process is very important. Proper care can keep your hair healthy and extend the life of the treatment.
What Should You Do Right After the Treatment?
The first 72 hours after a keratin treatment are the most important. This is the time when the product is still settling into your hair. During this time, you need to be extra gentle.
Here are the rules to follow right after the treatment:
Don’t wash your hair for 3 days. Water can wash away the keratin before it has fully set.
Avoid sweating. Try not to work out or do anything that will make your scalp sweaty.
Don’t tie your hair. No ponytails, braids, or clips. Let your hair hang loose to avoid creases.
Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase. This reduces friction and helps keep your hair smooth.
Don’t tuck your hair behind your ears. This can leave bends or waves in the hair.
If your hair does get wet during this time, quickly dry it with a blow dryer and flat iron it straight again.
How Often Should You Wash Keratin-Treated Hair?
After the first 72 hours, you can start washing your hair again. But you still need to be careful. Try not to wash your hair too often. Washing your hair too much can cause the keratin to fade faster.
Here are some helpful tips:
Wash your hair 2–3 times a week. The less you wash it, the longer the treatment will last.
Use lukewarm or cool water. Hot water can damage the keratin layer.
Use your fingertips, not your nails. Gently massage your scalp when shampooing.
Remember, keratin treatments are not permanent. They usually last about 3 to 5 months. If you take good care of your hair, you can make the treatment last even longer.
What Shampoo and Conditioner Should You Use?
Not all shampoos and conditioners are safe for keratin-treated hair. Some contain strong chemicals that can strip the keratin from your hair.
Avoid these ingredients:
Sulfates – These are strong cleansing agents that can dry out your hair.
Sodium Chloride – Also known as salt, this can break down the keratin layer.
Look for products labeled:
Sulfate-free
Sodium chloride-free
Keratin-safe or keratin-friendly
You can find these shampoos and conditioners at salons, beauty stores, or even online. Using the right products is one of the most important parts of keratin aftercare.
Can You Use Heat Tools on Keratin-Treated Hair?
Yes, you can use heat tools like flat irons and curling wands on keratin-treated hair, but you should be careful.
Here’s how to do it safely:
Always use a heat protectant spray. This creates a barrier between your hair and the heat.
Use a medium heat setting. Very high heat can damage your hair and shorten the life of the treatment.
Don’t use heat every day. Too much heat can lead to dryness or breakage.
Keratin treatments already make your hair smooth, so you may not need to style it with heat as often. Try to air-dry your hair when you can.
How Do You Dry Your Hair After Washing?
You can let your hair air-dry, or you can use a blow dryer with a cool or medium heat setting. If you blow-dry your hair, use a nozzle attachment to guide the airflow downward. This helps keep your hair smooth.
Follow these tips for drying:
Use a microfiber towel or an old cotton T-shirt to dry your hair gently.
Don’t rub your hair. Press and blot instead to avoid frizz and breakage.
Finish with a cool shot. This helps seal the cuticle and adds shine.
What Products Should You Avoid?
Some hair products contain ingredients that can break down the keratin in your hair. Others can make your hair greasy, heavy, or sticky.
Avoid these types of products:
Dry shampoos with alcohol or starch.
Volumizing sprays or root lifters.
Heavy hair oils with mineral oil or petroleum.
Strong-hold hair gels or mousses.
Stick to light, nourishing products that are meant for smooth or straight hair. You can also look for products that say “keratin-infused” or “smoothing” on the label.
Can You Swim After a Keratin Treatment?
Swimming in pools or oceans can affect keratin-treated hair. Chlorine and salt water are harsh on the hair and can strip the treatment.
If you do want to swim:
Wait at least 2 weeks after the treatment.
Wet your hair with fresh water before swimming. This prevents it from soaking up too much chlorine or salt.
Wear a swim cap if possible.
Rinse and wash your hair right after swimming. Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner.
It’s best to limit swimming if you want your keratin treatment to last as long as possible.
Can You Color Your Hair After a Keratin Treatment?
Hair color and keratin treatments both change the hair’s structure. Doing them too close together can damage your hair or affect the results.
Here’s the best way to do both:
Color your hair before the keratin treatment. This locks in the color and seals the cuticle.
If you must color after keratin, wait at least 2 weeks.
Talk to your hairstylist to plan the timing if you want to do both treatments.
How Long Does a Keratin Treatment Last?
Keratin treatments usually last between 3 to 5 months, depending on your hair type and how well you care for it.
Factors that affect how long it lasts:
How often you wash your hair
What products you use
How much heat or styling you do
Whether you swim or sweat often
Once you notice frizz or waves coming back, you can get the treatment done again. But don’t overdo it—space out your treatments to keep your hair healthy.
Can You Do a Keratin Treatment at Home?
There are home keratin kits available, but the results are usually not as strong or long-lasting as a salon treatment. If you want salon-quality results, it’s best to visit a professional. At-home treatments are fine for light smoothing or touch-ups in between salon visits.
If you decide to try it at home:
Follow all instructions carefully.
Use a good flat iron and blow dryer.
Work in small sections to make sure every strand is treated.
Always use gloves and work in a well-ventilated area, especially if the product has strong fumes.
Conclusion
Taking care of keratin-treated hair isn’t hard, but it does require a few changes to your usual hair routine. The key is to be gentle and consistent.
Here are some final tips to remember:
Stick to sulfate-free and salt-free hair products.
Avoid frequent washing and hot water.
Be careful with heat tools and styling products.
Don’t swim often, and always rinse your hair afterward.
Sleep on silk pillowcases to reduce friction.
With proper care, you can enjoy smooth, frizz-free hair for months after your keratin treatment. Treat your hair with care, and it will thank you with shine and softness.
Related topics:
- How Often Should You Really Wash Your Hair?
- Is My Hair Really Healthy or Just Looks Good?
- Why Does Hair Break and How Can You Fix It?
