Keratin: The Life Changing Hair Treatment
People all over the country are raving about the new “miracle“ in hair care-keratin treatments. Have you heard of it? For people with unruly, frizzy, or curly hair, or hair that's easily affected by rain and humidity, this treatment promises to smooth hair; leaving it sleek, shiny and weatherproof. Although this sounds like an easy way to a good hair day, this treatment does cost a pretty penny. A treatment that lasts about 2 ½ months will cost you about $300 if not more, depending on where you live.
So what is a Keratin treatment?
Keratin, a protein that is found naturally in your hair, is used to fill in dry, cracked hair cuticles in a Keratin treatment. The treatment is mixed with small amounts of formaldehyde, applied to the hair and then the hair is sealed with a flat iron. After the treatment, individuals are instructed to not wash their hair for three to four days to allow the solution to set in. The result is smooth, shiny hair-even for people with naturally course, curly tresses!
Although some have raised questions about how safe formaldehyde is, most companies say they put in only trace amounts of the chemical in their solutions. Formaldehyde is a chemical with a strong, irritating odor that is believed to be carcinogenic. Be sure to ask your cosmetologist about the amount of formaldehyde in your Keratin treatment. High levels are dangerous and should be avoided. Any treatment with less than two percent of the chemical, however, won't be effective and isn't worth your money.
So who is a good candidate for a Keratin treatment? Many people with course, frizzy hair that is difficult to work with in humid climates find the treatment highly effective, but cosmetologists say the treatment is beneficial for almost anyone. Even if you already have straight hair, Keratin is able to be a strengthening and restorative treatment.
People continue to praise this “life-changing“ hair treatment. But the cost and safety of the product is important to consider. Have any of you tried a Keratin treatment? Leave us some feedback about the results-good or bad!