Keratin Hair Treatments: A Complete Guide Before You Book
Keratin treatments have gone from a niche salon service to one of the most commonly requested treatments for managing frizz, reducing styling time, and transforming the texture of coarser or curly hair. But there's also a fair amount of confusion about what they actually involve, how long they last, and whether they're right for every hair type. Here's what you need to know.
What Is a Keratin Treatment?
Keratin is a protein that forms the structural foundation of your hair. A keratin treatment infuses additional keratin into the hair shaft and temporarily smooths the hair's cuticle layer, reducing frizz and creating a softer, sleeker finish that lasts several months. It's sometimes called a Brazilian blow-out or keratin smoothing, though specific formulations vary between products and brands.
It's not a permanent straightening treatment — it doesn't change your hair's natural curl pattern in the same way a chemical relaxer does. It smooths and softens rather than straightens, and the results gradually fade as the hair is washed over time.
Who Benefits Most From Keratin Treatments
• People with naturally frizzy, coarse, or high-porosity hair that absorbs moisture from the air and expands throughout the day.
• Anyone spending significant time on heat styling who wants to reduce daily styling effort and heat damage over time.
• Those with wavy or mildly curly hair wanting a looser, more manageable wave rather than full curl definition.
• People who've had colour or chemical treatments that have left the hair feeling rough or difficult to manage.
What the Treatment Involves
A keratin treatment appointment typically takes two to four hours depending on hair length and thickness. The product is applied to clean, dry or slightly damp hair, worked through section by section, and then sealed in using a flat iron at high heat. The heat is what bonds the keratin to the hair structure — it's not something that can be rushed.
After the treatment, there's usually a period of 48 to 72 hours during which hair shouldn't be washed or tied back, to allow the treatment to fully set. Your stylist will give you specific aftercare instructions based on the product used.
Aftercare and Longevity
Keratin treatments typically last three to five months, with results gradually softening rather than suddenly stopping. Using a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner significantly extends the life of the treatment — sulfates strip the keratin out faster with every wash. Salt water and chlorinated pools also accelerate fading, so it's worth protecting your hair if you're swimming regularly.
Book a Consultation at Alex Royer Salon
Not every keratin product is right for every hair type, and an honest consultation helps us recommend the right approach for your specific hair rather than a one-size-fits-all product. Get in touch with our team at Alex Royer Salon in Dianella to book a keratin consultation.