No frizz.
My hair has gone through many iterations over the past 10 years. The dye from the supermarket box went from almost black to a light brown with countless blonde highlights. Recently, I tried to go back to my natural dark brown roots to restore the health of my hair.
I definitely put my hair through the ringer. And no matter how many Olaplex treatments I did, I never quite got back to my pre-bleaching glory days. I still use expensive products to repair my ends and invest in hair oil to tame frizz.
We like nosy people. Don’t be shy, visit our beauty section to learn more.
I first discovered keratin treatments on TikTok, where I helped people go from frizzy, dry hair to incredibly smooth and silky before and afters. Since then, I’ve noticed more and more keratin treatments coming out, which only piqued my curiosity until I found out how much it costs to have them done in a salon.
After further research, I discovered that there are keratin treatments that can be done at home. There are a lot of them out there, and they’re often touted as cheaper and faster alternatives, but Edwards and co-founder and colorist Jaye Edwards say there are things to keep in mind before trying them out for yourself. There are some points.
What is a keratin hair treatment? How much does it usually cost?
Keratin is a protein that is part of the makeup of hair, nails, and skin. Basically, keratin treatments add natural proteins that work to smooth and straighten your hair.
“When applied to clean, damp hair, the treatment restores protein to the hair, smoothing the hair cuticle and repairing damaged hair, reducing frizz and leaving hair shinier and smoother,” says Jay. explains. “This treatment can take between 1 and 3 hours, and the heat is applied after the hairstylist has blow-dried and conditioned your hair. The heat helps seal keratin into the hair shaft, smoothing the cuticle. strengthens and locks in moisture.”
However, the effectiveness of keratin treatments varies from person to person and depends on whether you want to tackle frizz or focus on smoothing or straightening.
“The cost of keratin treatment services[at the salon]varies depending on the length of the hair and the duration of the treatment,” says Jay. “Typically they range from $440 to $500. This cost is dependent on the length of the service and the expertise required for proper application.”
In contrast, how does an at-home keratin treatment work?
“At-home keratin treatments typically involve consumer products formulated with keratin, such as serums, masks, and smoothing sprays,” Jay tells me. “These products are relatively inexpensive and easy to use, and can help smooth the hair cuticle, reduce frizz, and add shine, but they don’t penetrate as deeply into the hair shaft as professional treatments.”
According to Jay, at-home treatments are faster than spending hours at a salon and can take anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes. “They provide temporary results, but typically last weeks rather than months,” he says.
What should I consider before doing so?
The most important thing Jay recommends people consider is the health of your hair and the longevity you get out of keratin treatments.
“A good keratin treatment in the salon is always a worthwhile and long-lasting investment,” he says. “[But]if at-home alternatives are within your budget, be sure to check the ingredients of the products you’re considering using. Take the time to do a little research before you buy.”
How long does an at-home keratin treatment last? How can I maintain it?
Depending on your hair type, the products you use, and how you maintain it, keratin treatments typically last between two and six weeks. However, Jay stresses that it’s important to remember that the results won’t last as long as a salon treatment. Salon treatments can last up to 3-6 months and won’t compromise your hair’s health.
“To get the most out of your at-home treatment, use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners,” says Jay. “We recommend the Original and Mineral Hydrate and Conquer ranges, which are gentle on the hair and don’t contain harsh chemicals. They also help you wash your hair less, avoid heat styling, and loosen your hair. We recommend that you style it.”
If you want to style your hair, Jay recommends using a strong heat protectant like Original and Mineral PS Spray or PS Balm to prevent frizz and maintain shine.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of going to the salon and at home?
The main reason Jay chooses in-salon keratin treatments is because the results last longer than those done at home. However, he admits that professional services can be quite expensive.
“The advantage of home treatment is that it’s cost-effective, but the effects don’t last as long as professional treatment,” he says. “The downside is that using non-professional products can damage your hair.”
For a list of keratin treatments you can do at home, try this.
