How to Take Care of Your Hair After Keratin Treatment

Congratulations on your recent keratin treatment! Now that your hair is silky smooth, it’s time to focus on how to keep it that way. The first wash and the days that follow are critical in preserving your treatment. With the right care after keratin treatment, you can ensure that your hair remains as stunning as the day you left the salon. Whether you're in Melbourne or anywhere else in Australia, these aftercare tips will guide you through maintaining your keratin-treated hair’s beauty and health.

First, You Need to Prepare for the Best Results

1. Adhere to the recommended waiting period

Following your keratin treatment, patience is key. Adhering to the waiting period recommended by your stylist—typically between 24 and 72 hours—is crucial for achieving the best results. This period allows the keratin to fully bond with your hair, ensuring that you get the smooth, frizz-free look you’ve invested in. Avoid washing your hair or getting it wet during this time to maximize the treatment's effectiveness.

2. Choose sulfate-free and keratin-safe shampoos

The choice of shampoo can significantly impact your keratin treatment’s longevity. Opt for sulfate-free and keratin-safe shampoos, as sulfates can strip the treatment from your hair and reduce its effectiveness. Look for shampoos specifically formulated for chemically treated hair to maintain your keratin treatment and keep your hair looking its best.

3. Take the time to detangle your hair

Before washing your hair, gently detangle it to avoid unnecessary breakage. Use a wide-tooth comb or a brush with flexible bristles, starting from the ends and working your way up. If needed, apply a leave-in conditioner to help ease the detangling process and minimize stress on your strands.

4. Expect possible temporary changes to your hair texture

It’s normal to experience some changes in hair texture after your first wash. These changes are often temporary as your hair adjusts to the treatment. You may notice smoother, shinier hair with less frizz, but the extent of these changes will vary based on your hair type and the specific keratin treatment used.

Practice Proper Washing and Conditioning Techniques

To get the most out of your keratin treatment, proper washing and conditioning practices are essential:

1. Use lukewarm water:

Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot. Hot water can open hair cuticles and strip away keratin, leading to frizz. Lukewarm water helps preserve the treatment and keeps your hair hydrated.

2. Be gentle:

Massage your scalp and hair gently with your fingertips. Avoid harsh scrubbing to prevent breakage and damage to your keratin treatment.

3. Rinse thoroughly:

Rinse out all shampoo and conditioner completely. Residue can weigh down your hair and affect the treatment’s effectiveness.

4. Consider a shower filter:

Install a water filter to minimize hard water’s impact. Hard water can cause dryness and reduce your treatment's lifespan. A filter helps keep your hair smooth and shiny.

Steps to Follow for a Proper First Wash After Keratin Treatment

Wet your hair thoroughly: Start by completely wetting your hair with lukewarm water. This ensures an even application of shampoo and helps prepare your hair for cleansing.
Apply sulfate-free shampoo: Use a small amount of sulfate-free shampoo, lathering it gently. Focus on your scalp and roots where oil and buildup accumulate. Sulfate-free formulas are gentler and help maintain the treatment.
Rinse with lukewarm water: Rinse the shampoo out thoroughly with lukewarm water. Make sure all product is removed to avoid buildup that can weigh down your hair.
Condition your hair: Apply a keratin-safe conditioner to the lengths and ends of your hair, avoiding the roots to prevent heaviness. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Optional detangling: While the conditioner is still in, use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to gently detangle your hair, reducing the risk of breakage.
Final rinse: Finish with a cool water rinse to seal the cuticles and add extra shine to your hair.

How Often Should You Wash Your Hair After Keratin Treatment?

To maintain your keratin treatment, it's best to adjust how frequently you wash your hair. Washing less often helps extend the life of the treatment. Aim to wash your hair every 2-3 days, or as needed, to keep your scalp clean and free of product buildup without compromising the treatment’s results. This frequency helps prevent the keratin from fading too quickly and keeps your hair looking smooth and shiny.

Maintain a Healthy Hair Care Routine Long After Your Keratin Treatment by Installing a Shower Filter

To prolong the benefits of your keratin treatment, maintaining a healthy hair care routine is essential. Installing a shower filter can significantly impact the longevity of your treatment. Hard water, with its high mineral content, can cause dryness and shorten the treatment's effectiveness. A shower filter removes excess minerals, helping to prevent damage and preserving the smoothness and shine of your hair.

The blu Ionic Shower Filter is an excellent choice. It reduces mineral buildup, improves the effectiveness of your treatment, and promotes healthier, shinier hair. Installing a filter is a simple yet effective step in your ongoing hair care routine, ensuring that your keratin treatment lasts as long as possible.

FAQs

How to care for hair after a keratin treatment?

To care for your hair after a keratin treatment, use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners, avoid washing your hair too frequently, and steer clear of hot water. Gentle handling and a shower filter can also help maintain the treatment’s results.

Can I oil my hair after keratin treatment?

It’s best to avoid heavy oils immediately after a keratin treatment as they can weigh down your hair and affect the treatment’s smoothness. Opt for lightweight, keratin-safe products if you need extra hydration.

How do I get my hair back to normal after keratin treatment?

If you wish to reverse a keratin treatment, you may need to wait for it to naturally fade. Regular washing with sulfate shampoos and avoiding treatments that prolong the effect can help speed up the process.

Can I comb my hair after keratin treatment?

Yes, but use a wide-tooth comb or a brush with flexible bristles. Gently detangle your hair to avoid breakage and ensure the treatment remains intact.

Conclusion

Taking care of your hair after a keratin treatment is essential for maintaining its smoothness and shine. By adhering to the recommended waiting period, using the right products, and following proper washing and conditioning techniques, you can extend the benefits of your treatment. Incorporating a shower filter into your routine further helps in preserving the treatment’s effectiveness.

For the best results, consider using GK Hair's The Best Keratin Hair Treatment and The Best Vegan Hair Treatment, which provide long-lasting smoothness and nourishment. By following these tips, you’ll keep your hair looking its best and enjoy the full benefits of your keratin treatment.