How to do the procedure
Keratin straightening services are on the list of every hairdresser. There are two main types of the procedure: American and Brazilian. The content of aggressive substances in drugs from the USA is lower.
When straightening, the following scheme of actions is used:
- Carefully combing the curls and washing the hair with a special shampoo with keratin for deep cleansing and opening the hair scales.
- Drying with a towel.
- Divide into strands and apply straightening serum. This stage takes about half an hour, since the processing should be maximum.
- Blow dry in the direction of growth.
- Lamination with a styler (iron) set to high temperature. The heating of the device should reach approximately 230 degrees. This will seal the liquid protein inside the hair and slow down its washout.
Important! The procedure not only allows you to straighten each curl, but also gives your hair smoothness and shine.
The subsequent period will require special care. The rules are mandatory, since ignoring them will accelerate the leaching of the composition from the hair structure and restore the previous state of the strands.
What is keratin?
Keratin is a special protein that is found in the skin, nails, teeth and in maximum concentration in hair. It is produced by the body thanks to special precursor cells - keratinocytes. And if any malfunction occurs in their work, then keratin can become sensitive to many factors. As a result, its basic properties and functions are violated - mechanical strength and protection from various damages.
Thus, we can conclude that maintaining optimal levels of keratin in the hair will help make it strong and protected.
For healthy hair, it is important to both act on it from the outside and nourish it from the inside. It is necessary to ensure that the diet contains a larger amount of both plant and animal protein. Sulfur, nitrogen, silicon, and B vitamins (in particular B6) also participate in the production of keratin. That is why a trichologist often prescribes a blood test for the above indicators and, if necessary, appropriate medications.
Benefits of keratin for hair
External care should consist of products with additional keratin. Its molecules can penetrate deep into the hair structure and fill all voids and damage. Therefore, when choosing hair cosmetics, you need to carefully look at its composition, first of all, at the position of the word keratin in the list. The lower it is on the list, the lower its concentration in the product.
Modern professional products with keratin can act on individual damaged areas. And some of its types can rejuvenate the intercellular space of the hair, creating an additional protective film on each of them.
Only keratin can help make hair better by changing its structure.
Rules of care in the first days
A healthy appearance, manageability during styling, compaction and lack of frizz are the results of the keratin procedure. The shape of the hairstyle is maintained regardless of weather conditions. The skill of the hairdresser has a huge influence on how long the styling will last.
The duration of the effect varies from two months to six. The duration is affected by compliance with the rules of care and the skill of the hairdresser.
Consolidating the results and extending it involves following a number of tips over three days:
- It is prohibited to wet or wash the curls.
- Refrain from leaving the house in rainy weather, as well as visiting the pool, sauna, sea and bathhouse. Keratin has not yet been completely absorbed into the structure, so in case of any contact with moisture, you must immediately straighten the strands with a styler.
- You should change the pillowcase for the specified period, and put a sateen or cotton product on the pillow (to prevent sweat from the scalp).
- It is contraindicated to use any heating devices or devices on hair.
- You should touch the strands only when necessary, since the hairs have not yet had time to grow stronger. Prohibitions also include any hairstyles, putting behind the ears and pinning. The best option is to leave your hair loose for the entire 72 hours.
- Do not use any foams, gels, varnishes, mousses or waxes for styling to avoid the possibility of a chemical reaction and subsequent damage to the curls.
It is also recommended to regularly use masks as therapeutic therapy and prevention.
Release form: in ampoules, with a dispenser, in the form of a spray
To make the product comfortable to use, we have developed 2 forms of packaging for the liquid drug - in the form of a light spray or a suspension with an oily texture. So, the spray can be sprayed onto the strands without any problems when styling. But with this technique, half of the volume does not end up in the hair.
That’s why sprays are not as popular as ampoule suspensions. It is also produced in mini-bottles that have a special dispenser. Due to this, the drug turns out to be more profitable. Just one press creates the necessary keratin volume. Due to the microscopic size of keratin molecules, the substance penetrates into the hair structure and helps restore it. This technique makes hair vibrant, smooth and shiny.
Subsequent time
In hairdressing salons you can purchase professional-type cosmetics for daily care. In most cases, such products contain keratin. To maintain the beauty of your curls, it is recommended to apply masks with liquid protein twice a week.
Washing head
You are allowed to wash your hair only after 72 hours have passed since the straightening procedure. Only shampoos that do not contain sulfates or sodium chloride can be used. For this reason, it is worth washing your hair before the keratin straightening procedure.
Soaping the strands should be done carefully, applying the product to the root zone. When rinsing, the soap solution will flow down to the ends, which will clean the entire hair.
Attention! The lower part of the curls needs additional nutrition, which will be provided by the use of balm. Keratin cosmetics are preferred.
Sulfate-free shampoos
If the procedure was carried out in a beauty salon, it is worth checking with the specialist the names of suitable care products. It is easy to determine the presence of sulfate in shampoo. The names of the components are listed in the composition on the label. Often, the manufacturer indicates on the label that the product does not contain parabens, laureth sulfate and silicone. The cost of such shampoos is higher, so you can buy a baby product. It does not use sulfate.
The process of washing with sulfate-free cosmetics is a mandatory criterion, since the use of conventional cosmetics will lead to leaching of keratin from the structure. Conditioner, mask or balm will not prevent this. As a result, the effect of straight hair will disappear almost immediately.
This is explained by the loss of protein connection with the scales. Only a special sulfate-free shampoo will preserve the compound, since most products contain liquid keratin. Similar products are recommended for caring for highlighted or dyed hair so that the richness of the shade is maintained for as long as possible.
However, the lack of laureth sulfate means that the hair will get dirty faster, which will lead to more frequent washing. The habitual use of varnishes, gels, foams, wax or mousse for styling will become difficult, since it is impossible to wash them with completely sulfate-free cosmetics.
Such shampoos also help eliminate increased oiliness in the root zone and brittle ends, since they do not destroy the protective layer of the scalp.
Use will also have a beneficial effect on the appearance of the curls - they will acquire shine. Additionally, the problem of dandruff, itching and dryness is solved.
We recommend reading: a review of popular sulfate-free hair shampoos.
Care masks
Masks will provide intensive nutrition to hair after keratin straightening. Purchased or ready-made products will do. The main condition is the absence of sulfate. Mixtures with keratin will be most effective.
Attention! The frequency of application can vary from once to twice a week.
For home use, use recipes that involve the use of natural ingredients. These include: gelatin, dairy products, eggs, onions and lemon. Prohibited ingredients: honey, essential oils and salt. These substances accelerate the leaching of keratin from the hair structure.
We recommend that you check out the best keratin hair masks on our website.
Firming sprays
In professional cosmetics stores for hairdressers, you should purchase a spray with liquid protein. The product is especially effective if it is raining outside or if you are planning a trip to a lake or river. Makeup does not need to be washed off.
Styling
The use of styling products, hair dryers and straighteners should be limited. Backcombing and updos should only be done when necessary. Straightening is carried out to give the hair smoothness so that the hair does not need to be styled additionally.
Coloring
If you plan to change your hair color or touch up your roots, it is best to carry out the procedure 7 days before keratin straightening.
If smoothing has already occurred, you will have to wait 2 weeks for coloring. Only ammonia-free formulations are allowed. You can get your hair cut 3 days after straightening.
We recommend reading: details and features of hair coloring before and after keratin straightening.
The harm of frequent hair combing and the benefits of braids
Yes, my hair is so fragile that banal combing significantly affects its condition. Taking into account all the care. I comb my hair when it’s dry after washing and that’s it before the photo. I braid it. Then the braid can be braided without the help of a comb. I’ve been doing this for the last six months and have only noticed benefits for the length. Instead of a braid, to avoid waves, you can collect your hair in a braid, as in the photo from this post. I would do the same now, but the hairpin broke.
This does not mean that I am indifferent to combs)... The structure of the hair does not allow me to do without them completely, like the girls on CGM. I prefer wide brushes with bendable teeth. I used the original Tangle Teezer as an example, because I haven’t used similar brushes from other brands.
Top 5 sulfate-free shampoos
Estel Otium
The detergent is intended for professional daily hair care. The main advantage of the product is that it retains moisture inside each hair. Thanks to this, each strand is strengthened and receives optimal nutrition. Maximum hydration and elimination of dryness are the main advantages of the brand. The unique composition provides a beneficial effect on the scalp. Average cost 690 rub.
Advantages:
- intensive hydration;
- giving hair shine;
- positive reviews;
- strengthening hair;
- easy combing;
- does not contain sulfates;
- noticeable regeneration effect;
- no dyes.
However, the shampoo runs out quite quickly, which makes the purchase uneconomical.
Natura Siberica with dwarf cedar and lungwort
A sulfate-free product with plant extracts in its composition allows you to achieve remarkable results with regular care. Hair is saturated with vitamins C, A, B and E. The shampoo also contains extracts of plants such as milk thistle, sea buckthorn, chamomile and string. Sea buckthorn oil gives smoothness to curls.
Important! The main advantage of the products is the absence of harmful substances (parabens, silicone and sulfates). The average cost is 300 rubles.
Advantages:
- balanced composition;
- absence of harmful ingredients;
- large volume;
- acceptable price;
- high quality;
- easy to wash off;
- most reviews are positive;
- curl safety.
Among the disadvantages, one can note the rapid consumption, since it does not foam well.
Matrix Biolage
Third place in the ranking of the best sulfate-free shampoos is occupied by products from the popular company Matrix. The cosmetics of this brand belong to the premium segment. High quality matches the price. The composition of the product is designed to preserve the shade of colored curls and prolong the effect of keratin straightening. The shampoo does an excellent job of cleansing even long and thick strands.
Deep penetration of the active ingredients helps fill the structure with useful microelements. Average cost 810 rub.
Advantages:
- 98% positive feedback;
- high efficiency;
- adding shine;
- softening and moisturizing hair;
- maintaining color saturation;
- has a pleasant aroma;
- balanced composition.
The only problem is that your head quickly gets dirty after using it.
Kapous Professional Caring Line Daily
Italian sulfate-free hair cleanser provides optimal daily care for hair after keratin straightening. Professional cosmetics from the company Kapous Professional contain orange extract and fruit acids. This combination provides the strands with softness and volume.
Vitamins and healthy oils are used to enrich the composition, which provides a visual improvement in the appearance of the curls. Average cost 270 rub.
Pros:
- universal for all hair types;
- suitable for daily use;
- helps get rid of dryness;
- strengthens curls;
- affordable price;
- additional antibacterial effect.
However, all the benefits are achieved by the high content of chemicals, which can be considered a disadvantage.
Recipes of Agafya “White Bath”
It occupies a separate place in the ranking of top sulfate-free detergents. The shampoo contains extracts of plants such as tansy, Kuril tea, sea buckthorn oil and lingonberry. A combination of herbal ingredients is used to have a beneficial effect on the hair and scalp. The product quickly removes impurities and is easily washed out of curls. Average cost 50 rub.
Advantages:
- low price;
- foams quickly;
- helps care for curls after keratin straightening;
- slowly consumed;
- convenient bottle;
- contains additional balm;
- smells nice.
Minuses:
- dries out the hair;
- difficult to comb strands.
Reviews
Svetlana, 36 years old:
I came across this remedy by accident and did not even suspect that it was already quite famous in Russia. The oil has a pleasant, unobtrusive and non-pungent aroma, is quickly absorbed without leaving a greasy residue. It is consumed very economically thanks to the convenient dispenser. Nourishes and restores hair. According to the instructions, the product can be used on both dry and wet hair. Also add to hair dye to achieve a brighter color.
Anna, 28 years old:
After getting hair extensions, my hair became very deteriorated, became sparse, thin, and badly split. I ordered this keratin for myself, I really liked it, after the first use I noticed the result, the hair became much thicker, there was good density, a beautiful shine, the hair was easy to comb, less tangled. To date, I have used it 4 times already, and oddly enough, there are fewer split hairs. In general, I'm very pleased with them.
Top 5 best balms
Balm from Matrix Oil Wonders
Oil-containing conditioner from the American manufacturer Matrix with argan oil is very popular among many girls. Its demand is explained by such properties as noticeable smoothing, enhancing the natural shine of curls and imparting softness. As a result of using cosmetics for daily care, hair becomes surprisingly soft and easier to style and comb. Average price 700 rub.
Advantages:
- moderate consumption;
- two dosages of balm to choose from.
Flaws:
- high price;
- lack of a protective membrane in the tube.
Instant Moisture by Paul Mitchell
The conditioner contains beneficial oils, plant and seaweed extracts. The Paul Mitchell brand belongs to the luxury segment. The product allows you to provide even damaged strands with quality care. Also suitable for normal to dry hair. Suitable for daily use.
The balm will provide deep moisture to the hair, stabilize the natural balance of fluid, give the hair shine and elasticity, and also eliminate split ends. The average cost is 1700 rubles.
Pros:
- different volumes to choose from;
- helps care for hair after a keratin treatment;
- economically used;
- intensively nourishes the structure.
Flaws:
- very high price.
Hyaluron balm and filler from Gliss Kur
The recovery product from the German manufacturer contains a hyaluronic complex and liquid keratin. Designed to care for dry, thinning and brittle hair. Designed to renew the hair structure, strengthen, give curls elasticity and volume. The average cost is 250 rubles.
Advantages:
- reasonable cost;
- cumulative effect.
Flaws:
- fast consumption.
Balm Paris Elseve from L'Oreal
A complex of three varieties of valuable clay (blue, green and white) is very popular among girls. If you believe the reviews, then this is the best product of the L'Oreal brand. The product is created for those with oily skin and dry ends. Its action is aimed at facilitating combing, moisturizing, refreshing and stabilizing the functioning of the sebaceous glands. The average cost is 200 rubles.
Advantages:
- economical consumption;
- small price.
Conditioner with Visible Repair balm from Londa Professional
The product for damaged strands from a German manufacturer does not need to be washed off. Professional cosmetics contain silk proteins and almond oil, suitable for caring for lifeless curls that are dull, porous, discolored, split and overdried. Damaged areas are filled. The hair is provided with intensive nutrition, regeneration, elimination of fragility and electrification. The installation process is simplified. Average cost 600 rub.
Advantages:
- minimum consumption;
- does not need to be washed off;
- cumulative effect;
- pump dispenser for convenience.
The disadvantages include the high price.
Possible side effects
The procedure for keratin hair restoration at home can cause unwanted reactions. Most often this happens when purchasing low-quality sets that contain formaldehyde. And also in case of purchasing a counterfeit of a well-known brand.
The following reactions may develop:
- Irritation and rash.
- Chemical burn.
- Irritation of mucous membranes.
- Itching.
- Hair loss.
- Formaldehyde can contribute to the development of cancer.
Women should avoid the procedure during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Hair restoration after the procedure
The effect of straight hair after the procedure is temporary, since keratin is gradually washed out of the structure. After this, the previous state of the strands will return without outside intervention. Is it possible to do this faster? This is a pressing question if installation results are unsatisfactory. However, there are several ways to forcefully resolve the problem.
The most radical method is to rinse your hair with salt water. Sodium chloride removes excess keratin, which accelerates the return of the hair to its previous state. Such a decisive method will require the additional use of special shampoos and masks to restore the balance of microelements.
Attention! You can purchase a special hair mask for this, which contains vitamins and nutrients. This will ensure that strands that have become damaged due to exposure to chemicals during straightening will return to their natural state.
Regarding the use of this or that product, it is better to consult in advance with a specialist who performed the keratin straightening procedure. An important condition for proper care will be individually selected cosmetics.
If hair falls out after keratin straightening, the following ingredients should be used to regenerate curls:
- coconut, olive, burdock or castor oil will gently remove excess straightening composition applied during the procedure (suitable only for normal and dry hair types);
- almond oil or derived from jojoba (preferable for dry scalp);
With regular use of essential oils, you can accelerate the growth of strands and at the same time comprehensively improve the health of your hair. A unique method has not yet been found that would restore hair after keratin straightening, so you should think carefully in advance and only then agree to such experiments with curls.
You can read more about how to quickly and safely wash keratin from your hair on our website.
Harm of mineral oil to the scalp
Has the properties of silicone. Transparent, odorless. Improves the glide and spreadability of the product through the hair, making it pleasant to the touch. Covers with a protective, moisture-repellent film.
Good for length. Healthy. Like silicone. And for the scalp? Very unlikely. I had a bad experience with mineral oil in a growth stimulating product. The loss has begun. I don't want to repeat it. Therefore, I avoid shampoos and infusions containing mineral oil. I use it very rarely for infusion length.
Mineral oil is indicated in different formulations. Paraffin, for example. Look, Khadi has infusions with mineral oil, designated in the composition as Light Liquid Paraffin, and infusions without it - the label says Mineral Oil Free. There is a buyer for each. I consider one for length (with paraffin), the other for scalp (without it).
