Keratin Treatment for Curly Hair: Essential Do’s and Don’ts

Many people go through mixed emotions when embracing their naturally curly hair. If you seek temporary respite from frizz and messy curls, keratin treatment on curly hair is usually the first option. Keratin treatment is a protein-filled treatment that can help straighten frizzy hair without necessarily removing your natural curly pattern.

In this blog post, our experts explain the dos and don’ts of keratin treatment for curly hair. We’ll also share some potential benefits and pitfalls of this treatment based on real-life experiences as shared by our expert hair stylists. Let’s get started!

What is Keratin Treatment for Curly Hair?

Your hair is made of different compounds, primarily natural proteins called keratin. Keratin can also be applied to your hair at a salon as a treatment. Infusing keratin to curly hair is a multi-step process that aims at individual hair strands, filling the gaps in your hair cuticle to smoothen the surface.

The effects of keratin treatment on curly hair usually vary based on your natural curl pattern, the treatment method, and the keratin formula used. At the same time, keratin treatment differs from permanent chemical treatment because it preserves natural hair texture. Most people’s primary goal when taking this curly hair treatment is to reduce volume and eliminate frizz.

What are the Dos for Keratin Treatment for Curly Hair?

Here are the things you should do or factors to consider when doing keratin treatment for curly hair:

Learn about Keratin Formulations

You can find many types of keratin treatments on the Aussie market; they all have different qualities. You need to know which one will work for you before you apply it unless you are working with a professional.

You’ll find out, for instance, that some formulations are designed to reduce frizz in curly hair while retaining its curly patterns, and others are made for straight hair. Others are made for permanently straightening curly hair. Tell your stylist what you are going for before the keratin treatment appointment.

Choose a Qualified Hair Stylist

At-home keratin treatment kits exist here in Australia, but it’s advisable to work with a specific pro for this treatment. A qualified stylist experienced in keratin treatment for curly hair knows how to apply the formula and which products are needed for the best results with no hair damage. And yes, it’s pretty easy for a keratin treatment to go badly if done incorrectly.

Take Before and After Snaps

You should take photos of your curls before the keratin treatment. These “before after keratin hair treatment for curly hair” photos will help you compare your keratin treated hair after the treatment to measure the results and request adjustments with follow-up treatments.

Prepare your Hair

Your hair needs to be prepared before your keratin treatment. Clarifying shampoo removes product buildup, dirt, and other substances. This will allow the keratin formula to penetrate your curly hair more effectively. It’s also recommended to avoid deep conditioning treatments before a keratin treatment, especially for naturally curly hair.

Buy After Care Hair Products

Many ask: “How long does keratin treatment last on curly hair?”. If you want to maximize the longevity of your keratin, you need to buy the right aftercare products. These include sulfate-free and sodium chloride-free products like shampoo and conditioner. They will preserve your keratin treatment and prevent premature washing out.

Be Patient After Keratin Treatment

You must be patient to get the desired results after keratin treatment. Keep your hair straight for 48 to 72 hours after the treatment, and avoid tucking it behind your ears or using hair bands.

The Don’ts of Keratin Treatment for Curly Hair

The following are the things you must avoid if you are getting keratin treatment for your curly hair:

Expecting Permanent Results

Keratin treatment effects for curly hair usually last between 3 to 6 months before they start washing out. The natural curly pattern will return, but the transition may not be uniform.

Getting Keratin Treatment for Severely Damaged Hair

Keratin treatment is not the best option if your curly hair is already severely damaged from bleaching, excessive heat styling with a blow dry, flat ironing, or chemicals. Instead, you should ask your stylist for repair solutions. Intense keratin treatment can cause further damage.

Washing your Hair Too Soon

Washing and styling hair before the recommended waiting period of between 48-72 hours is a big mistake. It reduces the treatment’s effectiveness and longevity.

Using Hair Ties Regularly

Avoid regularly wearing tight elastic hair ties after treatment, as they can create ugly dents on your smoothened hair. If necessary, you can use soft scrunches or silk ribbons to tie your hair back after the treatment.

Skipping Regular Trims

You need to keep your hair ends healthy with regular trims every 6 to 8 weeks to extend the life of your keratin treatment.

Is Keratin Right for Your Curls?

Before you commit to keratin treatment, you must consider your hair goals and lifestyle. If uncertain, consider alternatives like hair botox treatments using different products and methods that provide the same results.

The Bottom Line

A keratin treatment can relieve you from frizzy and unmanageable curly hair. You need to remember that every curly hair is unique, and you need the right treatment to enjoy the full benefits of keratin treatment. You can consult a professional hair stylist who understands different hair types, the best keratin complex, application techniques, and aftercare.