For many people, frizzy, unruly hair can be a constant source of frustration. It can be difficult to style and manage, leaving you feeling less than confident in your appearance.

Fortunately, there are a number of hair treatments available that can help to tame frizz and achieve smoother, more manageable hair. Two of the most popular options are keratin treatments and smoothing treatments. But what exactly are these treatments, and how do they differ?

What is Keratin Treatment?

Keratin is a protein that naturally occurs in hair. It plays a vital role in hair health and structure, making hair strong and elastic. However, over time, exposure to heat styling tools, chemical treatments, and environmental factors can deplete the hair's keratin levels. This can lead to dryness, frizz, and breakage.

A keratin treatment is a hair restoration process that aims to replenish lost keratin and smooth down the hair cuticle. The treatment typically involves applying a liquid keratin solution to the hair, followed by heat styling with a flat iron. The heat helps to activate the keratin and seal it into the hair shaft.

Benefits of Keratin Treatment

• Reduced Frizz: Keratin treatments are highly effective in reducing frizz and flyaways. The keratin fills in gaps in the hair cuticle, creating a smoother surface that reflects light more evenly.
• Enhanced Shine: Keratin treatments add shine and luster to the hair. This is because the smoother hair cuticle reflects light more effectively.
• Improved Manageability: Keratin treatments make hair more manageable and easier to style. The hair becomes smoother and less prone to tangles.
• Reduced Drying Time: Keratin treatments can help to reduce hair drying time. This is because the smoother hair cuticle allows water to evaporate more quickly.
• Healthier Hair: By replenishing keratin, keratin treatments can help to improve the overall health of the hair. The hair becomes stronger and more resilient to damage.

Things to Consider Before Getting a Keratin Treatment

• Cost: Keratin treatments can be expensive, ranging from several hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars.
• Formality: Keratin treatments typically take several hours to complete.
• Chemicals: Keratin treatments often contain formaldehyde, a chemical that can cause irritation to the eyes and respiratory system. Some salons offer formaldehyde-free keratin treatments, but these may not be as effective.
• Aftercare: Keratin treatments require special aftercare to maintain the results. This may include using sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner and avoiding heat styling tools as much as possible.

What is Smoothing Treatment?

Smoothing treatments, also known as hair straightening or rebonding treatments, are a different approach to achieving smooth, manageable hair. Unlike keratin treatments, which replenish keratin, smoothing treatments work by chemically altering the hair's structure. There are two main types of smoothing treatments:

• Chemical Relaxers: Chemical relaxers break down the disulfide bonds in the hair, which are the bonds that give hair its curl pattern. Once the bonds are broken, the hair can be straightened and reformed into a new shape.
• Brazilian Blowout: A Brazilian blowout is a type of smoothing treatment that uses keratin along with other chemicals to smooth and straighten the hair. However, unlike a traditional keratin treatment, Brazilian blowouts do not alter the hair's structure as dramatically.

Benefits of Smoothing Treatments

• Straighter Hair: Smoothing treatments are very effective in straightening hair and reducing curl.
• Long-lasting Results: Smoothing treatments can provide long-lasting results, with some treatments lasting up to several months.
• Reduced Frizz: Smoothing treatments can also help to reduce frizz and flyaways.

Things to Consider Before Getting a Smoothing Treatment

• Damage: Smoothing treatments can damage the hair, especially chemical relaxers. It is important to consult with a hairstylist to determine if your hair is healthy enough for a smoothing treatment.
• Cost: Smoothing treatments can be expensive, similar to keratin treatments.
• Maintenance: Smoothing treatments may require touch-ups every few months to maintain the results.
• Chemicals: Smoothing treatments often contain harsh chemicals that can cause irritation to the eyes and respiratory system.

Key Differences Between Keratin and Smoothing

The best hair treatment for you depends on your individual hair goals and hair type. Here is a quick guide to help you decide:

• Choose Keratin Treatment if:
  • Your hair is frizzy, but not necessarily curly.
  • You want to reduce frizz and add shine to your hair.
  • You are looking for a treatment that is less damaging than smoothing treatments.
• Choose Smoothing Treatment if:
  • Your hair is curly or wavy and you want to straighten it.
  • You are willing to accept the potential damage that smoothing treatments can cause.

Additional Tips

• Consult with a Hairstylist: Before getting any type of hair treatment, it is important to consult with a hairstylist. They can assess your hair's condition and recommend the best treatment for you.
• Do Your Research: There are many different types of keratin and smoothing treatments available. It is important to do your research and choose a reputable salon that uses high-quality products.
• Follow Aftercare Instructions: Both keratin and smoothing treatments require special aftercare to maintain the results. Be sure to follow the instructions provided by your hairstylist.

Salon Supplies for Keratin Treatments

If you are a salon owner or stylist looking to offer keratin treatments, there are a variety of products available from bsalonsupplies. Here are some of the essential items you will need:

• Keratin Treatment Solution: This is the main ingredient in keratin treatments. It is typically a liquid solution that is applied to the hair.
• Flat Iron: A high-quality flat iron is essential for activating the keratin and sealing it into the hair shaft.
• Shampoo and Conditioner: Sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner are recommended for maintaining the results of a keratin treatment.
• Deep Conditioner: A deep conditioner can help to hydrate the hair and prevent damage.
• Heat Protectant: A heat protectant can help to protect the hair from damage caused by heat styling tools.

Conclusion

Keratin and smoothing treatments are both effective ways to achieve smoother, more manageable hair. However, they have different benefits and drawbacks. By understanding the differences between these treatments, you can choose the best option for your hair goals and hair type.