In the pursuit of sleek, shiny, and frizz-free hair, many people turn to hair treatments like keratin treatment and hair smoothening. Both procedures are popular options for improving hair texture, but they differ in their approach, results, and suitability for different hair types. Understanding the key differences between these two treatments can help you choose the best option for your hair needs. In this article, we will explore what each treatment entails, the benefits, and the key differences between keratin treatment and hair smoothening.
What is Keratin Treatment?
Keratin treatment is a salon-based procedure designed to restore and smoothen the hair using a keratin-infused formula. Keratin is a natural protein found in hair, skin, and nails, and it plays a crucial role in maintaining the structure and strength of hair strands. During a keratin treatment , a specially formulated product is applied to the hair and then sealed with heat, usually from a flat iron. This process helps to replenish the hair’s natural keratin, making it smoother, shinier, and more manageable.
How Does Keratin Treatment Work?
The procedure starts with washing the hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any buildup and prepare the strands for treatment. Then, the keratin solution is applied to the hair, section by section, and left on for a certain amount of time. After the application, the stylist uses a flat iron to seal the keratin into the hair, which is when the smoothing effect begins. The treatment can take anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the hair length and thickness.
Benefits of Keratin Treatment:
- Frizz Reduction: One of the most significant benefits of keratin treatment is its ability to reduce frizz and control flyaways. The keratin formula smoothens the hair cuticle, locking moisture in and preventing frizz even in humid conditions.
- Shine and Luster: Keratin treatments leave the hair looking shinier, healthier, and more vibrant. The added protein helps restore the natural shine of the hair, making it look smooth and glossy.
- Manageability: After a keratin treatment, hair becomes easier to style, comb, and manage. The treatment works to reduce tangling and breakage, allowing for smoother styling.
- Time-Saving: The treatment can significantly reduce the amount of time spent styling your hair each day. Many people notice that they can air-dry their hair without as much frizz, or they may need less time to straighten or curl their hair.
- Long-Lasting Results: Keratin treatments generally last anywhere from 2 to 6 months, depending on hair type, maintenance, and environmental factors. This makes it a low-maintenance solution for people with busy lifestyles.
What is Hair Smoothening?
Hair smoothening is a general term for various hair treatments designed to make the hair smooth, straight, and frizz-free. It may involve the use of chemicals or natural ingredients to alter the texture of the hair, making it softer and more manageable. Unlike keratin treatments, which specifically focus on replenishing keratin in the hair, hair smoothening can involve a broader range of treatments, from mild to more intense chemical processes.
How Does Hair Smoothening Work?
Hair smoothening treatments can vary depending on the products and methods used, but the general process typically involves applying a chemical solution to the hair to break down the bonds in the hair shaft. This allows the stylist to reshape the hair, making it smoother and straighter. The treatment is followed by the application of a neutralizer to help the hair retain its new shape. Like keratin treatments, the process is sealed with heat from a flat iron.
Benefits of Hair Smoothening:
- Straightening Effect: Hair smoothening is particularly effective for individuals looking for a more permanent straightening solution. This treatment can give the hair a sleek, straight look without the need for daily heat styling.
- Frizz Control: Similar to keratin treatments, hair smoothening helps reduce frizz and makes the hair easier to manage.
- Softness and Shine: Hair smoothening often results in a softer, shinier texture, making the hair look healthier and more polished.
- Longer-Lasting Results: Depending on the method used, hair smoothening can last from 3 to 6 months. The results tend to be more long-lasting for individuals with naturally curly or frizzy hair.
Key Differences Between Keratin Treatment and Hair Smoothening
While both treatments aim to smoothen and control frizz, there are significant differences in terms of the procedure, results, and overall impact on hair health. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:
1. Ingredients and Focus:
Keratin Treatment: As the name suggests, keratin treatment is specifically focused on replenishing keratin in the hair. The treatment works by infusing the hair with the protein it needs to become stronger, smoother, and shinier.
Hair Smoothening: Hair smoothening treatments can involve a variety of chemicals, such as formaldehyde, cysteine, or other hair-altering solutions. The main focus is on reshaping the hair to make it straighter and smoother, but the underlying focus on protein restoration is not as prominent as in keratin treatments.
2. Effect on Hair Texture:
Keratin Treatment: Keratin treatments help maintain the natural texture of the hair while smoothing out frizz. It’s ideal for people who want to preserve some curl or wave but reduce frizz and add shine.
Hair Smoothening: Hair smoothening usually results in straighter, smoother hair. If you have naturally curly or wavy hair, the treatment can give you a more polished, straightened look.
3. Suitability for Different Hair Types:
Keratin Treatment: Keratin is suitable for all hair types, including curly, wavy, and straight hair. It’s particularly beneficial for those who want to smooth frizzy hair without altering their natural texture too much.
Hair Smoothening: Hair smoothening is more suited for individuals with frizzy, wavy, or curly hair who are looking for a permanent straightening solution. It’s less ideal for people who want to keep their natural waves or curls intact.
4. Duration of Results:
Keratin Treatment: The results of keratin treatments generally last between 2 to 6 months. The effects wear off gradually, and as the hair grows, the treated hair will eventually return to its natural state.
Hair Smoothening: Hair smoothening typically lasts a bit longer, often up to 6 months. The results can be more permanent compared to keratin treatments, but the hair will need touch-ups as it grows out.
5. Impact on Hair Health:
Keratin Treatment: Keratin treatments are considered less damaging to the hair because they are protein-based, helping to restore and strengthen the hair. However, certain types of keratin treatments that contain formaldehyde may have health concerns.
Hair Smoothening: Depending on the chemicals used, hair smoothening can sometimes be more damaging, especially if formaldehyde is present in the formula. This can weaken the hair over time, particularly with frequent use.
Conclusion
Both keratin treatments and hair smoothening offer distinct advantages for individuals seeking smoother, more manageable hair. The choice between the two depends on your hair goals and the type of results you are looking for. If you want to preserve some curl or wave while reducing frizz and adding shine, keratin treatment may be the better option. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more permanent straightening solution for frizzy, curly hair, hair smoothening might be the way to go.
Ultimately, understanding your hair type, the treatment’s ingredients, and the results you want to achieve will guide you toward the best choice. Whichever treatment you opt for, ensure it’s performed by a skilled professional who can customize the treatment to suit your individual needs and hair health.