What Are The Side Effects of a Keratin Treatment
Keratin treatments are increasingly popular among people seeking smooth, frizz-free hair. What are the side effects of a keratin treatment? The therapy infuses keratin proteins into the hair shaft, giving it a straighter, sleeker appearance. For individuals with curly, wavy, or frizzy hair, the allure of low-maintenance, manageable hair can be a significant benefit. However, like many cosmetic procedures, keratin treatments have their own potential drawbacks. From immediate reactions to longer-term implications, it’s essential to consider the effects that may arise with these treatments to make an informed decision.
Though keratin is a natural protein, the treatments often involve chemical processes that can impact hair health and personal well-being. Each effect varies based on hair type, treatment formula, and aftercare. This article explores the different side effects of keratin treatments and their possible impact on hair, skin, and overall health, providing a comprehensive understanding for those considering this treatment.
Damage from High Heat Application
One of the critical steps in the keratin treatment process is sealing the keratin formula into the hair using high heat, typically with a flat iron. While heat application is necessary to lock in the keratin and achieve smooth, straight strands, it can damage the hair shaft, particularly those with fragile or delicate hair. The extreme heat, often reaching up to 450°F, can weaken the hair structure, leaving it more prone to breakage. Over time, the effects of high-heat exposure can lead to split ends and a rougher texture, making the hair look dull and lifeless.
The risks associated with heat damage may be even more significant for individuals with color-treated or bleached hair. Such hair is already more porous and vulnerable, so it can easily sustain further damage. Even for those with healthy, untreated hair, frequent keratin treatments with high heat application can cause gradual weakening. Heat-damaged hair may become dry, brittle, and difficult to manage, defeating the purpose of a treatment to improve texture and manageability.
While some people may find the results worth the potential damage, it is essential to weigh this against the potential for long-term impact on hair health. For those interested in maintaining the integrity of their hair, discussing alternative treatments with a stylist or using protective products during the treatment might be helpful. However, it is essential to remember that there is no way to avoid heat’s effects on the hair altogether.
Risk of Formaldehyde Exposure
Many keratin treatments use formaldehyde or formaldehyde-releasing agents to achieve their smoothing effect. Formaldehyde is a chemical that helps to straighten hair by breaking down the natural bonds in each strand, allowing it to be reshaped and smoothed. However, formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and has been linked to various health concerns when inhaled or absorbed. During the treatment process, especially when heat is applied, formaldehyde can be released into the air, exposing both the client and stylist to potentially harmful fumes.
Short-term exposure to formaldehyde may cause immediate symptoms such as watery eyes, a sore throat, or skin irritation. Individuals may experience respiratory issues, headaches, or dizziness in more severe cases. For those with existing respiratory conditions, like asthma, exposure can exacerbate symptoms and lead to more severe breathing difficulties. While salons often use ventilation systems to reduce these risks, it may not be enough to protect against formaldehyde exposure fully.
Given these potential health hazards, there has been a push toward formaldehyde-free keratin treatments. However, even alternatives may contain chemicals that release formaldehyde or have similar effects. Anyone considering a keratin treatment should inquire about the ingredients used and whether the risks associated with formaldehyde exposure are worth the treatment’s benefits.
Scalp Sensitivity and Irritation
Keratin treatments involve applying a chemical-laden product directly to the scalp and hair. For individuals with sensitive skin or scalp conditions, this can lead to irritation or allergic reactions. Symptoms may include redness, itching, or a burning sensation on the scalp. Sometimes, the skin around the hairline, neck, and ears may also be affected, leading to prolonged discomfort or rashes. This irritation is often due to the chemicals in the keratin formula, including preservatives, fragrances, and straightening agents.
For those with pre-existing scalp conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis, keratin treatments can exacerbate these issues. Even individuals without these conditions may experience increased scalp sensitivity due to the chemical exposure involved in these treatments. Some people may develop contact dermatitis, a type of skin inflammation caused by allergic reactions to specific ingredients, resulting in symptoms that persist even after the treatment.
Individuals with sensitive scalps may consider performing a patch test with the treatment product or choosing formulas designed specifically for sensitive skin to minimize the chances of irritation. However, it’s important to note that even mild formulations may still cause reactions, as the process involves close contact with the scalp. Those who experience persistent irritation after treatment may want to avoid further keratin treatments to prevent worsening their condition.
Hair Thinning and Shedding
A commonly reported side effect of keratin treatments is hair thinning or shedding, which can occur for various reasons. The intense heat and chemicals used in the treatment process can weaken hair follicles over time, leading to increased hair loss. In some cases, the keratin formula’s weight can also stress the hair shaft, causing it to break or fall out prematurely. This thinning may be particularly noticeable for individuals with already fine or thinning hair, making the effects more pronounced.
Additionally, chemical exposure from the treatment may interfere with the hair’s natural growth cycle. For some, keratin treatments may trigger telogen effluvium, a temporary hair loss often caused by physical or emotional stressors. This condition can lead to an increased shedding phase, making the hair appear thinner overall. People may also notice that their hair feels less voluminous or dense, which can impact their desired hair style and texture.
Those prone to hair loss or experiencing it for other reasons should approach keratin treatments cautiously. Discussing any concerns with a stylist can help individuals make a more informed decision. Still, it’s essential to remember that the treatment’s effects on hair density vary widely and may not be fully reversible.
Changes in Hair Texture and Manageability
While the goal of a keratin treatment is often to achieve smoother, more manageable hair, the results can sometimes have unintended effects on hair texture. After the treatment, some people find that their hair becomes overly flat or loses its natural volume, which may be undesirable for those who prefer a more voluminous look. The intense straightening effect can also lead to a lack of body, leaving hair that feels lifeless and lacks movement.
Furthermore, once the keratin treatment wears off, hair may feel more challenging to manage. The natural curl or wave pattern might not return to its original form, leaving hair in an awkward state that can require additional styling to achieve a cohesive look. This altered texture may be more noticeable in individuals with naturally curly or wavy hair, as the treatment may permanently affect the natural structure.
In some cases, the long-term impact on hair texture can also affect how other treatments or styling methods perform on the hair. For example, the altered texture may not hold curls as well or may require different products to achieve desired styles. Those seeking a more temporary solution to frizz may want to consider gentler alternatives, such as deep conditioning treatments, which can provide smoother hair without the same risks to hair texture.
Dryness and Dehydration of Hair
Keratin treatments can dry hair, particularly when the chemical and heat processes remove moisture from the hair shaft. The treatment aims to coat the hair with keratin, but it may inadvertently seal out moisture, leading to dryness over time. Hair stripped of its natural oils and moisture can become more brittle, making it more prone to breakage and split ends. This dryness is especially noticeable in individuals struggling with dry hair, as the keratin treatment can exacerbate this condition.
As the treatment gradually fades, the hair may feel drier than before, as the treatment process can alter the hair’s natural oil balance. This effect can be managed with specialized aftercare products, such as sulfate-free shampoos and moisturizing conditioners. However, maintaining the hair’s hydration often requires additional effort, which can counteract the appeal of a low-maintenance keratin treatment.
Adding keratin treatments may lead to further dehydration for people who frequently color or chemically treat their hair, as the hair becomes overprocessed. Regular hydration treatments or even temporary breaks from keratin applications can help the hair recover some of its natural moisture and resilience.
Environmental and Lifestyle Sensitivities
After a keratin treatment, maintaining the results often involves certain lifestyle adjustments to avoid premature fading or damage. For example, treated hair may become more sensitive to saltwater, chlorinated pools, and even humidity, leading to changes in texture and longevity of the treatment. For those who live in hot, humid climates or frequently swim, maintaining keratin-treated hair may require additional effort or limit certain activities.
In addition to environmental factors, keratin-treated hair often requires special care with styling products and washing techniques. Regular shampoos and conditioners, mainly those containing sulfates, can strip the keratin from the hair, causing the treatment to wear off faster. As a result, people need to invest in sulfate-free, color-safe products to keep the keratin intact. For some, these lifestyle adjustments may feel restrictive and add to the treatment’s ongoing maintenance demands.
Overall, while keratin treatments offer a smooth, frizz-free look that many find appealing, the potential side effects highlight the importance of evaluating individual needs and hair types. Understanding these impacts can help individuals make a more informed choice about whether the benefits of a keratin treatment outweigh the possible downsides for their lifestyle and hair health goals.
