Lots of people are turning to keratin hair treatments to help control extremely curly and frizzy hair. It is a great way to control hair that reacts to humidity which in turn makes the hair hard to comb through and style. Such hair also tends to dry out too much, especially at the ends, making it brittle and the hair will break and most of the time, the hair will not hold a set. If you are looking to use keratin treatments for your hair and would like to know as much as possible about it, read on.
What is it made of?
Keratin is a family of natural fibrous proteins and apart from being the major structural component of hair and nails, is also the main structural material that makes up the outer layer of the human skin. Keratin molecules bunch up to form filaments that are insoluble, very tough and they actually form the strong unmineralised tissue that is found in birds, reptiles, amphibians and mammals.
Without getting to scientific here, Keratin is the natural protein that can be found in hair, nails, teeth and skin. It is a fibrous protein which is composed of living cells. This protein, when contained in the nails for instance is hard and in the skin it is soft. It also provides a strong waterproof and protective covering for the other more fragile parts of the body.
How does it work?
As you grow older and your hair is exposed to the elements, it loses it essential coating layer of keratin. A keratin application works to restore the lost element in the hair, covering the cortex or hair shaft and releasing the strong bonds that cause your hair to be all frizzy and curly.
Are there recommended brands?
There are numerous brands in all price ranges to choose from and you can use most of them. You should take careful note when reading the label and be sure that the product you have chosen to purchase does not contain more than 2% formaldehyde. Formaldehyde can have some side effects when used in high dosage. Some keratin manufacturers use it in levels that are way too high. Only use products with no more than 2% formaldehyde, or better still, no formaldehyde at all.
Can I do a home treatment?
A salon treatment can cost $250 to $600 and you may want to save this money by doing your own treatments. If you are going to do it at home, have someone there to do it for you. To bond the keratin to the hair, a very hot flat iron (about 450 degrees) is used. If this touches your skin even for a second, it can leave serious burns. Always do your keratin treatment in a spacious and well ventilated room. If you live in a country where the weather allows, it would be ideal to sit in the open while applying the keratin solution.
How long does a treatment take?
A good keratin hair treatment can take anywhere between 2 to 3 hours. If you plan to do home treatments in the future, you can invite some like minded friends and relatives. I know some women that really make a party of it twice a year.
What exactly does it do for your hair?
For one, all the curl and frizz just vanishes, your hair will dry quicker than normal and is easier to style. Your hair is also soft and will hold a set easily and for longer. It will make dull looking hair have shine and bounce too.
What if I have permed or coloured my hair?
No problem, go ahead with your keratin treatment as planned. Its safe for coloured as well as permed hair, but its recommended that you wait at least 2 weeks after a retouch or colour treatment so that the hair can heal from any damage.
Author Resource:-
For more hot tips and tricks about treating your hair with a Keratin solution, visit our website at http://whatiskeratin.info now. For product overview you can also visit:
http://brazilian-keratin-hair-treatment.com