After getting a keratin treatment, you might be wondering how soon you can wash your hair. It’s a common concern, as you want to make sure you’re taking proper care of your newly-treated locks.
The answer to this question depends on a few factors, including the type of keratin treatment you received and how your hair is feeling post-treatment.
Let’s go ahead and dive in right away!
How Soon To Wash Your Hair After Keratin Treatment
If you received a traditional keratin hair treatment, which typically lasts for around three to six months, you’ll need to wait at least 72 hours before washing your hair for the first time.
This allows the keratin solution time to fully bond to your hair strands and form a protective cuticle layer.
Washing too soon can cause the results of your treatment to not last as long.
However, if you received a keratin express treatment, which usually lasts for around six weeks, you can typically wash your hair after just 24 hours.
It’s important to follow the specific instructions provided by your stylist, as they may vary based on the brand of keratin treatment used.
It’s also important to note that after your initial wash post-treatment, you should avoid washing your hair too frequently.
Over-washing can strip the keratin from your hair, leading to a shorter lifespan for your treatment.
Instead, opt for dry shampoo or other styling products to extend the amount of time between washes and keep your hair looking fresh.
Understanding Keratin Treatments
If you’re considering getting a keratin treatment, it’s important to understand what it is and how it works.
Here are some key things to know:
What Is Keratin?
Keratin is a protein that’s naturally found in hair, skin, and nails. It’s what gives hair its strength and structure, and helps protect it from damage.
Keratin treatments involve applying a product to the hair that contains a high concentration of keratin.
This product is then sealed into the hair using heat, which helps to smooth the hair cuticle and reduce frizzy hair.
Benefits Of Keratin Treatments
There are several benefits to getting a keratin treatment, including:
- Smoother, shinier hair: Keratin treatments can help to smooth the hair cuticle, which can make hair look shinier and feel softer.
- Reduced frizz: Because keratin treatments help to smooth the hair cuticle, they can also reduce frizz and make hair more manageable.
- Improved hair health: Keratin is an important building block for healthy hair, so getting a keratin treatment can help to strengthen and protect your hair.
- Longer-lasting style: Keratin treatments can help to lock in your hairstyle, making it last longer between washes.
It’s important to note that while keratin treatments can have these benefits, they are not a permanent solution.
Over time, the effects of the treatment will wear off and you’ll need to get it done again if you want to maintain the results.
Also, some people may experience side effects from the treatment, such as scalp irritation or hair damage, so it’s important to talk to your stylist about any concerns you may have.
Pre-Treatment Preparation
Before getting a keratin treatment, there are a few things you should do to prepare your hair.
This will ensure that the treatment is effective and long-lasting, and that you get the best possible results.
Choosing The Right Salon
First, make sure you choose a salon that has experience with keratin treatments.
Look for reviews online, or ask friends or family members for recommendations. You want to make sure that the salon uses high-quality products and has experienced stylists who know how to apply the treatment correctly.
Preparing Your Hair For Treatment
Before your appointment, it’s important to wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo.
This will remove any buildup from styling products or other hair care products, and will help the keratin treatment to penetrate your hair more effectively.
You should also avoid using any other hair care products on the day of your appointment, including conditioner, styling products, or hairspray.
Once you arrive at the salon, your stylist will likely examine your hair and assess its condition.
They may trim any split ends or damaged areas to ensure that the keratin treatment is applied evenly and effectively.
They may also recommend additional hair care tips to help keep your hair healthy and strong after the treatment is complete.
Preparing your hair for a keratin treatment is an important step in ensuring that you get the best possible results.
By choosing the right salon and following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your hair looks and feels healthy, shiny, and beautiful for weeks to come.
Post-Treatment Hair Care
After a keratin treatment, proper hair care is essential to maintain the results and keep your hair healthy.
Here are some tips to help you care for your hair after a keratin treatment.
The Waiting Period
After a keratin treatment, you should wait at least 72 hours before washing your hair.
This waiting period allows the keratin to fully bond with your hair, ensuring the best results. During this time, it’s important to avoid any moisture or heat that could disrupt the bonding process.
Washing Keratin-Treated Hair
When it’s time to wash your hair, use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to avoid stripping the keratin from your hair.
It’s also important to use lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can damage your hair and cause the keratin to break down.
Maintaining Hair After Treatment
Proper care is crucial to maintain the results of your keratin treatment.
Avoid using hair care products that contain sodium chloride, as it can damage the keratin and cause frizz.
Additionally, avoid heat styling and blow-drying your hair as much as possible, as heat can cause the keratin to break down and damage your hair.
Instead, let your hair air-dry or use a low-heat setting on your blow dryer.
Keeping your hair moisturized is also important after a keratin treatment. Use a moisturizing conditioner and hair mask regularly to keep your hair healthy and prevent dryness.
With proper aftercare, your keratin treatment can last up to six months, leaving you with smooth, healthy-looking hair.
Long-Term Maintenance And Tips
Using The Right Hair Care Products
After a keratin treatment, it is essential to use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners to maintain the results.
Sulfates can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause the keratin treatment to fade faster.
In addition to sulfate-free products, using a deep conditioner once a week can help keep your hair healthy and moisturized.
Leave-in conditioners can also be beneficial in maintaining your keratin treatment.
They provide an extra layer of protection against heat and environmental stressors.
When drying your hair, use a microfiber hair towel to avoid frizz and breakage.
Comb your hair with a wide-toothed comb to prevent tangles and breakage.
Lifestyle And Hair Health
Your lifestyle and habits can also affect the longevity of your keratin treatment.
Sleeping on a silk pillowcase can reduce friction and prevent hair breakage.
Avoid using tight hair ties or elastic bands that can cause hair breakage and leave dents in your hair. Opt for silk scrunchies instead.
When blow-drying your hair, make sure to use a heat protectant and limit the blow-drying time to prevent heat damage.
It is also recommended to reduce the frequency of washing your hair to prevent the keratin treatment from fading faster.
Follow the maintenance plan recommended by your stylist to ensure that your keratin treatment lasts as long as possible.
Other Questions You May Have
Is it safe to comb my hair immediately following a keratin treatment?
It is not advisable to comb your hair immediately after a keratin treatment. You should wait for at least 72 hours before combing your hair to prevent any damage to the newly treated hair.
Which type of shampoo is advisable to use after undergoing a keratin treatment?
It is recommended to use a sulfate-free shampoo after undergoing a keratin treatment. Sulfates can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause the keratin treatment to fade faster. For the best results, use a keratin-specific shampoo designed for color-treated or chemically straightened hair.
Look for sodium chloride-free and formaldehyde-free formulas that won’t strip the keratin from your hair. Gently massage the shampoo into small sections and rinse thoroughly with cool water.
Are there specific instructions for tying hair after receiving a keratin treatment?
It is advisable to avoid tying your hair tightly after receiving a keratin treatment. Instead, opt for loose hairstyles that do not put pressure on your hair. You should also avoid using hair accessories that can cause creases or indentations in your hair.
How long should I wait before straightening my hair after a keratin treatment?
It is recommended to wait at least 72 hours before straightening your hair after a keratin treatment. This waiting period ensures that the keratin has fully bonded with your hair, which can help prolong the treatment’s effects.
When is it permissible to revert to regular shampoo following a keratin treatment?
You can revert to using regular shampoo after two weeks of undergoing a keratin treatment. It is important to note that using a sulfate-free shampoo is still advisable to help maintain the treatment’s effects.
Can I get my hair wet before the first wash?
It’s best to keep your hair completely dry for the full 72 hours after a keratin treatment. Avoid swimming or other activities that will get your hair wet. Light sweating should be okay, but it’s safer to wear a shower cap or use dry shampoo if you need to do physical activities.
How often can I wash my hair after the treatment?
It’s best to limit washing to no more than 2-3 times per week to maintain the smooth, frizz-free style. Frequent washing can cause the keratin bonds to break down faster. On non-wash days, use a microfiber towel or soft hair ties to dry hair.
Can I use regular hair products after the treatment?
It’s best to switch to keratin-friendly hair products for at least 4-6 weeks after your treatment. Regular conditioners or styling products may contain ingredients that can break down the keratin bonds prematurely. Look for keratin-safe labels.
What water temperature should I use for washing?
For best results, use lukewarm or cool water when washing treated hair. Hot water can cause the keratin to break down faster. Cold water helps seal the cuticle and keep hair smooth.
How do I dry my hair after washing?
Gently squeeze excess water from hair with a microfiber towel instead of rubbing with a regular cotton towel, which can cause frizz. Let air dry or use a low-heat setting on a hair dryer and round brush to smooth hair as it dries. Avoid excessive heat from blow drying.
Can I color or highlight my hair after a keratin treatment?
It’s recommended to wait at least 4-6 weeks after a keratin treatment before coloring or lightening hair. The chemicals in hair dyes can interfere with the keratin bonds. Always use a color-safe keratin formula and consult your stylist.
What if I have hard water?
If you have hard water, it contains high mineral content that can weigh hair down. Look for a shampoo with added chelating ingredients that remove mineral buildup without stripping the keratin treatment.