If you’ve recently had a keratin treatment, you’re likely loving your smooth, shiny hair! Keratin treatments can make hair easier to manage, reduce frizz, and give it a healthy, glossy finish. But to keep those results for as long as possible, it’s important to follow some simple aftercare tips. Here’s a list of essential dos and don’ts to help you keep your keratin-treated hair looking smooth and shiny for as long as possible!

What to Do After a Keratin Treatment

1. Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo

• Regular shampoos with harsh ingredients, like sulfates, can strip the keratin from your hair, reducing the lifespan of your treatment. Instead, choose a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo that cleans without removing the keratin coating. This will help maintain that sleek, shiny look for longer.

2. Wait to Wash Your Hair

• Most stylists recommend waiting at least 72 hours before washing your hair after a keratin treatment. This gives the keratin enough time to bond fully to your hair. Washing too soon can weaken the treatment’s effects and cause frizz or curls to return.

3. Sleep on a Silk or Satin Pillowcase

• Cotton pillowcases can cause friction that leads to frizz, especially with keratin-treated hair. Silk or satin pillowcases are much gentler on hair and help keep it smooth. Plus, they reduce the chance of breakage, helping your hair stay healthy.

4. Use a Heat Protectant When Styling

• Heat can break down the keratin over time, so whenever you style with a blow dryer, curling iron, or flat iron, use a quality heat protectant. This will help prevent damage and keep your hair looking shiny.

5. Choose Cool or Lukewarm Water for Washing

• Hot water can strip natural oils from your hair and shorten the life of the keratin treatment. Try using cool or lukewarm water instead. It helps seal the cuticle, keeping your hair smoother and shinier.

What to Avoid After a Keratin Treatment

1. Avoid Tying Your Hair for the First Few Days

• After a keratin treatment, your hair may still be settling into its new shape. Avoid tight ponytails, buns, or braids for the first few days, as they can cause kinks and ruin the smoothness. If you need to keep your hair off your face, try loosely clipping it back.

2. Skip Chlorine and Saltwater for Now

• Chlorine and saltwater can both break down keratin and cause your treatment to wear off faster. If you’re planning a trip to the pool or beach, consider wearing a swimming cap or avoiding submerging your hair.

3. Don’t Overdo Heat Styling

• Too much heat styling can break down the keratin and lead to dry, brittle hair. While it’s okay to use some heat, try to limit it to occasional use, and always use a heat protectant when you do.

4. Avoid Touching Your Hair Too Much

• It’s tempting to keep touching your newly smooth hair, but too much handling can lead to grease, frizz, and product build-up. Try to keep your hands off to preserve your treatment’s shine and smoothness.

5. Stay Away from Sulfate-Containing Products

• In addition to shampoo, make sure all your hair products are sulfate-free. This includes conditioners, styling gels, and other treatments. Sulfates can shorten the life of your keratin treatment, so double-check your product labels for long-lasting results.

Taking proper care of your keratin-treated hair can make all the difference in how long your smooth, shiny results last. By using gentle products, avoiding harsh elements, and following a few simple dos and don’ts, you’ll keep your hair looking sleek and frizz-free for months to come. Remember, a little extra attention goes a long way in protecting your investment and maintaining that salon-fresh look!

Ready for Your Next Keratin Treatment?

If you’re in Atlanta and ready for a keratin treatment or need more advice on post-treatment care, our team at Miracle Beauty Salon in Atlanta is here to help! We specialize in keratin treatments tailored to suit your hair type, ensuring lasting results and healthier, smoother hair. Book your appointment with us today or stop by for a consultation.