The proteins in hair, skin, and nails are called keratins. It can aid in strengthening hair, giving the appearance of thicker, fuller hair. It can also aid in straightening and smoothing the hair when used as a treatment on the hair. It hasn’t been scientifically shown to treat hair loss brought on by underlying medical issues, though.
The Power: Reclaiming Your Thicker Hair?
Keratin hair treatments can support hair strength and thickness, giving it a fuller, healthier appearance. Additionally, they can straighten and smooth hair, minimizing frizz and enhancing manageability. It is crucial to remember that these treatments only temporarily improve one’s appearance and do not address the underlying causes of hair thinning.
The way that keratin hair treatments work is by coating the hair shaft with this protein. The cuticle of the hair can be filled in and smoothed out with the aid of this protein, giving the appearance of fuller, thicker hair. Additionally, by sealing the keratin into the hair during the treatment, the heat can make the hair stronger and less brittle, giving the illusion of thicker hair. The majority of these advantages, while, are just short-term, and hair will eventually return to its normal state.
According to Meesh, Contributing Editor and HairBrushy Chief Product Analyst, “Depending on the type of treatment and the person’s hair type, the effects of a keratin hair treatment might last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. The frequency of hair washing, the usage of heat styling products, and the person’s lifestyle can all have an impact on how long the treatment lasts. A keratin hair treatment typically lasts 4 to 6 weeks, but with the right care, it can last up to 3 to 4 months.”
Is It An Effective Hair Loss Treatment?
Although keratin hair treatments can improve the appearance of hair by making it thicker and smoother, they have not been shown to be effective in treating hair loss. Numerous reasons, including genetics, hormonal changes, illnesses, and some drugs, can contribute to hair loss. However, keratin hair treatments do not address the root reasons of hair loss; they just temporarily improve the appearance of hair.
What Are The Different Types Of Hair Loss And The Causes Of Them?
There are various forms of hair loss, such as:
Androgenetic alopecia is the most prevalent type of hair loss and is brought on by a combination of heredity and hormones. It is often referred to as male or female pattern baldness.
An autoimmune condition known as alopecia areata results in hair loss on the scalp and other parts of the body. Although the precise etiology is uncertain, the immune system and genetics are thought to be involved.
Telogen effluvium: A brief period of hair loss brought on by a disruption in the hair development cycle, frequently as a result of physical or psychological stress.
Hair loss brought on by extended strain on the hair, such as from tight braids or ponytails, is known as traction alopecia.
Scarring alopecia: A uncommon kind of hair loss that results in permanent hair loss and scarring after the hair follicles are damaged.
Hair loss brought on by damage to the hair follicle, sometimes as a result of chemotherapy or other drugs, is known as anagen effluvium.
Some medical disorders, nutritional deficiencies, hairstyles, and therapies can also contribute to hair loss.
What Are The Different Types Of Keratin Treatments Available On The Market?
In order to straighten and style hair, many people use keratin treatments, which add the keratin protein to the hair. On the market, there are numerous varieties of keratin treatments, including:
Topical creams: These treatments are applied to the hair before styling and come in the shape of a cream or lotion. They normally have a little quantity of keratin and are meant to provide the hair a transient protein boost.
Shampoos and conditioners containing keratin: These hair care items are designed to be used as a regular hair care routine to give the hair a mild, continuous protein boost.
Keratin hair treatments: A stylist will apply these professional treatments to the client’s hair. They often contain more keratin than topical lotions or shampoos and are designed to give the hair a more pronounced transformation.
Injecting keratin protein into the scalp is a method of treatment for hair loss known as keratin hair injections. They are designed to aid in enhancing the condition of the scalp and hair and to encourage the growth of new hair.
The most well-known type of keratin treatment, Brazilian Keratin Therapy (BKT), uses a formaldehyde-free solution to give hair a sleek, frizz-free finish.
According to Stacey, Hair Research Analyst, “be aware that some keratin treatments could contain formaldehyde or other chemicals that could be dangerous to breathe in.“
How To Use
Read and carefully follow the instructions on the product before using it. Each keratin treatment product has its own set of instructions.
Utilize on clean, dry hair: It’s crucial to use keratin treatments on hair that is clean, dry, as any extra oils or moisture will reduce its efficacy.
Apply evenly: When applying the treatment, be sure to cover all of the hair, paying close attention to the ends and any damaged areas.
Use the proper amount: Avoid using too much product, which can weigh down the hair and cause it to become greasy. Use the recommended quantity for the length and texture of your hair.
Allow to process: To guarantee that the treatment is effective and that the hair can absorb the keratin, follow the recommendations on how long to leave the treatment in your hair, which are typically 30 minutes to an hour.
Immediately following the treatment, be sure to wash and style your hair as usual.
Time of day: Early morning or late afternoon is the optimum time to apply keratin treatment because it provides your hair ample time to dry and set before going to bed.
Use frequency: Depending on the product and your hair type, use frequency will change. While some keratin treatments are intended to be used weekly, others can be applied every two to three months. It’s crucial to adhere to the product’s directions and avoid abusing it.
What Are Tips For Maintaining Results After Treatment?
- Use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner: Sulfates can strip the hair of its natural oils, so it’s crucial to use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to help preserve the treatment’s results.
- Use a hair mask once a week: Refilling the hair’s supply of essential nutrients and moisture can be accomplished by using a hair mask once a week.
- Avoid using heat styling tools: Using flat irons and curling irons, for example, might harm your hair and reverse the results of your keratin treatment.
- Avoid swimming in salt or chlorinated water because both can damage hair and deprive it of its natural oils, reversing the results of the keratin treatment.
- Avoid humidity because it might make your hair frizzy and ruin the effects of your keratin treatment. Use an anti-frizz spray or hair serum to help manage frizz and keep the effects of the treatment.
- Regular Trims: Regular trims will help to maintain healthy-looking hair and stop split ends, which can detract from the appearance of the hair as a whole.
- Consult a stylist if you’re unsure of how to keep your keratin treatment results looking good. They can assist you retain the effects of the treatment and provide you with tailored advise on how to take care of your hair.
Are There Any Risks Associated With Using It To Treat Thinning Hair?
Although using keratin treatments to treat thinning hair can be risky, they can also be a safe and effective technique to improve the condition of the hair and scalp. Here are some things to think about:
The keratin treatment’s components might trigger allergic responses in some people, which can result in itching, redness, or hives on the skin or scalp.
Chemical exposure: Some keratin treatments use formaldehyde or other substances that are dangerous to breathe in. Before usage, make sure to review the product’s components, and confirm that the stylist administering the treatment is qualified and outfitted with the appropriate safety gear.
Hair damage: Overusing keratin treatments or using them on hair that is already damaged will make the hair even more brittle and prone to breakage.
Expectations: Depending on the individual’s hair type and the underlying cause of the thinning, keratin treatments may not be able to treat all types of hair thinning or hair loss.
Interaction with other treatments: To prevent any potential interactions, it’s crucial to speak with a doctor or a hair professional before utilizing a keratin treatment if you take medications or are undergoing other hair loss treatments.
What Makes Keratin An Essential Protein For Healthy Hair Growth?
Because it contributes to the structure of the hair, keratin is a protein that is crucial for healthy hair growth. A fibrous protein called keratin provides hair its elasticity and strength. Additionally, it aids in shielding the hair from environmental hazards and damage.
The visible portion of the hair, the hair shaft, is made of keratin, which is created by the hair follicles in healthy hair. The keratin cells solidify and create a covering around the hair shaft as the hair grows. The hair is kept strong and damage-resistant thanks to this layer.
The health of the scalp is maintained in large part by keratin. It provides a barrier that shields the scalp from irritants and other environmental influences and aids in keeping the scalp hydrated.
Affected keratin production can result in dry, brittle, or fragile hair that is more prone to breakage when the hair is injured or the scalp is unhealthy. This is where keratin treatments can help; by supplying the hair with the required amount of keratin, they can enhance the general condition and appearance of the hair.
In conclusion, keratin, a crucial structural protein, gives the hair its strength, elasticity, and protection. Additionally, it supports keeping the scalp healthy. Affected keratin production can lead to dry, brittle, or fragile hair that is more prone to breakage if the hair is injured or the scalp is unwell. Keratin treatments can help restore the hair’s natural keratin and enhance the condition and look of the hair as a whole.
Does It Work Differently On Dry Hair Than On Other Types Of Hair?
All hair types respond to keratin in a similar way, however the outcomes can change according on the texture and state of the hair.
A lack of moisture and oils in dry hair makes it brittle, frizzy, and more likely to break. Dry hair is a hair type. The application of keratin treatment can assist to give moisture to the hair, giving it a shinier appearance and making it easier to manage. Additionally, it might lessen frizz and strengthen the hair’s resistance to harm.
Applying a keratin treatment, however, might not be the ideal choice if the hair is already dry and damaged because it can exacerbate those problems. In that situation, it is essential to seek the advice of a hair expert who may suggest a different kind of treatment that would be better suited for the hair condition.
Additionally, it’s crucial to keep in mind that keratin treatments can be heavy and make hair feel greasy, so it’s crucial to use the proper quantity and avoid overusing them. The results of the treatment can be maintained and the hair can stay healthy and hydrated by using a sulfate-free shampoo, a hair mask once a week, avoiding heat styling, and swimming in chlorinated or salt water.
Keratin treatment may help dry hair by adding moisture and making it easier to maintain, but if the hair is already dry and damaged, it may not be the ideal choice because it might make the hair more drier and more damaged. It’s crucial to seek the advice of a hair expert, use the proper quantity of product, and maintain the effects with an appropriate hair care regimen.
Do Different Types Of Keratins Have Different Effects On Different Types Of Hair?
On various hair types, such as straight, curly, and wavy hair, different types of keratins can have various impacts.
Curly or wavy hair can benefit from smoothing and straightening keratin treatments that are intended to straighten hair, such as Brazilian Keratin Treatment (BKT), making it easier to manage and style. These procedures can be used to get a straighter, smoother appearance because they frequently have a greater keratin concentration.
On the other hand, keratin treatments like Keratin Hair Mask that are intended to give the hair more volume and nourishment can be advantageous for all hair types, including straight, curly, and wavy hair. These procedures can be used to enhance the general condition and appearance of the hair without straightening it because they normally have a reduced keratin content.
It’s significant to remember that keratin treatments might have various outcomes based on the state, texture, and porosity of the hair. The treatment may not work as well on all hair types and may not produce the intended results. Before doing any hair treatment, it is always better to speak with a hair expert. They can advise you on the best course of action for your hair type and assist you in getting the results you want.
Different keratin types affect different hair types in different ways. For example, some keratin treatments are made to straighten hair, while others are made to provide hair volume and nourishment. To get the results you want, it’s crucial to see a hair expert and select the appropriate treatment for your hair type.
How Does The Structure Of The Cuticle Influence How Well Keratins Penetrate Into The Scalp And Affect Voluminousness In Thinning Hair?
The outermost layer of the hair shaft, the cuticle, has a structure that can affect how well keratin treatments penetrate into the scalp and how voluminous thinning hair looks.
The inner layers of the hair are shielded by the cuticle, which is composed of overlapping scales. The smooth, flat cuticle of healthy hair makes it simple and effective for keratin treatments to access the hair shaft. The cuticle, on the other hand, may be elevated or broken in damaged hair, making it more challenging for the keratin treatment to penetrate the hair shaft.
The hair may appear dull, brittle, and more prone to breaking when the cuticle is damaged. The keratin treatment may also have a harder time penetrating the hair shaft as a result, producing less effective results for thinning hairs in terms of volume.
Starting with clean, dry hair and applying the keratin treatment evenly over the entire head of hair is crucial for effectiveness. Pay specific attention to the ends and any damaged regions.
The cuticle’s structure can determine how effectively keratin treatments reach the scalp and how full thinning hairs appear. When the cuticle is broken, the treatment may have a harder time penetrating the hair shaft and be less effective as a result. It’s crucial to begin with clean, dry hair, apply the treatment evenly throughout the hair, and speak with a hair expert who can suggest the best sort of treatment for thinning hair in order to ensure that the procedure is successful.
Are There Any Special Techniques?
In order to ensure that keratin treatments function as well as possible when treating thinning hairs, a number of strategies can be used:
Start with clean, dry hair: Prior to applying the treatment, make sure the hair is clean and dry. The efficiency of the therapy can be impacted by any extra moisture or oils.
Apply evenly: When applying the treatment, be sure to cover all of the hair, paying close attention to the ends and any damaged areas.
Use the right amount: Use the proper quantity of product for the length and texture of your hair. Too much product can weigh down and grease up the hair.
Allow to process: To guarantee that the treatment is effective and that the hair can absorb the keratin, follow the recommendations on how long to leave the treatment in your hair, which are typically 30 minutes to an hour.
Consult a hairstylist: Before attempting a keratin treatment for thinning hair, consult a hairstylist. They can advise you more specifically on how to utilize the treatment that is best for your hair type.
What Kind Of Maintenance Is Necessary?
Use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner: Sulfates can strip the hair of its natural oils, making it crucial to use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to help preserve the treatment’s results.
Use a hair mask once a week: Refilling the hair’s supply of essential nutrients and moisture can be accomplished by using a hair mask once a week.
Avoid using heat styling tools: Using flat irons and curling irons, for example, might harm your hair and reverse the results of your keratin treatment.
Avoid swimming in salt or chlorinated water because both can damage hair and deprive it of its natural oils, reversing the results of the keratin treatment.
Avoid humidity because it might make your hair frizzy and ruin the effects of your keratin treatment. Use an anti-frizz spray or hair serum to help manage frizz and keep the effects of the treatment.
Regular Trims: Regular trims will help to maintain healthy-looking hair and stop split ends, which can detract from the appearance of the hair as a whole.
Consult a stylist if you’re unsure of how to keep your keratin treatment results looking good. They can assist you retain the effects of the treatment and provide you with tailored advise on how to take care of your hair.
Keratin treatments have different results based on the the product used, the kind of hair, and the frequency of application. To keep the intended outcomes, routine maintenance and follow-up treatments can be required.
References
Giesen, M., Gruedl, S., Holtkoetter, O., Fuhrmann, G., Koerner, A., & Petersohn, D. (2011). Ageing processes influence keratin and KAP expression in human hair follicles. Experimental dermatology, 20(9), 759-761.
Vyumvuhore, R., Verzeaux, L., Gilardeau, S., Bordes, S., Aymard, E., Manfait, M., & Closs, B. (2021). Investigation of the molecular signature of greying hair shafts. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 43(3), 332-340.
Choi, H. I., Choi, G. I., Kim, E. K., Choi, Y. J., Sohn, K. C., Lee, Y., … & Lee, Y. H. (2011). Hair greying is associated with active hair growth. British Journal of Dermatology, 165(6), 1183-1189.