A keratin or smoothening treatment is an investment of time and money, so you want the results to last as long as possible. The good news: what you do in the weeks after the salon matters as much as the treatment itself. Here is how to keep your hair smooth, shiny and frizz-free for longer.
1. Follow your stylist’s first-wash advice
Many treatments need time to set before the first wash. Your stylist will tell you how long to wait and whether to avoid tying, clipping or tucking your hair behind your ears in the meantime. Follow their instructions for your specific treatment.
2. Switch to a sulfate-free shampoo
This is the single most important change. Sulfates are strong cleansing agents that strip away natural oils and can wash out keratin faster. Salt (sodium chloride), often used to thicken shampoos, can do the same. Choose a shampoo that is free from both, such as the Kerasis Hydrating Hair Shampoo.
3. Wash a little less often
Every wash removes a little of the treatment. If your scalp allows, wash two or three times a week rather than every day, and use lukewarm water instead of very hot water.
4. Add a keratin mask once or twice a week
A keratin-rich mask helps replenish the hair and keeps it soft and manageable between salon visits. Apply it from mid-lengths to ends after shampooing, leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse. Our hair masks and Keratin Hair Spa are made for exactly this.
5. Finish with a lightweight serum
A few drops of serum on towel-dried lengths help seal the hair, control flyaways and add shine without making hair greasy. Try the Kerasis Keratin Hair Serum with argan oil.
6. Be gentle with heat
Smoothened hair usually needs less styling. When you do use a dryer or straightener, keep the temperature moderate and do not go over the same section again and again.
7. Protect your hair from chlorine and salt water
Pools and the sea can dry out treated hair. Wet your hair with clean water before swimming, consider a swimming cap, and rinse and condition as soon as you can afterwards.
8. Sleep smarter
A silk or satin pillowcase reduces friction, so you wake up with smoother hair and fewer tangles. Avoid sleeping with damp hair.
Your keratin aftercare routine: sulfate-free shampoo every wash, a keratin mask or hair spa once or twice a week, and a few drops of serum to finish. Save with our shampoo + mask combos.
