Medical expert of the article
New publications
Shampoos after keratin straightening.
Last reviewed: 07.06.2024
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
Keratin straightening is a popular procedure that leaves hair smooth and shiny. However, to maintain the result and the health of the hair, it is important to choose the right care cosmetics after the procedure. Shampoo plays a key role in this process.
Why do you need a special shampoo?
The keratin composition, applied to the hair, forms a protective layer around each hair. Conventional shampoos, especially those containing sulfates, can break down this layer, resulting in a shorter duration of the straightening effect. Special shampoos after keratin straightening do not contain aggressive surfactants and keep hair smooth for longer.
Shampoo selection criteria
- Sulfate-free: Sulfates are detergent ingredients that can wash keratin out of hair.
- Moisturizing: After the treatment, hair needs extra moisture, so shampoo should include moisturizing ingredients.
- PH Balance: A shampoo with a neutral or slightly acidic pH will help maintain hair structure and keratin coating.
- Nourishing Ingredients: Components such as natural oils, proteins, amino acids and vitamins will keep your hair healthy.
Recommendations for use
- Use shampoo after keratin straightening no more than 2-3 times a week to avoid excessive washing out of keratin.
- Apply shampoo to damp hair, gently massage into scalp and hair, then rinse thoroughly.
- After washing, use a conditioner or mask with keratin to enhance the effect.
Avoid these ingredients
- Sulfates (SLS, SLES) and other harsh surfactants.
- Salts (sodium chloride) may reduce the effect of the keratin formulation.
- Alcohol in large quantities can dry out hair and reduce shine.
Popular brands
There are many brands on the market that produce shampoos specifically for care after keratin straightening. Among them we can highlight: Keratin Complex, Marcia Teixeira, Kerastase, Brazilian Blowout and others. When choosing, pay attention to user reviews and the composition of products.
After keratin straightening, it is important to use sulfate-free shampoos to prolong the effects of the procedure and avoid breaking down the keratin layer. Here is a list of popular brands that offer such shampoos:
- Keratin Complex - Shampoos from this company are designed specifically for post keratin straightening care and contain nutrients to keep hair smooth.
- Brazilian Blowout - A well-known brand that offers post-procedure care, including sulfate-free shampoos that help maintain the results of Brazilian Keratin Straightening.
- Moroccanoil - Moroccanoil shampoos with argan oil are also suitable after keratin straightening as they gently cleanse and moisturize the hair.
- Sulphate Free - Some brands, such as L'Oréal Professionnel, offer sulphate free shampoo ranges that are suitable for washing hair after a keratin treatment.
- It's a 10 - This brand offers keratin-enriched products that harmonize with keratin treatments to keep hair strong and smooth.
- Schwarzkopf Bonacure - The Bonacure Keratin Smooth Perfect product line is designed to care for unruly and frizzy hair after keratin therapy.
- OGX - Offer a wide range of sulfate-free shampoos that gently cleanse and support therapeutic hair treatments, including keratin straightening.
When choosing a shampoo after keratin straightening, pay attention to the composition of the product: avoid sulfates, alcohols and other ingredients that can reduce the duration of the effect of keratin straightening. It is recommended to consult with your stylist about the best choice of product for your hair type and procedure.
In addition to choosing a shampoo, there are a few other things to consider to maintain the effects of keratin straightening:
Time to first wash
- It is usually recommended not to wash your hair for the first 48-72 hours after the treatment. This time is necessary for the keratin to polymerize in the hair structure.
Water temperature
- Use warm or cool water to wash your hair. Hot water can help to wash out keratin quickly.
Hair drying
- It is advisable to dry your hair naturally after washing. If you use a hair dryer, set it to a moderate heat setting. Avoid overheating the hair, as this can accelerate the leaching of keratin.
Stylization
- When using irons or flat irons, choose temperature-controlled tools and do not overheat the hair. The use of heat protectors is also recommended.
Swimming and sunshine
- Salty sea water and chlorinated pool water can have a negative effect on the keratin coating. Use protective caps when swimming.
- Before going out in the sun, use products with UV protection for your hair to avoid fading and breaking down the keratin layer.
Suitable comb
- For combing it is better to use wide-toothed combs or special brushes that do not traumatize the hair and do not destroy the keratin layer.
Regular updating of the procedure
- Keratin straightening is not a permanent procedure. Depending on hair type and care, the procedure should be repeated every 2-6 months.
Diet and vitamins
- Hair health starts from within, so it's important to maintain a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins and minerals. Vitamin complexes and hair supplements can also improve overall health and accelerate hair growth.
Following all these recommendations will not only help to prolong the effect of keratin straightening, but also to improve the health of the hair in general.
Additional hair care after keratin straightening treatment
After a keratin straightening treatment, your hair is particularly vulnerable to external damage. Here are a few care tips to help keep your hair healthy and beautiful:
Hair moisturizing
- Use moisturizing masks and conditioners designed for after keratin treatment to maintain the moisture balance in your hair and avoid drying it out.
Nourishing oils
- Natural oils such as argan oil, coconut oil or jojoba oil can be used to restore and nourish hair. They are best applied at the ends of the hair to avoid greasiness at the roots.
Minimum chemical load
- Avoid coloring your hair immediately after keratin straightening. Chemical exposure can shorten the effect of keratin and damage the hair.
Choosing the right styling products
- Use products without sulfates and alcohol, as they can accelerate the leaching of keratin from your hair and make it more brittle.
Regular haircut
- Trim your ends every 6-8 weeks to prevent sectioning and keep your hair healthy.
Protection against mechanical damage
- Avoid tight hairstyles and rubber bands that can damage and break hair. Use hair accessories that do not traumatize or leave marks, such as silk ribbons.
Following all of these hair care measures after keratin straightening will help keep your hair healthy and beautiful for the duration of the treatment and even after it's finished. Don't forget that regular visits to your hairdresser and professional care at home are key to maintaining the long-term results of keratin straightening.
Choosing the right shampoo after keratin straightening will significantly prolong the effect of the procedure and help to maintain your hair in excellent condition. Careful attention to the composition and regular use of a quality product will provide you with silky and shiny hair for a long time.