Keratin treatment depends on the context: are you referring to hair treatments or skin/nail conditions? We'll address both.
Keratin Hair Treatments: Aftercare and Maintenance
Keratin hair treatments aim to smooth and straighten hair, reducing frizz. Post-treatment care is crucial for longevity.
- Avoid Washing: After a keratin treatment, refrain from washing your hair for at least a specified period (often 3 days, but this varies by treatment and stylist instructions), allowing the keratin to bond completely. [Source: multiple articles, various dates]
- Sulfate-Free Products: Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners to prevent stripping the keratin and maintain the treatment's effects. [Source: multiple articles, various dates]
- Avoid Heat Styling (Initially): Minimize heat styling tools initially to avoid damaging the newly treated hair. [Source: multiple articles, various dates]
- Gentle Hairstyles: Avoid tight hairstyles that can create kinks and disrupt the smoothing effect. [Source: multiple articles, various dates]
Keratin hair treatments are semi-permanent, meaning they will eventually fade. [Source: Harper's Bazaar, Mar 16, 2023]. They are not permanent hair straightening solutions and are different from hair straightening treatments that aim to permanently alter hair structure. [Source: Byrdie, Oct 1, 2024].
Keratin Plugs: Treatment for Skin Bumps
Keratin plugs are small, clogged pores that appear as white or skin-colored bumps on the skin. [Source: Cleveland Clinic, Apr 15, 2022]. Treatment focuses on unclogging the pores.
- Exfoliation: Gentle exfoliation may help remove keratin plugs. [Source: Healthline, Jan 30, 2020]
- Moisturization: Keeping the skin moisturized can also help prevent their formation. [Source: Healthline, Jan 30, 2020]
- Dermatological Intervention: A dermatologist can remove persistent or problematic keratin plugs. [Source: Healthline, Jan 30, 2020]
For nail conditions involving keratin, such as keratin granulation, treatments may involve specialized products. [Source: Amazon search results] Consult a dermatologist or podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment advice regarding nail conditions.