Keratin Hair Treatment Side Effects

Keratin hair treatment or famously called as 'miracle straightening treatment', is widely popular for removing frizz and curls. It is considered as a natural method of straightening hair, since no harsh chemicals are used. However, the pitfalls of this treatment became apparent when many unsatisfied customers started reporting the numerous side effects of keratin for hair. Before, discovering the side effects of keratin treatment, let us first know what this treatment actually is.

Keratin Hair Treatment
Keratin is a natural protein found in hair, teeth, nails etc. It adds soft, silky, shiny texture to the hair. In case of curly, frizzy hair, the natural keratin is not sufficient to add smooth texture to the hair. The keratin hair treatment mainly aims at replenishing the keratin content in the hair. The keratin that is required for this treatment, is obtained from animal sources or other natural sources. During the treatment, this keratin product is applied on hair, followed by hot ironing. This hair straightening technique is necessary to cover the hair cuticle with keratin and trap the moisture within the hair. The product is then rinsed off, to reveal pin straight hair. More on hair straighteners.

Keratin Hair Treatment Side Effects
Keratin hair treatment side effects surface only after the first wash, which is recommended after 72 hours of treatment. The various side effects of keratin hair treatment are as follows.

Potential to Induce Cancer
Formaldehyde, a carcinogenic substance is the major component of almost every keratin hair treatment product. Even the famous Brazilian keratin hair treatment makes use of formaldehyde. Although, most salons make use of masks to escape the fumes of formaldehyde, there is no way of preventing the small amounts of formaldehyde from getting absorbed in the skin. This formaldehyde has a very high potential of inducing cancer. However, there are a few products, which are devoid of formaldehyde, but they may not give you the desired results, as the straightening effect is mainly due to formaldehyde. Thus, Brazilian keratin hair treatment side effects are mostly due to formaldehyde.

Excessive Hair Loss
This is yet another major problem, which is experienced by most of the customers who have had the treatment done. The hair start falling from its root after the first wash itself, even if you wash with recommended hair care products only. Moreover, the amount of hair-fall is so overwhelming that a prominent thinning pattern can be observed within weeks of treatment. However, your dermatologist might want you to undergo a few tests to rule out other causes, before treating you for hair loss due to keratin treatment. Read on hair loss prevention and hair loss solutions.

Deterioration of Hair Texture
You may find your hair full of luster, immediately after the treatment. But, do not stay under the impression that your hair will remain so forever. In fact, you'll notice your hair texture degrading within 2-3 weeks of treatment. The hair become dry, fade and all messed up. Also, it is likely that your hair will stay pin straight even after washing twice. This can be particularly frustrating if your hair stylist told you to expect relaxed and naturally wavy hair in a day or two.

Allergic Reactions
Just like any other hair treatment, this treatment is also capable of inducing allergic reactions in few people. The symptoms include itching, rash etc. which are typical allergy symptoms. Your hair stylist should first identify your hair texture so as to choose an appropriate product for your hair type. Also, you should clearly mention, if you have a past history of allergic reactions.

Keratin hair treatment side effects are many and that too pretty serious. You definitely don't want to let go of your precious hair (no matter how curly or frizzy it may be) for smooth, straight hair which won't last for more than a couple of months. Hence, think twice before you are ready to take the plunge.