When considering a keratin treatment after coloring hair, it’s important to understand the interplay between these two processes.
Keratin treatments are designed to smooth and shine hair by replacing depleted proteins. They provide a range of benefits such as frizz reduction and easier styling.
However, applying a keratin treatment too soon after coloring can interfere with the hair color.
The color needs time to settle into the hair cuticles. A premature keratin treatment could lead to uneven color or rapid fading.
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Experts often recommend waiting at least two weeks after coloring hair before getting a keratin treatment.
This interval allows the hair color to fully penetrate and bond to the hair shaft. It ensures that the benefits of the coloring are not compromised by the subsequent treatment.
While keratin treatments can be applied after hair coloring, their purpose is to fortify the hair’s natural structure. When planned correctly, a keratin treatment can actually seal in the hair color, contributing to a vibrant, long-lasting hue.
The protective layer formed by the treatment can also help prevent color from washing out, thereby maintaining the richness of the color over time.
Therefore, sticking to the recommended waiting period not only preserves hair health but also enhances the visual impact of hair color.
Understanding Keratin Treatments and Colored Hair
When considering combining hair coloring and keratin treatments, it is vital to understand their chemical interactions and the state of the hair to ensure the longevity of color and health of the hair strands.
The Science of Hair Coloring and Keratin Treatment
Hair coloring involves altering the hair’s natural pigment through the use of chemicals such as ammonia. These chemicals open the hair cuticle to deposit color.
Keratin treatments, on the other hand, infuse keratin protein into the hair shaft. Then, they seal the cuticle with heat to create a smooth finish.
Both processes rely on altering the hair structure, which can be potentially stressful to the strands if not managed correctly.
Assessing Hair Condition Post-Coloring
Before a keratin treatment, assess the colored hair for any signs of damage or high porosity.
Proper aftercare, including the use of color-safe shampoo and sulfate-free products, can help maintain hair health and pigment.
The hair’s protein balance should also be considered. Overly porous hair might need a protein treatment to strengthen the hair before undergoing a keratin treatment.
The Perfect Waiting Period for Keratin After Coloring
Hair and beauty professionals generally advise a waiting period of at least two weeks post-coloring before applying a keratin treatment.
This allows time for the hair to recover and ensures the best possible outcome for both the color and the structural integrity of the hair.
Discussing with a professional hairstylist will tailor the timing to your own individual hair type, condition, and styling preferences. This maximizes the treatment’s effectiveness and maintains color vibrancy.
The Application and Aftercare of Keratin Post-Coloring
When considering keratin treatment after coloring hair, timing, and aftercare are crucial for maintaining hair health and color vibrancy.
Executing the Keratin Treatment Safely
To minimize any risk of damage or color distortion post-hair coloring, it is advisable to wait at least 72 hours before applying a keratin treatment.
This period allows the color to fully oxidize and settle into the hair shafts.
Salons often suggest combining the keratin service with a color treatment, but caution is paramount to prevent any chemical reactions that could affect color quality.
When a keratin treatment is applied, it should be done using low-temperature flat irons to avoid high heat that could compromise the hair color and lead to increased frizz or breakage.
Guidelines for Prolonging Treatment Benefits
Post-keratin application, maintenance is key to prolonging the benefits of a smoother and frizz-free appearance.
Sulfate-free shampoos and color-safe shampoos are essential to prevent the harsh stripping of either the keratin layer or the hair dye.
Additionally, clients should avoid saltwater and chlorine. Shampooing should also be postponed for at least 48 hours after the keratin treatment.
For daily care, using a leave-in conditioner can help maintain moisture retention and shine.
- Use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner
- Apply a leave-in conditioner regularly
- Avoid sodium chloride and sulfates in hair products
So How Soon After Coloring Hair Can I Get a Keratin Treatment?
It’s important to debunk the thought that keratin treatments and hair coloring cannot coexist.
Applied correctly, keratin treatments can follow hair coloring without adverse effects.
Low heat is recommended to maintain the integrity of both the hair and the color.
It’s also important to highlight that while some keratin treatments contain formaldehyde, there are formaldehyde-free formulas available for those of you concerned with chemicals.
These treatments create a protective barrier that enhances color and shine, while also making hair more manageable.
