You’ve just walked out of the salon with sleek, smooth, frizz-free hair—pure perfection! But how do you keep it that way?
Here’s the thing: the longevity of that gorgeous shine depends on how well you care for your hair afterward. Without proper keratin hair treatment aftercare, your keratin treatment could fade much faster than expected.
So, to keep your hair looking as fresh as it did just when you left the salon, here are seven simple but essential keratin treatment aftercare tips. These will help you get the most for the money you spend on the treatment.
Why Keratin Treatment Aftercare Is Essential
A keratin treatment works by filling in the gaps in your hair’s structure with protein. This smoothens the cuticle and makes your strands more manageable. But that smoothness isn’t permanent. From the shampoo you use to your hair wash frequency, everything can impact how long the results last.
If you follow the right aftercare for keratin treatment, you can keep that salon-quality hair for months. However, if you ignore it, your frizz and flyaway will show up much sooner than you thought.
Keratin Treatment Aftercare: 7 Must-Follow Tips
1. Hold Off on Washing—Seriously
I know, I know. Going three whole days without washing your hair might sound impossible. But trust me, it’s worth it. Your stylist probably told you to wait at least 72 hours before shampooing. Remember that it is not just a suggestion; it’s a must.
If you’re wondering, "When can I wash my hair after keratin treatment?"—the answer is at least three days after the procedure. Washing too soon can rinse out the keratin before it fully bonds to your hair. Your scalp might get a little oily in those days, but resist the urge to tie your hair back or use dry shampoo.
Just let it be for the first few days to avoid messing with the results.
2. Ditch the Sulfates and Harsh Shampoos
Choose your shampoo wisely for when you finally wash your hair. Regular shampoos with sulfates are a big no-no because they strip away moisture and break down the keratin coating much faster. Instead, choose a sulfate-free, keratin-friendly shampoo that gently cleanses your hair without undoing all that smoothing magic.
Another ingredient to watch out for? Sodium chloride.
Even something as simple as regular table salt in your shampoo can shorten the life of your treatment. Always check the label before buying.
3. Be Careful with Heat Styling
One of the best things about a keratin treatment is that you won’t need to use a flat iron to straighten your hair as much. But if you do decide to use any heat tools, be careful. Excessive heat, especially without a heat protectant spray, can dry out your hair and wear down the keratin faster.
Stick to low- to medium-heat settings and never overdo it. Even better, let your hair air-dry when you can or use the cool setting on your blow dryer. Your hair will thank you.
4. Keep Humidity in Check
If you live somewhere humid, you already know what a nightmare frizz can be. Even with a keratin treatment, moisture in the air can still mess with your hair if you’re not careful.
To protect your strands, use a light anti-humidity spray before heading outside. It acts as a barrier to keep frizz from creeping back in. If the forecast looks extra humid, throwing on a silk scarf or a hat can help, too.
5. Wash Less, Refresh More
The rule of thumb is that the less you wash your hair, the longer your keratin aftercare results will last. It’s that simple. If you’re used to washing your hair every day, it’s time to change habits. The ideal frequency is two to three times a week.
During the days in between, dry shampoo is your best friend. Make sure you’re using one that’s keratin-safe. Some dry shampoos contain alcohol, which can be too drying. Opt for a lightweight, keratin-safe dry shampoo to refresh your roots without compromising your treatment.
6. Upgrade Your Pillowcase
This is something you might not think about, but your pillowcase makes a difference in how long your keratin hair treatment aftercare results last. Cotton pillowcases can create friction, leading to frizz and breakage. Using a silk or satin pillowcase will help keep your hair smooth while you sleep.
If you have a habit of tossing and turning at night, you can also braid your hair loosely or put it in a low ponytail to prevent tangles. Just don’t use tight elastics that can leave dents in your freshly treated hair.
7. Keep Up with Deep Conditioning and Touch-Ups
A keratin treatment won’t last forever, but with the right keratin treatment aftercare, it can last three to five months. Once you start noticing frizz creeping back in, it’s probably time for a touch-up.
Between salon visits, deep conditioning treatments are a game-changer. Find masks with keratin, argan oil, or coconut oil to keep your hair hydrated. Doing this every couple of weeks will help extend the smoothness and shine.
FAQs About Keratin Aftercare
When can I wash my hair after keratin treatment?
The ideal waiting period is at least 72 hours after your keratin treatment. Washing your hair too soon can weaken the treatment and shorten its longevity.
Can I color my hair after a keratin treatment?
The short answer is yes—but it's best to wait at least two weeks to ensure the keratin is fully set. For a detailed guide, check out Can I Color My Hair After a Keratin Treatment?.
Is swimming bad for keratin-treated hair?
Chlorine and saltwater can break down the treatment faster. It’s best to avoid pools and the ocean for at least two weeks. If you go swimming, wet your hair first, apply a leave-in conditioner, and wear a swim cap for extra protection.
Conclusion
Taking care of your hair after a keratin treatment doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right shampoo, fewer washes, and some extra protection from heat and humidity, you can keep your hair looking smooth and glossy for months.
Stick to these simple keratin aftercare tips, and your hair will stay smooth, frizz-free, and effortlessly manageable—day after day.