Thinking about getting a keratin treatment but feeling unsure about the risks? You’re not alone. Keratin treatments have become super popular for people who want smooth, straight, frizz-free hair—especially those with curls or waves. But along with the hype, there’s also a lot of controversy.
Some say it can damage your hair or even affect your health. In this article, we’ll break down what a keratin treatment really is, the benefits it offers, and the potential risks—like exposure to formaldehyde and other harsh ingredients—so you can make the best choice for your hair and health.
What Is a Keratin Treatment and How Does It Work?
A keratin treatment involves applying a product to the hair that coats it with the protein. This step smooths the hair and gives it a shiny and glossier look. The treatment is followed by using a flat iron to seal the product into the hair shaft.
The results of the treatment vary depending on everyone's hair type. Usually, it lasts for at least 6 months. For many people, keratin treatment creates a path to get rid of blow-drying your hair whenever you go anywhere.
It is often used as a straightening treatment to replace daily styling. On one hand, it is very convenient, but it also has some risks, and the keratin treatment controversy has shed light on the potential dangers.
Why Is Keratin Treatment Controversial?
The use of dangerous substances in some formulations is the primary topic of discussion in the keratin treatment controversy. The primary reason for concern is the presence of formaldehyde or its derivatives, such as methylene glycol. Long-term exposure to the known carcinogen formaldehyde can cause serious health issues.
Many salons might not adhere to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) formaldehyde exposure limits, which might put clients and stylists in danger. The Food and Drug Administration has not officially approved using keratin treatment, considering its side effects.
Health Risks of Keratin Treatments
In addition to other major risks, skin irritation is one of the biggest risks. Many people complain that after getting the keratin treatment, they face redness, itching, and swelling on their scalp.
People who have sensitive skin or any kind of skin allergy may be irritated by the chemicals. Additionally, repeated keratin treatment can also damage your hair. The heat from the flat iron, in addition to the chemicals used in the treatment, can make the hair more fragile, brittle, and likely to break.
The immediate results are often very smooth, silky, and straight, but with time, it will damage your hair if you frequently do keratin treatment.
Safety Concerns for Stylists
The keratin treatment controversy raises concern for the stylist who does keratin treatment, as they are more exposed to the chemical reaction, and the poor ventilation in the salon can lead to poor breathing problems. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has given the guidelines implemented in the salons, risking the safety of people.
Popularity of keratin treatment
Despite the risk, people often go for keratin treatment due to its ability to reduce frizz and provide sleek, straight hair. The result lasts at least 6 months, so you are tension-free and good to go anywhere without worrying about the styling. For people who naturally have curly hair, keratin treatment is a miracle for them.
For people with busy lifestyles, the keratin treatment is a lifesaver for them, as it can reduce the time of styling hair daily. By reducing the need to spend hours trying to get straight hair and control frizz, the treatment offers a solution that enhances hair care and maintenance.
Alternative to keratin treatment
The keratin treatment controversy is on one hand, but we do have alternates for you; some hair care products will give you similar results without using harsh chemicals. For example, hair-soothing products that contain natural ingredients may help to control frizz in your hair and will provide you with smooth, shiny hair.
Another option is to keep your natural texture and apply oil, serums, and anti-frizz spray to get silky hair without using any chemicals. Another popular alternative to keratin treatment is the Brazilian blowout.
Although it uses a different technique, this treatment straightens and smooths hair similarly to conventional keratin treatments. Brazilian blowouts leave hair silky and frizz-free by coating it with a protein combination. Although certain Brazilian blowouts are still contentious due to the formaldehyde they contain, there are Brazilian blowouts that don't utilize formaldehyde and may still have similar impacts with fewer health risks.
Health Risks of Formaldehyde Exposure
As keratin treatment includes chemicals, and one of the main risks is having formaldehyde exposure, it can cause problems for your respiratory system, like coughing, sneezing, and shortness of breath. One of the most dangerous side effects of formaldehyde exposure is that it can cause cancer of the nose and lungs.
Conclusion
Smooth, frizz-free hair is possible with keratin treatments, but there are serious hazards involved, as the keratin treatment controversy has shown. In addition to long-term consequences like cancer, the usage of dangerous chemicals like formaldehyde can cause major health concerns like respiratory disorders.
Hair can become fragile and more likely to break as a result of repeated treatments. It can also irritate the eyes. Alternatives without formaldehyde are available; however, they might not work as well.
If you decide to get a keratin treatment, make sure the salon complies with the right safety regulations and always carefully read the labels. For individuals who are worried about the hazards, there are alternatives like the Brazilian keratin treatment or natural oils that might provide comparable effects with fewer health risks. Considering your health priorities and hair type, make an informed choice.
FAQs
Is keratin treatment safe for all hair types?
Yes, it is safe for all hair types, but some people who have damaged hair or a sensitive scalp should consult a hairstylist first because chemicals may cause dryness or irritation.
What are the health concerns linked to keratin treatments?
Some keratin treatments contain formaldehyde, a chemical that can cause eye irritation, breathing issues, or allergic reactions during application.
Can keratin treatments damage your hair over time?
Yes, if you get keratin treatment too frequently or with harsh formulas, then it may lead to breakage and damaged hair.