Keratin Treatment FAQ
Keratin Treatments FAQ
Having questions about our signature Brazilian Blowout treatment or any other keratin treatment that we offer? Read below to get your most commonly asked questions answered by the Smoothbar team!
Keratin smoothing treatments and permanent straightening services work very differently and are designed for different results.
Keratin treatments are smoothing services that help reduce frizz, enhance shine, and improve manageability while maintaining some of your natural texture. Results typically last up to 12 weeks and gradually fade over time, depending on your hair type and maintenance routine.
Permanent straightening services use stronger chemical processes to fully restructure the hair, creating a straighter result that does not reverse on the treated hair. As new hair grows in, there can be a noticeable difference between the treated hair and your natural texture.
Because permanent straightening works more aggressively on the hair, it may not be suitable for all hair types—especially hair that is heavily pre-lightened or compromised. A professional consultation is important to determine the safest and most appropriate option for your hair.
Keratin treatments can be a great option for reducing frizz and improving manageability for many hair types, including textured and African-American hair.
These treatments are designed to soften the hair, enhance shine, and help loosen curl patterns, depending on your natural texture and desired result. Many clients experience smoother, softer hair that is easier to detangle and style after a treatment.
Results typically last up to 12 weeks and gradually fade over time, depending on your hair type, curl pattern, and how you maintain your hair at home. Some clients may see noticeable curl relaxation, while others may prefer to maintain more of their natural texture.
A consultation is always recommended to determine the best approach for your specific hair type, goals, and lifestyle.
Keratin and smoothing treatments can often be performed on hair that has been treated with henna, but results may vary depending on the type of henna used, buildup on the hair, and overall hair condition.
Because henna can affect how the hair responds to chemical and heat-based services, a consultation is recommended to evaluate your hair and determine the best approach. In some cases, a test strand may be advised to ensure compatibility and achieve the desired result safely.
If you notice a bend or ridge in your hair during the downtime period (typically 48–72 hours, depending on the treatment), you can gently smooth it out using a blow dryer and brush.
We generally recommend avoiding the use of a flat iron during the downtime period unless advised by your stylist, as excessive heat or improper technique may affect your results.
If a bend is left in the hair during downtime, it may set slightly depending on your hair type and the treatment, so it’s best to smooth it out as soon as you notice it.
After the downtime period, you can resume your normal styling routine.
Keratin and smoothing treatments are designed to soften the hair and create a more natural-looking result, so most clients do not experience a harsh line of demarcation as the treatment fades.
Results gradually fade over time and blend with your natural texture as new hair grows in. Because of this, regrowth is typically softer and less noticeable compared to permanent straightening services.
As always, results can vary depending on your hair type, curl pattern, and how your hair responds to the treatment.
Keratin-based smoothing treatments are designed to reduce frizz, enhance shine, and improve the overall manageability of the hair. These treatments help smooth the outer layer of the hair, leaving it softer, more polished, and easier to style.
Depending on your hair type and desired result, keratin treatments may also help relax curl patterns and reduce bulk while maintaining a more natural look.
Results typically last up to 12 weeks and gradually fade over time, depending on your hair type, lifestyle, and the products you use at home. The treated hair does not simply wash out and will grow out as new hair comes in.
As with any professional service, results can vary, and a consultation is recommended to determine the best approach for your hair and goals.
Keratin-based smoothing treatments are designed to help reduce frizz, enhance shine, and improve the overall manageability of your hair. Because keratin is a naturally occurring protein in the hair, these treatments can help smooth the outer layer of the hair, leaving it softer and easier to style.
Depending on your hair type and the treatment selected, keratin treatments may also help relax curl patterns and reduce bulk, or simply improve smoothness while maintaining your natural texture.
Results can vary based on your hair’s condition, texture, and how you care for it at home.
Most keratin treatments take approximately 2 to 3 hours to complete, depending on the specific treatment selected, your hair length, thickness, and overall condition.
Your stylist will provide a more accurate time estimate during your consultation to ensure enough time is scheduled for your service.
Keratin treatments typically last up to 12 weeks and gradually fade over time.
Pricing for keratin treatments is based on time rather than a one-size-fits-all service. Most treatments start at a 2-hour minimum, with final pricing depending on your hair length, thickness, texture, and the desired result.
Because every client’s hair and goals are different, we recommend reviewing our pricing page and Smooth Scale for detailed information. During your consultation, we’ll provide a more accurate estimate based on your specific needs.
We use a variety of professional-grade smoothing products, and the exact ingredients can vary depending on the specific treatment selected.
A full list of ingredients for the products we use is available upon request, and our team is happy to review them with you and answer any questions you may have. If you have sensitivities or concerns, we recommend discussing them with your stylist during your consultation so we can choose the most appropriate treatment for you.
If your hair gets wet during the downtime period (typically 48–72 hours, depending on the treatment), gently dry and smooth it as soon as possible using a blow dryer and brush.
We generally recommend avoiding the use of a flat iron during this time unless advised by your stylist, as excessive heat or improper technique may affect your results.
If a bend or kink forms during downtime, smoothing it out promptly can help prevent it from setting in the hair, although results may vary depending on your hair type and the treatment.
During the downtime period, we recommend avoiding tight ponytails, clips, or anything that could leave a crease in the hair.
Loose styles, such as soft scrunchies, headbands, or scarves, are generally fine as long as they don’t place too much tension on the hair.
If a dent or bend does occur, gently smoothing the area as soon as possible can help minimize it. Results may vary depending on your hair type and the treatment.
We recommend waiting approximately 48–72 hours (depending on the treatment) before using styling products.
After the downtime period, you can resume using products, but it’s best to choose formulas that are gentle and appropriate for treated hair. Some products—especially those with higher alcohol content—may affect how your hair feels or the longevity of your results.
Your stylist can recommend the best products to help maintain your results at home.
Yes, keratin treatments can absolutely be performed on virgin or untreated hair.
Because untreated hair can sometimes be more resistant, results may vary slightly in terms of how smooth the hair feels or how long the results last after the first treatment. Many clients find that with repeated treatments, their hair becomes easier to manage and more responsive over time.
A consultation will help determine the best approach based on your hair type and desired results.
