Keratin treatments can transform frizzy, unmanageable hair into silky, straight strands. However, maintaining the results of a keratin treatment depends heavily on the hair products you use, especially your shampoo. Choosing the right shampoo for keratin treated hair is crucial if you want to prolong the effects of your treatment and keep your hair looking its best.
In this guide, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about shampoos for keratin treated hair, including what ingredients to avoid, what to look for, and some of the best products on the market.
Why You Need a Special Shampoo for Keratin Treated Hair
Keratin treatments work by infusing protein into your hair to make it smoother, shinier, and straighter. Using the wrong shampoo can strip away the keratin coating, leading to frizz, dryness, and dullness much sooner than expected.
What Happens if You Use the Wrong Shampoo?
Using regular shampoos, especially those with sulfates and harsh chemicals, can:
- Strip the keratin layer prematurely
- Cause frizz and dryness
- Shorten the lifespan of your treatment
- Lead to hair breakage and split ends
To maximize the lifespan of your keratin treatment, itβs important to switch to a sulfate-free, gentle shampoo designed specifically for treated hair.
Key Ingredients to Look for in Shampoo for Keratin Treated Hair
When shopping for a shampoo for keratin treated hair, keep an eye out for these key ingredients:
1. Sulfate-Free Formulas
Sulfates are harsh detergents commonly found in shampoos. They create a rich lather but can also strip your hair of its natural oils and remove the keratin layer. Always choose sulfate-free shampoos after a keratin treatment.
2. Moisturizing Agents
Look for ingredients like coconut oil, argan oil, shea butter, and glycerin. These help to keep your hair hydrated and soft, preventing dryness and brittleness.
3. Keratin-Infused Shampoos
Some shampoos contain added keratin to replenish your hair with additional protein. These can help maintain your treatment results for even longer.
4. Gentle, Natural Extracts
Aloe vera, chamomile, green tea, and other botanical extracts can soothe the scalp and nourish your hair without causing damage.
Ingredients to Avoid
Just as there are ingredients you should look for, there are some you must avoid:
- Sulfates (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate)
- Parabens
- Sodium Chloride (Salt)
- Alcohol-based formulas
These ingredients can weaken your keratin treatment and cause your hair to revert to its frizzy state much faster.
Top 5 Best Shampoos for Keratin Treated Hair
Choosing the right shampoo can feel overwhelming with so many options available. To make it easier, here are some of the top-rated shampoos for keratin treated hair:
1. Pureology Hydrate Shampoo
Highlights:
- 100% sulfate-free
- Enriched with jojoba, green tea, and sage
- Adds moisture and shine
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Pureologyβs Hydrate Shampoo is a favorite among salon professionals. It’s gentle, deeply moisturizing, and helps extend the life of keratin treatments.
2. Keratin Complex Color Care Shampoo
Highlights:
- Developed specifically for keratin treated hair
- Sulfate and sodium chloride-free
- Helps maintain color and keratin treatments
This shampoo is designed by the experts who popularized keratin treatments. It strengthens the hair and helps to preserve treatment results beautifully.
3. Olaplex No.4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo
Highlights:
- Repairs broken bonds within the hair
- Sulfate-free and safe for all hair types
- Ideal for chemically treated and keratin-treated hair
Olaplex is a leader in hair repair technology. Though it’s a bit pricey, itβs worth every penny for maintaining smoothness and strength after a keratin treatment.
4. Moroccan Oil Moisture Repair Shampoo
Highlights:
- Infused with argan oil and keratin
- Restores elasticity and shine
- Sulfate, phosphate, and paraben-free
If your hair needs extra nourishment post-treatment, this shampoo is a fantastic option. It hydrates and repairs at the same time.
5. Aveeno Pure Renewal Shampoo
Highlights:
- Affordable and easily accessible
- Free from sulfates
- Made with seaweed extract for natural cleansing
For those looking for a budget-friendly option that still respects keratin treatments, Aveenoβs Pure Renewal Shampoo is a great choice.
How to Properly Wash Your Keratin Treated Hair
Choosing the right shampoo is only half the battle. Proper washing techniques are also essential to maintaining your keratin treatment.
Tips for Washing:
- Wait 72 Hours: After getting a keratin treatment, wait at least three days before washing your hair.
- Use Lukewarm Water: Hot water can strip the keratin coating faster.
- Use Minimal Shampoo: Apply only as much as you need to clean your scalp and hair.
- Gentle Massaging: Avoid vigorous scrubbing. Instead, gently massage your scalp and hair.
- Condition After Shampooing: Always use a keratin-safe conditioner to lock in moisture.
Additional Care Tips for Keratin Treated Hair
Beyond using the right shampoo, here are a few bonus tips to help you extend the life of your keratin treatment:
1. Avoid Frequent Washing
Washing your hair too often can wear away the keratin. Try to wash your hair 2β3 times a week.
2. Use a Silk Pillowcase
Cotton pillowcases can create friction and cause frizz. Switching to a silk or satin pillowcase can help keep your hair smooth overnight.
3. Avoid Heat Styling
Minimize the use of blow dryers, curling irons, and flat irons. If you must style with heat, always use a heat protectant spray.
4. Stay Away from Salt Water and Chlorine
Saltwater and chlorine can severely damage keratin treated hair. Wear a swim cap or rinse your hair immediately after swimming.
5. Deep Condition Regularly
Using a deep conditioning treatment once a week will keep your hair hydrated and help maintain the keratin effects.
Conclusion
Investing in the right shampoo for keratin treated hair is essential if you want to enjoy long-lasting results. Look for sulfate-free, moisturizing, and keratin-friendly formulas to protect your hair. Also, be gentle with your washing techniques and incorporate additional care tips to keep your hair looking sleek and healthy for months.
Choosing wisely now means less frizz, more shine, and a longer lifespan for your gorgeous, salon-treated hair!