If you’ve ventured into the world of bleached hair and are now considering a keratin treatment, you’re in the right place.
Let’s explore whether these two hair processes can work together to give you the luscious locks you’re after.
The Bleach Effect: Understanding Your Hair’s Current State
First, let’s talk about what bleaching does to your hair. Bleaching opens up your hair cuticles and strips away both artificial and natural colours, along with a significant amount of your hair’s natural oils and proteins.
The result?
Hair that’s more porous, fragile, and often drier than before.
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Keratin Treatments: A Potential Solution?
Now, let’s introduce keratin treatments. Keratin is a protein that’s naturally present in your hair, skin, and nails. Keratin treatments work by infusing your hair with this protein, aiming to smooth the hair cuticle, reduce frizz, and add shine.
According to a study, “Both the naturally damaged hair and those partially damaged by bleach treatment showed gain in their diameter after keratin treatment.’”
In fact, bleach-treated hairs increased to an average of 139 μm, a gain of nearly 49%.
To put this in perspective, that’s like your hair strands growing half as thick again!
And it’s not just about thickness. The study also noted a “significant improvement in the smoothness of the hair surface after the treatment”, making your hair so much easier to manage.
Sounds promising for bleach-stressed strands, doesn’t it?
This increase in diameter and smoothness could mean fuller-looking, more manageable hair that’s easier to style and less prone to tangling.
The Big Question: Can You Use Keratin On Bleached Hair?
The short answer is: YES, you can. However, there are some important factors to consider.
Bleached hair can actually benefit from a keratin treatment in several ways:
- Damage Control: Keratin can help repair some of the damage caused by bleaching.
- Moisture Retention: The treatment can help your hair retain moisture better.
- Frizz Reduction: It can significantly reduce the frizz that often accompanies bleached hair.
- Improved Manageability: Keratin can make your hair easier to style.
However, there are potential risks to be aware of:
Potential Risks To Consider
- Further Damage: If your hair is severely damaged from bleaching, the heat used in keratin treatments could cause more harm.
- Colour Changes: Some keratin treatments can slightly alter the colour of your bleached hair.
- Protein Overload: Too much protein can lead to brittleness and breakage.
- Allergic Reactions: Some people may be sensitive to the chemicals used in keratin treatments.
How To Safely Apply Keratin to Bleached Hair
If you decide to proceed with a keratin treatment, here’s how to approach it safely:
1. Assess Your Hair’s Health
Before considering a keratin treatment, evaluate your hair’s condition. If it’s breaking easily, feels gummy when wet, or is extremely dry and brittle, it might be best to postpone the treatment and focus on hair health first.
2. Consult a Professional
When it comes to chemically treating already processed hair, it’s best to seek professional help. A skilled stylist can assess your hair’s condition and recommend the best course of action.
3. Choose The Right Treatment
Not all keratin treatments are created equal. Some are gentler and more suitable for bleached hair. Ask your stylist about options like Brazilian Blowout, Cezanne, or Keratin Complex.
4. Prepare Your Hair
In the weeks leading up to your treatment:
- Deep condition regularly
- Avoid heat styling
- Use protein-rich hair masks
RELATED: 10 DIY Hair Mask Recipes For Bleached Hair
5. Timing is Key
If you’ve recently bleached your hair, wait at least two weeks before getting a keratin treatment. Your hair needs time to recover.
6. Aftercare is Crucial
Post-treatment care can significantly impact your results. Follow your stylist’s instructions carefully, which typically include:
- Waiting 48-72 hours before washing your hair
- Using sulphate-free shampoos
- Avoiding swimming in chlorinated water
- Avoiding hair ties and clips for a few days
What To Expect: The Results
If done correctly, a keratin treatment on bleached hair can provide:
- Smoother, shinier hair
- Reduced frizz
- Easier styling
- Healthier-looking locks
Remember, while the results can be impressive, it’s not a miracle cure. Your hair is still bleached and will require ongoing care.
Maintaining Your Treated Hair
To keep your hair looking its best after a keratin treatment:
- Use Appropriate Products: Stick to sulphate-free, colour-safe shampoos and conditioners.
- Heat Protection: Always use a heat protectant before styling.
- Regular Trims: Keep those ends healthy with regular trims every 6-8 weeks.
- Deep Conditioning: Make deep conditioning treatments a part of your routine.
- Avoid Over-Washing: Try to extend the time between washes.
Alternatives to Keratin Treatments
If you decide a keratin treatment isn’t right for you, consider these alternatives:
- Olaplex Treatments: These can help rebuild the bonds in your hair.
- Leave-In Conditioners: For daily moisture and frizz control.
- Hair Oils: A little can add shine and smoothness.
- Silk Pillowcases: To reduce friction and breakage while you sleep.
- Bond-Building Products: Look for at-home treatments that focus on repairing hair bonds.
RELATED: How A Silk Pillowcase Can Do Wonders For Your Hair
Conclusion
Can you do a keratin treatment on bleached hair? Yes, but it requires careful consideration, professional help, and ongoing maintenance.
If done correctly, it can significantly improve the look and feel of your bleached hair.
FAQs
Q. How long does a keratin treatment last on bleached hair?
A. Typically, a keratin treatment can last 3 to 6 months on bleached hair, depending on your hair care routine.
Q. Will a keratin treatment darken my bleached hair?
A. It might slightly. Some keratin treatments can add a bit of warmth to your colour. Discuss this possibility with your stylist.
Q. How much does a keratin treatment cost?
A. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from £150 to £300 for a keratin treatment in the UK. High-end salons in central London might charge £400 or more. Some salons offer mini keratin treatments or express versions which might cost less, starting around £90-£120.
Q. Can I bleach my hair after a keratin treatment?
A. It’s not recommended. Wait at least a month after your keratin treatment before considering any colour services.
Q. How soon after bleaching can I get a keratin treatment?
A. It’s best to wait at least two weeks after bleaching before getting a keratin treatment.
Q. Are there any keratin treatments I can do at home on my bleached hair?
A. While there are at-home keratin treatments available, it’s risky to use them on bleached hair without professional guidance. Stick to keratin-infused masks and leave-in treatments for safer at-home care.
Q. Will a keratin treatment make my bleached hair straight?
A. Not necessarily. While it will smooth your hair, a keratin treatment isn’t the same as a chemical straightener. It enhances your natural texture rather than completely altering it.
Q. How often can I do keratin treatments on my bleached hair?
A. It’s generally safe to do a keratin treatment every 3-5 months, depending on your hair’s condition. Always consult with a professional to determine the best schedule for your hair.
Q. Can a keratin treatment fix severely damaged bleached hair?
A. While a keratin treatment can improve the appearance and manageability of damaged hair, it’s not a cure-all. Severely damaged hair might need more intensive repair treatments before it’s ready for keratin.
Remember, when in doubt, always consult with a professional hairstylist. They have the expertise to guide you through your hair care journey and help you make the best decisions for your hair’s health and appearance.
