10.16.2008

Brazilian Keratin Treatment


When I went to my salon, I was asked to be a model for the Brazilian Keratin Treament for a training/certification session for the staff. It's a new product most high-end salons will be offering. Apparently, I was the perfect candidate since I had highlighted hair, and natural curls that could be dry/frizzy at times.

I agreed to do the treatment, since they convinced me that I wouldn't lose my curl, only my frizz. I was little leery since everything I read on this said it was a straightener, and I really do enjoy my curls. I think they sort of identify me, too. Add to that, it would be a free service (normally $350-$500 depending on length and type of hair).

So I did it. I went and sat there for about 4 hours while 3-4 people (at a time) yanked and tugged at my locks.

All in all here is what I understood:
  • I couldn't wash my hair for 4 days
  • I couldn't pull it back or tuck behind my ears
  • I couldn't get it wet, and if I did, I had to blow dry it right away.
  • I could not use any product.
  • Active ingredient? Formaldehyde.
  • Lasting effect? 4-6 months (just washes out)
After the treatment was applied, my hair was dried with the dryer, then flat-ironed to bond the treatment. I was sent home to follow my instructions. They gave me some shampoo and conditioner too.

Today I could wash it, and the results are in. If I had to do it again, I wouldn't. I still have curl, but it takes a hell of a lot of scrunching to get it that way. It's softer. Less volume. I think it's really meant for those who have uber-damaged, unmanageable hair (I didn't - my hair is pretty healthy overall). Luckily I didn't pay for it, and it will be back to normal in a few months (or less if I'm lucky).

Final thought: If it ain't broke, don't fix it. Even if the fixin's free.

10 comments:

kkryno said...

Gawd, Kimmie;

I can relate! I have natural curly hair, and if anyone has an opinon on what to do with it ; it's either cut SHORT or fry it! I used to be a hairdresser and loved it; but while in school, I agreed to be a "model" for a hair show. The artist cut my hair a finger-length short(it was to my shoulder) and dyed it Lucille Ball Red! No amount of tequilla fixes that! Your hair will be okay after some time and a little conditioning. Don't worry; you're beautiful enough that people won't even notice! :)

Kimmie said...

Thanks kkryno! Gah, now I don't feel so bad after your Lucille Ball ordeal. I've been hearing it's a conditioning treatment, and not a chemical, so I'm just hoping for a quick revival.

It's just BLAH. Off to get some tequila.

Dr Zibbs said...

Let's see some pics. I bet the before pics are better because you do have some great curly hair.

Chris said...

Awww crap, I guessed wrong on the following doodle post that you did. That was your sketch of your new hair doo! I guess I didn't win:)

Anonymous said...

Love the pic of the monkey!! Too cute. I saw your picture and think that your hair treatment looked good but have to admit that I think the I like the curls better. I may have a bias opinion since I've lived with straight, fine hair all my life and the only way I could accommplish your curls is by perming and let's just say - you take a risk of what you get! Your beautiful either way, Kim! Lucky for you, you had a "free" choice to make a change and it is only temporary! Tina

Kimmie said...

Thx, Tina! Actually, I'm beginning to figure out what to do with the styling, and they curls come back pretty well if I use my Deva Curl products!

Can't wait for girlz dinner!

Anonymous said...

Hi, I have very tight Curly hair. I want to do the treatment but I'm scared that it doesn't wash off. How are you doing with it? Do you see your curls naturally coming back?
Thanks...Anny

Kimmie said...

er...*washes.

Kimmie said...

It defintiely washed out in a few months. I'm pretty sure mine has already begun to, as my curls are coming back. Yay!

It's tamer, and still curly.

keratin shampoo said...

- Is the Brazilian Keratin Treatment safe?
- Can you do the Brazilian Hair Straightening Treatment over Japanese straightening?


thank you so much

this is nice post :)