Everything You Need to Know About Keratin Treatments

If you spend more time fighting frizz than enjoying your hair, a keratin treatment might be the solution you've been looking for. These professional smoothing treatments have transformed the daily routine of millions of people — cutting styling time in half while adding incredible shine.

Here's everything you need to know before booking your first keratin treatment.

What Is a Keratin Treatment?

Keratin is a protein that naturally occurs in your hair. Over time, heat styling, chemical processing, environmental exposure, and everyday wear break down your hair's natural keratin, leading to frizz, dullness, and damage.

A keratin treatment replenishes this lost protein by coating the hair shaft with a keratin-infused formula, then sealing it in with heat. The result is smoother, shinier, more manageable hair that resists humidity and frizz.

How Does It Work?

The process typically takes 2–3 hours:

1. Clarifying wash: Your stylist uses a clarifying shampoo to remove product buildup and open the hair cuticle
2. Application: The keratin formula is applied section by section, saturating the hair from root to tip
3. Processing: The formula sits in your hair for 20–30 minutes
4. Blow dry: Your hair is blow-dried smooth
5. Flat iron sealing: Your stylist passes a flat iron over small sections at high heat (around 450°F) to seal the keratin into the hair cuticle
6. Cool down: The treatment sets as your hair cools

The heat-sealing step is what locks the keratin in place, creating a smooth, protective layer around each strand.

Keratin Treatment vs Brazilian Blowout

These terms are often used interchangeably, but they're actually different treatments:

Which should you choose?

Choose a keratin treatment if:

• You want maximum smoothing and straightening
• Your hair is very curly, coarse, or thick
• You want results that last 3–5 months
• You don't mind waiting 48–72 hours before your first wash

Choose a Brazilian blowout if:

• You want frizz reduction without losing your natural wave
• You have fine or wavy hair
• You want same-day washing capability
• You prefer a lighter, more natural result

Not sure? Our stylists can help you decide during your consultation.

How Long Does a Keratin Treatment Last?

Most keratin treatments last 3–5 months, depending on:

• Your hair type: Coarse, thick hair may hold the treatment longer
• How often you wash: Less frequent washing = longer-lasting results
• Products you use: Sulfate-free products extend the life significantly
• Heat styling frequency: Regular flat ironing can extend the smoothing effect
• Swimming and sun exposure: Chlorine and UV can shorten the treatment's lifespan

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Keratin treatments work well for:

• Frizzy hair (any texture)
• Curly hair that you want to relax (not eliminate curls)
• Thick, coarse hair that takes a long time to style
• Humidity-prone hair that poofs up in Texas summers
• Damaged hair that needs smoothing and shine

Who should be cautious:

• Very fine hair may become too flat — a Brazilian blowout is often better
• Heavily bleached or damaged hair — consult with your stylist first
• Pregnant or nursing — some formulas contain formaldehyde or formaldehyde-releasing ingredients; discuss with your stylist and doctor
• Anyone with keratin allergies or scalp sensitivities — always disclose during consultation

Aftercare: Making It Last

The First 72 Hours (Keratin Treatment)

• Do not wash your hair for 48–72 hours
• Do not get your hair wet (rain, sweat, swimming)
• Do not tuck your hair behind your ears or wear hair ties (these can create creases)
• Do not use clips, pins, or headbands
• Sleep with hair loose and straight

Ongoing Care

• Switch to sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner — sulfates strip the keratin coating
• Wash less often — every 2–3 days extends the treatment
• Avoid chlorine — wear a swim cap or rinse hair with clean water before swimming
• Use a silk or satin pillowcase — reduces friction while you sleep
• Skip salt sprays and clarifying shampoos — these break down the treatment faster

Pricing at Lee Graves Salon

• Keratin Treatment: Starting at $330
• Keratin Express: Starting at $175 (lighter version, lasts 6–8 weeks)
• Brazilian Blowout: Starting at $330

All smoothing treatments include a consultation. View our full pricing menu for details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a keratin treatment damaging? The treatment itself is designed to repair and smooth, not damage. However, the high-heat sealing step does subject your hair to temperatures around 450°F. Professional application minimizes the impact, and the keratin coating actually protects your hair going forward.

Can I color my hair with a keratin treatment? Yes, but timing matters. Color should be done at least one week before the keratin treatment. If you need a touch-up after the keratin, wait at least two weeks. Your stylist can coordinate both services for the best results.

Will the treatment make my hair completely straight? Not necessarily. A keratin treatment smooths and reduces frizz, but it doesn't permanently straighten your hair like a relaxer. You'll still have your natural texture — it will just be softer, smoother, and more manageable.

Is there a formaldehyde-free option? Yes. Many modern keratin formulas are formaldehyde-free or use alternative bonding agents. At your consultation, we'll discuss the specific products we use and address any concerns.

How often can I get keratin treatments? Most clients get treatments every 3–5 months. There's no strict limit, but we recommend letting the previous treatment fade significantly before reapplying to avoid over-coating the hair.