The Brazilian Hair Straightening craze has frizzy gals buzzing across the world, sending them out in search of smooth, shiny, manageable hair. But some health concerns came, as it became public, that many of these treatments contained high levels of formaldehyde. In recent years, some (but not all!) treatments used in the US have reformulated as a precaution for both the consumers and the technicians who apply the treatments (and therefore have much more frequent/prolonged exposure). Companies such as Brazilian Blowout and Keratin Complex by Coppola have researched, tested and premiered very effective formulas without formaldehyde. But some people still experience irritation from these products, and naturally want to know why.
Keratin treatment expert Jordana Lorraine has done some research on your behalf! Turns out the bonding agents in these treatments are chemical cousins of formaldehyde. They were chosen because they are effective, but cause irritation in fewer people. However, if a client or stylist is allergic to formaldehyde, it would be a wise choice to steer clear of these ingredients as well.
How would you know? You would likely have gotten a headache, rash or asthma-type symptoms during the dissection unit of Biology class, and/or after using nail polish or spending time in a nail salon. For clients with allergy, sensitivity or particular concern with regard to the hyde family of ingredients, Jordana recommends an alternative which is free off all “hyde” family ingredients.
Our hair loses sheen, flexibility and strength due to age, environment, chemical treatments and heat styling. Recondition and fortify hair with Global Keratin’s natural keratin and botanical extracts; it will be softer, shinier and in better shape than it ever was, even before the elements got to it! Global Keratin Treatment is the most versatile product on the market. It can be used to reduce frizz only while maintaining curls, or to achieve varied stages of straightness–all without formaldehyde or any related ingredients!
Here is an email Jordana received from a client for whom she performed the Global Keratin Treatment on before her summer vacation:
“I cannot thank you enough for my hair!!! AMAZING! I went to yoga…and NOTHING stood up!
I have been in Hawaii where it is beyond windy and humid and I can run my hair into my fingers NO PROBLEM! I just feel so blessed…my hair was a cause of a lot of insecurity…and now I am feeling more confident and am in love with how manageable my hair is…I have not blow-dried it once! It is beach wavy and smooth! My only regret is that I bought a 200 dollar hair straightener [flat iron] a month earlier that now I have to try to sell on ebay or something!!!! THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU! I actually look forward to the next time I have to come in and get it done:) Have a wonderful summer and Aloha.”
It is important to note that Global Keratin makes treatments with formaldehyde as well, so you should ask your stylist to see the bottle before the treatment; it is indicated in boldface on the label. Global’s formaldehyde-free treatment is free of any other “hyde” family ingredients.
So, why would anyone choose to use formaldehyde when an alternative is available? Well, it makes it last longer, and is an inexpensive ingredient. So if you’ve seen some super-cheap deals or too-good-to-be-true promises (6 months’ lasting time, or example) out there on keratin treatments, beware…or at least do your research on the product used and the stylist’s experience. Global Keratin’s formaldehyde-free formula gives brilliant results, leaving hair shiny and smooth. Like other keratin treatments, it relaxes the curl without making the hair stick-straight. Hair which is not naturally curly, but just fluffy/frizzy will be straight and shiny afterward. Most wavy or curly hair can be air-dried into a softer wave after the treatment, or blown straight with a fraction of the time and effort.
If you’ve been considering a keratin hair treatment, but have been hesitant due to rumors it is unhealthy, check out Jordana’s site and/or contact her for a personalized consultation!
Jordana is at Lorraine Colour Bar in Santa Monica, CA.
www.jordanalorraine.com
jordanalorraine@gmail.com
Direct Mobile Line: 310-922-2645
Two clients of Jordana’s who received the Formaldehyde-Free Global Keratin Treatment:
Before Global Keratin Treatment
After Global Keratin Treatment
Semi-permanent hair treatments are much different than Japenese hair straightening treatments. Learn more about them by comparing the Global Keratin Treatment to the Brazilian Blowout and the Brazilian Keratin Hair Treatment. Whew…no wonder we get confused with all these names so similar! Do your homework, ask questions and make sure you are truly getting the brand and formula you want at the salon!
Find Jordana at Lorraine Colour Bar in Santa Monica, CA.
www.jordanalorraine.com
contact: 310-922-2645
Twitter: JordanaLorraine
Looking for an alternative to GKT? Brazilian Blowout™ is now free of formaldehyde and all hyde family ingredients (as of April 2010), as shown on their website www.brazilianblowout.com. Read our report: BIG NEWS: Keratin Hair Treatment, Brazilian Blowout™ in Now HYDE-FREE!
Not ready for the commitment of a keratin treatment? Try an at home anti-frizz system for hair: Living Proof Straight Making Styling System ($34 Value)
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I always like to test everything on myself…had my first Global Treatment done just lat week (wanted to test it on my hair as natural as possible, so I let the previous treatment wear off longer than usual) and I LOVE IT! My hair is silky, shiny and amazing!
So if you’ve been holding back because of health concerns, wait no longer! Stylist-tested and approved!
http://www.jordanalorraine.com
hi, i wanted an objective opinion of the keratin treatment i would really love to try this treatment on my naturally curly Dominican hair but i am very skeptical about the health concerns and i hear that it is a carcinogen and the fumes could potentially harm the respiratory system, i don’t want to risk my health for beauty but i would like some closure to the research i have been doing for over a week now. any help or suggestions would be GREATLY appreciated!
Hi,
Did u already hear about a new treatment sucessful in Dominican Republic that call SPAZZOLA PROGRESSIVA from Italy?
This Treatment is fantastic and different of all the other one it protect and give health back to your hair.
Do you want more advantages??? Spazzola progressiva make your hair be with motion like natural one, not like the most of the treatments that make your hair be like unnaturally pin-straight. This is the revolution treatment.
This is the unique product at the market that has EUROPEAN HEALTH CERTIFICATE.
Spazzola progressiva is an innovative process that transforms the hair in its entirety. The treatment is keratin based, that is the primary protein of the skin, hair and nails. This natural substance gives hair the ability to return to its original healthy, shiny, smooth state.
After product is applied, it hydrates the hair and creates a glossy finish.You will be able to wash the hair as soon u finish the process. Your client do not need to wait longs day to see the result. Results are visible immediately after treatment is completed, clients are amazed to say the least. Hair looks healthy and youthful.
Taking care of the hair after the SPAZZOLA PROGRESSIVA is applied is effortless. The amount of time required to style hair will decrease dramatically, in some cases is wash and go. Others require some blow drying and minimum styling time. This treatment restores hair resiliency: humidity, rain or sweat will no longer affect the hairstyle. No more frizzy hair!
The results last two to four months, the treatment fades progressively as hair is washed. As clients repeat the treatment every few months or so, you will be able to observe the improved quality of hair grown after the Spazzola Progressiva was applied.
This revolutionary process was developed in Italy and successful guarantee in Europe and Dominican Republic is now available in United States.
Take a look and see how fantastic it is www. spazzolaprogressiva.com
Hi Jasmine Renee,
I haven’t had the GKT done yet but it will be my next treatment. While I completely loved what the Brazilian Blowout did for my hair, I did have major eye irritation during the treatment (not after, however). My hair straightening expert, Jordana, recommended I try the GKT next time as it doesn’t have an “hyde” ingredients that cause irritation. The draw back is that the GKT has a 3 day waiting period before washing, the BB has no waiting period.
I advise you to speak with Jordana. She will recommend the best treatment for you. Since both treatments cost $350 there isn’t an influence of price. Good luck!
Hi Jasmine Renee,
I would be happy to go over the details and options with you in a free consultation if you are in the Los Angeles area. You will find info, testimonials and FAQ on my site, as well as my direct number and email link.
Jordana Lorraine
hhtp://www.jordanalorraine.com
hey Jordana and Tammy thanks sooo much for commenting back to my post! genuinely appreciate it! umm i am not in the L.A. area unfortunately and this is one of the reasons i am skeptical i live in Virginia, and i just want to make sure that im getting a product that is worthy of being used this is the first salon in the 7 cities close to where i live that i know does the BKT so i wanted some honest professional advise! stories abroad the internet have me going in both directions but based on the FAQs on your site i might opt. to try the BKT I love the results Ive seen! one last thing any suggestions on questions i should ask the hair dresser before getting the BKT and what are somethings I should stay away from i.e if the salon uses a certain brand of BKT thanks you guys soo much!
Hi Jasmine Renee, please careful as BKT is a brand name and it does contain formaldehyde.
You can email Global Keratin (as described above) to see if they have a salon in your area: info@globalkeratin.com If not, maybe you can bring this to your regular stylist’s attention to see if s/he would like to learn about it. It could be great for you, and for their business!
Brazilian Blowout uses a formaldehyde alternative, and a salon in MD that comes recommended by the company is listed below.
New Wave Salon
11828 Rockville Pike
Rockville, MD 20852
301-231-4844
Danny, the owner, does a lot of BB and Cesar is also supposed to be very good.
You can search for a stylist on http://www.brazilianblowout.com by using your zip code.
Yes, please do be careful Jasmine Renee! There are SO MANY keratin treatments out there! Please do your research carefully so that you are truly getting what it is you want.
Some basic differences:
Brazilian Keratin Treatment (BKT) does contain formaldehyde and there is a 3 day waiting period before you can wash your hair or even put it into a ponytail!
Brazilian Blowout(BB) does not contain formaldehyde but does contain product from the “hyde” family that may cause eye or nose irritation in some. It has no waiting period before washing or styling.
Global Keratin Treatment (GKT) contains no formaldehyde or hyde product but does have a 3 day waiting period before washing.
Be sure to ask for product by name and request to see the bottle yourself. Also, as Jordana indicated, it’s good practice to contact the company of choice and get a list of CERTIFIED stylists in your area.
Good luck!
thanks for all the useful facts u guys are awesome! lol
Hi wondering if you could help. This product is fairly new to England, and Im finding it hard to get information. We currantly are stocking La Braziliana.We have a client that it seems not to have worked on ??? and even worse the top of her hair is frizzier that before. Have you any idea why this would happen?
@cynthia That is strange, I would definitely take it up with company!
I don’t know that product; it’s hard to guess, but it is possible that not enough product was used, or maybe the iron was too hot for the hair type and/or used before the hair was completely dry.
I’m sorry to hear this happened. You can contact Global at http://www.globalkeratin.com to see if they can ship to the UK. I am very happy with their formaldehyde-free treatment (as a stylist and as a client)!
Thank you so much. Ive checked out their web site and emailed them.
Yeah its very strange, The member of staff that did the treatment, has done the course, and followed instruction to the letter, I am waiting to hear from the company.
Thanks again,a very informative page.
Cynthia
2 problems:
how much formaldie is in product ?
how much in the air aruond the workers ?
@gianfranco Global Keratin makes solutions with or without formaldehyde, but this post is about the solution without (I do not use the ones which contain it, for the safety of my clients, other stylists, and myself). GK’s formaldehyde-free formula has ZERO formaldehyde or any other “hyde” family ingredients.
gianfranco, the treatment room has filtered air to protect both the stylist and the client.
I have a few questions about the treatment. How much does it cost? i have really thick curly hair,and when i was my hair and let it air dry how would it turn out,wavy and thick or stright and thin? also is there any where i can go to get it done in the new york area. How much does it damage your hair? and if i scruntch my hair will it go to my natural hair or would it scruntch? and lastly i am 14 years old, do you think it would be okay for a 14 year old to get it done?
thank you and if you can email me back with the answers my email is kkendraax3@aol.com
Kendra,
I emailed you with my reply.
Anyone else who has concerns regarding age or product information can email the company directly at sales@globalkeratin.com.
You can also find a certified stylist near you by emailing GKT at the email above as that information is not yet available on their website.
Great post Jordana, you really know you’re stuff. It’s true, many of the products on the market contain relatives of Formaldehyde that carry various health risks including breathing problems and skin irritation.
I just posted a piece about a similar investigation I carried out after receiving some worrying news from several of my readers.
Keep up the good work.
BB
hi, i’d like to know does global keratin 2% formeldehyde causes hair damage and if over procesing harm the hair..thanks
Hi Lydia,
The 2% formaldehyde solution is stronger and lasts longer than the formaldehyde-free one, however if used properly there should not be any risk of damaging the hair.
The concern with the formaldehyde solutions is regarding your respiratory system, though that concern is far more significant for the technicians who use the chemical on a regular basis, than for you having it done 2-3 times a year. This is why I choose not to work with any products that contain formaldehyde.
I believe there is some speculation that once the formaldehyde is bonded onto the hair, a little bit is released into your air at home every time you heat it up (to blowdry or iron). If this is true, it is in the air shared by your children, pets, etc.
I do know people (both clients and stylists) who use these solutions and are happy with them. If you are in Los Angeles, I can refer you to someone; If not,I recommend contacting Global directly for a stylist in your area who uses the product you want. I believe the service is too new to predict what the long-term effects may be, though as I said it is the workers who are taking far more risk than the consumers.
In other words, proceed with caution. If you choose to have it done, make sure there is very good ventilation in the service area. I hope this helps.
This is a great website! I am now seriously considering getting the Global Keratin formaldehyde-free treatment. How long have you found that the treatment lasts? Thanks for your help!
@Ilene In my experience, the results of the formaldehyde-free treatment last approximately 8-10 weeks, depending on hair texture, condition and how often it is shampooed. Using the proper aftercare products also helps maintain results. If you are in Los Angeles, I would be happy to meet you for a consultation to give more personalized advice.
I was wondering if it completely straightens hair. I’m looking for a product for virgin ethnic hair, that doesn’t break the hair down, and that isn’t permanent. I would like the curl to stay, just maybe a little looser and with less frizz. Does this fit the bill? Thanks!
I am caucasian but I have hair that resembles african-american hair. I spend A LOT of time in the morning with a lot of product to get my hair to actually have shaped curls. If I did nothing to it (air dired with no product or twisting of curls)my head would just be a ball of fluff. SO…I have had my hair flat ironed in the past but even with flat ironing it still looks like someone with curly hair that had their hair flat ironed. I want a look that is very straight but still natural looking. I don’t want any waves, etc. and my stylist uses Global Keratin. Will I get the desired results with Global Keratin? All of the youtube video I’ve seen of “ethnic” hair doesn’t look any different that if you flat ironed course curly hair. TY so much.
What a great question, Leslie. Global Keratin is not a straightener, and will definitely not give you no-wave straight hair without having to blow-dry it. When you’ve seen it done on very curly/kinky hair, it looks the way it does because it is not a chemical straightener and has not changed the hair structure, it’s just been ironed on; it’s like laminating the hair. The only thing that can really make your hair straight is a chemical straightener, I would recommend a Japanese method. As far as it looking natural…Im afraid that’s less likely on such curly hair, especially as any roots come in.
Keratin treatments can do a lot to improve hair texture, but they basically “take it down a few notches” on the curly scale. So for wavy hair, it gets pretty straight and kills the frizz. Curly hair becomes wavy, very curly hair becomes less curly, etc.
GKT comes in three strengths; the stronger ones will give stronger, longer-lasting results, but they do use formaldehyde (2% or 4% depending on formula). The gentlest one will not straighten hair as curly as yours, but it will smooth and define the curls so they are easier to manage. I use it on a client whose hair is similar to what you describe, and she loves it, but she still wears it curly. However if she wanted to blow it out, it would be faster and easier than before.
Perhaps the most important factor is the skill of the stylist to get your hair straight during the process. Since there is no chemical relaxing going on, it has to be stylist skill that pulls it smooth. Whatever texture is ironed in, will stay, so its important you go to someone who can get your hair straight to your liking first. Even if you get the gentle one, with the goal of keeping your curls but loosening them a bit, it is flat-ironed to seal it in and the curls could have a crinkle in them if it is frizzy during the ironing process.
I’m sorry my answer was so long…I hope it helps!
So sorry to bug you with another question but your insight has been so helpful. I have no problem with blowdrying my hair in the morning to get it straight because it is short, but would I also need to flatiron it and again, would the texture still be based upon the stylist’s ability who applied the treatment regarding the straight results? Also, if I chose to wear my hair curly would i just style as I currently do, or would I no longer need all the products (4 to be exact) to make it manageable and defined curls? Do you happen to have any before and after pictures of the client you mentioned with her hair being worn both straight and curly? Once again, that you so much for your knowledge. I’ve looked for hours in the internet for this kind of info. TY
It’s not a bother, but I don’t know how much more I can help remotely. If you are in Southern CA, I would be happy to meet you for a free consultation. If not, I would recommend you meet with local stylists to discuss their experience and what kind of results they expect upon seeing your hair.
To wear your hair curly, you would still want to use products, probably even the same ones, but much less. Unfortunately the client I referenced is not in my photo-log. I only take photos of clients with whom it has been pre-arranged, so as not to make anyone feel uncomfortable.
Best of luck!
I went to the International Beauty Show in New York City, March 2010. This global treatment was used on two alfro-american women,a woman with natural curly hair. I was really amazed with the results. The instructor said the treatment last 3-5 months. The hair was boned straight.I would loved to have seen it on a alfro head. The two black women had a good grain of hair to begin with.
Hi Marylin, I’m glad you were so impressed with Global Keratin at IBS. To be realistic, I would like to clarify a few items:
~to my knowledge, they use their formaldehyde-based solutions at hair shows, not the one described in this article. Why? Because it’s more dramatic, and it is a sales show, after all
~it was bone-straight because it had just been flat-ironed with the product in it. Depending on the client’s natural texture and which formula was used, it would likely have some wave once it was washed and air-dried
~You said it was done on two African-American women, but then you said you would have loved to see it on Afro hair. Was their hair previously relaxed, and so you didn’t get to see it on their natural texture?
Hi Jordana,
This is an amazing site! I have been researching Keratin treatments as much as I can (As I have very weak hair with a lot of breakage due to straighteners and was worried about putting anything on it).
Just one main question: The GKT without any of the ‘hyde’ family chemicals, how does it work? I just wanted to know what the Formaldehyde had been replaced with really.
Thank you so much in advance, I can see from what’s above that you really know your stuff.
hi jordana, i have a question. i have fine hair that does tend to break easy. which of the three treatments would you recommend for me? i have read a ton of horror stories on the internet and was goingm to have it done today, but now i am just considering maybe a gloss treatment. but i really want the straightening benefits. please advise and thank you!
@jennifer: You are wise to do some research. Brazilian Blowout is the most moisturizing and leaves the hair most flexible and therefor least likely to break. Global Keratin is also in a cream base, but doesn’t straighten as much (at least not with the light formula as described here). Whichever you choose, you’ll want to research/interview for a stylist as well; technique is also very important in protecting the hair. If you are in Los Angeles, I would be happy to meet with you for a free consultation. All of my contact info is on my website at: http://www.jordanalorraine.com“
I am thinking about getting a keratin treatment and have been doing some research. I have heard a lot about formeldahyde and how it can be bad. I have heard that Coppola, Global Keratin, Rejuvenol may have formeldahyde free straightening treatments. Thanks for the confirmation. I found a video that shows the steps they use to get your hair straight. What a process. http://mystylebell.com/2010/04/28/flat-irons-for-brazilian-keratin-treatments/
@Rachel You are wise to do research! I saw irons for sale on your link, but no video. In any case, yes it is quite a process which is why I warn clients to beware of super-low prices. I have heard stories of salons offering a very low price but omitting some of the steps. Some product details for you:
Brazilian Blowout now contains no aldehydes of any kind (see update at the end of this post)
Keratin Complex doesn’t contain formaldehyde, but it does contain “an organic aldehyde” which they do not name
Global Keratin offers one formula (“Light Wave”) which is free of all hydes; their other formulas contain 2% or 4% formaldehyde
Rejuvenol does not say it is formaldehyde-free or have an FAQ page, you would have to contact them to ask (ask the company not a stylist)
You may also want to check out Tammy’s post on how to choose a stylist to do your keratin treatment: http://amominredhighheels.com/keratin-treatment-choose-stylist/
x’cuse me, what do you mean when you say : formaldehyde cousin or product similar to formaldehyde ??
many thanks
cesare
I just have class by Sweiss Keratin Coppola I bought 1 bottle I used it and I bought Inosys Advanced Treatment
(My coworker used Inosys Staigten and Keratin advanced )
I didn’t use yet but when I read on the questions and answers , I confused which one I have to buy? to do the service? Market have a lot products… Please explain Thank
Hi,
This is a great web site. Thanks for the info. I live in Malta Europe and the only available Keratin product here is Spazzola Progressiva. Does anyone know if it contains any formaldehyde family chemicals. Thanks a million
@Tanya I googled Spazzola Progressiva and their website is a bit confusing. It doesn’t mention formaldehyde, but they do have a “contact” page, found at http://www.spazzolaprogressiva.com/en/contactus.html
Best of luck!
I am a Licensed Master Cosmetologist and certified to do the Global Keratin Treatment (GKT) with Juvexin in Georgia. GKT with Juxenin is the only protein scientifically proven to protect and restore the hair back to its youthful state. Juvexin is delivered to the hair in its raw natural state, keeping critical amino acids and proteins intact–it is so pure you can eat it. It works on all hair types and leaves hair more manageable, soft, shiny, smooth and frizz-free for up to 5 months between salon treatments. Other keratin products on the market today are made with hydrolyzed or over processed keratin, which destroy most of the long chains of amino acids which allow the keratin to protect and restore the hair. Jevexin maintains hair’s natural properties by creating a shield over each strand, penetrating the cuticle restoring it from the inside out while protecting and repairing damage caused by UV rays pollution, chemical treatments like coloring, perming and relaxing, age and even daily shampooing and styling. Global Keratin Treatment is the most versatile product on the market. It can be used to reduce frizz only while maintaining curls, or to achieve varied stages of straightness–all without formaldehyde or any related ingredients. We perform this treatment in out salon and the results are excellent…the clients hair are shiny, manageable, stronger, frizz-free and just plain out beautiful. I love the product….Check out my website to locate me at http://www.body-beauty-shop.com
Hi Jordana,
I’m so glad I found this website! I am bi-racial with combination African-American hair. The back is a soft wave and the crown is a kinkier, tighter wave pattern that gets frizzy easily. I have some additional questions I hope you can help with:
I hear Coppola is the best on the market. What makes Global Keratin better?
I would like to start getting my hair professionally colored – should I do this before I get the treatment or after?
What shampoo/conditioner is recommended to maintain?
Generally, does this treatment make the hair weaker or stronger, grow better/retain length, etc?
I’m thinking I will only get one treatment for the humid summer months and then let it wash out by fall – does the hair fall out or get weak if this treatment is not continued? I read somewhere about people’s hair shedding when it’s time for another one.
When doing the treatment, is it applied to the entire head? My hair texture is combination and the back is a softer, finer texture than the rest so I wouldn’t think it would be a good idea to apply the same amount of heat and process. Actually, I might prefer it not be treated much at all.
Is daily maintenance different than hair that’s been relaxed? (For example, I used to flat iron(bump) my hair almost daily in some parts when it was relaxed – can I still do this with the BKT or am I going to be stuck with bone straight hair?)
After the initial treatment and first hair washing (following 3 days), can I wear ponytails again?
Sorry to be so long!!
Thank You Again =)
Hi
Please if any one could tell me where can I buy global keratin Hair treatment chocolate formaledehyde-free.
I live in Connecticut USA
Thank you
@ Iris You have many great questions! Unfortunately some of them cannot be answered accurately without seeing your hair. If you are in Southern CA, I would be happy to meet you for a free consultation. To answer some of the more general questions:
Keratin Complex by Coppola is in a gel base and contains an organic aldehyde; it will give a stiffer, straighter result as compared to Global Keratin Light (formaldehyde-free.) GK Light is in a moisturizing base, leaving the hair softer and more natural-looking, but gives only subtle results and may not do what you need, based on your hair description. GK’s medium strength formula contains 2% formaldehyde, and gets hair at least as straight as Coppola but with the benefit of the moisture and shine. I have used this formula on several clients with strong texture (including mixed gals) and had great feedback! The air filtration system we use is approved as safe for use with a low percentage of formaldehyde such as this, but if you are elsewhere you will want to make sure the salon has excellent ventilation/filtration. The best thing to do would be to have consultations with stylists who use each, or ideally one who does both, to get personalized evaluations and information. For help choosing a stylist, see this recent post from A Mom in Red High Heels: http://amominredhighheels.com/keratin-treatment-choose-stylist/
You should have your color done before having any keratin treatment.
Each keratin treatment company makes its own shampoo and conditioner. They are strongly recommended as they are not only free of stripping agents, but also contain some of the active ingredients of the treatment so that you are refreshing it with each use.
Keratin treatments make the hair stronger, so many clients find that having them helps them to grow out their hair because it prevents split ends from breaking off.
If the treatment is done properly, there is no way for it to damage the hair or scalp. Yes, there are a few horror stories on the web (as with anything), but if that were the norm, obviously no one would do it anymore, stylists or clients!
Keratin treatments can be done on certain areas only, or adjusted so that some receive a stronger results than others. This is something that needs to be discussed in person while the stylist an see and feel the hair.
The results you can expect also must be addressed by someone who can see and analyze your hair, but as a general rule it will not be stick straight; some clients can air-dry their hair wavy after, and it can be styled however your like (it will hold a curl.) After the initial waiting period (48 hours for Global, 72 for Coppola) you will be able to wash and style your hair as you wish, including ponytails, curling it, blowdrying with body, etc.
I hope this has been helpful, but again I suggest you see at least one stylist for a consultation to get more personalized info and help in your decision. Best of luck!
@ Nanna You can visit http://www.globalkeratin.com and contact them for local education and distribution reps. Enjoy!
Thank you again!
I wish I could make it to Santa Monica for a consultation, but I’m in the midwest. Can you help me understand all the stories of hair loss out there from BKT’s? http://www.short-hair-style.com/reaction-to-keratin-hair-treatment.html Some professionals are saying it’s because too much heat (8 passes at 450 degrees) was used, some think it should only be used on thick, coarse, wiry hair, and others think it’s because of the chemicals causing an allergic reaction(having hair loss regardless of formadehyde free or not). These people lost hair from the scalp, which does not seem to be from heat usage so that makes me wonder about the risks involved.
Have you encountered any of these situations? What caused it?
@ Iris
It is very hard for me to understand how this could happen, too! I have learned from experience which hair types need how much heat, pressure and tension, but I do not see how even excessive heat on the hair shaft could result in loss from the scalp. One thing I think is strange is that in these horror stories, clients rarely mention WHO did their hair and sometimes don’t even know WHAT they had done to it. It is prudent to be informed before contracting for any chemical service, and if someone had misled me and/or caused the kind of damage these rumors imply, I would be all over exposing them so others know not to go there.
As I said above, if done properly there is no way to cause damage to the average client. It seems to come down to client sensitivity/allergy, and stylist error. If this were a “normal” reaction to the proper usage of the product, it would have been yanked off the market a long time ago. I personally believe that companies should offer more detailed education and salons should require their stylists take it. Depending on the salon, stylist and product, a person offering a keratin treatment may have watched a 5-minute video, or may have taken a hands-on workshop. I proudly display my training and experience on my website; granted stylists in other areas may not have the same access I did, you’ll want to find the best available to you.
The best thing you can do is to really research your options in both product and stylist. Remember, there are tips here: http://amominredhighheels.com/keratin-treatment-choose-stylist/
hi Jordana,
first of all, i just want to tell you that you give the BEST advice!
i do want to tell you i did have the treatment done back in april. i have very light blonde hair that is fine in texture. the product she used on me was called 4hair solutions (website for product is http://www.4hair.org/4hair.htm and she used the green bottle that says a 2 on it). the product did say for african american hair but my stylist said that was ok when i asked. i absolutely loved the results except on the front of my head…i have some layers that went down to my ears and those were absolutely FRIED after the treatment. i did have my hair colored 2 weeks before as well (i put in a lot of dark and red tones). there was also some confusion as to when i could wash it. my stylist said to wait a week, but the website says you can wash it right away. when i got home from the treatment i researched the product right away (i have heard the horror stories too and had actually changed my mind and was going to see about getting a glaze instead of keratin but she assured me it would be alright) and even talked to someone who again said i could wash it right away. i waited 3 days, just to be on the safe side because i didnt want to pay for it and have it wash out right away or not be as effective. so…i do lose alot of hair (in fact it is kind of thin on top – help!) but i did before the treatment as well, so i am positive that it is unrelated. i dont take any prescribed medicines, so it’s probably due to a poor diet- i hate vegetables! for the fried part (which i have never had an issue before – i only use a flat iron or hair dryer about once or twice a month) i used a morrocan oil (a sally’s version of it…doubt it is the real thing as i only paid $7!) which helped a TON and then about a month later i went in and had short layers put in throughout my long hair.
what i really loved about my treatment is that my hair was pretty straight even when i let it air dry. that was really what i was hoping for. my hair naturally is the ‘half-permed’ look lol…so you either have to curl it or straighten it for it to look good. i do use the keratin shampoo an condidtioner but i i can tell the treatment is already going away.
the keratin shampoo did weigh down my hair but the lady who cut it told me to use something else for my scalp and use the keratin for the rest of it.
hope this helps somebody out there!
I have curly hair and do not want to get rid of the curl. I do want to get rid of the frizz. I have been seeing many pictures of people that have curly hair and then end up with straight hair. I am nervous that if I do the Global Keratin my curl would be relaxed. Is this true?
@Jen Thank you for the compliment! I am glad you’re enjoying the treatment on your hair! It sounds like they should have lowered the temperature for the hair around your face, which can sometimes be more delicate; mention this to them before you do it again, and they should be able to accommodate and better protect those areas from the heat.
The discrepancy over when you could wash it is a bit strange; I am a manufacturer’s instructions kind of gal but just because you “can” wash it right away doesn’t mean you need to. If you’re looking for something longer-lasting, maybe try a different product, just make sure to research it and know what you’re getting. Then maybe you can post a comparison!
Best of luck!
@Cathy Global Keratin’s Light formula is the gentlest treatment I’ve used. It will add shine and reduce frizz, and make hair more manageable, but will not straighten it. It will, however, reduce the curl a bit (see photo above of Jill, air-dried, after.) If you’re in Southern California, I’d be happy to meet you for a consultation to give an estimate of what you personally can expect from the treatment; otherwise I recommend seeking someone in your area to do the same before having it done. Remember that Global makes 3 formulas; if you want to keep your curls, you are only interested in the Light Wave formula. The others contain formaldehyde and will straighten your curls more than it sounds like you’d want.
Best of luck!
Ok so I have a cuestion; my hair is like medium texture it’s not thick or coarse, but I want it to be straight after the tratment will 2% be enough? I don’t know why the stylist wants to do 4% she said I will only take off volume, but I’m kind of scared, because my friend has thick curly hair and she used 2% and it looks straight to me, do you think I should consult another stylist? Or should I just do it? Is 4% too much? Thank you for any answers!