Hydra Facial

Keratin is a structural protein found in our hair, skin, and nails. It’s also commonly found in styling products to help strengthen hair—but the term keratin treatment is actually a misnomer.

“Keratin treatments are semi-permanent hair straightening treatments that smooth and add shine to frizzy hair,” says Dr Simrat Sandhu. How the treatments work is not through the use of keratin, though. To make hair straighter, a solution containing a formaldehyde derivative or (the much safer) glyoxylic acid is worked through the hair to break the bonds and reseal them in a straighter position. The solution is then blow-dried and sealed with a flat iron, and the results can last anywhere from three to six months. According to Dr Simrat Sandhu, the treatments work well on most hair types, and she recommends it for anyone who wants to reduce frizz, boost shine, or cut out blow-drying or straightening their hair on a regular basis.

The treatment’s benefits may make hair seem to grow more quickly, but it’s really all about strengthening the hair. “Keratin helps to add shine, reduce frizz, and reduce the appearance of split ends by temporarily bonding the hair back together,” explains Dr Simrat Sandhu. All of these effects can help strands look and feel longer and stronger, “but they are ultimately growing at the same rate,” she says.