5 Simple Tips to Make Your Keratin Treatment Last Longer

Question from a reader:

I’ve recently celebrated my 40th birthday and decided to treat myself to a makeover, starting with my hair. I have medium-length, color-treated hair that tends to frizz, especially in the humid climate of Florida where I live. I’m considering a Keratin treatment to keep my hair sleek and manageable, but I’m curious—how long can I expect the results to last before my natural texture begins to reassert itself?

Rachael Cohen
Miami, FL

Hello Rachael,

Keratin treatments last for different amounts of time. Based on the product, keratin can stay in your hair from 6 weeks up to 6 months.

A keratin treatment that lasts about 6 weeks is usually a stronger formula. This type of product helps reduce frizz but does not fully straighten your hair. If you want straight hair, choose a keratin treatment that lasts around 6 months. Talk to your stylist to find out which product they use and how long it will last.

When you get a keratin treatment, remember that washing your hair less often helps it last longer. If you wash your hair only a few times a week, your treatment will stay fresh for more time. But if you wash your hair a lot, the keratin will fade faster. Also, do not wet, wash, or tie your hair back right after the treatment. Waiting longer before doing these things helps the keratin stay in your hair. Usually, you should wait at least 48 to 60 hours before washing or wetting your hair. Talk to your stylist about the best wait time for your treatment.

Using a shampoo and conditioner without sulfates helps your keratin treatment last longer. Sulfates can damage the keratin in your hair, making it curly and frizzy again. Stay away from chlorine in swimming pools, hot tubs, or any water with chlorine. Chlorine can also weaken and break down keratin.