What to Expect After Your First Wash: How to Take Care of Your Hair After Keratin Treatment

It's crucial to understand what to expect and how to take care of your hair after a keratin treatment, whether a smoothing or straightening procedure. The first wash after the treatment is important because it sets the tone for your future hair care routine. 

Many people notice changes in their hair texture, appearance, and maintenance needs after their first post-keratin treatment wash. Understanding these changes and knowing how to take care of your hair after keratin treatment allows you to maximize the longevity of your treatment and reap the benefits for a longer period of time.

First, you need to prepare for the best results.

Preparation is the first step for any task and should be taken seriously if you want to get the desired results from your keratin treatment after the first wash. You can take a few steps to ensure proper preparation and overall good results. Here are some of the steps to take as you prepare: 

1. Adhere to the recommended waiting period. 

Following the waiting period recommended by your stylist or the keratin treatment manufacturer before washing your hair is crucial. Depending on the type of keratin treatment used, this waiting period typically ranges from 24 to 72 hours. This waiting period allows the keratin to bond with your hair thoroughly, increasing the treatment's efficacy and longevity. During this time, avoid getting your hair wet or engaging in activities that may cause excessive sweating.

2. Choose sulfate-free and keratin-safe shampoos.

Choosing the right shampoo is essential for keeping your keratin-treated hair in good condition. Look for gentle, sulfate-free shampoos free of harsh detergents, which cause the treatment to fade faster. Also, shampoos labeled as keratin-safe or formulated for chemically treated hair are intended to nourish and protect your hair.

3. Take the time to detangle your hair. 

To minimize hair breakage and stress on the strands, it's important to gently detangle your hair before washing it. You can start using a wide-tooth comb or a brush with flexible bristles. Begin detangling from the ends of your hair and gradually work your way up, making sure not to exert excessive force or tug too harshly. If necessary, you can apply a leave-in conditioner or a detangling spray to facilitate the combing process and make it easier to untangle your hair.

4. Expect possible temporary changes to your hair texture.

It's important to note that your hair texture may change after the first wash following a keratin treatment. These changes are usually temporary and result from your hair adapting to the treatment. Common changes are smoother, more manageable hair with less frizz and more shine. However, the extent of these changes will vary depending on your hair type, the specific keratin treatment used, and how well you follow the aftercare instructions.

Practice proper washing and conditioning techniques.

Ensure your water is at the right temperature and gentle on your hair and scalp.

It is advised to use lukewarm water rather than hot water when washing your hair after a keratin treatment. Hot water can be damaging because it removes the keratin treatment and opens the hair cuticles, resulting in more frizz and less smoothness. Using lukewarm water helps preserve the treatment's integrity while keeping your hair hydrated without causing damage or compromising the desired results.

Furthermore, a shower water filter is highly recommended. Hard water has a high mineral content, such as calcium and magnesium, which can shorten the lifespan of the keratin treatment. You can help reduce the number of minerals in the water during your first wash after keratin treatment by using a hard water shower head or a water filter like blu’s Ionic Shower Filter. This preventative measure reduces the possibility of mineral buildup in your hair, allowing the treatment to work optimally and extending its effectiveness.

Steps to follow for a proper first wash after keratin treatment 

1. Wet your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water.
2. Take a small amount of sulfate-free and keratin-safe shampoo in your palm and lather it gently. Focus on massaging the scalp and roots, as that's where most oil and product buildup occurs.
3. Rinse the shampoo out thoroughly with lukewarm water.
4. Apply a keratin-safe conditioner to the lengths and ends of your hair. Avoid applying conditioner directly to the roots to prevent weighing down your hair.
5. Leave the conditioner on for the recommended time (usually a few minutes) to nourish and hydrate your hair.
6. Rinse the conditioner thoroughly with lukewarm water.
7. Optional: Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to gently detangle your hair while the conditioner is still in to minimize breakage.
8. Finish with a final rinse of cool water to help seal the cuticles and add shine.

How often should you wash your hair after keratin treatment?

The frequency with which you wash your hair after a keratin treatment depends on your hair type and preference. However, as a general rule, washing your hair less frequently than before the treatment is best. This helps preserve the results and keeps the keratin from fading too quickly. Aim to wash your hair every 2-3 days, or as needed, to keep your scalp and hair clean and free of product buildup. 

Maintain a healthy hair care routine long after your keratin treatment by installing a shower filter.

It’s important to take care of your hair properly after a keratin treatment to get the best results! The blu Ionic Shower Filter is an excellent choice for keeping your hair healthy before and after keratin treatments. It reduces hard water damage by removing heavy mineral particles that cause dryness, brittleness, and hair loss. The filter improves the effectiveness of keratin treatments by shielding the hair from contaminants that could wash away the treatment. It is convenient and effective due to its simple installation and multiple stages of advanced filtration. Furthermore, the blu Ionic Shower Filter promotes water and energy efficiency, contributing to a long-lasting hair care routine. Including this filter in your routine will result in cleaner, healthier hair and scalp.