How to Curl Keratin Treated Hair Safely: Tips From Pro Stylists

Keratin treatments have become increasingly popular for their ability to smooth and add shine to frizzy or unruly hair. This process coats the hair with a protein that fills in gaps in the hair shaft, resulting in a sleek appearance. However, the post-treatment period requires special care, particularly when it comes to heat styling.

For those looking to add curls to their keratin-treated locks, understanding the right techniques and precautions is essential to maintaining the integrity of the treatment and the health of the hair. In this blog, get all the best tips and tricks from pro stylists to make sure your hair gets the best care.

Understanding Keratin Treatments

Understanding the process behind a keratin treatment is paramount when planning to curl treated hair. The treatment creates a protective layer over the hair cuticle, which can diminish the hair’s ability to hold a curl due to the added weight and smooth texture. It’s crucial to wait at least two weeks after the treatment before attempting to curl the hair to allow the keratin to fully set.

How to Prep Keratin Treated Hair for Curling

Before reaching for the curling iron, preparing keratin-treated hair is essential to ensure that the heat doesn’t compromise its silky texture. Begin by washing your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo. This will remove any residual products and oils to provide a clean canvas for styling. After washing, apply a smoothing keratin-safe conditioner to keep your hair hydrated and manageable. Once it’s clean and conditioned, gently towel-dry the strands to remove excess moisture. Avoid vigorous rubbing. Follow with a wide-tooth comb to detangle the hair carefully.

Apply a leave-in conditioner for dry hair or a keratin-infused serum to fortify your hair’s protective layer and add moisture. Blow-dry it using a diffuser attachment in a low-heat setting. The goal is to achieve a completely dry mane without overheating the strands. Once your hair is dry, it’s time to apply a high-quality heat protectant specifically suited for keratin-treated hair. This crucial step will shield your strands from the thermal effects of curling.

When using the curling iron, select the lowest effective temperature to achieve curls. Divide the hair into small, even sections, and secure each with a clip. Smaller sections allow the heat to distribute more evenly and reduce the time the hair needs to be in contact with the curling iron.

Tips for Curling Keratin Treated Hair

When using a curling iron, select a tool with adjustable temperature settings to keep the heat low. A ceramic or tourmaline barrel is a good choice as these materials distribute heat more evenly and reduce the risk of hot spots that can damage keratin-coated strands. Remember to be gentle and patient while curling keratin-treated hair. It may take a bit longer to achieve the desired effect compared to untreated hair. With careful technique and the right tools, you can craft curls that are both beautiful and long-lasting

After curling your hair with the right tools and techniques, it’s vital to set the style in a way that keeps the curls intact. One key strategy is to use a setting spray or mousse specifically designed for keratin-treated hair. These products should be alcohol-free to avoid drying out the hair and should provide a flexible hold without being too heavy. After applying the styling product, it’s often helpful to let the curls cool completely before manipulating them. You can do this by pinning the curl in place until it cools down or gently holding the curl in your hand for a moment after releasing it from the curling iron.

Once curls are completely cooled and set, avoid brushing them out. Instead, use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to softly separate them. If you notice any frizz, you can apply a small amount of keratin-infused anti-frizz serum to smooth out the hair and add glossiness to the curls. Finally, to prolong the life of your curls, select a gentle, keratin-compatible hairspray. A good hairspray should give hold without stiffness, allowing curls to move naturally while still maintaining their shape. Look for options that offer humidity resistance to help combat frizz.