Is keratin treatment really worth the hype? Here’s what a dermat has to say

In the pursuit of shiny, straight and healthy looking hair, people go for keratin treatment despite having questions around its efficacy. “Is keratin treatment good for hair or can it increase hair fall?” These questions may be on your mind too, and we are here to answer them for you.

What is a keratin treatment?

Keratin (a protein that makes up your hair) hair treatment is a semi-permanent hair straightening treatment which leaves your hair smooth, shiny, silky and frizz-free. But to maintain the results after the keratin treatment, you should be careful with the choice of shampoo, conditioner, and other hair products – which simply means your hair needs some extra care and effort. Getting a keratin treatment works wonders in most cases, but the result doesn’t last long. In fact, it can make your hair fragile and prone to damage and breakage.

According to hair experts, keratin hair treatment is not suitable for every kind of hair. Recently, Dr Anupriya Goel, Dermatologist and Medical Director of Berkowits Chain of Clinics, pointed out 4 ways in which keratin treatments may be affecting your hair adversely. Once you know the effects, you may pull the plug on the treatment.

Side effects of keratin treatment according to Dr Goel:

1. Not good for long-term hair health

“Keratin treatment is not good for the health of your hair. It just makes your hair appear straighter and smoother, but it can be damaging. It has no therapeutic benefit,” says Dr Goel.

2. Can cause hair fall

Yes, one of the biggest concerns and side effects of keratin treatment is hair fall, especially if done frequently. That’s why it should be completely avoided in the hair fall phase and should limit its use to once a year.

3. Can cause cancer

Formaldehyde is released during keratin treatment, which may cause irritation to the eyes and is a known carcinogen. Carcinogen is an agent with the capacity to cause cancer in humans. It poses a greater risk to salon professionals because of frequent exposure.

Also, read: A DIY keratin hair treatment for damaged tresses? Yes, it’s possible!

4. Can damage your hair

Exposure to formaldehyde and increased temperature leads to damage to the hair shaft. This becomes evident as soon as the result of the session wears off.

So if you are thinking of trying it, keep the side effects of keratin in mind.