Inside the Cuticle: How Keratin Treatments Really Work
Salons are constantly packed with consumers trying out various styles and treatments. The one that prevails over many leaves customers with high shine and frizz free hair lasting for several months. The keratin treatment has made its way into salons around the nation, however, what warrants its explosive popularity?
Keratin is a type of naturally occurring protein in the body, similar to collagen and elastin, which strengthens the hair, skin, and nails. According to the Cleveland Clinic, there are over 54 different keratin molecules found in the body, however, they fall into two categories: type I and type II.
- Type I keratin: Making up over half the keratin in the body, they are acidic, low molecular weight proteins that provide structural strength to hair.
- Type II keratin: Opposite of type I, they are basic-neutral, high weight proteins that balance type I keratin to help form the strength of hair and monitor cell activity.
Keratin is a key molecule that adds to hair health. It has a multitude of benefits ranging from smoothing and shine-boosting. It is an excellent remedy for coarse and dry hair, often a result of color and heat damage. Because of this, keratin treatments have become a major part of salon services. This process entails infusing keratin into the hair cuticle creating a barrier which is then sealed in with a flat iron. Frizzy, dry hair will leave feeling soft, smooth, and shiny for approximately 3-4 months. While not a permanent process, this allows for consumers to test out new straight hairstyles without the risk of damaging their hair. Rather, keratin boosts their hair health instead.
Keratin treatments include a plethora of hair-aiding ingredients, however; it is important to take note of the ingredient list when deciding which one to use. Along with keratin, silicones, oils, and formaldehydes are included.
The chemical formaldehyde is an effective component of the treatment helping to smooth and straighten the hair, however, it has also been classified as a toxic chemical and possible carcinogen. Because of this, there are alternative treatments that are free of the ingredient. Although a beneficial contributor to a keratin treatment, awareness of its potential harm is essential as consumers choose what works best for them.
The keratin ingredient itself is sourced through animal by-products such as sheep’s wool, chicken feathers, hooves, and more. This is known as traditional keratin, however; vegan alternatives have been made through using plant proteins instead.
A keratin treatment is beneficial for those hoping to smooth and de-frizz their hair, especially with thicker hair types. However, it is important to note that continued use for those with fine hair can cause adverse effects, due to protein overload.
Keratin supports the skin, hair, and nails acting as both a protector and strengthener. Its various benefits have been noticed by consumers leading to a burst of keratin-rich products and services, allowing them a temporary period of relief and renewed confidence.
Works Cited
Burd, K. (2025, July 22). Keratin Treatments 101: What They are and Why Everyone Loves them. Simple Beauty Studio. https://simplebeautystudio.com/keratin-treatments-101-what-they-are-and-why-everyone-loves-them/
Paris, L., & Fuller, G. (2025, September 22). Why a keratin treatment might be your ticket to sleeker strands. L’Oréal Paris. https://www.lorealparisusa.com/beauty-magazine/hair-care/sulfate-free/keratin-treated-hair
Professional, C. C. M. (2026, February 10). Keratin. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/23204-keratin
Reed, S., & Brown, K. J. (2025, January 13). What Is a Keratin Treatment? A Complete Breakdown of How it Transforms Hair. InStyle. https://www.instyle.com/healthier-keratin-straightening-treatment-5359230