Keratin treatments have become incredibly popular for smoothing frizz and adding shine to hair. But what happens when you want to change your hair color after undergoing this popular smoothing treatment? The short answer is: it's complicated, and depends on several factors. This guide will delve into the specifics, answering all your burning questions about coloring your hair post-keratin treatment.
How Long Should You Wait to Color Your Hair After a Keratin Treatment?
This is arguably the most crucial question. The general recommendation is to wait at least two weeks after your keratin treatment before coloring your hair. This waiting period allows the keratin solution to fully bond with your hair, ensuring the treatment's effectiveness isn't compromised. Coloring too soon can interfere with the keratin's ability to properly set, potentially reducing the longevity of the smoothing effects.
What Type of Hair Color Can I Use After a Keratin Treatment?
The type of hair color you use is also critical. Ammonia-based hair dyes are generally discouraged for at least a few months following a keratin treatment. Ammonia can strip the keratin from your hair, negating the benefits of the treatment and potentially damaging your hair.
Demi-permanent or semi-permanent hair colors are much gentler options and are generally considered safe to use after the two-week waiting period. These colors deposit color onto the hair shaft without significantly altering its structure, minimizing the risk of impacting the keratin treatment. However, always test a small strand of hair first to check for any adverse reactions.
Toner is another safe and excellent choice, particularly if you only want to subtly change your hair's tone or neutralize brassiness.
Can I Use Bleach After a Keratin Treatment?
This is a resounding no. Bleach is incredibly harsh and damaging to hair, and using it after a keratin treatment would likely strip the keratin, completely undoing the treatment's effects. The damage from bleach can also severely compromise the health of your hair.
Will Coloring My Hair After Keratin Treatment Affect the Results?
The impact of coloring on your keratin treatment's results depends on several factors: the type of hair color used, the length of time waited, and the health of your hair prior to the treatments. Using gentle, ammonia-free colors after the recommended waiting period should minimize any negative impact on the smoothness and shine provided by the keratin treatment. However, be aware that the color may fade slightly faster than usual due to the treatment.
What Happens if I Color My Hair Too Soon After a Keratin Treatment?
Coloring your hair too soon after a keratin treatment can result in several undesirable outcomes:
- Reduced effectiveness of the keratin treatment: The color process might interfere with the bonding of the keratin, diminishing its smoothing effects.
- Uneven color: The keratin treatment might affect the way the hair color absorbs, leading to uneven color distribution.
- Hair damage: The combined effects of the chemicals in the keratin treatment and hair color could stress your hair, potentially leading to breakage or dryness.
Can I get highlights or lowlights after a keratin treatment?
Getting highlights or lowlights after a keratin treatment is possible, but requires careful consideration. Avoid bleach-based highlights, opting instead for balayage or other highlighting techniques that use less harsh chemicals. Remember to wait the recommended two weeks and discuss your options thoroughly with a stylist experienced in working with keratin-treated hair. They can help you determine the best approach to minimize potential damage and maximize the longevity of both your color and keratin treatment.
Maintaining Your Keratin Treatment and Color: Aftercare Tips
Regardless of when you color your hair, proper aftercare is essential for preserving both the keratin treatment and your new color. Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners designed for color-treated hair to prevent color fading and maintain the smooth texture provided by the keratin treatment. Avoid excessive heat styling, and always use a heat protectant spray before using hot tools.
By following these guidelines and consulting with a skilled stylist, you can safely and successfully color your hair after a keratin treatment, enjoying both the benefits of smooth, shiny hair and your desired hair color. Remember, patience and careful planning are key to achieving the best results.
