Why Does My Hair Smell After Keratin Treatment?
Have you recently had a keratin treatment and noticed an unusual smell lingering in your hair? You are not alone. Many people experience the same thing where their hair smells after keratin treatment, leaving them wondering if something went wrong or if this is a normal part of the process. This article discusses the reasons for this and possible remedies.
What Causes the Odour?
The distinctive odour that follows a keratin treatment comes from the chemical composition of the treatment itself. Some keratin treatments can contain formaldehyde or formaldehyde-releasing ingredients needed for smoothing and straightening.
When asking “why does my hair smell after keratin treatment?” it’s important to know that formaldehyde has a characteristically sharp, chemical scent that can persist for several days.
The post-treatment smell becomes more noticeable when your hair is wet or when you apply heat using styling tools like a blow dryer. The intensity or strength of the odour depends on the specific type of keratin treatment and the concentration of its active ingredients.
What’s The 48-Hour Rule and its Impact
The famous 48-hour waiting period is one of the most critical aspects of keratin aftercare. You should not wash your hair, tie it up, or expose it to moisture in this window. This allows the keratin to penetrate and bond with your hair shaft fully. However, during these initial 48 hours, the smell tends to be most prominent.
The chemical bonds are still settling during this period, which means the formaldehyde and other treatment ingredients are still active and releasing their characteristic odour. This is why many people notice the smell is most pungent immediately after the treatment and gradually diminishes over the following days.
Hair Care Tips Post-Treatment
Once the initial waiting period has passed, you can manage the odours and longevity of your keratin-treated hair with proper hair care. This includes using the appropriate products that won’t strip away the treatment while effectively cleansing your hair.
You must also choose the right shampoo and conditioner to maintain smooth hair and address any residual smell. Look for products formulated for chemically treated hair since they are gentler and help preserve the keratin coating.
When washing your hair for the first time after treatment, you might notice the smell intensifying temporarily as the water activates the chemicals, but this should subside quickly. Keep this routine to keep the smell away and preserve hair health.
Use Sulphate-Free Products to Reduce Odour
Switching to sulfate-free shampoo is one of the most important changes you can make after a keratin treatment. Sulphates are harsh detergents that can strip away the keratin coating and reduce the treatment’s effectiveness. They can also cause the chemical smell to linger longer than necessary.
Sulphate-free formulations are gentler on keratin-treated hair. These products cleanse your hair without disrupting the chemical bonds created during treatment. Sulphate-free products help eliminate the post-treatment smell more quickly and extend the life of the keratin treatment.
Heat Styling and Odour Management
Using flat irons and other heat styling tools can significantly impact the smell and longevity of your keratin treatment. While these tools are often necessary for maintaining smooth hair, they can also reactivate the chemical smell if used soon after the treatment.
When using heat styling tools, always apply a heat protectant product first. This creates a barrier between your hair and the styling tool to minimise chemical odour. They also protect your keratin-treated hair from damage.
Moderate the temperature and avoid excessive heat on heat hairstyling tools. Excessive heat not only causes the smell to intensify but can also damage the treatment over time.
Professional vs. At-Home Keratin Treatments
The type of keratin hair treatment you receive influences the intensity and duration of any post-treatment smell. Treatments performed in professional salons are better because they use higher-quality products and more precise application techniques. This means less lingering smell compared to at-home treatments.
Professional stylists are also trained to apply the right amount of product and ensure proper processing. This can minimise excessive chemical buildup that contributes to persistent odours. If you’re considering a keratin treatment and want to understand more about its benefits and potential effects, consulting with a professional is always recommended.
When Should You be Concerned about Hair Odour?
While some smell after a keratin treatment is normal, there are instances when you should be concerned. If the smell is powerful, persists for more than two weeks, or is accompanied by scalp irritation, burning, or hair damage, it’s important to seek professional advice.
Some people may be more sensitive to the chemicals used in keratin treatments, and understanding how keratin treatments can impact different hair types and conditions is important for making informed decisions about your hair care routine.
Long-term Maintenance Tips for Keratin-Treated Hair
Maintaining your keratin-treated hair properly will help eliminate any residual odour more quickly while preserving your results. Regular deep conditioning treatments can help nourish your hair while gradually reducing chemical smell. Additionally, know how keratin treatments affect your scalp health to make better decisions about your ongoing hair care routine.
In Conclusion
Experiencing a smell after your keratin treatment is a regular process that typically resolves within a few days to a week. If you have issues with your keratin treatment or have concerns about the post-treatment process, contact our professional hair care team for personalised advice and support.