Have you ever had your hairstylist recommend treatments like Keratin or Rebonding to improve the texture of your hair and make it more manageable but you just did not understand the difference between them? Don’t worry we’ve broken down these processes for you to understand just what you need to know to pick the right treatment.
Keratin:
Keratin is a protein that is naturally present in hair strands, the Keratin hair treatment itself involves saturating the hair strands with this protein to achieve a dense, healthy and voluminous look to your hair while making it easy to manage and style. Unlike the harsh chemicals used in other techniques, milder chemicals are used to restore natural protein in hair making it the least damaging choice. The transformation lasts for a relatively shorter span of around 3 to 4 weeks and calls for regular upkeep as the structure of hair is not completely altered.
Rebonding:
Rebonding targets hair bonds. Chemicals that break down the hair bonds are used in combination with flat iron hair straighteners. The high temperature restructures every bond of hair to give a sleek, high shine poker straight look.
Rebonding treatments tend to work even on the curliest hair types and the results are almost as good as permanent and should last from 8 to 12 months depending on the after care and hair type.. The upkeep is relatively less tedious.
The high temperatures and strong chemicals used may give longer lasting results but the damage caused is also more than other procedures. Also, it requires touch-ups as new, untreated portions grow in and if not done right, hair may form kinks. In some cases it may lead to hair fall due to the damage caused.
Smoothening:
Smoothening is a relatively milder version of rebonding which is considered suitable for wavy hair that may be damaged and frizzy. This treatment is relatively semi- permanent and does not alter the hair structure permanently, therefore the result is a smooth and silky finish without a very flat look. It lasts anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks or more depending on the hair type and upkeep post treatment.
Chemicals that contain Formaldehyde Solution are first used to saturate the hair and break the natural bonds of hair to allow reshaping. Flat iron hair straighteners are then used to straighten the hair strands.
The use of milder chemicals makes this treatment less harsh and damaging for the hair in comparison to Rebonding. The final look is manageable while still retaining some of the natural bounce of the hair. The only drawback to smoothening is that the results may or may not be as expected in case of denser hair.
So, hopefully you finally know what these different treatments are and what effect they have on your hair. Before you go get one done, it is important to consider your hair type and style before picking any of these treatments. While they may make your hair look awesome and healthy, it is also important to take precautions to maintain these results as without the proper maintenance and upkeep, your hair could get damaged.
