No, keratin treatments are not permanent. While they provide results that can last for several months, the effects are temporary and eventually wash out.
Understanding Keratin Treatments
Keratin treatments are semi-permanent hair straightening treatments designed to smooth and add shine to frizzy hair. They don't chemically alter the hair structure like traditional permanent straightening methods. Instead, they coat the hair, temporarily changing its texture.
The duration of a keratin treatment varies depending on several factors, including hair type, aftercare, and the specific product used. Generally, the effects last for 2-4 months, but with proper care and regular reapplications, they can last for six months or more. [^1, ^8]
Some individuals have reported longer-lasting effects, even up to six months, [^4] but this isn't the typical outcome and may be influenced by factors like hair texture and the quality of the treatment. Other sources highlight that while the treatment is not permanent, in some cases, it can lead to hair that appears permanently straight but only on the treated portion. New hair growth will retain its natural texture. [^2]
The Illusion of Permanence
It's important to distinguish between temporary straightening and permanent alteration. Keratin treatments create a temporary straight appearance, masking the underlying natural texture. As the treatment washes out with regular shampooing, the hair will gradually return to its original state. [^5] Permanent hair straightening techniques, on the other hand, use chemicals to permanently change the hair's structure, resulting in permanently straight hair. Keratin treatments are different. [^9] While some people might perceive a longer-lasting straight appearance, the effects are still temporary and will gradually fade over time. [^6] Using sulfate-free shampoos can extend the treatment's longevity. [^4] However, even with diligent care, the treatment will eventually wash out. [^3, ^7]
[^1]: Answr Beauty – ANSWR, How Long Does Keratin Treatment Last?| Answr Beauty – ANSWR, https://answrbeauty.com/blogs/haircare-1/how-long-does-keratin-treatment-last-pros-and-cons
[^2]: Reddit, are keratin treatments naturally reversible or permanent?, https://www.reddit.com/r/curlyhair/comments/9oqwyu/are_keratin_treatments_naturally_reversible_or/
[^3]: Quora, Why is my hair still straight 6 months after my keratin treatment, https://www.quora.com/Why-is-my-hair-still-straight-6-months-after-my-keratin-treatment-What-can-I-do-to-get-my-natural-hair-texture-back-without-damaging-my-hair-Are-there-any-salon-treatments-to-reverse-the-effect
[^4]: Quora, Why is my hair still straight 6 months after my keratin treatment, https://www.quora.com/Why-is-my-hair-still-straight-6-months-after-my-keratin-treatment-What-can-I-do-to-get-my-natural-hair-texture-back-without-damaging-my-hair-Are-there-any-salon-treatments-to-reverse-the-effect
[^5]: Healthline, Permanent Hair Straightening: Types and Side Effects, https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/permanent-hair-straightening
[^6]: Harper's Bazaar, What Are Keratin Treatments? Everything You Need to Know, https://www.harpersbazaar.com/beauty/hair/a1266/how-keratin-damages-hair/
[^7]: Healthline, Keratin Hair Treatment Pros and Cons, https://www.healthline.com/health/keratin-treatment-pros-and-cons
[^8]: Answr Beauty – ANSWR, How Long Does Keratin Treatment Last?| Answr Beauty – ANSWR, https://answrbeauty.com/blogs/haircare-1/how-long-does-keratin-treatment-last-pros-and-cons
[^9]: Hair.com, Why I Regret Getting My Hair Permanently Straightened, https://www.hair.com/permanent-hair-straightening.html
