What is keratin, and why is it essential?
Keratin is a natural fibrous protein that makes up 95% of the structure of hair, nails, and skin. It acts as a protective shield, ensuring the strength, elasticity, and resilience of these tissues. Over time, external aggressors such as heat, pollution, and chemical treatments damage keratin, thereby weakening hair and nails. Used in cosmetics and hair care products, keratin helps repair, smooth, and strengthen the hair shaft for healthier, shinier hair.
What are the benefits of keratin for hair, nails, and skin?
1. Powerful reinforcement for the hair shaft
- Restores the hair’s internal structure, restoring its strength and elasticity.
- Fills in damaged cuticles, reducing breakage and split ends.
- Gives hair a smooth, silky texture by sealing the hair cuticles.
2. Natural smoothing for manageable hair
- Smooths and relaxes the hair shaft, reducing frizz and volume.
- Makes styling easier by reducing drying and blow-drying time.
- Adds radiant shine, ideal for dull and tired hair.
3. Protection against external aggressors
- Forms a protective barrier against heat (straighteners, hair dryers) and pollution.
- Preserves the hair’s natural moisture, preventing dryness and dehydration.
- Improves resistance to coloring and bleaching, prolonging their shine.
4. A restorative treatment for damaged hair
- Ideal after straightening, relaxing, or chemical coloring.
- Repairs brittle, porous, and sensitized hair, restoring its vitality.
- Helps prevent hair loss caused by external aggressors.
5. A boost for damaged and brittle nails
- Strengthens the structure of brittle and split nails.
- Improves growth and strength, reducing brittleness.
- Protects against impact and chemical damage (nail polish remover, harsh nail polish).
6. Moisturizing and protective action for the skin
- Helps maintain the skin’s elasticity and firmness.
- Protects against dehydration and external aggressors.
- Promotes cell regeneration, ideal for dry and mature skin.
7. A must-have for all hair types
- Suitable for fine hair, adding volume and strength.
- Ideal for curly or coily hair, reducing frizz without weighing it down.
- Essential for color-treated or chemically treated hair, helping to preserve its vitality.
How to use keratin in your daily routine?
1. In hair care products (shampoos, masks, serums)
- Use a keratin-enriched shampoo and conditioner to nourish the hair shaft.
- Apply a keratin mask once or twice a week for deep repair.
- Apply a keratin serum or oil to the mid-lengths and ends; do not rinse.
2. As a salon keratin treatment (Brazilian straightening, deep conditioning)
- Opt for a Brazilian straightening treatment for long-lasting anti-frizz results.
- Get a reconstructive treatment at the salon to restore lost keratin.
- Maintain the results with sulfate-free products that preserve keratin.
3. Take dietary supplements to strengthen hair and nails
- Take keratin capsules for a strengthening effect from the inside.
- Combine with B vitamins, zinc, and biotin to stimulate hair growth.
- Follow a treatment regimen for at least 3 months to see visible results.
4. For nails and skin
- Apply a keratin-based strengthening treatment to soft, brittle nails.
- Incorporate a keratin serum or cream into your skincare routine.
What are the precautions and contraindications for keratin?
- Avoid keratin-based treatments containing formaldehyde, a harmful ingredient found in some chemical straightening treatments.
- Don’t overload your hair with keratin; too much can make it stiff and brittle.
- Choose formulas suited to your hair type to avoid weighing it down.
- Limit frequent use of Brazilian straightening treatments, which can weaken the hair shaft over time.
- Opt for sulfate-free products to prolong the effects of keratin treatments.
How do you choose high-quality keratin?
- Naturally derived, extracted from sheep’s wool, wheat, or corn.
- Formaldehyde-free to avoid any toxicity.
- Formula enriched with amino acids and plant oils for better absorption.
- Certified organic and cruelty-free, ensuring ethical production.
Keratin is available in pharmacies, organic stores, and specialty shops in the form of hair care products, serums, dietary supplements, and professional treatments.
