all things smoothed

We’re Not Just Smooth Operators—We’re Know-It-Alls (And Proud of It)


By Kaylie Babajan December 2, 2024
Smooth and Defined: Enhancing Your Curls with Keratin  When it comes to managing curly hair, many people are in search of a solution that offers both control and definition. One treatment that has gained popularity is keratin, known for its ability to improve the health and appearance of hair. There's a common myth that keratin treatments ruin curls, but in reality, they can enhance and elongate them. **Understanding the Challenges** Curly-haired individuals often face a unique set of challenges, such as controlling frizz and maintaining volume without compromising on style. Standard products can sometimes weigh hair down, leading to lackluster curls. Many find themselves in a cycle of braiding hair to tame it, only to wait hours for it to dry – a time-consuming process that repeats every few days. **Why Choose Keratin?** The appeal of keratin treatment lies in its semi-permanent benefits. Unlike daily hair products that require constant application, keratin smooths and strengthens hair for weeks. This can greatly reduce the time spent on hair care. Keratin provides a consistent solution, making life easier without daily maintenance. **Benefits of Keratin Treatments** Keratin works wonders for those with fine hair strands. It addresses dry ends and maintains a healthy shine. The treatment not only softens the texture but also supports growth and elongation of the curls. Due to its effect on fine hair, you might see less breakage and overall healthier curls. **What to Expect with Your First Treatment** During your initial session, expect the keratin to significantly reduce frizz and volume, especially around your scalp. While it might not provide perfectly consistent curls immediately, you will notice your hair becoming more manageable. It will lay longer and require less product for styling. Keep in mind that results might vary, with some parts taking to the treatment better than others. **Maintaining Your Keratin-Treated Hair** Post-treatment care involves understanding that keratin is heat-activated. While embracing your natural styling routine is fine, occasional heat application can reactivate the treatment, prolonging its benefits. Treatments over time build a cumulative effect, resulting in more defined and less frizzy curls. **Embracing Your Natural Curl with Keratin** It’s important to remember that the goal of keratin isn't to straighten curls completely. It’s about enhancing and defining them. Even if you notice some re-curling, it doesn’t signify failure. Instead, it shows your natural curl pattern remains intact while enjoying the benefits of keratin. In conclusion, keratin treatments offer a valuable solution for those seeking to enhance their curls without compromising their natural beauty. If you're intrigued by the potential of keratin to transform your hair care routine, consider visiting our website, [smoothedsalon.com](http://smoothedsalon.com), to learn more about how these treatments can benefit you. Rediscover the joy of your curls with the support of keratin.
By Kaylie Babajan November 18, 2024
Keeping Your Keratin Treated Hair Looking Its Best Are you considering a keratin treatment for that sleek, shiny hair, or perhaps you've already taken the plunge? Either way, you've made a fantastic choice! But here’s the secret—maintaining that fabulous hair requires a bit more attention. A keratin treatment does wonders by adding a protective layer to your hair, but keeping it looking its best means following some key aftercare steps. Let’s dive into how you can care for your keratin-treated hair and keep those amazing results lasting longer! What is Keratin Treatment? First off, let’s talk about what a keratin treatment actually is. Keratin is a protein that naturally exists in your hair, but the treatment involves applying a special solution to your hair, adding an extra protective coating of this protein. It's like putting a smooth shield on your hair, rather than soaking it in. This process helps make your hair softer and less frizzy by smoothing out those unruly curls and waves. The Essential Aftercare Once you’ve had a keratin treatment, how you maintain it is crucial. The products you use can really affect whether your treatment stays intact or not. When you’re picking out shampoos and conditioners, there’s one important rule to remember: Choose Sulfate-Free Products . But why does that matter? The Problem with Sulfates Sulfates are the ingredients that help create that foamy lather in your shampoo. While many people love foamy lather, it’s not very kind to keratin-treated hair. Sulfates are described as "scrubbing bubbles," and these bubbles can "scrub the keratin right out of your hair," according to experts. So, even though that rich lather feels satisfying, it might be washing away your keratin treatment faster. Using sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners helps preserve your hair’s smoothness and shine for longer. Finding the Right Products Not all sulfate-free products are the same, especially for keratin-treated hair. It’s important to choose shampoos and conditioners crafted specifically for hair treated with keratin. Here are a few top brands offering products tailored for different hair textures: Keratin Complex: If your hair is thin or fine, Keratin Complex is a great option. These products are crafted to care for delicate hair without adding extra weight. GK Hair: For curly, coarse, or thick hair, GK Hair products are ideal as they maintain your waves while delivering that sleek keratin finish. Keratherapy: For medium-textured hair, Keratherapy products are specially created to preserve the keratin treatment and keep your hair manageable. No matter which brand you go with, the main point is clear: pick products that cater to your keratin-treated hair’s needs. Why Aftercare Matters Why is it so important to be careful with aftercare? Simply put, how you care for your hair after treatment can greatly affect the benefits you get from it. Keratin treatments offer fantastic results, making hair more manageable. But to get the most out of these benefits, you must be as careful about what you put on your hair after the treatment as you were about the treatment itself. Choosing the right shampoo and conditioner isn’t just about cleaning your hair; it’s about keeping the sleek, smooth results of your keratin treatment intact. As experts say, "I cannot stress enough how important it is to have sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for keratin treatments." Additional Tips for Keratin Care Changing your shampoo and conditioner is just the start. Here are other ways to extend the life of your keratin treatment: Limit How Often You Wash Your Hair: Try to cut down on hair washing. The less you wash, the longer your keratin treatment will last. Be Careful with Heat: Watch how much direct heat you apply to your hair. Use a good heat protectant spray when styling to keep your hair in top shape. Steer Clear of Salt and Chlorine: They can be harsh on your keratin treatment, so wear a swim cap in the pool or rinse your hair immediately after exposure.  In conclusion, keratin treatments provide wonderful benefits, but keeping those results requires dedication to proper hair care. Using sulfate-free, keratin-specific products will not only make your treatment last longer but will also keep your hair looking lush and healthy. As you enjoy the new gloss and smoothness of your hair, remember that maintaining it can be just as important as the treatment itself. Opt for products like Keratin Complex, GK Hair, or Keratherapy based on your hair type to keep your stunning new look in perfect shape!
By Kaylie Babajan November 18, 2024
The Truth About Keratin Treatments: Why They're Different and How Often You Should Get Them  If you've ever wanted hair that's silky, shiny, and healthy, you've probably heard about keratin treatments. You might be curious about how they differ from other hair treatments or how often you can indulge in them without damaging your hair. Well, your questions are about to be answered! Keratin treatments are known for their gentle approach and can be a regular part of your hair care routine without any worries. Let's explore what makes these treatments special and how they can keep your hair looking its best. What Makes Keratin Treatments Unique? Keratin treatments are special because they use tiny molecules that dive deep into your hair. By using heat, these molecules are locked in, filling in the tiny gaps in your hair, which makes it both smooth and strong. Unlike Brazilian treatments, which can use stronger, harsher chemicals, keratin focuses on gentleness and effectiveness. It only stays in your hair where it's actually needed. "You can't do keratin treatments too much," explains an expert. This means your hair absorbs just the right amount of keratin it needs—no more, no less. This makes keratin treatments a safe option for frequent use. How Often Can You Get Keratin Treatments? A common question people ask is how often these treatments should be done. There are many myths suggesting you need to wait a long time between treatments to avoid hair damage. However, that's not the case with keratin treatments. "You can't overdo it with these treatments. You can't get them too often. I have clients who do it every six weeks... it's not bad for your hair. It's not bad to do them over and over again. It's better," assures our expert. Stretching your treatment from two to three months might actually leave your hair dry and brittle—it's better not to wait too long. After your first wash following a treatment, any extra keratin that your hair hasn't absorbed simply rinses away. So, there's no need to worry about buildup or damage to your hair. When Is the Right Time for a Touch-Up? Listening to what your hair is telling you is key. If it's starting to feel a bit dry or damaged—even if your last treatment wasn't too long ago—that's your cue to come in for the next one. Trying to extend the time between treatments can make your hair feel worse. As one expert put it, "Pushing it off is just going to make your hair feel worse in another month when you do finally come in." By recognizing those signals, you can keep your hair healthy and beautiful without any unnecessary delay. Living with Keratin: How Lifestyle Affects Your Hair Life is all about enjoying moments, whether you're basking in sunny days by the pool or experiencing the thrill of ocean waves. While adventures like these are great, keep in mind that exposure to water can cause the keratin to wash out sooner. But don't worry—according to the expert, "Go live your life... just know your keratin is going to wash out faster and you're just going to have to come see us sooner." Needing more frequent treatments should not be a source of stress. Regular maintenance is simply part of keeping your hair fabulous while still living your active lifestyle. Think About Your Hair Health Ultimately, keratin treatments are a wonderful option for keeping your hair healthy and looking its best. They balance your hair's health with your desired styles, meeting both needs without compromise. When you understand how keratin treatments work and why they're different, you can make informed choices about your hair care. It's not about waiting as long as possible between treatments but about giving your hair what it needs when it needs it. In summary, remember these key points about keratin treatments: Safe and regular use: It's okay to have keratin treatments as often as every six weeks. No buildup worries: Your hair absorbs only what it needs, leaving no excess keratin behind. Timely treatments: Don't wait until your hair becomes dry and damaged. Get a treatment when you notice the first signs of wear. Lifestyle-Friendly: Enjoy your activities without concern; just return for a refresh sooner if needed. So go ahead, and enjoy the benefits of keratin treatments, live your vibrant lifestyle, and keep those locks looking stunning. If you've been hesitant or unsure, let this guide be your roadmap to maintaining the best hair possible. Embark on the journey to beautiful hair!
By Kaylie Babajan November 18, 2024
Mastering Keratin Treatments: Balancing Hair Health and Color When it comes to achieving beautiful and healthy hair, Smooth is your expert in keratin treatments. We specialize in keratin because we believe in focusing on what we do best without trying to juggle other services. If you love coloring your hair, it's crucial to align your keratin treatments with your coloring schedule. Timing is the magic word here! Whether you’re going darker with your hair color or adding those striking highlights, knowing the right order and timing can make a world of difference. Let's explore how you can smartly balance keratin with hair color to keep your strands in top shape. Which Comes First? Getting the most out of both your color and keratin treatments is all about timing. Here's how to keep it simple: Darker Hair Colors: If you're dyeing your hair a darker shade, make sure to color it before you get your keratin treatment. You can even do both on the same day if you like. Highlights: Things are a bit different when you're planning for highlights. You should allow two to three weeks between getting highlights and your keratin treatment. Why? Because it prevents damage from the high heat used in the keratin process on fresh highlights. In simpler terms, coloring your hair darker is okay close to your keratin session, but if you’re bleaching or highlighting, it’s best to have a waiting period in between. The Science Behind the Sequence Why is the order so important? Well, a keratin treatment uses a 450-degree flat iron to lock the treatment into your hair. Yes, that's super hot! If this hot tool is applied to freshly bleached hair, it could cause a lot of damage. One of our experts explains it best: “We do not like to use a 450-degree flat iron on freshly bleached hair.” Improper timing can affect not just the look of your hair but also its health. Bleaching temporarily weakens hair, so it needs time to bounce back before facing more heat or new chemical treatments. By waiting, you give your hair time to recover and prevent the toner in highlights from fading during a keratin application. Taking Care Post-Treatment If you need to color your hair after a keratin treatment, hold off for at least two weeks. This wait ensures the keratin fully settles into your hair cuticles, so it stays strong and smooth. Our seasoned professionals advise, “If you're gonna do it after, wait two weeks.” For those who bleach regularly, it’s best to wait until your keratin treatment is mostly faded after four to six weeks. This way, the protective benefits of keratin are fully utilized, keeping your hair healthy and resilient. Why Keratin Matters Adding keratin treatments to your hair care routine isn't just about how your hair looks—it’s also about improving its health. Over time, actions like coloring, especially bleaching or highlighting, can cause breakage and slow down hair growth. But keratin treatments can help counter these effects. "Keratin needs to be a part of your hair routine. It will change your life," one of our experts emphasizes. It helps your hair grow longer and stay strong, especially if you’ve struggled with breakage from highlights in the past. The Smooth Experience At Smooth, we believe in delivering outstanding keratin treatments rather than trying to do it all. This specialization means we can offer our clients informed and expert guidance to prevent any potential damage from wrong treatment choices. Our expertise allows us to give you trustworthy advice, steering you clear of misinformation from non-specialized sources. Our team asserts, “If your stylist says they can bleach your hair and give you a keratin treatment on the same day, they are wrong.”  There’s a lot of beauty information out there—some of it good and some not so much. That’s why it’s crucial to rely on true experts. Think of us as your guide to a more scientific and effective approach to hair care. Putting It All Together Here's a quick recap of the best routine: For darker hair color, dye it right before a keratin treatment. If you’re adding highlights, wait two to three weeks before getting your keratin. Avoid coloring immediately after keratin—give it at least two weeks for the best results. If you follow this guidance, not only will you help prevent damage, but you’ll also enjoy fabulous results from your keratin treatment. Keeping your hair healthy isn’t just about using the right products; it’s about following advice from specialists who know how to balance these treatments with your coloring choices. So, what’s your next step in your hair care journey? Plan your treatments wisely for the most stunning and healthy locks you’ve ever had. Trust Smooth to help you find that perfect balance.
By Kaylie Babajan November 18, 2024
Have you ever gazed longingly at those glossy magazine photos of women with sleek, frizz-free hair and thought, "That could never be me with my fine strands"? Well, it's time to reconsider! Let's dive into the world of keratin treatments and discover why they might just be the secret weapon your fine hair has been waiting for. The Keratin Misconception First things first, let's address the elephant in the room. There's a widespread belief that keratin treatments are exclusively for those blessed with thick, coarse, or curly locks. But here's the truth bomb: "There's some misconceptions with keratin that it's just for thick, coarse, curly hair... while it works great on that hair type... we all lack keratin in our hair." That's right! Keratin isn't picky – it's beneficial for all hair types, including your fine strands. The Keratin Crisis: Why We All Need It Here's a fun fact that might blow your mind: Remember how your hair seemed thicker and healthier when you were younger? Well, there's a scientific reason for that! "If you felt like your hair was a lot thicker and healthier when you were little—it's because it had more keratin! Now you're not producing that anymore." As we age, our bodies slow down keratin production. This natural protein is essential for strong, healthy hair. So, regardless of your hair type, replenishing this lost keratin becomes crucial as time goes on. Tailored Treatments for Fine Hair Now, you might be thinking, "But won't keratin treatments weigh down my already fine hair?" Fear not! The beauty industry has got your back with solutions specifically designed for your hair type. "If you're a thin-fine girlie…we have formaldehyde-free treatments…they're gonna work great on your [fine] hair." These customized, lightweight formulations are designed to give you all the benefits of keratin without the heaviness. It's like a spa day for your strands! Say Goodbye to Frizz (and the 'Wet Look') Let's talk about the eternal struggle of fine-haired individuals – battling frizz without ending up looking like you just stepped out of the shower. We've all been there, piling on products only to end up with limp, oily-looking locks. Keratin treatments offer a solution to this dilemma. They smooth out your strands and tame frizz without the need for heavy, greasy products. The result? Hair that looks naturally sleek and healthy, not weighed down or wet. Long-Term Love for Your Locks But wait, there's more! Keratin treatments aren't just about immediate gratification. They offer long-term benefits that might surprise you: Protection: Keratin acts like a shield, protecting your delicate strands from heat damage and environmental stressors. Strength: By replenishing lost protein, your hair becomes more resilient and less prone to breakage. Growth: With less breakage, you might notice something exciting... "Thin or fine-haired girls often experience significant growth because the keratin prevents breakage... so finally you get to see the length you've been craving." Imagine finally achieving that long, flowing hair you've always dreamed of! The Bottom Line So, can fine-haired girls get keratin treatments? Absolutely! Not only can you get them, but you might find they're exactly what your hair has been missing. From debunking myths to unveiling the science behind keratin, we've discovered that these treatments can be a game-changer for fine hair. Remember, healthy hair is beautiful hair, regardless of its thickness. By replenishing lost keratin and protecting your strands, you're giving your fine hair the love and care it deserves. So why not give it a try? Your future self (and your gorgeous, healthy hair) will thank you! Ready to transform your fine hair journey? Click here to learn more about keratin treatments tailored for fine hair and take the first step towards the luscious locks you've always wanted!
By Kaylie Babajan November 17, 2024
Thinking About a Keratin Treatment? Here's What You Need to Know Considering a keratin treatment for your hair? It's a fantastic way to achieve smooth, sleek locks, but you might be curious about what happens during the appointment. Understanding what to expect can make you feel more ready and excited for your salon visit. Let's explore what happens from the moment you walk into the salon until you leave with fabulous hair. Start with a Chat: The Consultation Your keratin treatment journey kicks off with a consultation, especially if you're new to the salon. They set aside an extra 15 minutes for your first visit to allow for an in-depth chat with your stylist. During this session, your stylist will focus on your hair goals and history. They'll ask about your previous hair treatments and usual products. This is also when you'll discuss pricing, so there are no surprises later. As one stylist said, "We take the time to have a pretty thorough consult with you about your hair goals, your history, and the products we should be using." Time to Get Clean: The Shampoo Phase After your initial conversation, the next step is a really thorough shampoo. This part is crucial because clean hair is the best canvas for the keratin treatment to work effectively. Expect this wash to last around five minutes. As the stylist explained, "Then your stylist is going to jump right into the shampoo, a very, very thorough wash that takes about five minutes." This ensures all residues are gone, fully prepping your hair for the keratin solution. The Main Event: Applying the Keratin Treatment Once your hair is squeaky clean, your stylist will apply the keratin treatment. This involves working the treatment into your hair and blow-drying it afterward. To ensure the treatment is both effective and gentle, the stylist uses three different flat irons at varying temperatures. This approach helps to "make sure that you're getting the most customized, effective, and non-damaging treatment available." Should You Consider a Trim? After applying and drying the keratin treatment, your stylist will look at the ends of your hair to see if a haircut is needed. Sometimes a trim is suggested at this point. As one stylist noted, "If the ends are still feeling dry, that means we know we must cut it because if the keratin treatment hasn't restored your hair, literally nothing will." It’s all about making sure your hair looks its best, free from damaged or dry ends. Final Touch: Sealing the Deal Now that your hair is treated and trimmed, if needed, it’s time for the finishing touch: locking in the keratin. Your stylist will use heat one more time to seal the treatment into your hair. The keratin treatment works like a "get-out-of-jail-free card" for damage, so ensuring the treatment stays locked in helps keep your hair smooth and healthy for as long as possible. Heading Out: Aftercare and Leaving the Salon Once your session is complete, you'll leave the salon with the treatment still in your hair. Usually, you're advised not to wash your hair for about 48 hours afterward, although this waiting period might slightly change. Additionally, your stylist will arm you with tips and tools to care for your hair over the next few days, ensuring you know how to make the treatment last. As another stylist points out, "We're going to send you away with the tools to make sure you know what to do in the next couple of days and how to keep your treatment in as long as possible." How Long Will It Take? You might wonder about the length of the appointment. The salon usually schedules two hours for new clients, though it often takes less time. If your hair is particularly thick, letting the salon know in advance can help them allocate a bit more time. However, the stylist reassures, "We schedule two hours for every new guest. It rarely takes that long." Wrapping It Up A keratin treatment appointment is more than just a hair service; it’s a personal and customized experience designed to ensure your hair looks and feels its best. From the initial consultation to the final styling step, each part of the session is crafted to give special care and attention to your hair's unique needs.  By knowing what each step involves, you can walk into your session confident and leave with beautifully smooth hair. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you're a regular, a keratin treatment offers a transformative experience for your locks.
By Kaylie Babajan November 17, 2024
Caring for Your Keratin Treated Hair: A Handy Guide Getting a keratin treatment can transform your hair, making it smoother and shinier. To keep that fresh-from-the-salon look, it's important to practice good hair care. Let’s look at some tips and products that will help keep your hair in top shape. After a keratin treatment, you'll likely notice your hair looks great. Keratin treatments add a protective layer to your hair, reducing frizz and boosting manageability. But the way you care for your hair afterward is crucial for maintaining this look long-term. What’s a Keratin Treatment? Keratin treatments smooth your hair by coating it with keratin, improving shine and texture. It’s a go-to for reducing frizz and making hair easier to style. However, to keep that protective keratin layer intact, you need to choose your hair products thoughtfully. Why Aftercare is Essential Since keratin sits on your hair's surface, all your hair care steps—washing, styling, and more—impact its longevity. Proper aftercare can keep your sleek look going strong. Skipping essential aftercare can mean your treatment fades faster. A big no-no in aftercare is using shampoos and conditioners with sulfates. Sulfates are strong detergents, and as one expert says, "They scrub the keratin right out of your hair." That’s why using sulfate-free products is important for keratin-treated hair. The Scoop on Sulfate-Free Products Sulfates are often found in common shampoos and create that lathering effect people associate with clean hair. However, for keratin-treated hair, these can be too harsh. They might strip the keratin away quickly. Using products without sulfates helps your treatment last and keeps your hair healthier. Choosing the Right Brands Here are some brands that work well for different hair types following a keratin treatment: Keratin Complex : This is great for fine or thin hair. It helps maintain smoothness without making hair feel heavy. GK Hair : If your hair is curly, coarse, or thick, GK Hair can help manage your texture, keeping curls defined and frizz at bay. Keratherapy : Ideal for medium hair types, Keratherapy maintains sleekness without losing volume or body. These brands are designed to support your keratin treatment, keeping your hair in its best condition. Tips for a Lasting Keratin Treatment Aside from picking the right products, there are things you can do to stretch the life of your treatment: Gentle Touch : Be kind to your hair. Use soft towels, like microfiber, to dry hair—this reduces friction and protects the keratin layer. Avoid Heat : Limit the use of heat styling tools. When you do use them, apply a heat protectant spray first to shield your hair. Extend Time Between Washes : Try not to wash your hair too often. Each wash removes some of the keratin, so spacing them out can help retain treatment benefits. Stay Clear of Salt : Saltwater isn’t friendly to keratin treatments, so after swimming in the ocean or pools, rinse your hair with fresh water. Knowledge is Power Knowing how to take care of your hair post-treatment is really important. Many people don’t realize the impact certain products can have, which is why talking about good aftercare is so crucial. The hair industry is catching on to the need for products tailored to specific hair needs and treatments, which shows a shift toward more personalized beauty care. Wrap-Up To keep your keratin-treated hair looking its best, using sulfate-free products and following good aftercare practices is essential. Picking the right products for your hair type plays a big role in maintaining that salon look for longer. Remember, your hair is your best accessory, and with proper care, it’ll shine every day. Whether your hair is thin, thick, or just right, taking care of it ensures it stays as beautiful as when you stepped out of the salon.
By Kaylie Babajan November 16, 2024
Pairing haircuts with keratin treatments boosts your hair's health, shine, and longevity, ensuring you enjoy the ultimate sleek, smooth look.
By Kaylie Babajan November 16, 2024
Explore your keratin treatment options confidently with our guide, helping you choose between formaldehyde-free and regular treatments for beautiful, healthy hair.
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