Differences between Brazilian Blowout and Keratin Treatment

Unlocking the Secrets: Brazilian Blowout vs. Keratin Treatment

Understanding the Differences for Silky, Smooth Locks

In the ever-evolving world of hair care and styling, as a hair salon professional or stylist, you play a pivotal role in guiding your clients to achieve that coveted silky, smooth look. Two popular treatments that frequently come into consideration are the Brazilian Blowout and the Keratin Treatment. Understanding the differences between these treatments is essential to provide expert advice to your clients and help them make informed decisions for their hair. In this blog, we'll embark on a journey to unravel the mysteries of Brazilian Blowouts and Keratin Treatments, equipping you with the knowledge to serve your clients better.

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Brazilian Blowout: The Frizz Fighter

Taming Frizz for Effortless Elegance

Brazilian Blowout, often referred to as the Brazilian Blowdry, is renowned for its frizz-fighting prowess. This treatment works by infusing your client's hair with a specially formulated solution that contains amino acids and conditioning agents (see more details below, under formulas). It's then sealed into the locks using high heat. The result? Smoother, frizz-free hair that's more manageable and radiant. Brazilian Blowout is ideal for clients looking to reduce frizz and achieve a sleek, polished look without sacrificing volume.

Keratin Treatment: Straightening with Versatility

Embracing Versatility in Hair Straightening

On the other side of the spectrum is the Keratin Treatment, also known as Keratin Hair Straightening. This treatment primarily focuses on straightening the hair while reducing frizz and enhancing shine. The star of the show here is the keratin protein itself. During the treatment, a keratin-infused formula is applied to your client's hair, and then it's sealed in with heat. The outcome is straighter, smoother locks with less volume. Keratin Treatments offer versatility, allowing clients to choose between completely straight hair or retaining some natural wave or curl.

Duration of Effects: How Long Do They Last?

The Lifespan of Silky Smoothness

One key difference between these treatments is the duration of their effects. Brazilian Blowouts are considered semi-permanent and typically last for about 10-12 weeks. As your client's hair grows, the treatment gradually fades, allowing their natural texture to return. In contrast, Keratin Treatments can last longer, with results often extending up to five months. However, they also gradually wear off over time.

Maintenance and Aftercare: Keeping Your Clients' Locks Lovely

Nurturing Your Client's Hair Post-Treatment

Both treatments require specific aftercare to maintain the results. With Brazilian Blowouts, it's crucial to use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners to prolong the effects. Clients will also need to avoid excessive moisture for the first 48 hours post-treatment. For Keratin Treatments, it's recommended to wait 72 hours before washing the hair and use sulfate-free products as well. Additionally, the use of heat styling tools should be limited to maintain the straightened effect.

Volume and Curl: The Impact on Hair Texture

Balancing Straightness and Natural Texture

Another significant difference lies in how these treatments affect your client's hair's natural volume and curl. Brazilian Blowouts aim to reduce frizz and enhance shine while retaining the hair's natural volume and curl to some extent. They offer a balance between straightness and texture. In contrast, Keratin Treatments tend to result in straighter hair with less volume and reduced curl, making them suitable for those seeking a sleeker, more uniform look.

Chemical Composition: The Ingredients That Matter

Understanding the Formulas behind the Treatments

Both Brazilian Blowouts and Keratin Treatments contain key ingredients that make them effective. Brazilian Blowouts use a formula that typically includes formaldehyde or a formaldehyde-releasing compound. Keratin Treatments, on the other hand, rely on the smoothing properties of keratin protein, which is a naturally occurring component in the hair.

The Safety Factor: Examining Health Concerns and Formaldehyde

Unveiling the Truth about Chemical Content

When considering hair treatments like Brazilian Blowouts and Keratin Treatments, it's essential to address the issue of safety, particularly concerning the presence of formaldehyde.

Formaldehyde in Brazilian Blowouts: The Controversy

One of the primary concerns associated with Brazilian Blowouts is the presence of formaldehyde or formaldehyde-releasing compounds in some formulations. Formaldehyde is a chemical known to release potentially harmful fumes when exposed to heat, such as during the treatment process. These fumes can cause eye and respiratory irritation.

It's crucial to note that many salons have shifted to using formaldehyde-free Brazilian Blowout formulations or those with reduced formaldehyde content. Before performing the treatment in your salon, make sure to inquire about the products your salon uses and their safety measures.

Keratin Treatments and Formaldehyde

Keratin Treatments, while generally considered milder than Brazilian Blowouts, can also contain formaldehyde. However, many salons now offer formaldehyde-free or low-formaldehyde options, which are less likely to release irritating fumes during the treatment. Here at Make It Straight we do not offer Formaldehyde products. 

Customized Elegance: Which Treatment Best Suits Your Client's Hair Type?

Tailoring Your Choice for Optimal Results

Selecting between a Brazilian Blowout and a Keratin Treatment should be influenced by your client's unique hair type and style preferences. Here's a closer look at how each treatment aligns with different hair profiles:

Brazilian Blowout for Volume and Texture

• Thin or Fine Hair: Brazilian Blowouts can add volume and reduce frizz while maintaining natural texture, making them suitable for those with thin or fine hair.
• Curly Hair: If your client has curly hair and wants to reduce frizz while preserving their curls, a Brazilian Blowout can be a great choice.

Keratin Treatment for Sleekness and Straightening

• Thicker or Coarser Hair: Keratin Treatments are effective in straightening and taming thicker or coarser hair types, providing a sleek and polished finish. See our Honma Tokyo Coffee Premium Keratin great for thick hair. Please, see also our Lizze Extreme Titanium Straightener, great for straightening thick hair types. 
• Seeking Straightness: If your client's primary goal is to achieve straighter hair with reduced curl and volume, a Keratin Treatment offers long-lasting results.

Choosing the Right Treatment: Your Client's Hair, Your Decision

Tailoring Your Choice to Your Client's Hair Goals

Ultimately, the choice between a Brazilian Blowout and a Keratin Treatment depends on your client's hair goals. If they desire primarily frizz reduction and a semi-permanent solution that retains their hair's volume and curl, a Brazilian Blowout may be the better choice. However, if they seek straighter, sleeker locks with longer-lasting results, a Keratin Treatment might be more suitable.

In the world of hair care, the differences between Brazilian Blowouts and Keratin Treatments offer versatility, catering to a range of styling preferences. Whether your client embraces the frizz-fighting power of a Brazilian Blowout or opts for the sleekness of a Keratin Treatment, your choice should align with their unique hair needs and style aspirations. Whatever you decide, it's your expertise that guides them on their hair journey, and the path to silky, smooth locks awaits their discovery.