Introduction:
Keratin hair treatment is one of the most popular beauty and hair care methods in recent years. Many people turn to this method to make their hair smooth, shiny and silky. But along with the visual benefits, there is always the question: does keratin cause hair loss?
💎What is keratin and what role does it play in hair?
Keratin is a structural protein that makes up a large part of hair, nails, and skin. This protein gives hair strength, flexibility, and shine. The natural depletion of keratin due to environmental factors (sun, hair dye, bleaching, pollution, heat) causes hair to become dry and brittle.
In keratin therapy, chemical compounds containing keratin (and sometimes additives such as formaldehyde) are applied to the hair shaft to fill in the structural gaps in the hair and make it smooth and shiny.
💎Does keratin cause hair loss?
Short answer: Not directly, but the conditions and method of doing it can lead to hair loss.
As a protein, keratin, if used correctly and with standard ingredients, does not cause damage to the hair roots. However, some chemicals in keratin products (such as formaldehyde), improper use of heat, or weakness of the hair follicles may contribute to hair loss.
💎 Five main causes of hair loss after keratin
Using low-quality materials containing formaldehyde:
- Many keratin products contain formaldehyde or its derivatives. This substance, when in contact with the scalp, can cause irritation, inflammation, and weakening of the hair follicle. This factor is one of the main causes of hair loss after keratin.
Excessive heat during keratinization:
- To fix the keratin on the hair, a high-temperature hair straightener (230°C or higher) is used. If this process is not performed by a professional or if the number of passes of the straightener is too high, the hair becomes brittle and weak at the shaft, and hair loss due to breakage increases.
Damage to the scalp due to direct contact with substances:
- In some salons, keratin products are mistakenly applied to the roots or scalp. This can cause skin irritation, inflammation, and even temporary blockage of pores, which can lead to temporary or even permanent hair loss.
Weakness of hair follicles due to genetic or hormonal background:
- People with a history of hereditary hair loss or hormonal issues (such as polycystic ovary syndrome or hypothyroidism) may experience more hair loss after keratin. In fact, keratin is not the culprit, but rather a trigger for faster hair loss.
Improper care after keratin treatment:
- After keratin, it is necessary to use sulfate-free shampoos and restorative conditioners. Neglecting these items will cause dryness, breakage, and hair loss. Also, excessive washing and using inappropriate products will make the hair susceptible to damage.
💎Who is most at risk of hair loss after keratin?
- People with a history of hereditary hair loss
- People whose hair has previously been bleached or chemically colored repeatedly
- People with hormonal or thyroid problems
- People with sensitive scalps
- People who use unreliable or cheap products
📍How can you prevent hair loss after keratin?
Choosing a reputable salon and professional specialist
Using formaldehyde-free keratin products
Avoiding direct contact of the materials with the hair roots and scalp
Controlling the heat of the hair straightener and avoiding excessive pressure
Using sulfate-free and nutrient-rich shampoo and hair mask
Performing vitamins and hair therapy after keratin to rebuild the roots
Eating healthy and taking supplements such as biotin and vitamin D to strengthen the follicles
📍Hair loss treatment after keratin
If you experience hair loss after keratin treatment, you can take the following steps:
Temporarily stop using chemicals on your hair
Consult a dermatologist to examine your follicles
Use anti-hair loss and strengthening shampoos
Take vitamin supplements under your doctor’s supervision
Perform strengthening procedures such as hair mesotherapy or PRP
Reduce stress and maintain a healthy lifestyle
📌 Conclusion
Keratin is essentially a useful and strengthening substance for the hair structure. However, improper use of poor-quality products, contact of the substances with the scalp, excessive heat and improper care after keratin treatment can cause hair loss. Therefore, we can say: Keratin is not directly the cause of hair loss, but the conditions of its implementation and care are decisive.
If you are planning to get keratin treatment, be sure to go to a reputable salon, standard products and professional specialists. Also, take keratin aftercare seriously to enjoy healthy, shiny and hair loss-free hair.
Frequently asked questions about keratin hair treatment
Is keratin treatment suitable for everyone?
No. People with a history of hereditary hair loss, hormonal problems, or sensitive scalps should consult a specialist before undergoing keratin. Yes, most temporary fillers are broken down by the body over time.
Is hair loss after keratin permanent or temporary?
In most cases, hair loss is temporary and resolves with proper care and supportive treatments. However, if the follicles are severely damaged, it can become permanent.
What is the best shampoo after keratin treatment?
Sulfate-free shampoos containing nutrients like hydrolyzed keratin, argan, and biotin are the best choices for post-keratin care.
How often can keratin hair treatment be repeated?
It is best to leave at least 6 months between two keratin sessions so that the hair has time to regenerate and the roots do not weaken. Any time is possible, but autumn and winter are more suitable due to less sun. In case of nutrient deficiencies or based on a doctor’s recommendation, taking supplements such as biotin, vitamin D, and fish oil capsules can be beneficial, but should be done under the supervision of a doctor.
