March 29, 2023

Ingredient Spotlight | Keratin for hair health

Keratin treatments are the superstar in the salon, but did you know that you can get your keratin boost at home, too? Read on for the benefits of keratin for hair health and hair repair.

What is keratin?

Keratin treatments are so popular because the hair (and skin) itself is made out of keratin-associated proteins. Keratin provides the protective protein of the hair cuticle (the outer layers of the hair) and gives structure to the cortex (the inner core of the hair strand). The hair's keratin content gets depleted when the follicle is damaged from tangling, chemical treatments (like dye) or from sun and salt water. This makes hair more frizzy and more prone to visible damage like split ends.

What do keratin treatments do?

Keratin hair treatments replenish lost protein by binding chemical keratin to each strand. Keratin treatments fill in the protein gaps in your hair, smoothing the follicle and preventing further damage. By rebuilding the damaged areas, keratin makes your hair more shiny, less frizzy and much easier to style. Salons often offer keratin treatments that maintain silky soft smoothness for 2-5 months. These more intensive treatments come with strict aftercare rules, such as avoiding tying your hair up or getting it wet for 48 hours after treatment. Permanently avoiding chlorinated water or salt water (as much as possible) is also advised, as chlorine and salt deplete keratin. If you can't make it into a salon, at-home treatments can keep your locks strong, shiny and frizz-free.

Will keratin work for my hair?

Salon treatments are generally designed for thick, coarse hair or chemically damaged locks. Those with fine hair should avoid salon treatments as the extra keratin can overwhelm the protein balance in the hair follicle. At-home products are perfect for all hair types. A keratin-enriched, deeply conditioning hair mask like Fountain Cosmetics Exquisite Moisture Mask is perfect to bring your locks back to life with renewed shine. Dry hair types will benefit from the keratin-rich formulations of Fountain Cosmetics Moisture Shampoo and Moisture Conditioner. If you have dyed or coloured hair, Fountain Cosmetics' Color products are the perfect way to maintain the vibrancy of your colour and inject a keratin boost for healthier hair.