Who says keratin care causes cancer?

Keratin treatments are hailed for their frizz-fighting magic but often come under fire for alleged health risks. Is there any truth to these claims? Let’s set the record straight!

1. What is Keratin?

Keratin is a natural protein found in hair, skin, and nails. It plays a crucial role in maintaining hair’s elasticity, strength, and overall structure. However, factors like chemical treatments (e.g., dyeing, perming), environmental pollution, and frequent use of heat styling tools can deplete keratin from the hair. This leads to rough, frizzy, and damaged hair.

Keratin treatment replenishes lost keratin by infusing it into the hair shaft, repairing damage, and sealing the hair cuticle to restore its smooth and healthy appearance.

2. How Does Keratin Treatment Work?

1. Application of Keratin Solution
   A professional stylist applies a keratin-rich solution evenly across the hair. These keratin molecules penetrate the hair shaft, repairing damaged areas from within.
2. Heat Sealing
   Heat tools, such as a flat iron, are used to seal the keratin into the hair strands. This process locks the keratin in place, ensuring long-lasting effects and smoothing the hair’s surface.
3. Protective Layer Formation
   Keratin forms a protective coating over the hair, shielding it from humidity and environmental damage while making it easier to style.

3. Types of Keratin Treatments

1. Traditional Keratin Treatment
   Known for its long-lasting and dramatic results, this treatment may contain trace amounts of formaldehyde for stronger straightening effects.
2. Formaldehyde-Free Keratin Treatment
   Safer for health, formaldehyde-free treatments are gentler but may offer slightly less dramatic straightening results.
3. Bio-Keratin Treatment
   This newer method uses natural keratin and plant-based ingredients, making it ideal for sensitive individuals or those seeking a more organic option.
4. Express Keratin Treatment
   A quicker option for busy individuals, this treatment takes less time to apply but typically lasts for a shorter period (about 6-8 weeks).

Keratin treatments have become increasingly popular for their ability to smooth and straighten hair, but some concerns have emerged about their safety. Many of these treatments involve the use of formaldehyde or formaldehyde-releasing agents, which are known carcinogens. The repeated exposure to these chemicals during the application process—especially for stylists—can raise health risks, including respiratory issues and potential cancer concerns. However, not all keratin treatments contain harmful chemicals, and choosing formaldehyde-free options can mitigate these risks. Still, the controversy leaves many questioning the safety of keratin products, prompting the provocative question: Who says keratin causes cancer?