What's The Difference Between Keratin And Smoothing

Tired of battling frizz and dry hair every morning? “Why does my hair hate me?” You’re not alone! Many people look to salon treatments like keratin or smoothing to get soft, shiny, and manageable hair but which one is right for you? In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between keratin and smoothing treatments, how they work, who they suit best, and how to care for your hair after. Let’s help you choose the right solution for healthy, frizz-free hair!

Keratin vs. Smoothing - Why the Confusion?

Keratin and smoothing treatments often get mixed up because both promise sleek, frizz-free hair. They may look similar on the surface, but they work differently and give different results. While smoothing uses strong chemicals to straighten your hair, keratin treatments focus on nourishing and repairing it using protein. Choosing the right one depends on your hair type, concerns, and how natural you want your final look to be. Let’s clear the confusion and help you find the perfect match for your hair.

Quick Comparison: Keratin vs Smoothing vs Straightening vs Rebonding

Not sure which hair treatment suits you best? This quick comparison breaks down keratin, smoothing, straightening, and rebonding so you can pick the right one in seconds!

What Is Hair Smoothing?

Hair smoothing is a salon process that tames frizz and loosens waves so your hair falls straighter and looks glass‑smooth. Stylists apply a chemical cream, let it process, rinse, and then seal the hair with a flat iron. The result lasts around three to six months with the right aftercare.

     How Hair Smoothing Works

1. Relaxing solution (often containing cysteine or low‑formaldehyde derivatives) opens the cuticle.
2. Heat activation breaks some internal bonds, allowing strands to reshape.
3. Neutralizer locks the new, softer pattern in place.
4. Flat‑ironing seals the cuticle for a sleek finish.
   

     Pros, Cons & Long‑Term Effects

Pros

• Instant shine and frizz control
• Easier daily styling and blow‑drying
• Less time spent on heat tools
  

Cons

• Chemicals can dry and weaken hair with frequent repeats
• Results fade as new roots grow
• Not strong enough for very tight curls
  

Long‑Term Effects

With proper hair care, hair stays manageable, but repeated treatments without deep conditioning can lead to split ends and breakage.

     Ideal Hair Types

• Best for wavy, mildly curly, or frizzy hair that needs a sleeker look
• Works well on fine to medium textures
• Less effective on coarse, coily patterns or heavily damaged strands

What Is a Keratin Treatment?

A keratin treatment replenishes the hair’s natural protein, filling gaps in the cuticle to make strands smoother, stronger, and more humidity‑proof while keeping some natural wave. Results also last about three to six months, depending on care and wash frequency.

     Science of Keratin & Natural Protein Replenishment

• Hair is made of keratin, a tough protein that can erode from heat, coloring, and pollution.
• The treatment applies a liquid keratin blend (often with glyoxylic acid) that binds to weakened areas.
• Heat from a flat iron cross‑links the protein, sealing a protective layer around each strand.
  

     Benefits, Drawbacks & Maintenance Needs

Benefits

• Boosts shine, softness, and color vibrancy
• Cuts blow‑dry time in half
• Reduces breakage by reinforcing weak spots
  

Drawbacks

• Pricier than smoothing
• Some formulas still release formaldehyde fumes during heat sealing
• Results can be too flat for those who love volume
  

Maintenance

• Use sulfate‑free shampoo and conditioner
• Limit chlorine and salt‑water exposure
• Touch up every 4–6 months as protein naturally washes out
  

     Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Choose Keratin?

Great for:

• Frizzy, porous, or color‑treated hair needing rehab
• Anyone in humid climates fighting puffiness
  

Skip or consult first if:

• Hair is extremely fine and you want maximum lift
• You’re pregnant, sensitive to fumes, or allergic to formaldehyde derivatives

Post-Treatment Hair Care Routine

Whether you choose keratin or smoothing, your aftercare makes all the difference. The goal is to keep your hair healthy, frizz-free, and extend the results for as long as possible. Here’s how to care for your treated hair the right way:

1. Switch to Gentle, Sulfate-Free Shampoos

Harsh shampoos can strip away the treatment quickly. Instead, go for formulas that cleanse without drying out your hair. 

• Vilvah’s Goat Milk Shampoo is perfect for this. It’s ultra-hydrating and packed with natural goodness.
• Prefer something herbal? Try our Herbal Shampoo, made with amla extract, black pepper oil, and neem to soothe the scalp and reduce buildup.
  

2. Never Skip Conditioner

Conditioning is key to keeping your strands soft and nourished after a treatment.

• Use Vilvah’s Cream Conditioner if your hair feels dry or needs extra love.
• For lighter, daily hydration, Vilvah’s Light Conditioner gives you smoothness without weighing hair down.

3. Treat Your Hair Weekly

Deep conditioning once a week helps strengthen hair and prevent breakage. Our Goat Milk Hair Mask is rich in protein and moisture ideal for post-treatment care.

4. Keep Frizz Away

Frizz can return if your hair isn’t protected from humidity or styling. Use Vilvah’s Anti-Frizz Hair Serum to seal moisture, add shine, and keep flyaways under control.

5. Don’t Forget Your Scalp

Healthy hair starts at the roots. Nourish your scalp with a weekly oil massage. Choose Hair Growth Oil to support stronger hair or Anti-Dandruff Oil to keep the scalp clean and balanced.

With the right care and the right products, your smooth, shiny hair can stay that way for months. Explore our full Hair Care Collection to build your perfect routine.