Brazilian Blowout vs. Keratin Treatment: How to Maintain it?

Everyone wants super-shiny, silky, easy-to-manage, healthy-looking hair, and normally, two popular salon treatments, the Brazilian Blowout and the Keratin Treatment, can help you get it. But, while both of these will leave you with frizz-free and sleek hair, they actually have loads of different benefits. So, whether you've got really wavy and frizzy hair or just struggle to get your locks looking any better, this blog is for you. In this blog, we're going to take you through both of these treatments - what each one does, how long it lasts, how safe it is, and some top tips for keeping the results looking great. So stick with us till the end to learn more about them! 

What is the difference between a Brazilian blowout and a keratin treatment?

Most people end up getting the same frizz-free, silky results from both treatments, so it's easy to assume they are the same deal. But the truth is, they are actually pretty different when it comes to techniques, formulas, and what they can deliver.

Let the following differentiation help you understand:

Brazilian Blowout

A Brazilian blowout is a highly versatile smoothing treatment that uses a special keratin-based liquid to create a protective shield around each strand. When you get one of these treatments, you can choose to keep your curls the same, soften them a bit, or go for a super sleek finish. It's perfect for people who want to control their hair and avoid pin-straight locks. It leaves your hair looking super smooth, shiny and frizz-free. Plus, it helps your hair move naturally and look fuller, making blow-drying afterwards a doddle. Brazilian blowouts are typically suitable for all hair types.

Traitement à la kératine

A traditional traitement kératinique, on the other hand, is more about really deeply smoothing and straightening. The formula works its way deep into the hair shaft, making it heavier and straighter, giving it a super straight, really structured look. It can make your hair lose a bit of volume, and it will need a bit more time in the salon chair. Also, you need to be prepared to take it easy on your hair for 48 to 72 hours after getting one, as you cannot wash or style it for a while. So, if you've got really thick, curly or coarse hair, then this is probably your best option.

How long does a Brazilian blowout keratin treatment last?

Now, a Brazilian blowout typically lasts 10-12 weeks, but the actual length depends on your hair texture: the finer it is, the more resistant to frizz, the longer the results will last. It also relies on how often you wash your hair, which shampoos and conditioners you use, & just how much heat styling you do. And of course, how well you take care of your hair afterwards - doing what the pros recommend. In a nutshell, people with fine hair can often get away with not retouching for 12-14 weeks, but those with thicker curls, however, might need a bit of a touch-up a lot sooner. The good news is that if you stick to a few basic rules, you can make it last a whole lot longer.

All you have to do is use shampoos that don't contain sulfates or sodium chloride, as those are the harsh ingredients that strip your hair of its natural oils. Next, aim to clean your hair at least 2 or 3 times a week, rather than every day. And think about trying out keratin-infused conditioners or masks, as they'll really help lock in all that good stuff you put in your hair at the Brazilian blowout. And for the final step, don't forget to protect your locks from chlorine and saltwater since they're not exactly hair-friendly. 

Is the Brazilian blowout safe, and does it contain formaldehyde?

We get it, safety is top priority, so let us put your mind at rest. A few Brazilian blowout formulas do contain tiny amounts of formaldehyde-releasing stuff that gets unleashed when you use heat styling tools. But don't freak out, the amounts are generally within the required limits as long as it's done right. Likewise, the beauty of Keratin Beauty is that you get formulas that contain low or zero formaldehyde because they're designed to be a lot gentler and safer while still giving you that silky smooth look.

That being said, is it safe? Honestly, it is when done by a trained pro, which is exactly why it's so important to go to someone who knows what they're doing and avoid those dodgy at-home kits that promise the world with keratin treatment. For the best results, you need to be in a decently ventilated area and take your aftercare seriously.

What hair types benefit the most from a Brazilian blowout keratin treatment?

The best part about a Brazilian blowout is that its benefits are pretty universal, meaning just about anyone with straight, wavy, curly, thick or fine hair will get a lot out of this treatment.

1. Cheveux crépus

If frizz is your number one enemy, then a Brazilian blowout is probably just what the doctor ordered. This treatment smooths out the cuticle, killing frizz and puffiness even on the most humid days, giving you hair that's actually manageable.

(Also read from our previous blogs: Professional Hair Care at Home: Step-by-Step Guide to Frizz Control with Plastica Dos Fios) 

2. Wavy Hair

If you're stuck with wavy locks, then a Brazilian blowout is a total game-changer. It will loosen those waves and give them a silky, glossy look that still retains much of their natural movement.

3. Cheveux bouclés

Let's face it, curly hair can be a real pain. But with a pro Brazilian blowout, those curls become way more defined and manageable, and you can even choose to keep them tight or let them go and get a more relaxed look.

4. Thick or Coarse Hair

If you're stuck with thick, coarse locks, then a Brazilian blowout is basically a miracle worker. It can cut down on bulk and make your hair feel a whole lot lighter, softer and easier to brush through.

5. Color-Treated Hair

By the way, one of the best side effects of a Brazilian blowout is how long it makes your colour last; it actually helps seal the cuticle, keeping the colour looking vibrant and fresh for far longer than it would otherwise.

6. Fine Hair

Last but not least, fine hair gets a bunch of benefits from a Brazilian blowout too - including a big reduction in frizz and a seriously shiny finish. Just make sure your stylist uses a lighter formula to get the best results.

What aftercare is required to maintain results from a Brazilian blowout?

We’ve been saying it, aftercare is key. More importantly, it’s the secret to keeping your hair salon-like for as long as possible. Follow these to get salon-like results every day:

1. Use the right shampoo & conditioner

Using the right shampoo and conditioner is crucial. So, choose products that are sulfate-free, sodium-chloride-free and keratin-friendly. These will help prevent the treatment from washing out too fast.

2. Wash only 2–3 times a week.

Remember, overwashing will strip away the smoothing layer. So, spreading out your wash days will help your treatment last longer.

3. Use a weekly keratin mask.

Apply keratin masks every week to boost hydration and maintain the smoothing effects.

4. Avoid chlorine and saltwater.

As we mentioned earlier, you need to avoid saltwater and chlorine. But if you want to swim, you can wear a cap, apply a leave-in conditioner before entering the water and rinse it immediately after.

5. Protect hair from heat.

Although the treatment reduces frizz, remember to always use a heat protectant spray before blow-drying or using hot tools.

6. Choose gentle hair ties.

Avoid tight elastics that may leave dents; instead, go for soft, satin or spiral hair ties.

7. Sleep on a silk pillowcase.

And finally, sleep on silk pillowcases, as they minimize friction and keep hair smoother for longer.

Bottom Line

Now, while both Brazilian blowout and Keratin treatment make you feel softer and naturally frizz-free, based on your hair type, you can choose between either of them. If you want straighter hair, go for keratin; for natural smoothness, the best choice is a Brazilian Blowout. All you need to do is follow the post-treatment care for the best results that last longer. So, whether you are a pro or are visiting a pro, look for quality brands like Keratin Beauty for the best results. 

Have questions? Get in touch with our experts.