Keratin Treatments vs Hair Straightening

Keratin Treatments vs Hair Straightening,

Keratin treatments are one of the most misunderstood services in salons across Australia. Despite common belief, keratin treatments are not designed to straighten the hair permanently. Their role is to smooth, soften and reduce frizz not to chemically change the hair’s natural structure.

Keratin treatments work by coating the outside of the hair with proteins and conditioning agents that help seal the cuticle. This results in hair that looks shinier, feels smoother, and is easier to manage, especially in Australia’s humid climate. However, keratin formulas do not contain the chemicals required to break and reform the internal bonds of the hair, which is essential for true straightening. As the treatment gradually washes out over time, the hair slowly returns to its natural texture.

Permanent straightening is a completely different service.

Japanese straightening (also known as thermal reconditioning) is specifically designed to permanently straighten the hair by chemically restructuring the hair bonds. This is why it is a highly technical service that must be performed by experienced professionals. Japanese straightening treatments typically take five hours or more, depending on hair length, thickness and condition.

By contrast, a keratin treatment usually takes around 80–90 minutes at most. The shorter processing time alone highlights the difference between a smoothing treatment and a true straightening service. Simply put, keratin treatments cannot permanently straighten hair in that timeframe.

For Australian clients, understanding this difference is key to choosing the right service. If your goal is smoother hair, frizz reduction and easier styling, keratin treatments are a great option. But if you’re looking for long-term, pin-straight results, Japanese straightening is the correct professional choice.

The right treatment delivers better results, healthier hair, and no unrealistic expectations.