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The Brazilian Keratin Treatment (“BKT” or “Brazilian Blow Dry”) is the newest way to get picture perfect hair. It is a conditioning treatment that reduces frizz by 20-50% and makes hair easier to style. It is also known to make hair shiny, softer and more manageable. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about BKT.
What does the process entail?
The BKT treatment starts off with an application of the treatment. The hair is then blow dried and a flat iron is used to seal in the treatment. Depending on which specific product is used, you will not be allowed to wet you hair anywhere from 1-4 days. During this time, the hair cannot be tied back either. Sweating (e.g. gymming) is not recommended as the hair should remain dry. After the wait period, the hair is then washed and ready to style!
How long does the BKT treatment last?
The Brazilian treatment is not permanent and naturally washes out. Salonists say that the treatment lasts approximately 2-4 months. Unlike the Japanese straightening process, this process grows out naturally and gradually, it isn’t noticable. The process lasts longer if you use sodium chloride-free shampoos. Since this process washes out, the more you wash you hair the faster you hair will return to its original state. BKT works best on chemically treated hair. The reason behind this is that color has been used to break down the cuticle and processed hair will allow the treatment to truly absorb. Morever, BKT formulas that are low in formaldehyde last for a shorter period of time compared to those with higher percentages of formaldehyde.
Are the chemicals used in BKT dangerous?
For most BKT processes, one of the main ingredients used to straighten the hair is formaldehyde, which is known as a carcinogen. According to Allure Magazine “some of the most popular BKT treatments contain at least ten times more formaldehyde than the .2 percent considered safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. The FDA doesn’t currently regulate cosmetics, but they are investigating the safety of these treatments.”
When the treatment is applied, fumes are released which are not only harmful for the customer but also for the stylist. Short term effects include nausea and coughing. The long term effects are unknown but studies have linked it to cancer.
There are, however, BKT treatments available that do not use formaldehyde.
What are the main differences between the BKT and Japanese Straightening?
The final product of BKT and Japanese Straightening are very different. BKT hair has more body and allows for different styling such as curls and waves. Japanese Straightening offers a more pin-straight look and requires less work to style. BKT hair still requires blowdrying and styling. Moreover, as described above, the BKT washes out gradually and the Japanese grows out from the root.
What questions should I ask my salon?
Since the use of formaldehyde seems to be the main concern when deciding whether to get the BKT, ask your salon about the amount of formaldehyde used in their process, if any. If a treatment claims no use of formaldehyde ask what substitute the treatment uses. Analydehyde is commonly used as a substitute and can be just as dangerous as formaldehyde. Be sure to research the brand of BKT the salon uses and ensure that the levels of formaldehyde are at safe levels.
CitySaheli is presently consulting with salons all over NYC to find those with the safest BKT processes. Since the long term effects formaldehyde on hair are unknown, its best to stick with a treatment that offers low levels. Companies are also in the process of truly creating a formaldehyde free treatment. Stay tuned in the coming weeks as CitySaheli tests treatments and posts the results!
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