Don’t Touch That Keratin Kit Before You Read This

In today’s Instagram fueled beauty world, sleek, frizz-free hair is the ultimate aesthetic goal. And nothing promises that flawless shine quite like a keratin treatment. But here’s the catch: while salon treatments are pricey, at home keratin kits have become the next big thing, touted as affordable, quick fix solutions.

But before you grab that bottle and start applying chemicals to your hair in your bathroom, dermatologists are sounding the alarm. While DIY keratin treatments seem like a smart hack, there’s a side you’re not being told enough about the hidden risks.

Let’s break down the truth, bust the myths, and hear what hair experts and dermatologists really say about doing keratin at home.

Keratin is a natural protein found in your hair, skin, and nails. A keratin treatment involves applying a formula infused with this protein (often combined with other chemicals) to smooth frizz, straighten hair, and add an enviable shine.

• Salon Keratin Treatment – Applied by professionals, often containing strong smoothing agents
• DIY At Home Keratin Kits – Cheaper versions that you can apply yourself, with varying chemical strengths

Let’s face it salon keratin treatments can cost anywhere from ₹4,000 to ₹12,000 or more. Plus, they take hours to complete. Enter the DIY keratin trend: affordable, fast, and promoted heavily on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.

• Saves money and time
• Feels like an empowering self-care ritual
• Promises salon like results at home
• Encouraged by influencers and hair vloggers

But is this shortcut worth the risk?

Most keratin treatments especially budget DIY kits contain formaldehyde or formaldehyde-releasing ingredients. This toxic gas can cause serious side effects.

• Eye irritation
• Scalp burns
• Breathing issues
• Long term cancer risk with frequent exposure

Dr. Ritu Sethi, a dermatologist in Delhi, warns: “People don’t realize they’re inhaling carcinogens while using these treatments. Doing it in a closed bathroom with poor ventilation increases danger.”

Contrary to popular belief, keratin treatments do not heal your hair. They simply coat it. Over time, chemical overload and repeated flat ironing can weaken hair bonds.

• Dry, brittle hair
• Split ends
• Hair thinning over months

“Your hair may look shiny at first,” says trichologist Swati Mehta, “but the long term result can be irreversible damage especially for color treated or chemically sensitive hair.”

Applying keratin without professional supervision can lead to:

• Scalp burns or blisters
• Allergic reactions
• Increased dandruff and itchiness

Also, applying too close to the roots may clog follicles, leading to hair shedding.

DIY kits aren’t tailored to your hair type, porosity, or texture. A product that works for one person could ruin another’s hair.

• People with fine, damaged, or bleached hair
• Those with sensitive skin or psoriasis
• Asthmatic individuals due to chemical inhalation

Many at-home kits market themselves as “formaldehyde free.” But in reality, they may contain formaldehyde releasers like:

• DMDM hydantoin
• Diazolidinyl urea
• Glyoxylic acid

These ingredients still release formaldehyde when heated with a flat iron. Always check the ingredient list. If it sounds too safe to be true, it probably is.

“I used a trending DIY kit I saw on Instagram. It worked initially. But after two weeks, my hair became dry and started breaking in chunks. I had to chop off 6 inches.”

“My scalp started burning during the application. I thought it was normal. A day later, I developed painful sores and had to visit a dermatologist.”

“I did everything right — watched tutorials, followed steps. But the product didn’t suit my hair. It became limp and lifeless.”

If you're still set on trying keratin at home, dermatologists suggest a precaution first approach:

Always test the product on a small skin area 48 hours before full application.

Choose safer alternatives labeled "non toxic" and free of glyoxylic acid too.

Do the treatment in a well ventilated space or under a fan. Never in a closed bathroom.

Flat ironing is crucial in sealing the product, but overdoing it can fry your hair.

Your hair will need hydration. Use sulfate free shampoos and deep conditioners.

Instead of exposing yourself to harsh chemicals, try these expert approved safer smoothing alternatives:

• Coconut milk with lemon
• Aloe vera gel with vitamin E
• Rice water rinse

• Protein rich leave in serums
• Botox hair treatments (less harsh)
• Silicone free smoothing creams

• Cold water rinses
• Satin pillowcases to reduce frizz
• Heatless straightening with braids or rollers

Many “organic” or “herbal” keratin kits are still chemically loaded. Look out for these red flags:

• Strong fragrance (may indicate hidden chemicals)
• Labels without full ingredient list
• Products imported from unregulated markets

• Dermatologist tested or approved brands
• Indian FDA approved formulations
• Transparent labelling

In most cases, no not unless you're a trained stylist or have extensively researched the product. The initial shine may fool you, but the long term effects can include:

• Hair damage
• Health issues
• Scalp problems

Instead of chasing viral trends, it’s wiser to consult a professional, understand your hair’s unique needs, and opt for sustainable hair care practices.

Yes, we all want hair that looks straight out of a shampoo commercial. But not at the cost of our health or future hair.

The next time an influencer shows you an “easy home keratin hack,” remember: what works on a reel may not work on your real hair.

Trust your hair. Respect it. Don’t gamble with it.

Discover expert advice and the latest updates in Skin Care, Hair Care, Wellness, Dermatology, and more at Stay Young guide to lasting beauty and holistic health!

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs):

1. Can keratin treatment make curly hair completely straight?It can loosen curls significantly but doesn’t always fully straighten very curly hair.
2. Is it safe to color your hair after a keratin treatment?It’s best to wait at least two weeks before coloring your hair post keratin.
3. Does keratin treatment work on bleached or damaged hair?It can worsen damage if hair is already weak or overly processed.
4. Can teenagers do keratin treatments safely?Experts advise against it due to chemical exposure and developing scalp sensitivity.