Brazilian Blowout vs. Keratin Treatment: Which One Should You Get?

​Find out which smoothing treatment is the best.

A smoothing treatment can be a worthwhile investment for anyone with frizz-prone hair. So while salon services like a Brazilian blowout or a keratin treatment can set you back $250 on average, they'll give you smooth, shiny hair that'll last for months.

Both treatments will spare you the time you've been wasting styling your hair with frizz-fighting products that never quite seem to work. So, what's the difference between the two, and which one should you get? InStyle turned to Christina B. of New York City's Rita Hazan Salon to spell it out.

What's the Difference Between Brazilian Blowouts and Keratin Treatments?

Brazilian blowouts and keratin treatments essentially have the same effect on hair: both eliminate frizz and boost shine. They're safe for all hair types and can be done on color-treated hair. However, Brazilian blowouts are more customizable.

"Since the market is so saturated with keratin treatments you could spend hours googling what you think would be best for the look you're after, but the Brazilian blowout can be adjusted for different hair textures," explains Christina B. "The stylist can flat iron the hair at different temperatures and achieve different looks."

What this means is that if you don't want your hair completely straight, your stylist can tailor the treatment so that your natural hair texture isn't completely lost. They'll still seal the treatment with a 450 degree flat iron, and you'll still have smooth, voluminous waves when they're all done.

The other way the treatments vary is in their downtime. Following a keratin treatment, it's recommended that you don't tie your hair up and you can't wash it for three or four days. As for a Brazilian blowout, you can go about your regular styling routine.
 
What Should I Know About What's In These Smoothing Treatments?

Although a Brazilian blowout has its benefits, the treatment can't be mentioned without addressing the controversy surrounding it. There has been concern about the formaldehyde in its formula.

"I find that if they're done properly and in well ventilated areas they are not harmful at all," says Christina B. "But you can find formaldehyde-free versions if you are worried about that."
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Whichever treatment you do choose, research salons in your area that offer the service to find one that's reputable. You'll get the results you want without sacrificing the health of your hair.

from InStyle