Transforming your frizzy and wavy hair to smooth, silky condition can be a hassle. Most people tend to get confused between keratin treatment vs rebonding, as they are unsure which treatment is the best for their hair. Although both treatments are common, each of them has its own purpose and benefits.
In order to know which treatment is the right one for you, you have to understand the key differences between hair rebonding vs keratin treatment, as well as other important information, which are all listed below.
What is Keratin Treatment?
A keratin treatment is a smoothing treatment designed to reduce frizz, enhance shine, and make hair more manageable. Keratin, a natural protein found in your hair, is artificially infused during the treatment to strengthen and coat the hair strands.
Unlike rebonding, which permanently changes your hair’s structure, keratin treatments temporarily smooth the hair, making it softer and easier to style. The treatment usually lasts between 3 and 6 months, depending on hair type and aftercare.
What is Rebonding?
Hair rebonding is a chemical treatment that permanently alters the structure of your hair to make it straight and sleek. During the process, strong chemicals break down the natural bonds in your hair, and then heat and straightening irons are used to restructure them into a straight alignment.
The result is shiny, straight, and smooth hair that remains that way until new growth appears. Rebonding can last up to 6 to 12 months, depending on how fast your hair grows and how well you care for it.
Key Differences Between Keratin Treatment and Rebonding
Let’s go into detail and explore the key differences between keratin and rebond treatments so that you understand how each treatment works:
1. Process and Technique
Keratin Treatment involves applying a keratin-based solution to the hair, followed by blow-drying and flat ironing to seal the protein. It enhances smoothness but does not change the natural structure of your hair.
Rebonding breaks down the natural bonds in your hair and restructures them into straight strands using chemicals and heat. This permanently changes your hair’s texture.
2. Chemicals Used for Treatments
Keratin Treatment uses keratin protein formulas, sometimes with formaldehyde or safer alternatives, to coat the hair. Rebonding relies on strong relaxants and neutralizers to break and reset the hair bonds.
3. Duration of Results
Keratin Treatment lasts 3 to 6 months, depending on maintenance and hair type. Rebonding lasts 6 to 12 months, with results remaining until new hair grows out.
4. Hair Texture Outcome
Keratin Treatment results in frizz-free, shiny, and manageable hair while retaining natural waves or curls. Hair looks natural and soft. Rebonding leaves hair completely straight, glossy, and smooth, but may lack natural bounce.
5. Maintenance Requirements
Keratin treatments require sulfate-free shampoos and proper care to prolong their results. Hair can gradually return to its original texture. Rebonding requires regular touch-ups to accommodate new growth and additional conditioning to prevent dryness or damage.
| Aspect | Keratin Treatment | Rebonding |
|---|---|---|
| Process and Technique | Involves applying a keratin-based solution to the hair, followed by blow-drying and flat ironing to seal the protein. Enhances smoothness but does not change the natural structure of the hair. | Breaks down the natural bonds in your hair and restructures them into straight strands using chemicals and heat. Permanently changes the hair’s texture. |
| Chemicals Used for Treatments | Uses keratin protein formulas, sometimes with formaldehyde or safer alternatives, to coat the hair. | Relies on strong relaxants and neutralizers to break and reset the hair bonds. |
| Duration of Results | Lasts 3 to 6 months depending on maintenance and hair type. | Lasts 6 to 12 months, with results staying until new hair grows out. |
| Hair Texture Outcome | Results in frizz-free, shiny, and manageable hair while retaining natural waves or curls. Hair looks natural and soft. | Leaves hair completely straight, glossy, and smooth, but may lack natural bounce. |
| Maintenance Requirements | Requires sulfate-free shampoos and proper care to prolong results. Hair gradually returns to its original texture. | Requires regular touch-ups for new growth and extra conditioning to prevent dryness or damage. |
Benefits of Keratin Treatment to Your Hair
Choosing keratin treatment comes with several advantages such as:
- Reduces frizz and flyaways.
- Makes hair softer, shinier, and easier to manage.
- Enhances natural curls or waves without eliminating them.
- Reduces blow-drying and styling time.
- Strengthens hair with added protein.
This treatment is ideal for busy individuals who want low-maintenance, natural-looking smoothness rather than pin-straight locks.
Benefits of Rebonding to Your Hair
Rebonding also offers unique benefits, especially for those who prefer sleek, straight hair:
- Provides a permanent straight look until the hair re-grows.
- Leaves hair shiny, smooth, and polished.
- Reduces the need for daily straightening with flat irons.
- Suitable for very curly or frizzy hair that is hard to manage.
If your goal is a dramatic transformation with long-lasting results, rebonding may be the right choice.
Possible Side Effects of Keratin Treatment & Rebonding to Your Hair
Both keratin treatment and rebonding involve chemical processes, which may have side effects:
Some of the keratin treatment risks are that some formulas may contain formaldehyde, which can cause scalp irritation, watery eyes, or allergic reactions. Overuse may weaken hair if not maintained properly.
The rebonding risks include the potential for dryness, hair breakage, or split ends if aftercare is not being done the right way. Rebonded hair may also lack natural volume.
To minimize risks, always consult a professional hairstylist and ensure your hair is healthy enough for chemical treatments.
Which Treatment is Suitable for Different Hair Types
Choosing between rebond and keratin treatment depends on your hair type and styling preferences:
- Frizzy, Wavy, or Moderately Curly Hair: Keratin treatment works best to smooth while keeping a natural look.
- Very Curly, Thick, or Coarse Hair: Rebonding is better if you want permanently straight hair.
- Thin or Damaged Hair: Keratin may be safer as it is less harsh than rebonding.
- People who Love Versatility: Keratin treatment is ideal, as it allows you to style hair both straight and wavy.
Tips for Maintaining Your Hair After a Hair Treatment
Between keratin treatment vs rebonding, no matter which treatment you choose, aftercare is important in maintaining results. Both treatments include similar aftercare, such as:
- Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners.
- Avoid washing your hair for at least 48 to 72 hours after treatment.
- Limit heat styling tools to prevent damage.
- Schedule regular trims to remove split ends.
- Deep-condition your hair weekly for hydration.
- For rebonded hair, touch up roots when new growth becomes noticeable.
By following these tips, you can extend the life of your treatment and keep your hair looking smooth and healthy.
Conclusion
When deciding between keratin treatment vs rebonding, the choice ultimately depends on your hair type, desired look, and lifestyle.. Understanding the keratin and rebonding differences can help you to decide on which treatment suits your hair type. If you want manageable, frizz-free, and natural-looking hair with flexibility, keratin treatment is the way to go. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a sleek, straight, and polished appearance that lasts longer, rebonding is your best bet.
Explore keratin treatment and hair rebonding treatments at our hair salons in Johor Bahru and hair salons in Melaka for professional hair treatment services tailored for your hair today!
