Keratin Treatment Support Thread
- Thread starter SouthernTease
- Start date
cutenss
Well-Known Member
I did #2
(BKT #2, that is)
I BKT'd again after 4 weeks. My hair's grown about 1" and it is SO much thicker. I feel like I have at least 30% more hair. The last picture is after the first treatment -sorry so fuzzy - iphone. The first pic is my latest treatment. The diff may not be obvious in the photos, but my hair has really improved in 30 days! I can't say it was BKT only, cuz I've been co-washing 4x/wk and DC 2x/wk. During the past 30 days I didn't use a blowdryer at all and I only flatironed twice.
Anywho, on to the treatment:
I still didn't do the naked blowdry.
Also, this time I used a color applicator bottle - the kind with the pointy tip. It was alot easier to apply this way. I may have used too much product, however. I used about 1.5 ounces last time. I used 2.5 ounces this time. Feels kinda heavy on my hair. We'll see once I wash it out.
I was scared at first because I combed out a tremendous amount (for me) of hair during this application, but nearly every strand was pretty long and had the root ball attached. I only use a huge Goody Detangling Comb once a day, so I guess this is just hair that would have come out earlier had I used a smaller tooth comb on the daily.
I thought it would take less time, since I'd done it before, but it still took 3 1/2 hours.
I'll probably wait 8-12 weeks until I BKT again.
Thanks ladies for all your tips and suggestions!
Your hair l
ks amazing. Isn't BKT your new BFF 
. So what are your hair goals?deniseAlder
New Member
why dont people use global? i heard this is one of the best Bkt's,no?
Br*nzeb*mbsh~ll
Well-Known Member
Sipp100, your hair is lovely. I definitely notice the difference. Amazing results in only a month. Wow.
I think I will bkt using Softliss (2nd treatment) for Thanksgiving. My dh is bugging me about doing my hair - i am so content with my cowash bun, it's sad - so i'll give him a treat in a few weeks. Pray for me y'all. I wanna see fantasmalistic results.
I think I will bkt using Softliss (2nd treatment) for Thanksgiving. My dh is bugging me about doing my hair - i am so content with my cowash bun, it's sad - so i'll give him a treat in a few weeks. Pray for me y'all. I wanna see fantasmalistic results.
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AtlantaJJ
Well-Known Member
Well you might want to try something more gentle like Softliss ... I'm thinking since your hair is already st8 (right?) ... Keep using protein and DCing up until the time you do your BKT.
I have a partially used bottle of the Softliss BKT that I'm willing to part with for a nominal fee. I'll let you know how much I have when I get home. I have the chocolate.
AtlantaJJ
Well-Known Member
I use Global 4% and so far it's my favorite. I have shrinkage prone fine hair with lots of new growth. I use it on my roots mainly and it's working great!
butterfly3582
New Member
Just sharing an article I found when performing a research on BKT. This is someone opinions and I figure the more opinions I have the bettere decision I can make.
I think the bolded part as the most interesting for me. Again I am not saying anythng to the people that swear by it just gathering info. Thanks
(Miami)I am a stylist in Miami who has used numerous different brands/formulas of the "Brazilian " Keratin Treatment. To tell you the truth, I (and my co-workers) have concluded that there is no perfect Keratin Treatment.
The original formaldehyde formulas were by far the best as far as straightening/de-frizzing. Period. The lower formaldehyde formulas were not as straight & didn't last as long. The Coppola Complex & other formaldehyde-free products that our salon tried were the least straight and didn't last very long. I question the person who commented claiming it lasted 8 months. Our clients were very unhappy with CKC.
The problem is toxicity. The original formulas were highly toxic (didn't take a scientist to tell us that the fumes were not healthy to breathe) and removing the formaldehyde clearly changes the results. We also did our homework & most form-free products, including the Coppola have other ingredients with are similar and are also toxic. Coppola uses Aldehyde and another product uses Ether (Global Keratin). Both ingredients are carcinogens when heat is added.
The results from these treatments appear to make the hair healthier. but in all honesty, as a stylist performing these treatments I have not seen hair become healthier after multiple treatments. I have been performing these on clients for over 2 years & I have not seen any major difference in my clients hair, it just appears healthier because it is coated with this product. If anything I think it possibly becomes dependent on having the treatment to look healthy.
My advice: get good styling products & a quality brush/ dryer/ iron.
I think the bolded part as the most interesting for me. Again I am not saying anythng to the people that swear by it just gathering info. Thanks
(Miami)
The original formaldehyde formulas were by far the best as far as straightening/de-frizzing. Period. The lower formaldehyde formulas were not as straight & didn't last as long. The Coppola Complex & other formaldehyde-free products that our salon tried were the least straight and didn't last very long. I question the person who commented claiming it lasted 8 months. Our clients were very unhappy with CKC.
The problem is toxicity. The original formulas were highly toxic (didn't take a scientist to tell us that the fumes were not healthy to breathe) and removing the formaldehyde clearly changes the results. We also did our homework & most form-free products, including the Coppola have other ingredients with are similar and are also toxic. Coppola uses Aldehyde and another product uses Ether (Global Keratin). Both ingredients are carcinogens when heat is added.
The results from these treatments appear to make the hair healthier. but in all honesty, as a stylist performing these treatments I have not seen hair become healthier after multiple treatments. I have been performing these on clients for over 2 years & I have not seen any major difference in my clients hair, it just appears healthier because it is coated with this product. If anything I think it possibly becomes dependent on having the treatment to look healthy.
My advice: get good styling products & a quality brush/ dryer/ iron.
AtlantaJJ
Well-Known Member
I can speak for myself. I'm not going to address anything other than my hair IS healthier and longer. I have MUCH better retention PERIOD. So whatever to whoever wrote that article.
ETA: I'm going to continue to use the treatment specifically because it has helped the health of my hair. I have not been able to retain this amount of length before using the BKT when I was natural or relaxed. I have next to no breakage. I am triming pre-BKT split ends and not obtaining new ones. I'm getting excellent results.
I'm not going to even going to get into the added benefits of ease of styling, and less reversion.
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MissMeWithThatIsh
New Member
^^ I think that stylist may have a point, but let's be a little honest:
1) The treatment is marketed as a miracle product for damaged "non-Black" (stereotypically speaking hair).
2) Non-Blacks may or may not feel the need to really maintain their hair and their conditioning, so long as they feel a low maintenance, wash go, fry, dye cycle doesn't stop their hair from growing or being easily damaged like ours.
3) Thus said, if they simply are looking to NOT change their hair practices --- like many of us have, and don't have healthy hair prior to the treatment, then YES it will be a crutch they use.
BKT is an enhancement to already healthy hair, and like temporary protection for severely damaged hair. No matter what you do, that damaged hair will BE damaged... so I agree invest in good products, but also invest in a quality routine that works for you as well.
1) The treatment is marketed as a miracle product for damaged "non-Black" (stereotypically speaking hair).
2) Non-Blacks may or may not feel the need to really maintain their hair and their conditioning, so long as they feel a low maintenance, wash go, fry, dye cycle doesn't stop their hair from growing or being easily damaged like ours.
3) Thus said, if they simply are looking to NOT change their hair practices --- like many of us have, and don't have healthy hair prior to the treatment, then YES it will be a crutch they use.
BKT is an enhancement to already healthy hair, and like temporary protection for severely damaged hair. No matter what you do, that damaged hair will BE damaged... so I agree invest in good products, but also invest in a quality routine that works for you as well.
Natural Glow
Well-Known Member
I'm going BKT crazy!!
I have Global 4%
Dreamhair
and the new formula of OK Keratin which has a wash the same day formula now.
I think I need to sell my remaining Softliss because I need the 'Big Girl BKT' for my hair!
What
!? Have you used all these brands? I'm boycotting Softlitss cause they done lost thier damn minds not selling the BKT by its self. I was gonna go with Dreamhair but if Global is just as good I might go with that.
butterfly3582
New Member
@Atlanta
I never even suggested that you stop using the treatment. Honestly to each its own. i am just posting information. I am just posting info that I found. I am happy it i working for you.
@ lauryn
Okay lets be honest BKT markets itself as being able to help damaged hair and make it healther I have seen this on salons and suppliers websites. it does not say enhancement to healthy hair only. I have read sites that advertises the more damaged the better results you will see.
IMO it is not just the regimen. Relaxer is a relaxer no matter what your reggie afterwards. The reggie can help maintain healthy hair but it does not change the fact that it is a relaxer.
The lady never said that people had damaged hair because of BKT she stated that it did not make it healther i her opinon
I never even suggested that you stop using the treatment. Honestly to each its own. i am just posting information. I am just posting info that I found. I am happy it i working for you.
@ lauryn
Okay lets be honest BKT markets itself as being able to help damaged hair and make it healther I have seen this on salons and suppliers websites. it does not say enhancement to healthy hair only. I have read sites that advertises the more damaged the better results you will see.
IMO it is not just the regimen. Relaxer is a relaxer no matter what your reggie afterwards. The reggie can help maintain healthy hair but it does not change the fact that it is a relaxer.
The lady never said that people had damaged hair because of BKT she stated that it did not make it healther i her opinon
AtlantaJJ
Well-Known Member
What
My roots
@ Softliss..I am going to sell what I have left.I haven't tried Dreamhair yet nor have I tried the new formula OK Keratin.
Right now I'm having a love affair with Global 4%. I don't mind the 72 hour waiting period. My goals are different than most here however. I want my hair as straight as possible. I'm 6 months post, and I workout and sweat so I need the extra punch of the GBL 4% right now for my NG. I only BKT my roots now.
I imagine Dreamhair and the other 2% formulas are very similar. The benefit of the OK Keratin (new formula) and the Dreamhair is that you can wash the same day. I may alternate with one of those every other BKT in the future.
Natural Glow
Well-Known Member
Yeah I'm gonna have to choose between DreamHair and OK Keratin I guess cause I'm too lazy to wait 72 hrs to wash out.My roots
I haven't tried Dreamhair yet nor have I tried the new formula OK Keratin.
Right now I'm having a love affair with Global 4%. I don't mind the 72 hour waiting period. My goals are different than most here however. I want my hair as straight as possible. I'm 6 months post, and I workout and sweat so I need the extra punch of the GBL 4% right now for my NG. I only BKT my roots now.
I imagine Dreamhair and the other 2% formulas are very similar. The benefit of the OK Keratin (new formula) and the Dreamhair is that you can wash the same day. I may alternate with one of those every other BKT in the future.
Natural Glow
Well-Known Member
So has anyone tried the new OK Keratin? I need to go back through and read what people were saying about OK
Dak
Well-Known Member
Interesting article, but really isn't very logical. BKT = hair appears healthier would be the same as saying Hair Coloring = hair appears to be a richer color, shinier, no grey. Obviously we do things to our hair to make it appear better. My hair in it's natural uncolored state doesn't look good to me, so I color, I play with the texture to make it more appealing to me.
What makes hair healthy? The best BKT treatment in the world isn't going to do anything unless you have healthy hair practices, which for me means having good nutrition, using the right products & techniques.
AtlantaJJ
Well-Known Member
I'm not on top of this list 24/7 but I don't know if anyone here has tried the new formula Ok Keratin. I did my very first BKT with the old version and had the 72 hour wait, I loved the results. Now it's supposed to be even better, without the wait
I chatted with the the Ebay seller who sells both the Dreamhair and the new formula OK Keratin, and she said she likes OKK better than Dreamhair. I found that interesting because her price for 4 oz of OKK was $10.00 less than 4 oz of Dreamhair! :scratchch
MissMeWithThatIsh
New Member
...Yes, I understand that, but at the end of the day, damaged hair, is damaged hair, and like I stated, if you aren't willing to STOP the practices that keep damaging your hair while using BKT you will still have "coated" damage hair. Just like they market wonderful makeup for your face to make you look "A-maaaazing"... the truth is, you have to take care of your skin for optimal results so you don't depend on it, same with your hair. If I chose to bleach my hair and do all types of willy-nilly to it, regardless of how much BKT I use, my hair won't miraculously come back to life. Why not take care of your hair while you use BKT so that you don't become dependent on it, the same way people who use makeup are supposed to care for their skin so they aren't "dependent" on it as well.
Common sense dictates that NO matter WHAT the marketing company tells you, a good regimen, quality time and proceeding with caution is the best practice... because miracles in a bottle are simply marketing ploys. I disagree with the idea that the more damaged your hair, the better the results... because like the stylist said ..that's the company's way of making you dependent on it. Treat your hair good and if the product works for you, then it wil work for you.
AtlantaJJ
Well-Known Member
You and Lauren are right on the money.
We use BKT as a tool, not as a solution.
My hair was healthy when I started this process, and now I have been able to maintain my hair's health with less effort personally with the BKT. So to me it is a tool in my kit of tools that I used for healthy hair. I still use my good conditioning practices, use low mani and protective styling habits that helps me retain my growth. BKT just added another tool to an already successful regimen that include other tools.
butterfly3582
New Member
I think the bolded is an excellent point. I think that this the case for all hair BKTed, relax, natural etc.
To me it does make logical sense when you put a rinse on your hair it has more shine (i.e to some it look healthier) when you first do a protein or DC the hair may appear more healthier. Not that the hair is actually healthier but it may temporialy feel and look healthier.
IMO I just think that BKT can set unrealistic expectations. The product is marketed to make damage hair healthier (along with straighening without chemicals). So I dont understand how people are saying it is only for healthy hair already. The product itelf says the opposite.
I am not saying don't use BKT or it is the devil like I said before to each its own I am just presenting a different side. I personally have not ruled it out but would like to know as much as I can.
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butterfly3582
New Member
Well unless you see all sides you cannot use common sense to make a good decision. If all I am hearing is how great it is and how it works on damaged hair than I will think it is great and will work on my damaged hair.
My point is BKT may not work for everybody (that includes people with healthy hair - I read were someone had a bad experience who had healthy hair)
Again this is just what I am gathering from research and my opinion. I am so HAPPY for everybody that is having great results.
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AtlantaJJ
Well-Known Member
Marketing hype.
I recommend start off with a healthy head, especially regarding protein/moisture balance.
I also recommend you know what your hair likes regarding products especially protein products. My hair is porous and loves protein. BKT is its best friend. I use keratin protein products to maintain my hair. Some people have problems with protein. It's important to know how your hair responds to protein before you use BKT.
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butterfly3582
New Member
Thanks Atlanta for the info
I believe it is marketing hype as well. I just think that many people who are not as informed about hair will get confused. Plus there are "success" stories on You tube about a girl that started with damaged hair and has been using it for about 18 months. She has been slowly cutting off the damage. I am also a little worried about high heat. My hair loves protein but not high heat. So I am not saying it cant work I am just saying that I want to get as much info as I can.
I remember reading on hear to up your DC before BKT to help your hair out.
I do have a question
Why cant you pin your hair back on put in a ponytail after BKT?
I believe it is marketing hype as well. I just think that many people who are not as informed about hair will get confused. Plus there are "success" stories on You tube about a girl that started with damaged hair and has been using it for about 18 months. She has been slowly cutting off the damage. I am also a little worried about high heat. My hair loves protein but not high heat. So I am not saying it cant work I am just saying that I want to get as much info as I can.
I remember reading on hear to up your DC before BKT to help your hair out.
I do have a question
Why cant you pin your hair back on put in a ponytail after BKT?
Natural Glow
Well-Known Member
:thatsall: I totally agree
Yeah I can't keep up with what brand everyone used/uses. Hmm...decisions decisionsI'm not on top of this list 24/7 but I don't know if anyone here has tried the new formula Ok Keratin. I did my very first BKT with the old version and had the 72 hour wait, I loved the results. Now it's supposed to be even better, without the wait
I chatted with the the Ebay seller who sells both the Dreamhair and the new formula OK Keratin, and she said she likes OKK better than Dreamhair. I found that interesting because her price for 4 oz of OKK was $10.00 less than 4 oz of Dreamhair! :scratchch
PinkSkates
New Member
...post deleted..
AtlantaJJ
Well-Known Member
I'm not 100% sure why, but it has something to do with keeping the cuticle of your hair lying as flat as possible while the BKT completes its bonding process.
Now that they have the "wash same day" formulas that doesn't have to be an issue any longer.
When I use the 72 hour wait forumla, I just wear my hair straight on the waiting days with a bump in my bangs, it works fine for me.
*fabulosity*
New Member
I'm over the "no dents" period.. for the last two times.. I pincurled/wrapped with a clip.. no dents.. and no adverse effects...
But for those starting out (1st BKTers..) I would totally adhere to the directions..
ChristmasCarol
Well-Known Member
When I purchased my BKT, there was never any mention of it "repairing" damaged hair. Maybe it's marketed that way some places, but I've only seen it advertised as a temporary straightener that offers a layer of protection over the hair. The ads for Keratina brand BKT show pictures of very healthy-looking MBL hair on women of all races. It shows their hair curly for the before pics, and then straight in the after pics. I haven't seen IRL or on these boards anyone with chewed up 3 inches of hair thinking they will be waist length in 6 months if they use BKT. But I guess there are suckers born every day - and people willing to take their money using false promises.
I also don't know why anyone would be upset because it only lasted a couple months - that's what it's supposed to do - loosen curl for a period of weeks and then revert. If someone wanted a permanent relaxer, that's what they should get. I think it's kinda weird that some people think BKT is a permanent relaxer. Yes, it uses chemicals, but so does the majority of shampoos, conditioners, leave-ins, etc. I wonder if people who use yogurt to loosen their curl are considered "not natural"? ...all that acid in the yogurt...
No product will work for all hair types and textures. Anyone who doesn't realize that is not thinking rationally. Damaged hair is damaged hair. Until you cut it off, you'll just have "BKT'd damaged hair". And if, in fact, someone believed it could "repair" your hair, then why would you ever need an additional treatment? Wouldn't you have perfect hair after using it once?
mstar
Luxury bacon
Aegis, do you have any updates? The salon I am considering for my BKT uses Marcia Teixtera, but I haven't heard any success stories on this board using that brand. I'm a little nervous about it.I am a 4b natural. I have noticed that my curl is slightly looser and softer that is a plus.
My hair feels hard and is breaking like crazy! My hair condition...my hair always LOOKS healthy but i know it tells a different story. I have crazy split ends even though i rarely (as in 2 times in the past 10 months use heat--i got scared after suffering MASSIVE heat damage last year and started learning about my hair. I usually just wear my hair in twists or braids under a wig. wash once a week and DC once a week, moisturize everyday.
I got my BTK done professionally. I didn't trust myself the first time. She used Marcia Teixtera (sp?). She clarified my hair. Blow Dryed. Applied product. Flatironed.
My hair just feels so hard. I might have used too must protein yesterday. I used that chi shampoo (infra) that is supposed to protect you from heat damage and then i did a bs dc with protein, and then applied heat protectant and blowdried and flat ironed. But before I used the heat I noticed my hair felt weird.
Right now I just washed, did a ACV rinse, and I am dc-ing with pantene (i know i shouldnt have bc it has sodium..whatever) but it's the only pure moisture dc i have, and added wild growth oil, glycerine, salt, honey, olive oil, and castor oil, to try to infuse some moisture into my hair.
MarieB
Well-Known Member
That was the first brand of BKT I had back in April. I really liked it, but you can't buy it without a license, and I can't afford $160 plus tip every couple of months. That's why I started on the DIY path in the first place. As far as the Teixeira brand, I thought it was great, and if you can get it done for a reasonable price by a decent stylist, I'd say go for it. HTH!
butterfly3582
New Member
I am still doing research. I will admit that I am researching the bad because I have heard all the good.
I am not trying to rock the boat but I am just wondering about a few thing.
But I guess this is were I am getting confused. I have obessed about puttling lye vs no lye or going natural, I am moving away SLS in my shampoo, I am careful not to put to much protein. And I restrict heat All of this I have learned from LHCF and it is good info.
I think what get me is BKT has high levels of Formaldehyde. This is a cancer causing chemical. The safe level to be in cosmetics is 0.2%. We are using 2 and 4%. The FDA does not regulate the Beauty industry as tough (or at all - I am still researching this). Even formaldehdye free ones may contain levels of formaldehdye or similar agents.
I just am wondering why this is not being talked about as much. I mean I just feel like it is being glossed over it.
Also is formaldehde considered a chemical or is it natural product?
I am not claiming this stuff does not work I am just more asking about the danger of it.
Again this is my opinion and I am not saying anything against the people who use it. I am just asking questons.
I am not trying to rock the boat but I am just wondering about a few thing.
But I guess this is were I am getting confused. I have obessed about puttling lye vs no lye or going natural, I am moving away SLS in my shampoo, I am careful not to put to much protein. And I restrict heat All of this I have learned from LHCF and it is good info.
I think what get me is BKT has high levels of Formaldehyde. This is a cancer causing chemical. The safe level to be in cosmetics is 0.2%. We are using 2 and 4%. The FDA does not regulate the Beauty industry as tough (or at all - I am still researching this). Even formaldehdye free ones may contain levels of formaldehdye or similar agents.
I just am wondering why this is not being talked about as much. I mean I just feel like it is being glossed over it.
Also is formaldehde considered a chemical or is it natural product?
I am not claiming this stuff does not work I am just more asking about the danger of it.
Again this is my opinion and I am not saying anything against the people who use it. I am just asking questons.
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