A keratin treatment is a chemical process that smooths and shines frizzy hair. During the treatment, a stylist will use a mixture of strong chemicals to apply a coat of protein (keratin) to your hair, which seals your hair’s cuticle (protective outer layer) to prevent the movement of moisture in and out of your strands. This process smooths the hairs cuticle, which gives the strands a shiny look and makes them more manageable. Keratin treatments can also cut down on drying time and reduce the look of split ends by temporarily bonding the hair back together. Depending on the products used, a keratin treatment can straighten curly or wavy hair. The treatment usually takes about 1-3 hours and lasts about 3-6 months. However, as with any treatment involving strong chemicals and high heats, there are risks involved to your hair. Some hair stylists prefer to blow dry the hair first and apply the treatment to dry hair. They’ll then flat iron the hair in small sections to seal in the treatment. The benefits of getting a professional keratin treatment or doing one at home can include silky, shiny, and more manageable hair.