Hair Spa, Keratin or Smoothening: Which Treatment Does Your Hair Need?

Hair spa, keratin and smoothening are three of the most booked hair treatments in Indian salons, and they are often confused. All three can leave hair softer and more manageable, but they work in very different ways, last for very different lengths of time, and suit different hair. Here is a plain-language guide.

Hair spa: conditioning and care

What it is: a deep-conditioning treatment, usually a cleanse, a scalp and hair massage, a nourishing mask, steam to help the product absorb, and a rinse.

What it does: hydrates dry or dull hair, softens it and leaves it shinier. The massage also helps you relax. It does not change the structure of your hair, so it will not straighten curls or remove frizz for weeks.

How long it lasts: the softness lasts until your next few washes. Many people book one every few weeks as regular maintenance.

Good for: anyone with dry, dull or stressed hair who wants healthier-feeling hair without chemicals.

Keratin treatment: frizz control that fades gradually

What it is: a smoothing product is applied to the hair and sealed in with a flat iron.

What it does: reduces frizz and makes hair smoother and quicker to style, while keeping some of its natural movement. It does not make curly hair poker straight.

How long it lasts: usually a few months, fading gradually with each wash.

Good for: frizzy or unruly hair, especially in humid weather, when you want smoother hair but not a permanent change.

Ask first: some smoothing products release formaldehyde when heated. Ask the salon which product they use and whether it is formaldehyde-free, and make sure the area is well ventilated.

Smoothening and rebonding: a lasting change

What it is: a chemical treatment that changes the structure of the hair so it stays straighter. Rebonding is the stronger version and gives a very straight result.

What it does: makes treated hair smooth and straight, and that hair stays that way. New growth comes in with your natural texture, so roots need touch-ups as your hair grows.

How long it lasts: on the treated hair, until it grows out or is cut.

Good for: people who want a long-term straight or smooth look and are ready for the upkeep.

Keep in mind: this is the harshest of the three. It is not a good idea on hair that is already weak, heavily bleached or recently coloured, and some stylists advise against combining it with colour on the same day.

Quick comparison

• Want healthier, softer hair with no chemicals? Hair spa.
• Want less frizz but to keep some natural movement? Keratin.
• Want straight hair for the long term? Smoothening or rebonding.

Aftercare for keratin and smoothening

• Follow your stylist's advice on when you can first wash, tie or tuck your hair.
• Use a sulphate-free shampoo to help the result last.
• Use a heat protectant before blow-drying or straightening.
• Book a regular hair spa or deep-conditioning treatment to keep treated hair healthy.

Not sure which one you need? Ask for a short consultation when you book; a good stylist will look at your hair before recommending anything. Find a salon near you on Bookwie and compare treatment prices before you go.