Cauterization is a hair treatment that replaces the keratin in the hair. Understand how it works, what products it uses and the risks of the method.
Hair cauterization is a treatment option for those who want to make their locks more silky and shiny. It is, therefore, the application of a keratin-based product, which will seal the hair cuticle. The cuticle is nothing more than the external part of the hair, that is, what we can see with the naked eye.
The procedure is mainly recommended for women who suffer from dull hair, high frizz and disheveled strands. Hair cauterization is also a measure to restore hair vitality, as it injects nutrients into it. It is certainly recommended after carrying out damaging hair chemicals, such as dyeing, progressive brushing and other straightening methods.
Despite this, hair cauterization can and should be used to treat everyday damage, often caused by sun exposure. Using a hairdryer and straightener daily also directly affects the structure of the hair, damaging it.
These and other habits can motivate adherence to treatment in the search for healthier and more beautiful hair. And, for this reason, it is essential to carry out an intensive treatment, such as cauterization, to restore proteins and restore hair strength.
What products are used in hair cauterization?
There is no consensus among experts about the product used in hair cauterization. For example, one hairdresser may only apply pure keratin to your hair, while another will use products with different functions and components.
Some professionals even work with formulas that contain glyoxylic acid. Although known as formaldehyde, the two are different substances – even though they have similar effects. The main advantage of the acid is that it straightens the hair and maintains the results of hair cauterization for longer.
Therefore, it is important to highlight that glyoxylic acid can release formaldehyde when exposed to high temperatures. Since cauterization requires a straightener to seal the product in the hair, the risk of exposure is high. Even though some of these substances are not released by the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa), there are beauty and aesthetic centers that continue to use them in their procedures.
Therefore, by using specific products, the ideal is for the technique to be carried out by a qualified professional.
How is the treatment carried out?
In the salon, hair cauterization is done in stages. First, the hairdresser will wash your hair with a specific shampoo and apply reconstructive creams, strand by strand. Then, the application is finished with a heated ceramic plate, the famous curling ironsuitable for treatment.
As a result, steam mist, which contains high keratin penetration power, is produced in the hair fiber. This will happen mainly where there are cracks or flaws in the hair, providing immediate shine and softness.
How long do the effects of hair cauterization last?
When the treatment is carried out with pure keratin, it is possible to perform it more frequently and without major restrictions. You can perform hair cauterization once a month.
However, if substances such as glyoxylic acid or formaldehyde are present in the product, the treatment will last longer. In this case, it will not need to be done in less than three months.
What are the risks?
There are some precautions that it is interesting to take for those who will undergo hair cauterization, as this poses some risks to the hair structure and/or health. The biggest danger is precisely the application of excessive heat using the straightener. In this sense, when done incorrectly, the wires can end up significantly damaged.
On the other hand, another risk is the use of glyoxylic acid, which releases formaldehyde with the action of the straightener. This is because many people have an allergic reaction to vapor, which can develop serious health problems. Therefore, it is recommended to inhale as little smoke as possible.
Furthermore, pregnant women should avoid the procedure. As there is no standardization of the products used, they may come into contact with formaldehyde. As it is a carcinogen and quickly absorbed into the scalp, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid the substance anyway. Formaldehyde can cause fetal malformation or be transmitted to the baby through breast milk, as it enters the mother’s bloodstream when used.
How to take care of your hair after undergoing treatment?
In any case, after When carrying out hair cauterization, it is essential to treat your hair with conditioner and a moisturizing mask. This will ensure the success and prolongation of the effects of the treatment.
With a higher concentration than conditioners, masks have greater hydration power and are also easy to carry out salon-level maintenance at home. In addition to industrialized products, there are several homemade recipes with oils, milk, fruits and honey. Just apply it to your hair after washing it, and let it act for about ten minutes. Then just remove with water.
Hair cauterization at home
Furthermore, a good alternative to adhering to the treatment is to carry out hair cauterization at home. To do this, you need to buy a specific kit for the technique. You can find it in pharmacies and perfumeries. In this sense, you will need a hairdryer and straightener for the procedure.
With all this in hand, just follow the steps:
- 1. Wash your hair with anti-residue shampoo several times;
- 2. Remove excess moisture with a towel or cloth;
- 3. Apply liquid keratin throughout the hair, strand by strand;
- 4. Wait 20 minutes. If you prefer, put on a cap;
- 5. Remove excess liquid with a towel and dry your hair well (without rinsing the product) with a hairdryer;
- 6. Flat iron each strand approximately three times.
- Then just wash or enjoy the smoothing effect of the moment.
Take the opportunity to discover 8 tips to learn how to brush your hair at home.
Source: Beleza na Web, Ativa Saúde
Images: Tricurioso, Boa Forma, Highlight, The Woman, Vix
