What shampoo to use after Brazilian straightening?

Introduction to Brazilian straightening

What is Brazilian straightening?

Origins and popularity of Brazilian straightening

• Brazilian straightening originated in Brazil, a country renowned for its innovations in hair care.
• It became popular in the early 2000s, particularly for those seeking smooth, shiny hair.
• This hair treatment is an effective solution for taming frizz and smoothing wavy or curly hair on a semi-permanent basis.

The technical process of Brazilian straightening

• Brazilian straightening uses keratin, a protein essential for maintaining hair structure and texture.
• The process begins by washing the hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove all impurities.
• Next, a keratin solution is applied to nourish and rebuild the hair fiber.
• Finally, a straightening iron seals the keratin in the hair, guaranteeing a silky-smooth texture.

Brazilian straightening results

Effects on different hair types

• Brazilian straightening is suitable for almost all hair types, whether curly, wavy or frizzy.
• For thick hair, it ensures long-sought hair discipline.
• For fine hair, it adds shine without weighing hair down.
• This treatment makes hair more manageable, eliminating frizz and leaving it soft to the touch.

Average duration of results

• The effects of Brazilian straightening generally last between 2 and 4 months, depending on hair type and maintenance.
• Results can be prolonged by using specific hair care products such as sulfate-free shampoos.
• Careful maintenance ensures the longevity of the treatment, in particular with keratin-enriched products.

The importance of conditioner for Brazilian straightening

Shampooing after Brazilian straightening

Why you can't use a regular shampoo

• After Brazilian straightening, the use of ordinary shampoos can adversely affect the results of the treatment. These shampoos often contain sulfates that remove the keratin applied to your hair.
• Sulfates can cause excessive dehydration and weaken the hair fiber, reducing the smooth, shiny effect so sought-after.
• Inappropriate shampooing can accelerate the loss of keratin, reducing the life of the smoothing.

Impact of aggressive ingredients on Brazilian straightening

• Shampoos containing alcohol, parabens or other harsh chemicals are particularly unadvisable, as they can alter hair structure and interfere with smoothing.
• Aggressive ingredients unbalance the scalp and disrupt moisture retention, which can lead to frizz.
• To protect the investment you've made in Brazilian straightening, it's crucial to choose gentle shampoos that are free from harsh chemical ingredients.

How to choose the right shampoo?

Shampoo selection criteria

• Opt for a sulfate-free shampoo, to preserve the integrity of keratin and prolong the life of your straightening.
• Choose products enriched with keratin and moisturizing agents, such as coconut oil or aloe vera, to strengthen and nourish hair.
• Choose a pH-balanced shampoo to maintain a healthy scalp and avoid irritation.

Common shampoo selection mistakes

• Avoid choosing a shampoo based on price alone, as a cheap product may contain ingredients that are harmful to your straightened hair.
• Don't just rely on advertising; always check the ingredients list to make sure it's suitable for your hair treatment.
• Don't overlook the importance of advice and recommendations from experts or hair stylists who know the specific needs of the hair being treated.
• Ignorance of your own hair's specific characteristics (such as type and porosity) is a common mistake, often leading to the use of unsuitable products.

See also: Which product for bleaching hair?

Overview of the best shampoos for Brazilian straightening

Recommended shampoos after Brazilian straightening

Best brands and products

• Moroccanoil Smoothing Shampoo : Known for its formula rich in argan oil and argan butter, this shampoo is ideal for straightened hair. It gently cleanses while smoothing and softening the hair fiber.
• Brazilian Blowout Açai Anti-Frizz Shampoo : Specially formulated for Brazilian straightening, this product contains Acai fruit extracts that help prolong the effects of the treatment while reducing frizz.
• Keratase Discipline Bain Fluidealiste : This sulfate-free shampoo is enriched with keratin and suitable for all types of straightened hair. It helps maintain hair's softness and fluidity while preserving its structure.
• OGX Ever Straightening + Brazilian Keratin Therapy Shampoo : This shampoo is made with natural oils such as coconut oil and Brazilian keratin, ideal for nourishing and protecting your straightened hair.

Advantages and disadvantages of each

• Moroccanoil Smoothing Shampoo :
  • Advantages : Intense hydration thanks to argan oil, suitable for dry, frizz-prone hair.
  • Disadvantages : Relatively expensive, some people find it weighs down very fine hair.
• Brazilian Blowout Açai Anti-Frizz Shampoo :
  • Advantages : Perfect for maintaining smoothing results and controlling frizz, light sulfate-free formulation.
  • Disadvantages : Can be expensive, and its scent may not appeal to everyone.
• Keratase Discipline Bain Fluidealiste :
  • Advantages : Suitable for all hair types, it provides immediate softness, leaving hair disciplined and shiny.
  • Disadvantages : High price, may not be suitable for very fine hair.
• OGX Ever Straightening + Brazilian Keratin Therapy Shampoo :
  • Advantages : Natural ingredients at an affordable price, ideal for an economical yet effective hair routine.
  • Disadvantages : Results may vary according to hair type, with some users reporting a lesser smoothing effect.

FAQ and Conclusion

Colored hair and Brazilian straightening: which shampoos are best?

It's essential to choose a sulfate-free shampoo specially designed for color-treated hair. These shampoos not only protect the color, but also maintain the keratin integrated during Brazilian straightening.

How long can I wash my hair after a Brazilian straightening?

We recommend waiting at least 48 to 72 hours before washing your hair after Brazilian straightening, to allow the keratin to set properly.

How to prevent hair breakage after Brazilian straightening?

To prevent breakage, use keratin-enriched shampoos and conditioners, limit the use of heat and avoid products containing sulfates and parabens.

Can dry shampoos be used after Brazilian straightening?

Yes, but it's best to choose an alcohol-free, sulfate-free dry shampoo to avoid altering the effects of straightening. Dry shampoos can be useful for spacing out washings.

What ingredients are best to use in an after-smoothing shampoo?

Choose natural ingredients such as coconut oil, argan oil and, of course, keratin. These ingredients deeply moisturize and protect the hair fiber.