Is a Brazilian Blowout the Same as a Keratin Treatment?
Mostly, yes: Brazilian Blowout is a brand of smoothing treatment, and keratin treatment is the general name for smoothing services that use keratin. People use the terms interchangeably, and both describe semi-permanent smoothing for less frizz and easier styling. Formulas, process and aftercare differ from brand to brand, so it is worth asking which product a salon uses.
Key takeaways
- Brazilian Blowout is one brand inside the wider keratin smoothing category.
- Both are semi-permanent, so the smoothing fades over time.
- Compare salons by product, timeline and aftercare, not by the name on the menu.
What Does a Brazilian Blowout at SALT Include?
At SALT, a Brazilian blowout is a semi-permanent smoothing treatment that smooths hair with the application of keratin. It suits all hair textures, especially if you want more manageability, less frizz and less time heat styling.
We offer two versions. With a proper hair care routine, the full treatment can last up to three months, and you take home a care kit to go with it.
The express version is designed to last four to six weeks. Our Brazilian blowout page compares them.
What Does the Word Keratin Actually Mean Here?
Keratin is a protein found naturally in hair. In a keratin smoothing treatment, a product containing keratin is applied to the hair and sealed with heat to smooth the surface and calm frizz.
Many brands make a version, each with its own formula and instructions. Because keratin treatment is a category name, it does not tell you much on its own about how long the result lasts or what else is in the product.
Where Do the Two Terms Overlap?
Both aim for smoother, shinier, more manageable hair. Both are semi-permanent, so the effect fades as you wash and style.
Both usually involve applying the product, letting it process and sealing it with heat. If you ask for a keratin treatment at SALT, the service you are asking for is our Brazilian blowout.
What Can Differ Between Smoothing Brands?
The Formula
Different products contain different ingredients. Those affect how the treatment works, how it smells and how long it lasts. If ingredients matter to you, ask to see them.
The Process
Each brand has its own steps and processing times. A trained stylist follows the instructions for the product being used.
The Aftercare
Each product comes with its own washing and styling instructions and its own care products. Follow the ones for the treatment you actually had.
How Long Results Last
Longevity claims vary by brand, and your hair and routine change the result. We explain what affects it in our article on how long a keratin treatment lasts.
What Should You Ask a Salon Before Booking Smoothing?
- Ask which product they use.
- Ask how long the appointment takes.
- Ask how long they expect it to last on your hair type.
- Ask what the aftercare is, and whether care products are included.
- Ask what to avoid afterward, and for how long.
- Ask what it will and will not do for your texture.
- Ask how they handle hair that has been colored or lightened.
A good stylist answers plainly and tells you when another service would suit you better. Be wary of any promise of permanent results with no upkeep.
Is a Keratin Conditioning Treatment the Same Thing?
No. A conditioning treatment adds moisture and softness, and it is not designed to smooth hair for weeks.
If you are asking for a keratin treatment because you want smoother hair, the Brazilian blowout is the service to book. If your hair feels dry or weighed down rather than frizzy, a conditioning treatment, the Malibu treatment or K18 Molecular Repair may serve you better. Our article on a Brazilian blowout vs a conditioning or Malibu treatment compares them.
How Is Smoothing Different From Permanent Straightening?
Permanent straightening services change the hair's structure and grow out rather than wash out. A keratin smoothing treatment, including a Brazilian blowout, is semi-permanent.
It softens frizz and makes hair easier to style, then fades gradually as you wash. Curly and wavy hair usually becomes smoother and more manageable, not pin straight.
How Do You Know If Smoothing Suits Your Hair?
Smoothing is a good fit if frizz and long styling time are your main frustrations and you want a smoother look for a season. It will not add thickness to fine hair, and it does not replace a good haircut. Describe how your hair behaves and how you style it, and your stylist will tell you whether smoothing will help.
How Does Stylist Training Affect a Smoothing Service?
A smoothing treatment depends on careful, even application and on following the product's instructions. Our stylists receive mentorship and training consistently, and our team includes a stylist certified in Brazilian blowouts.
Choose your stylist from our team page when you book. For the full service, see our Brazilian blowout page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Keratin Smoothing Damage Hair?
Any chemical or heat service affects hair in some way, and results depend on your hair and the product. Your stylist looks at your hair's condition first and tells you if another service should come first.
Is a Brazilian Blowout the Same as Japanese Straightening?
No. Japanese straightening is a permanent straightening service. A Brazilian blowout is semi-permanent smoothing that fades gradually.
Is the Express Version a Good First Smoothing Treatment?
Yes. It is designed to last four to six weeks, which makes it a lighter way to try smoothing.
Can I See the Ingredients Before My Appointment?
Ask your stylist which product is used and what is in it. If you have sensitivities, mention them when you book.
What Should I Look for When Booking Online?
Choose Brazilian Blowout or Brazilian Blowout Express under Treatments + Smoothing.
Book a Consultation
Want to talk through smoothing for your hair? Call (224) 788-8028 or book online. You will find the Brazilian Blowout and Brazilian Blowout Express under Treatments + Smoothing on our Service Menu.
