If you’re thinking about getting a keratin treatment in Singapore to ditch the frizz, you might be wondering, “How long is this gonna take?” Generally speaking, you can expect to be chilling in the salon chair for anywhere between 1.5 to 4 hours for a keratin treatment in Singapore. Yes, that’s a bit of a range, so let’s dive into what makes the clock tick faster or slower.
1. The Hair Factor is Real
Just like how some of us take longer to get ready in the morning (no judgment!), the length and thickness of your hair play a big role in the treatment time. Got a mane that goes down to your waist? Expect to be there a little longer than your friend with a chic bob. More hair means more product to apply and more sections to flat iron.
2. Not All Treatments Are Created Equal
Different keratin treatments have varying formulations and application techniques, which can impact the duration.
The Express Lane. Some salons offer express keratin treatments that can get you in and out in around 1 hour. These are designed for quicker results but keep in mind the results might not last as long as a full treatment.
The Classic Treatment. This is your standard, go-to keratin treatment. Expect this to take around 2 to 3 hours, maybe a bit longer if your hair is on the thicker or longer side. This is where you’ll likely get the best bang for your buck in terms of longevity.
The Deluxe Experience. Some salons offer more intensive or specialized keratin treatments that can take up to 3 to 4 hours. These might involve extra steps or higher-end products, promising longer-lasting or more dramatic results.
3. What Happens During Keratin Treatment?
So, what exactly are they doing for all those hours? Here’s a quick rundown of the typical steps involved in a keratin treatment.
i) Wash and Prep. Your hair is washed 1–2 times with a clarifying shampoo to remove product buildup, oil, and impurities. This opens up the hair cuticles so the keratin can penetrate effectively.
ii) Blow Drying. Hair is rough-dried to about 80–100% dryness using a blow dryer. This preps the strands for product application.
iii) Application Time. The stylist applies the keratin treatment formula section by section, ensuring even coverage from roots to ends. This can take a good chunk of time, especially for longer hair. The hair is usually left to absorb the product for 15–60 minutes, depending on the formula.
Note that some treatments have noticeable scents or fumes (especially formaldehyde-based ones), but most modern formulas are low-fume or odorless.
iv) Blow Drying Again. After the product has been absorbed, your hair is blow-dried again to lock in the keratin. This step helps smooth the hair and prepare it for the sealing process.
v) The Sealing Deal. This is where the magic happens (and where some time is spent!). Your stylist will use a flat iron to seal the keratin into your hair. This step is crucial for the treatment’s effectiveness and can take a while, depending on your hair’s density. Each section is ironed multiple times to ensure the product bonds effectively. Expect some steam or fume, especially with stronger formulas.
vi) Final Touches. Some treatments might involve a final rinse or the application of a finishing serum.
vii) Aftercare Instructions. Depending on the brand of keratin treatment used, you may be advised to:
- Avoid washing hair for 48–72 hours (traditional treatments)
- Avoid tying hair, using clips, or getting it wet
- Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners
- For express or modern treatments, washing might be allowed the same day or next day
4. How Much Does Keratin Treatment Cost In Singapore?
It’s natural to assume that longer sessions, which require more of the stylist’s time and potentially a greater amount of product, could contribute to a higher overall cost. To find out more about the cost of getting a keratin treatment in Singapore, check out our hair keratin treatment price guide!
5. Conclusion
If you’re planning to get a keratin treatment in Singapore, set aside at least 2 to 4 hours to be safe. It’s always a good idea to ask the salon for an estimated duration when you book your appointment, especially if you have long or thick hair. That way, you can relax, maybe catch up on a book or some Netflix, and look forward to those smooth, frizz-free days ahead!
