Let’s be real — how many times have clients walked into your salon, pointed to a glossy Instagram photo, and said, “I want this hair. Is it keratin or smoothening?”
And we smile politely while our stylists start explaining the difference — again.
Truth is, even salon regulars often confuse the two. On the surface, they do look similar. Sleek hair. Less frizz. Manageable mornings. But as every seasoned hair salon in West Delhi knows — the devil’s in the details.
So here’s a no-jargon, straight-up guide for salon professionals (and their clients) to help figure out what’s what — and more importantly, what suits whom.
Let’s Start With Smoothening: Your Semi-Permanent Friend
Hair smoothening — think of it as a “mild makeover” for unruly hair. It uses a chemical solution (usually formaldehyde-based or similar) to soften the natural bonds of the hair, restructure them a bit, and lock them in place with a flat iron.
It’s not poker-straight like rebonding. But it flattens out the volume, tames frizz, and gives that natural-looking shine clients crave — especially before weddings, vacations, or festive seasons.
- Who’s it for?
Those with wavy, slightly curly, or frizzy hair who want manageability, not pin-straight strands. It’s popular for people who hate using straighteners daily but don’t want to look too “done up.” - How long does it last?
Around 3 to 6 months — depending on aftercare, water quality, and how often they shampoo. - Catch?
Smoothening does use chemicals, so repeated sessions can lead to dryness, especially if you’re not backing it with the right post-treatment care.
Now, Keratin Treatment: More of a Repair Job
Unlike smoothening, keratin isn’t here to change the structure of your hair — it’s here to restore it.
Keratin is a protein that our hair already has. Over time, heat, pollution, and chemical damage strip it away. So a keratin treatment is like feeding the hair what it’s been starving for.
The treatment coats the hair shaft, fills in the gaps, and smoothens the cuticle — all of which leads to shinier, softer, stronger hair.
- Who’s it for?
Think of someone with dry, damaged, overly treated hair (post-colouring, bleaching, or regular ironing). Keratin gives them their hair back — healthier and easier to manage. - How long does it last?
Usually 2 to 4 months. Shorter than smoothening — but gentler, and less damaging long term. - Catch?
It’s not going to straighten tight curls. It relaxes hair, yes, but it’s not a chemical straightener. If someone wants flat hair with no waves, keratin alone may not cut it.
So, How Do You Help Clients Decide?
Here’s what we often tell walk-ins at our hair salon in West Delhi:
- “If your hair is healthy but just needs some discipline — go for smoothening.”
- “If your hair feels like a jhaadu every time you wash it — keratin might save it.”
Simple as that.
Also, geography matters. For instance, folks coming in for a hair treatment in Rajouri Garden, which is often affected by Delhi’s dusty air and hard water, tend to prefer keratin — because it counters dryness and keeps the hair from becoming lifeless between washes.
Pro Tip: Mix & Match (Smartly)
Sometimes, we do a combo treatment — keratin followed by a light smoothening. This is great for clients who want that soft, flowy finish but also need damage control. Just make sure the hair can handle it. Always do a strand test and manage expectations.
Aftercare: Don’t Let the Shine Fade
Whether it’s keratin or smoothening, your real job begins after the chair.
Educate clients on:
- Using sulphate-free shampoo
- Avoiding chlorine-heavy water
- Not tying hair tightly for at least a week
- Coming in for trims or touch-ups every 3 months
Remember, a great treatment is wasted if post-care is ignored.
Final Thoughts (Over a Cutting Chai)
Hair talk is never just technical — it’s personal. One woman’s frizz is another’s volume. One guy’s curls are his identity.
That’s why salons — especially those in buzzing places like Rajouri Garden — need to ask more than, “What treatment do you want?” We need to ask: “How do you want your hair to feel every day?”
Once you understand that, choosing between keratin and smoothening becomes easy.