Keratin

Also known as hydrolyzed keratin, keratin protein

What is keratin?

Keratin is the protein that makes up about 90% of each hair strand, plus your nails and the outer layer of your skin. Heat, bleach, and brushing chip away at it. Keratin shampoos, masks, and treatments patch those weak spots so hair feels smoother and breaks less.
Best forDamaged hair Frizz Breakage Hair strength

Products with keratin

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Virtue Smooth Shampoo 8 oz pink bottle with Alpha Keratin that cleans softens and adds shine VIRTUE VIRTUE Smooth Shampoo $44.00 Virtue Smooth Conditioner 6.7 oz pink tube with Alpha Keratin that hydrates silkens and de-frizzes hair VIRTUE VIRTUE Smooth Conditioner $44.00 Virtue Recovery Shampoo 8 oz bottle with Alpha Keratin that cleans replenishes and nourishes damaged hair VIRTUE VIRTUE Recovery Shampoo $44.00 Virtue Recovery Conditioner 6.7 oz tube with Alpha Keratin that hydrates softens and renews damaged hair VIRTUE VIRTUE Recovery Conditioner $44.00

Pairs well with

  • Biotin
  • Peptides
  • Panthenol
  • Hair oils

Use with caution

  • Too much protein on fine hair (it can feel stiff)
  • Salon treatments that release formaldehyde

Keratin FAQs

Keratin fills in the damaged spots along each strand. Hair looks smoother, shinier, and breaks less.

Use a keratin shampoo as often as you wash, and a keratin mask once a week. Cut back if your hair starts to feel stiff.

They are different. A shampoo adds a light coat of protein, and a salon treatment uses heat and chemicals to smooth hair for months.

Keratin products help curly hair that is damaged or frizzy. Follow with a moisturizing conditioner so curls stay soft.

Related reading

3 ways to treat thinning hair Rosemary: benefits for hair and skin Should you take supplements for your skin?

This content on this page is for general information only and is not medical advice. Always speak to a dermatologist before starting a new skincare routine.