Keratin Treatments: A Harm To Your Kidneys? Unveiling the Truth Behind It

Keratin hair treatments are the go-to-solutions for most women with frizzy, dull, or damaged hair. Recent years have seen a sudden increase in the number of women going for keratin treatments. Nevertheless, recent speculations about kidney issues and other risks related to keratin treatments have been doing the rounds on the internet. There have been several claims related to kidney issues and allergies happening due to hair treatments. However, not all claims are accurate.

A recent study by The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) highlighted the experience of a woman who ended up with acute kidney issues mainly due to the harmful ingredients present in hair straightening products. The NEJM further claimed that severe side effects of Keratin Hair Treatment might also include several respiratory and liver concerns. They also highlighted how certain ingredients and products used for the procedures can damage major bodily functions.

These studies and speculations have raised curiosity and concerns about the safety of keratin products. But, before we jump to any conclusions, let us understand in detail what Keratin Treatment is , its safe usage and associated risks with the kidneys.

What is Keratin & Keratin Treatment

What is Keratin & Keratin Treatment?

Before digging deeper into the topic of risks associated with Keratin Treatments, let us first understand Keratin and treatments related to it. Keratin is a protein that makes up your hair. It is mainly responsible for your overall hair health. Keratin hair treatment is a semi-permanent straightening treatment which helps your hair remain smooth, silky and frizz-free.

Keratin-treated hair requires more maintenance and dedicated products for the treatment to last longer.

Side Effects of Keratin Treatment

Keratin treatments demand maintenance, care and extra effort. The treatment works wonders in most cases but the results -but the results may vary, depending on the hair type and other external factors. . In fact, not taking the right care might make it more prone to damage and breakage.

Keratin Treatments, especially the ones with chemical relaxers, and unregulated ingredients hold quite a few side effects. Such treatments may also lead to eczema, burns, pain, inflammation, etc., on your scalp. Hair damage, allergies, etc. might be a few side effects related to Keratin Treatments that are inauthentic or unregulated. Keratin Treatments are safe only when one chooses a brand that is authentic, and uses regulated and safe ingredients.

Health Risks and Complications Related to the Use of Keratin Products

Many studies suggest that prolonged exposure to certain chemicals used in chemical hair treatments may lead to long-term and serious health risks. Potential liver damage, kidney damage, and respiratory issues have been associated with high usage of chemicals in Keratin Treatments. However, such risks are mostly observed in low-quality products that do not abide by the safety standards.


A study published by Toxicology and Industrial Health states that Keratin Treatments can lead to breathing difficulties and in some cases, the development of asthma symptoms. Formaldehyde is a common ingredient for hair treatments that release vapors during the treatment. These vapors can irritate the respiratory tract on prolonged usage. But, the use of regulated and safe ingredients in Keratin products keep you away from all kinds of health risks.

Preventions to take when undergoing Keratin Treatment

Ingredient Awareness
Thoroughly check the ingredient list of all the products being used. Avoid treatments that mention formaldehyde, methylene glycol, or related compounds in their ingredient list.

Temperature Control and Humidity Check
We always recommend treatments in surroundings that aren’t too hot or humid. It doesn’t directly contribute to health risks. However, heat-related hair damage during the treatment increases the release of harmful chemicals. Thus increasing health-related risk factors.

Hydration
Drinking plenty of water before and after such treatments help flush out toxins that might be absorbed during the process.

Proper Ventilation
It is a highly underrated and effective prevention of serious issues during hair treatments. Well-ventilated areas ensure enough room for air circulation, minimizing the inhalation of harmful chemicals via fumes.

Avoid concurrent use of other toxic products
Additional toxins have the potential to worsen the effects of such hair treatments. Therefore, it is suggested to minimize exposure and avoid any extra, additional toxins.

Prioritize health over budget and beauty
Many times, salons tend to pitch cheaper, much worse products to their customers in the name of ‘affordability’, ‘immediate results’, and other marketing tactics. Most products in these categories either have unregulated ingredients or manipulated and wrong listing of ingredients.Always stick to a recognised and credible brand with clear ingredients for such kinds of treatments and make sure to gather the required information on the brand, and the treatment before opting for one.

Juvexin Plant Based keratin

Informed decision making: The importance of choosing the right brand for Keratin Treatments

There are plenty of studies actively talking of the risks and complications associated with the use of keratin products manufactured in an unregulated market. Unregulated Keratin products in the market do not abide by safety standards and sell products with unsafe ingredients and formulations. An unregulated market might also consist of products that are not FDA approved. As a result, such products might show a manipulated ingredient list. Lack of the correct information and safe-manufacturing practices make for an unregulated product market.

The main issue here being manufacturing, distribution, and selling of unregulated and unsafe Keratin Treatments. The only way we can avoid the usage of such unsafe products is by making a well informed decision. . As a consumer, it falls upon us to make informed decisions and not fall prey to false information, claims, and cheap marketing tactics. It is always best to stick to authentic brands that take credibility for their products and have delivered years of proven and safe results.
Selecting a safe keratin treatment requires prioritizing your well-being over immediate gratification via discounts, cheap products, immediate results, etc. Here's what to look for:

  • FDA Approval: This signifies the product adheres to strict safety standards.
  • Transparent Ingredients: Be wary of products that don't disclose all ingredients. A complete list allows you to research potential allergens or irritants.
  • Credible Brand Reputation: Research the brand's history, certifications, and customer reviews to ensure they prioritize safety and quality.

What makes GKHair the Best for Keratin Treatment

You must be thinking by now, ‘How to trust a brand with so many filters?’, or “Which brand to use that actually takes credibility for its products?”. Worry not! We’ve got you covered. GK Hair covers and checks out every box from the above mentioned list of informed decision making.

GK Hair has been standing out as a leader in the field of hair care and Keratin treatments for years now. It stands strong as a beacon of quality and safety in the industry. Apart from its FDA-Compliant formulations and safety certification, here’s why GK Hair stands out as a reliable brand that you can trust:

  • Unwavering Commitment to Safety: GK Hair prioritizes the well-being of its customers. Their formulations strictly adhere to FDA compliance, ensuring the highest safety standards.
  • Years of Proven Results: GK Hair’s established presence in the market, has consistently delivered effective and safe keratin treatments, earning the trust of countless customers.
  • Transparent & Genuine: GK Hair vouches for and abides by complete transparency, unlike most brands that shroud their ingredients in secrecy. You'll know exactly what's going into your hair, helping you make an informed decision.
  • High-Quality Products: GK Hair is strongly committed to quality. From sourcing high-grade ingredients to meticulous manufacturing processes, we ensure consistent, reliable results for every client.
  • Innovation at the Forefront: GK Hair doesn't rest on its laurels. They continuously invest in research and development to create even better, safer keratin treatments that cater to evolving hair care needs.
  • Trustworthy & User-centric: GK Hair has built a strong reputation for excellence over the years. Positive customer reviews and endorsements from industry professionals backs our position as a trusted leader in the keratin treatment market.
  • Vegan Juvexin: The GK Hair Vegan Product Range is made using Juvexin V2 in them. This 100% plant-based formula is a keratin anti-aging protein blend for healthy hair. It is proven to have anti-aging and reparative properties.

By choosing GK Hair, you're not just getting a keratin treatment; you're investing in the health and beauty of your hair, backed by science, and a brand committed to safety, quality, and innovation.

We absolutely understand the point of “Beauty is a social necessity”. However, we do not support adverse affects on your health. Don't compromise your health for a quick fix or fall prey to cheap marketing claims. Opting for authentic brands like GK Hair can help you achieve beautiful, healthy hair without putting yourself and or your health at risk.

keratin treatment before and after

Most asked questions about Juvexin

A. Keratin Treatments help smooth your hair and reduce frizz. It adds shine and improves hair manageability. But, Keratin treatments shouldn't be done more than three times a year, as over time they can start to damage hair..

A. Keratin Treatments can last anywhere between two months to six months, depending on its maintenance and care. Haircare especially catered to Keratin Treatments can extend its lifespan.

A. Using products from unreliable sources with unknown ingredients can pose a higher risk of hair damage. Or, taking Keratin Treatments more than 3 times annually might also damage the hair.