Keratin is a protein that can be found naturally in the hair, however it can be reinforced or incorporated artificially using different treatments in order to nourish it, rebuild it and also help smooth all kinds of hair. This substance is very rich in sulfur, and it can be located in the outermost layers of the epidermis, such as in people's hair as mentioned above, as well as on the nails. In addition to the above, it also constitutes a fundamental part of the feathers, hair, horns and hooves that animals present.
Taking into account the components of keratin, it can be differentiated between different kinds of keratin. First, there is alpha keratin, this includes cysteine monomers that form disulfide bonds. These links are responsible for providing great resistance: thanks to the presence of alpha keratin, the nails and horns of animals have a hard texture. Second, beta keratin is located, however, it does not have the alpha keratin bonds, since it lacks cysteine. This protein that cannot be extended, and can be located in nature in structures such as cobwebs.
An important fact is that alpha keratin can be converted to beta keratin. However, for this to occur it is necessary to apply certain treatments that are responsible for modifying the chains and bridges of the protein, at least for a defined period of time.
One of the best known benefits of keratin is its ability to straighten any type of hair, being highly effective against coiled, electrified and unruly hair. Keratin-based treatments have the ability to nourish, rebuild, smooth, de-frizz and add shine to all hair types. In addition, they help reduce hair drying and styling time, not to mention that they facilitate hair growth.
Depending on the type of keratin, a different straightening of the hair will be obtained, from a permanent straightening to a temporary straightening that can only last for a few months. The most popular treatments today include so-called Japanese straightening, Brazilian straightening, and chocolate keratin.
