Which Keratin Treatment Has No Formaldehyde? 3 Best Options

Are you wondering which keratin treatment has no formaldehyde?

Several months ago, I read a study on formaldehyde exposure related to hair products and decided it was time to try some chemical-free keratin hair treatments. (1)

Today, I’ll share with you the best formaldehyde-free products that do wonders for my curly hair without any health risks!

Just keep reading.

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Top Keratin Treatment Without Formaldehyde at a Glance

Don’t have time? Check out this quick comparison table!

Preview
Editor's Choice
Cezanne Perfect Finish Keratin Smoothing Treatment 32 Oz (946 ml)
Best For Frizz-Free Hair
Keratin Salon Direct Keratin Hair Treatment, 4 oz | Frizz Control, Formaldehyde Free, Salon Quality, Smoothing Treatment, Long Lasting, Keratin Hair Treatment (1 Pack)
Best Budget-Friendly
KERATIN RESEARCH Brazilian Keratin Hair Treatment Complex Blowout 2x 120ml LONG Lasting Keratin Treatment with Argan Oil Straightening Smoothing Professional Results Keratina (COCONUT)
Product Name
Cezanne Perfect Finish Keratin Smoothing Treatment 32 Oz (946 ml)
Keratin Salon Direct Keratin Hair Treatment, 4 oz | Frizz Control, Formaldehyde Free, Salon Quality, Smoothing Treatment, Long Lasting, Keratin Hair Treatment (1 Pack)
KERATIN RESEARCH Brazilian Keratin Hair Treatment Complex Blowout 2x 120ml LONG Lasting Keratin Treatment with Argan Oil Straightening Smoothing Professional Results Keratina (COCONUT)
Top Benefit
Suitable for most hair types
Great for removing frizz, promoting hair growth, and managing unruly hair
Express formula
Editor's Choice
Preview
Cezanne Perfect Finish Keratin Smoothing Treatment 32 Oz (946 ml)
Product Name
Cezanne Perfect Finish Keratin Smoothing Treatment 32 Oz (946 ml)
Top Benefit
Suitable for most hair types
Check Latest Price
Best For Frizz-Free Hair
Preview
Keratin Salon Direct Keratin Hair Treatment, 4 oz | Frizz Control, Formaldehyde Free, Salon Quality, Smoothing Treatment, Long Lasting, Keratin Hair Treatment (1 Pack)
Product Name
Keratin Salon Direct Keratin Hair Treatment, 4 oz | Frizz Control, Formaldehyde Free, Salon Quality, Smoothing Treatment, Long Lasting, Keratin Hair Treatment (1 Pack)
Top Benefit
Great for removing frizz, promoting hair growth, and managing unruly hair
Check Latest Price
Best Budget-Friendly
Preview
KERATIN RESEARCH Brazilian Keratin Hair Treatment Complex Blowout 2x 120ml LONG Lasting Keratin Treatment with Argan Oil Straightening Smoothing Professional Results Keratina (COCONUT)
Product Name
KERATIN RESEARCH Brazilian Keratin Hair Treatment Complex Blowout 2x 120ml LONG Lasting Keratin Treatment with Argan Oil Straightening Smoothing Professional Results Keratina (COCONUT)
Top Benefit
Express formula
Check Latest Price

Top 3 Keratin Treatments Without Formaldehyde

Before I show you my top three formaldehyde-free treatments, let’s talk about the typical keratin (Brazillian blowout) process.

Keratin is an essential protein for healthy hair (read more about why keratin is vital). Adding keratin to the hair strands can make them shiny, smooth, and frizz-free. It can also repair damaged hair.

Still, keratin is not enough to straighten curly hair. The formaldehyde in the keratin-rich solution is responsible for changes in hair texture by disrupting the hair bonds.

A model with long straight hair under title which keratin treatment has no formaldehyde

As FDA explains, “When the solution is heated, the formaldehyde in the product is released into the air as a gas.” Regular exposure to high formaldehyde levels can cause various health issues. (2)

So, which keratin treatment has no formaldehyde? Let’s see my top three picks.

#1 Winner: Cezanne Perfect Finish

Cezanne Perfect Finish Keratin Smoothing Treatment 32 Oz (946 ml)

Of all keratin treatments I’ve tried, Cezanne is the best because it’s free of harsh chemicals, dramatically reduces frizz, and makes my hair more manageable.

Features & Attributes

Cezarin’s hair smoothing products contain the following ingredients: sericin, aloe vera, keratin, vitamins, and glycolic acid. It’s suitable for all hair types.

Measurements

  • A bottle of 32 oz.

Benefits & Drawbacks of Cezanne Perfect Finish

Benefits Drawbacks
It doesn’t contain any hazardous chemicals that can damage the hair or leave unpleasant smells after the treatment.Expensive
Restores the hair cuticle, tames frizzy hair, and gives you shiny hair for monthsProfessional hairstylists should apply it
Suitable for most hair types
You don’t have to wait several days to wash or style your hair after the treatment.
It lasts up to five months

How It Compares to Others

  • Similar results to salon treatments, but more expensive than other hair straightening products I’ve used.

How It Has Evolved

  • Cezanne Perfect Finish lasts the longest compared to other Cezanne hair products.

Expert Tips

  • Use sulfate-free shampoo and avoid chlorinated water to keep the hair structure intact.
  • If you’re applying the treatment at home, use a suitable keratin iron straightener for the best results.

Testimonials

As you can see from this video, Cezanne Perfect Finish works well on wavy hair.

Cezanne Perfect Finish Keratin Smoothing Treatment 32 Oz (946 ml)
  • Keratin Smoothing Treatment. Packaging might vary. Formaldehyde Free.
  • Cezanne Perfect Finish Keratin Smoothing Treatment is a 100% formaldehyde-free, revolutionary smoothing system that delivers a proprietary blend of keratins, botanical extracts, vitamins and proteins, including sericin, a silk protein, into the cuticle of the hair, changing the actual curl pattern of the hair into a smoother, straighter shape for overall healthier and more manageable hair.
  • Wash hair anytime. No waiting period is required.
  • Packaging might vary.
  • Smooth, frizz-free, silky hair for up to 3 months!

#2 Best For Frizz-Free Hair: Keratin Salon Direct

Keratin Salon Direct, 4 oz | Frizz Control, Formaldehyde Free, Salon Quality, Smoothing Treatment, Long Lasting, Keratin Hair Treatment

Keratin Salon Direct is an excellent choice to balance price and quality. While it won’t deliver salon keratin treatment results, it always makes my hair stronger and shinier.

Features & Attributes

  • Active ingredients – keratin, botanicals, and vitamins
  • Suitable for all hair types

Measurements

  • A bottle of 4 ounces

Benefits & Drawbacks of Keratin Salon Direct

BenefitsDrawbacks
Easy application processIt won’t leave your hair completely flat
No toxic chemicals that can cause harmful reactions or potential health risksIt has a weird smell
Great for removing frizz, promoting hair growth, and managing unruly hairOne bottle lasts for a single treatment
No restrictions after applying the treatment
Relatively long-lasting

How It Compares to Others

  • Great keratin alternative to professional treatments for frizz-free hair, but not so much for hair straightening

Expert Tips

The manufacturer recommends following the instructions to avoid unpleasant residual odors after applying the cream.

Testimonials

Customers are happy with Keratin Salon Direct, and as this video reviewer says, it’s a salon-quality product, easy to apply at home.

Keratin Salon Direct Keratin Hair Treatment, 4 oz | Frizz Control, Formaldehyde Free, Salon Quality, Smoothing Treatment, Long Lasting, Keratin Hair Treatment (1 Pack)
  • DELIVERS SALON QUALITY RESULTS AT HOME, SAFELY and EFFECTIVELY: Keratin Salon Direct provides comparable results to traditional salon Brazilian-type keratin smoothing treatments when it comes to removing frizz and smoothing hair – but without the harmful chemicals. And, because KSD works from the inside out to strengthen and fortify hair, results with KSD mean hair is not only smoother, but also healthier looking and more manageable.
  • STRONGER and HEALTHIER LOOKING HAIR: Utilizes a process that we developed exclusively for salons which penetrates deeply into hair to infuse a unique blend of keratin, botanical extracts and vitamins that result in not only smoother hair, but a restoration of natural luster for overall healthier and more manageable hair
  • SIMPLE AND FAST APPLICATION IS EASY: Once completed, hair can be washed immediately, curled, or colored which means no strict rules or restrictions when the treatment is complete. No worrying about getting it wet once the treatment is complete. You can exercise, swim, and use pins, clips or wear a ponytail immediately. You can even apply color immediately following the KSD treatment!
  • CONVENIENT AND SAFE FOR YOU TO USE AT HOME: (1) Apply it to your clean damp hair (2) Leave it on your hair for the recommended amount of time (3) Blow dry your hair and then flat iron until silky. That’s it! Style any way you want! Your hair will look like you just left the salon, and the gorgeous look and feel will last for months. Your hair can be curled or dried with a round brush for volume - the fabulous look only professional treatment can deliver!
  • KERATIN SALON DIRECT MISSION: We are the people who developed keratin treatments only available in salons! We are now making it available to use and apply in the comfort of your own home. We developed KSD so that salon clients could get a transformational, long lasting, and safe salon treatment that brings hair to its ideal, most beautiful condition without damaging the hair or using dangerous chemicals - without the need of a stylist or a salon professional!

#3 Best Budget-Friendly: Brazilian Keratin Hair Treatment Complex

Brazilian Keratin Hair Treatment Complex Blowout 2x 120ml LONG Lasting Keratin Treatment with Argan Oil Straightening Smoothing Professional Results Keratina Keratin Research

I didn’t expect much from this cheap keratin product, but it worked exceptionally well and kept my hair shiny, straight, and soft for months.

Features & Attributes

  • it contains keratin protein, collagen, coconut oil, and argan
  • Coconut scent
  • Two-piece set – keratin hair treatment and clarifying shampoo

Measurements

  • 4-oz bottle

Benefits & Drawbacks of Brazilian Keratin Hair Treatment Complex

BenefitsDrawbacks
Express formulaNot the best choice for bleached or colored hair
Great for moisturizing the hair and protecting it from heat damage
Tames splits ends and strengthens the hair shafts
You can use it at home
Lasts 4-6 months

How It Compares to Others

  • One of the cheapest formaldehyde-free keratin treatments for home use
  • It doesn’t have the same professional results as Cezanne

Expert Tips

  • The USA version contains formaldehyde, so purchase the UK-EU version.

Testimonials

8 out of 10 users say this keratin treatment is incredible and yields outstanding results.

Sale
KERATIN RESEARCH Brazilian Keratin Hair Treatment Complex Blowout 2x 120ml LONG Lasting Keratin Treatment with Argan Oil Straightening Smoothing Professional Results Keratina (COCONUT)
  • Long Term amazing results will leave hair elastic, flexible, and soft with a naturally vibrant shine. Brazilian straightening complex blowout original Formula straightens and smooths your hair for 4-6 months. No Need to wait 3 days- Express formula.
  • STUNNING SOFT SHINY SILKY HAIR IN HOURS - With Brazilian Keratin Collagen Moroccan Argan & Coconut Oils for Sleek Smooth Natural Beauty & Shine & Luxury Salon Perfect straight Hair will leave hair elastic, flexible, and soft naturally vibrant shine
  • The application process may require 2-3 hours, but Brazilian blowout keratin is absolutely worth the time investment! It will ultimately save you countless hours of daily hair maintenance. Enjoy gorgeous hair every morning for months to come.
  • Brazilian keratin straightening complex. ADVANCED FRIZZ CONTROL & STRAIGHTENING & LONG LASTING MOISTURE - Anti Frizz Hydration Ease for Frizzy Hair. Split Ends Tamer for Smoother Styling. Anti Breakage Thermal Protection Shield Stops Heat Damage
  • Fast and simple to use Brazilian keratin Blowout hair treatment that instantly straightens, smooths, repairs, conditions, and strengthens the hair using an intense conditioning remedy which restores vitality by repairing the hair from the inside out

3 Things to Consider Before Getting Keratin Treatments

After learning that keratin treatment has no formaldehyde, let’s talk about what you should consider before you get a keratin treatment.

#1 Type of Keratin Treatment

Before you get a keratin treatment, you should consider what type you want:

  • Brazilian keratin treatment is the best for curly hair, while Soft keratin is suitable for fine to medium hair.
  • Japzilian keratin combines Brazilian and Japanese hair straightening processes. It’s best if you want something more permanent to alter your hair’s natural texture.
  • Keratin express uses the same method as Brazilian blowouts, but it lasts up to two months, and it’s best for wavy or straight hair prone to frizziness.

#2 Where To Get the Treatment

Some keratin treatments you can do at home. However, they won’t be as long-lasting as professional ones, especially if you don’t have experience with such hair products.

Moreover, if you do a keratin treatment with formaldehyde content, you should do it in a well-ventilated area to reduce the risk of inhaling formaldehyde gas.

#3 Price

According to the professional stylist Paul Labrecque:

“When you pay more, you’re usually paying for a very skilled technician who can feel your hair and know what’s on it and what formula should be picked for your needs and hair type. (3)

So, paying for an expensive keratin treatment can be cheaper in the long run because it’ll last for months and reduce the risk of dry or brittle hair.

FAQs

Do All Keratin Treatments Contain Formaldehyde?

lady getting a keratin treatment

No, not all keratin treatments contain formaldehyde. Some, like Cezanne, use other safer ingredients to achieve straight hair.

Which Keratin Treatment Is the Safest?

Keratin treatments that you glycolide acid or cysteine are the safest because they don’t have toxic chemicals.

Does Brazilian Blowout Still Have Formaldehyde?

gorgeous lady with long, brown hair

Yes, some Brazilian Blowout products have high levels of formaldehyde and release colorless, strong-smelling gas during the treatment.

Conclusion

Which keratin treatment has no formaldehyde? As you can see from my reviews, you’ve got plenty of options if you want to avoid the potential risks of formaldehyde.

If you want to get rid of your natural hair curls, you should discuss the best treatment plan with your hairstylist, especially if you have brittle locks.

What do you think about keratin treatment? Which formaldehyde-free treatment is the best, according to you? Share your thoughts in the comment section.

A bottle of treatment with a silky shiny hair wrapped around it under title which keratin treatment has no formaldehyde

Resources:

  • 1. Aglan MA, Mansour GN. Hair straightening products and the risk of occupational formaldehyde exposure in hairstylists. Drug and Chemical Toxicology. Published online September 13, 2018:1-8. doi:10.1080/01480545.2018.1508215
  • 2. Commissioner O of the. Formaldehyde in Hair Smoothing Products: What You Should Know. FDA. Published online March 3, 2021. https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/formaldehyde-hair-smoothing-products-what-you-should-know
  • 3. Krieger L. 6 Things You Need to Know Before Getting a Keratin Treatment. Allure. Published September 4, 2016. https://www.allure.com/story/keratin-treatments-dangers-benefits

Last update on 2022-12-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API