How To Maintain A Brazilian Blowout.
If you’ve recently gotten a Brazilian blowout, you’re likely enjoying the smooth, frizz-free, and effortlessly styled results. However, Brazilian blowouts require some maintenance to keep your hair looking its best for as long as possible.
A Brazilian blowout is a professional hair treatment that uses a specialized serum and blow-drying technique to smooth the cuticle layer of the hair and reduce frizz and volume. The results typically last 3-5 months, depending on your hair type and how well you care for the treatment.
To help you get the most out of your Brazilian blowout, here are some tips and techniques for proper maintenance:
Avoid Washing Your Hair Frequently
One of the most important things to remember about maintaining a Brazilian blowout is to wash your hair less frequently. The serum used in the treatment coats the hair to smooth the cuticle, and frequent washing can strip away this protective layer.
Aim to only wash your hair 2-3 times per week at most. Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner formulated for color-treated or keratin-treated hair. Sulfates can be drying and cause the blowout to wear off more quickly.
When you do wash your hair, be very gentle. Avoid scrubbing vigorously and instead use a lightweight, low-lather shampoo. Gently massage the scalp, and then rinse thoroughly. Follow with a moisturizing conditioner, focusing on the ends.
Limit Heat Styling
The Brazilian blowout treatment works by sealing the cuticle of the hair with a protective coating. This is largely what gives the hair its smooth, glossy, and frizz-free appearance.
However, excessive heat styling can break down this protective coating more quickly. Try to avoid using hot tools like blow dryers, curling irons, and flat irons as much as possible. When you do use them, make sure to use the lowest heat setting possible.
Another good option is to air-dry your hair as much as possible. Let your hair air dry naturally or use a cool air setting on your blow dryer. The less heat you use, the longer your Brazilian blowout will last.
Use the Right Products
In addition to being gentle with washing and limiting heat styling, it’s important to use the right hair products to maintain your Brazilian blowout. Look for products that are sulfate-free, silicone-free, and color-safe.
Sulfates and harsh cleansers can strip away the protective coating of the Brazilian blowout treatment. Silicones can also build up on the hair and make it look dull and greasy over time.
Some great product options include:
- Sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo and conditioner
- Smoothing or keratin-infused styling products like serums, oils, and creams
- Heat-protectant sprays or serums
- Dry shampoo to extend time between washes
Avoid products with alcohol, as they can also dry out the hair and cause the blowout to wear off faster.
Get Regular Trims
Even with proper maintenance, your Brazilian blowout will eventually start to grow out. To keep your hair looking its best, make sure to get regular trims every 6–8 weeks.
Trims will help remove any split ends or damaged hair that can make the blowout look uneven or grow out faster. The ends of your hair are the most vulnerable to damage, so keeping them trimmed is essential.
When getting a trim, ask your stylist to use sharp, precision-cutting tools and to be very gentle. Aggressive cutting can disrupt the protective coating of the Brazilian blowout.
Protect Your Hair From the Elements
Sun, salt water, and chlorine can all wreak havoc on a Brazilian blowout. The protective coating can break down more quickly when exposed to these elements.
When swimming or spending time outdoors, make sure to protect your hair. Wear a hat or scarf, use a leave-in conditioner or hair serum, and rinse your hair with fresh water after getting it wet.
You should also avoid getting your hair wet as much as possible. If you do get caught in the rain or need to wash your hair, try to blow-dry it immediately afterwards to help seal in the blowout.
Extend the Life of Your Blowout
In between salon visits, there are a few things you can do at home to extend the life of your Brazilian blowout:
- Use a boar bristle brush to gently brush your hair and distribute natural oils from roots to ends.
- Invest in a high-quality silk or satin pillowcase, which is gentler on hair and can help prevent friction and frizz.
- Wrap your hair in a silk or satin scarf or bonnet when sleeping.
- Use a small amount of smoothing serum or oil on the ends of your hair to keep it hydrated.
- Limit the number of times you pull your hair back into ponytails or buns, as this can cause creasing and indents.
By following these tips, you can keep your Brazilian blowout looking fresh and fabulous for as long as possible.
Refresh Your Blowout at the Salon
Even with the best at-home maintenance, your Brazilian blowout will eventually start to grow out. When this happens, it’s a good idea to schedule a touch-up or refresh treatment at your salon.
Your stylist can reapply the smoothing serum and restyle your hair to revive the blowout. They can also trim any split ends and make sure the grow-out looks seamless.
How often you’ll need a touch-up depends on a few factors, including your hair type, how quickly your hair grows, and your lifestyle. On average, most people need a refresh every 2–3 months.
Be sure to communicate openly with your stylist about how your blowout is holding up and when you think you might need a touch-up. They can help you determine the best time and schedule your next appointment accordingly.
Conclusion
Maintaining a Brazilian blowout takes some effort, but it’s well worth it to enjoy the smooth, frizz-free results for as long as possible. By following these tips and working closely with your stylist, you can keep your hair looking its best between treatments.
Remember to be gentle with washing, limit heat styling, use the right products, get regular trims, and protect your hair from the elements. With proper care, you can extend the life of your Brazilian blowout and enjoy the benefits for months to come.
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FAQs about How to Maintain a Brazilian Blowout.
How often should I get a Brazilian blowout touch-up?
The frequency of touch-ups will depend on your individual hair type and growth rate, as well as your lifestyle and how well you maintain the blowout at home. Most people need a touch-up every 2-3 months to keep the results looking their best.
Can I use regular shampoo and conditioner with a Brazilian blowout?
No, it’s best to avoid regular shampoos and conditioners, as they often contain sulfates and other harsh ingredients that can strip away the protective coating of the Brazilian blowout. Stick to sulfate-free, color-safe products formulated for treated hair.
How long does a Brazilian blowout last?
With proper maintenance, a Brazilian blowout can last 3–5 months. The longevity will depend on your hair type, how quickly your hair grows, and how well you care for the treatment at home.
Can I swim with a Brazilian blowout?
It’s best to avoid getting your hair wet as much as possible when you have a Brazilian blowout. The protective coating can break down more quickly when exposed to water, chlorine, and salt. If you do need to swim, make sure to use a leave-in conditioner or serum and thoroughly rinse your hair afterwards.
Do I need to get a trim when I get a Brazilian blowout?
While a trim isn’t absolutely necessary when getting a Brazilian blowout, it can help maintain the results. Trims every 6–8 weeks will remove any split ends or damaged hair that can make the blowout look more grown out. Your stylist may recommend a trim to keep your hair looking its best.
