Keratin vs. Brazilian Blowout: What’s the Difference?

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Published on: 2025-05-27

Venelle Salon & Spa in Brooklyn Breaks It Down

If you're searching for the best way to smooth frizz, tame unruly hair, and cut down on styling time, you’ve probably come across two of the most popular smoothing treatments on the market: Keratin Treatments and the Brazilian Blowout.

But what’s the real difference between them?
Which one is better for your hair type?
And how do you choose the right one?

At Venelle Salon and Spa in Park Slope, Brooklyn, we specialize in both smoothing services—and we’re here to help you understand the key differences between keratin and Brazilian Blowouts, so you can make the best decision for your hair goals.


💡 First, What Do Both Treatments Have in Common?

Keratin and Brazilian Blowout treatments are professional hair-smoothing systems that:

  • Reduce frizz

  • Improve shine and manageability

  • Cut down styling time

  • Seal the hair cuticle

  • Add a smoother, sleeker finish

They’re ideal for people with:

  • Frizzy or unruly hair

  • Hair that’s been chemically processed

  • Wavy or curly textures looking for a more polished look

  • Trouble styling in humid weather

While they seem similar on the surface, there are important differences in formula, technique, finish, and longevity.


🔍 Keratin Treatment: What Is It?

A keratin treatment infuses the hair with keratin—a protein that naturally occurs in your hair, nails, and skin. The treatment fills in the porous or damaged areas of your hair to make it smoother, shinier, and stronger.

✅ Pros of Keratin Treatments:

  • Deeply nourishes and repairs hair

  • Great for dry, damaged, or color-treated hair

  • Reduces frizz by sealing the cuticle

  • Lasts up to 4–5 months with proper care

  • Gradually washes out, no harsh line of demarcation

  • Formaldehyde-free options available

⏱️ Application Time:

Typically 2–3 hours, depending on hair length and thickness.

💧 Aftercare:

Most formulas require you to wait 48–72 hours before washing your hair or tying it up. Results improve over time.


🔥 Brazilian Blowout: What Is It?

The Brazilian Blowout is a brand-name smoothing system that uses a liquid keratin formula to create a protective protein layer around each strand, helping to smooth the cuticle and eliminate frizz instantly.

✅ Pros of Brazilian Blowout:

  • Customizable: can maintain curls or fully straighten

  • Results are immediate—you can wash or style your hair the same day

  • Great for fine or wavy hair types

  • Leaves hair glossy, silky, and humidity-resistant

  • Fast and flexible styling results

  • Lasts around 3 months

⏱️ Application Time:

Typically 90 minutes to 2 hours, depending on hair.

💧 Aftercare:

You can wash your hair right away, use clips, or tie it back—no waiting period!


⚖️ Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature Keratin Treatment Brazilian Blowout
Smoothing Level Deep smoothing, frizz control Customizable (smooth or define curl)
Longevity 4–5 months 2–3 months
Wait Time to Wash 48–72 hours Immediate
Hair Type Suitability Best for thick, coarse, or very frizzy hair Best for fine to medium, wavy, or curly hair
Formaldehyde-Free Option Yes (available at Venelle) Limited options; ask your stylist
Styling Time Reduction Significant Moderate to high
Shine & Smoothness High gloss, polished finish Silky, humidity-resistant finish
Heat Tolerance Avoid flat ironing post-treatment Tolerates heat use right away

 


💬 Which Smoothing Treatment Is Best for You?

Choose a Keratin Treatment if:

  • You want deep frizz control and smoothing

  • You have very thick, coarse, or chemically processed hair

  • You’re okay with waiting 48–72 hours to shampoo or style

  • You want a more repair-focused result that improves hair health

Choose a Brazilian Blowout if:

  • You want instant results with no downtime

  • You have fine or medium-textured hair

  • You want to keep some natural curl or wave

  • You need a more customizable, lightweight finish


🛑 Are They Safe?

Both treatments can contain formaldehyde or aldehyde derivatives in some formulas. However, Venelle Salon in Brooklyn uses only the safest, salon-approved smoothing systems, including formaldehyde-free keratin options.

Your safety and hair health are our top priorities—our certified stylists ensure your treatment is done in a well-ventilated area using professional-grade products only.


💇‍♀️ What to Expect When You Book a Smoothing Treatment at Venelle

At Venelle Salon & Spa in Park Slope, every smoothing service begins with a personalized consultation. We assess your hair texture, condition, and goals to match you with the best treatment option.

✔️ Professional-grade smoothing products
✔️ Certified stylists
✔️ Customized aftercare guidance
✔️ Relaxing, spa-like atmosphere in the heart of Brooklyn

📸 Bonus: Your new hair will be Instagram-ready with minimal effort!


📍 Book Your Keratin or Brazilian Blowout in Brooklyn Today!

Say goodbye to frizz, humidity struggles, and long styling routines. Whether you choose a keratin treatment or a Brazilian Blowout, our team will help you achieve smoother, shinier, healthier-looking hair.

📍 Venelle Salon & Spa
62 7th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11217

📞 Call us at: 718.989.9800
🌐 Book online: www.venellespa.com


Follow Us for Smoothing Hair Tips, Before & Afters, and Expert Advice:

📸 Instagram: @venellesalonspa
👍 Facebook: Venelle Salon & Spa


Still unsure which treatment is best for your hair?
Stop by for a consultation or call us—we’ll help you choose the perfect service for your hair type and lifestyle.