How long does a Brazilian blowout last -- plus everything else you need to know about the treatment

The Brazilian blowout. You've heard of it, seen the results and may even have considered sitting in a chair to get the much-talked about treatment. Do you know what it is? Is it safe?

The Brazilian blowout is well-known for its transformational (and dare I say, life-changing!) properties, which eliminate frizz and promote intense shine. So, how do you make your hair look so amazing and should you spend the extra money? It's expensive, let's face it.

There are a few other similar treatments, so make sure you check before you commit to one.

What are Brazilian Blowouts?

Brazilian blowout hair treatment uses a liquid keratin formulation that bonds to the hair to form a protective layer around each hair strand. This reduces frizz, seals the cuticle and protects against external damage. Lord recommends that the hair be straightened, washed, and then dried again. The chemicals are activated and bonded to the shaft by heat.

Brazilians invented the smoothing treatment. It uses ingredients that are native to Brazil such as camu camu and annatto seed. Your hair will look incredible with a mirror-like shine and be hydrated.

What is the Brazilian Blowout and how does it differ from other Keratin treatments?

The Brazilian Blowout is slightly different than the other. It has a milder formula that can be customized to your hair type and is less sensitive after treatment. Matos says that you are limited in your options after a keratin treatment. You can't put it in a ponytail, clip it, or style it. And you can't wash your hair for the next three to four days. The Brazilian blowout is easy. Your stylist will do the hair, then rinse it out. Then you can go back to your normal routine.

Lord says that while it isn't as permanent as some other treatments, it can be customized to suit your hair and needs.

Will the Brazilian Blowout Straighten My Hair?

It won't unless you ask it. Your stylist will apply the final touches to the treatment by running a flat iron at 450 degrees over your hair. The more flatirons your stylist uses, the straighter your hair will become.

This will make your hair look smoother if you don't like your hair curly but want it to be smoother. Matos says to let your stylist know exactly what you want. They can adjust the treatment to preserve or smoothen your hair texture.

Your goal is to make your hair easier to manage. However, if your hair is naturally curly, you won't be able to air dry it to a straight texture. She adds that while you can still achieve voluminous hair with waves by air drying it, a blow dryer can cut down on drying time.

You can request straight hair if you wish. Lord says that it all depends on the client's request. If you apply the correct amount of heat after, your hair will become straight.

Is the Brazilian Blowout Safe?

Although Matos claims the treatment is safe for most hair types, Lord cautions people with textured hair to be careful as the treatment can potentially cause damage. Because of the various ways that different parts of your hair might react to heat, she suggests being cautious about how much heat you apply to textured hair.

Lord explains that because of the differences in hair strands between textured manes, heat will strike one area more intensely than the other, causing damage and breaking. Although the effect of the first treatment can't be seen by the naked eye, it is likely that the [formula] has caused damage.

Let's be clear: Before you throw caution to the wind, consult your stylist to determine if the Brazilian blowout is safe and suitable for your hair. It's nice to have shiny, smooth hair. But it may end up damaging your hair over the long-term.