An Innovative Hair Care Answer to Keratin Hair Treatments.

Keratin is a key protein and main component of hair, and we tend to think about keratin treatments as a way to achieve soft, silky results that last. What, if any, are the options to classic keratin treatments? How can you effectively smooth the hair? We're weighing in with expert advice below.

article-duration
4 min read
L'Oréal Professionnel Team
22-10-2026

What is keratin?

Is keratin good for the hair? Well first, a quick reminder: Keratin is a protein naturally produced by the body and is, in fact, the main component of hair. So, keratin itself is not the cause of any hair damage. Keratin hair treatments are something else.

What is a keratin hair treatment?

A keratin hair treatment is a chemical protein treatment designed to smooth the hair cuticle by filling in overly porous hair, for smooth, shiny hair.

An innovative answer to keratin treatments

A totally innovative haircare option would be a different type of hair smoothing treatment, like Keratin Alpha Sleek Smooth Transformer by L'Oréal Professionnel. The first of its kind, this is a safe, long-lasting at-home option that doesn't compromise the integrity of the hair. It reprograms the hair from deep inside the fiber at the keratin alpha level, reshaping keratin alpha chains for results that last two weeks*.

Benefits for all hair types

Smooth Transformer is safe and effective on all types of hair, including color-treated hair. It can even be used the same day as your color treatment. The protocol is safe and can be applied without gloves, though it is not recommended to apply directly to the scalp.

Long-lasting results, anywhere

Smooth Transformer is a progressive smoothing treatment. The more you use it, the more you smooth. Performance peaks at 4 applications, but keep using it once a week to maintain results. In terms of hair integrity, there is no risk of continuous usage.

Styling tips

To see the maximum impact from Smooth Transformer's technology, it is recommended to blow dry the hair and for optimal results, to use an iron at 210°C. Remember, never style using too much heat.

Routine optimization

For optimal smoothing results, use the whole range, developed with stylists to ensure the perfect routine for smooth and frizz-controlled hair. Apply Smooth Transformer once a week, and apply the shampoo and mask every other wash day.

Repairing damage from a keratin treatment

If you have undergone a classic keratin treatment and treatment damage has occurred, there are a few ways to repair it:

Take a break

Take a break from the chemical treatments.

Moisturize & condition

Use shampoos and conditioners designed to moisturize the hair. For example, cleanse with Keratin Alpha Sleek shampoo by L'Oréal Professionnel and apply Keratin Alpha Sleek mask by L'Oréal Professionnel, specifically designed to smooth and nourish your hair from within, providing 84% less frizz, 74% more shine and 61% more hydration**, ensuring faster and easier daily styling.

Protect from the heat

When washing, make sure the water is not too hot, and the same goes for heat styling: turn down the heat. For heat protection up to 230°, apply the Vitamino Color Spectrum Glass Shine serum by L'Oréal Professionnel, which also seals hair keratin for long-lasting smoothness.

Protect & repair your strands

Use hair oils or masks to protect your damaged hair, especially the ends, which are often drier and finer. Consider products like Metal Detox Mask by L'Oréal Professionnel, the pro choice for extreme hair rescue.

For damaged to very damaged hair, look for specially targeted, salon-quality products. You can add Absolut Repair Molecular by L'Oréal Professionnel to your hair care routine, which can repair 2 years of damage in a single application.*
*Instrumental test at the cuticle level.

Conclusion: Innovative smoothing treatments

If you're looking for smoother, shinier locks, consider the Keratin Alpha Sleek range by L'Oréal Professionnel, formulated with stylists to reduce frizz, improve smoothness, and keep hair straighter and softer, with results that last. The range doesn't contain keratin but reprograms the hair from deep inside the fibers for two weeks of smooth, frizz-controlled hair.

Welcome to the pro revolution in semi-permanent smoothing: Keratin Alpha Sleek Smooth Transformer by L'Oréal Professionnel.

Keratin hair treatment damage FAQ

What are options to a keratin hair treatment?

An innovative haircare option would be a different type of hair smoothing treatment, like Keratin Alpha Sleek Smooth Transformer by L'Oréal Professionnel. It is a safe at-home long lasting option that doesn't compromise hair integrity and for the first time, reprograms hair from deep inside the fiber at Keratin Alpha level, reshaping Keratin Alpha chains for results that last.

Will Smooth Transformer damage my hair or weaken it over time?

There is no risk to hair integrity. We recommend using Smooth Transformer once a week. Use for 4 weeks to see optimal results, and keep using it weekly to maintain long-lasting smoothness and frizz control.

Is Smooth Transformer safe for color-treated hair?

Yes, Smooth Transformer is safe for color treated hair.

Are the ingredients gentle enough for my scalp and skin?

Yes, the protocol is safe and can be used without gloves. However, it is recommended not to apply Smooth Transformer on the scalp.

Will the results hold up in humid, rainy, or windy conditions?

Instrumental tests prove efficacy on anti-frizz in humidity conditions up to 80% humidity in the hair when using Alpha Keratin Sleek range.

Keep your hair salon-perfect at home with our Keratin Alpha Sleek pro routine.

Step 1: Cleanse

Sulfate-free Shampoo.

Cleanses and reinforces hair keratin.
Step 2.a : Anti-frizz

Smoothing treatment.

​Progressively smoothes hair for long-lasting frizz & volume control. Apply once a week for long lasting results.
Step 2.b : Moisturize

Mask.

On wash days that you do not use Smooth Transformer, apply the mask to deeply nourish & add shine.
Step 3 : Smoothness

Glass shine serum.

A patented leave in serum that delivers instant glass shine & lasting results up to 10 washes
Step 4 : Heat Activation

Airlight Pro or Steampod.

Blow dry or flatiron to activate the formula.

Anti-frizz routine