Keratin smoothing by Lucy at Timba Hair and Beauty, Cardiff
Treatments

Express Keratin Smoothing Service

From £90
From 75 mins

The Express Keratin Complex Smoothing Service is a quicker, lighter alternative to a full keratin treatment, designed to smooth the hair cuticle, cut frizz, and add shine without the longer processing time. It's a good fit for anyone in Cardiff who wants more manageable, glossy hair for everyday styling, whether that's ahead of a busy few weeks or simply to make blow-drying easier.

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What Happens During the Treatment

Your stylist will start with a consultation to check your hair type and any recent colour or chemical services, since this affects how the formula is applied.

  • Hair is cleansed with a clarifying shampoo to remove buildup
  • The keratin solution is applied through small sections, kept away from the scalp
  • Hair is blow-dried smooth, then flat-ironed to seal the keratin into the cuticle
  • The whole appointment typically takes up to 75 minutes

Our team, including Senior Stylists Emma Stokes and Hannah James, alongside Lucy Osborne, can talk you through what to expect based on your hair's condition and history.

What to Expect Afterwards

Results tend to show up as noticeably softer, shinier, and more manageable hair, with frizz significantly reduced.

  • Curl and wave patterns are softened rather than removed, so very curly hair becomes smoother and easier to manage rather than poker-straight
  • You'll need to avoid washing, wetting, or tying up your hair for a short window after treatment, commonly at least 8 hours
  • Results generally last up to six weeks, depending on hair type and aftercare

How It Compares to a Full Keratin Treatment

This express version is a mid-range option between daily styling and a full keratin smoothing system.

  • It's faster and more affordable than a full treatment, with a shorter no-wash window
  • A full Keratin Complex Smoothing Therapy can last up to five months but requires around 72 hours before washing
  • The express service suits those wanting frizz control and shine without a long-term commitment

Aftercare and Suitability

Getting the most from the treatment depends on a few simple habits afterwards.

  • Use sodium-chloride-free, keratin-safe shampoo and conditioner to help results last
  • Avoid washing or clipping hair for the recommended window straight after your appointment
  • Suitable for most hair types, including coloured hair, though very damaged or fragile hair should be discussed at consultation, and it can be added on to a colour service such as one with Ceri O'Brien for a smoothing, shine-boosting finish
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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the Express Keratin Complex Smoothing Service cost?
The service is priced at £90 and takes up to 75 minutes as a stand-alone treatment.
How long do results last?
Results generally last up to six weeks, depending on your hair type and how well you follow the aftercare routine.
How is this different from a full keratin treatment?
The express version uses a lighter, faster-processing formula, so it's quicker and more affordable, but results last weeks rather than the months a full keratin treatment can achieve.
Can I wash my hair straight after the treatment?
No, you'll need to avoid washing, wetting, or tying up your hair for a short window afterwards, commonly at least 8 hours, to let the keratin fully set.
Will it make my curly hair straight?
Not completely. Curl and wave patterns are softened and smoothed rather than eliminated, so curly hair becomes more manageable while keeping some natural movement.
Can this be added on to a colour service?
Yes, express keratin treatments can be combined with colour services and are often used as a quick, smoothing finishing step after colour processing.
Is it suitable for coloured or damaged hair?
It's suitable for most hair types including coloured hair, though a consultation is recommended for very damaged or fragile hair so the stylist can tailor heat settings and expectations.
What aftercare products should I use?
Sodium-chloride-free, keratin-safe shampoo and conditioner are recommended to help preserve the smoothing effect between appointments.

Available Team Members

These team members perform this service

  • Hair stylist applying foil highlights to seated client's hair in a salon
    Ceri O'Brien
    Colour Expert
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  • Blonde stylist wearing glasses trims a seated client's wet hair with scissors in a salon
    Emma Stokes
    Senior Stylist
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  • Busy salon with stylists cutting two clients' hair at wooden-framed mirror stations
    Lucy Osborne
    Senior Stylist
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Complete your experience with these services

  • INsight Toner Treatment
    From 45 mins
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  • Oli G Peptide Protection
    From £20•From 15 mins
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  • Keratin Complex Smoothing System
    From £199•120–150 mins
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  • INsight Rebuild Treatment
    From £22•From 30 mins
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  • Express INsight Treatment Mask
    From £10•From 15 mins
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