--- title: "Keratin treatment vs Brazilian blow dry: what's the difference? | Butler and Lawler Hairdressing Hammersmith London" description: "Keratin treatment vs Brazilian blow dry, what's the difference? Our Hammersmith stylists explain how each works, how long results last, and which suits you." canonical: "https://www.butlerandlawler.co.uk/blog/keratin-treatment-vs-brazilian-blow-dry" last_updated: "2026-05-22T05:28:43.347Z" --- # Keratin treatment vs Brazilian blow dry: what's the difference? ![Smiling woman with shaggy shoulder-length hair and bangs wearing a sleeveless dark top (black-and-white)](/_next/image?url=%2Fapi%2Fmedia%2Ffile%2Fsmiling-woman-shaggy-hair-bw-64x64.jpg%3Fv%3D1764587391691&w=128&q=75&dpl=dpl_A8KgELYHswzYz71ofnJrh55p7q3u) Vicky Owner & Creative Director PublishedFriday, 22 May 2026 ![](/_next/image?url=%2Fapi%2Fmedia%2Ffile%2FIMG_2883.jpeg%3Fprefix%3Dtenants%252F68e7d6b3d6d2f42a2c909563%26v%3D1779427421760&w=1536&q=75&dpl=dpl_A8KgELYHswzYz71ofnJrh55p7q3u) If you have been searching for a way to calm frizz and cut down your drying time, you have probably come across two names: keratin treatment and Brazilian blow dry. They are often talked about as if they are the same thing, but they work in different ways and give slightly different results. Here is a plain English explanation of how each one works, how long they last, and how to choose between them. ## What is a keratin treatment? A keratin treatment is a smoothing service that coats the hair with a keratin-rich formula and seals it in with heat. Keratin is the protein your hair is already made of, so the treatment tops up what humidity, colour, and heat styling have stripped away. The result is softer, shinier hair that takes far less effort to style. A keratin treatment is not designed to make your hair poker straight. It calms frizz, smooths the cuticle, and reduces volume, but you keep your natural movement. Many people find their hair air dries beautifully afterwards. ## What is a Brazilian blow dry? A Brazilian blow dry is a specific type of keratin smoothing treatment that originated in Brazil. It uses a keratin-based formula combined with a sealing process to lock the product into the hair shaft. The "blow dry" part of the name refers to how the formula is set, not the finish itself. In practice, the difference between a "keratin treatment" and a "Brazilian blow dry" often comes down to the product system being used. The principle is the same: keratin in, frizz out, easier styling for months afterwards. At our Hammersmith studio, we will talk you through the [keratin and Brazilian blow dry smoothing options at Butler & Lawler](https://www.butlerandlawler.co.uk/service-categories/smoothing-treatments) and pick the one that suits your hair type, colour history, and lifestyle. ## Which one should you choose? The honest answer is that the right choice depends on your hair, not the name on the bottle. Fine hair, coloured hair, very curly hair, and resistant frizz-prone hair each respond a little differently to different systems. A good stylist will assess your hair in person, ask how you usually wear it, and recommend the formula that gives the result you actually want. If you want softer, more natural movement, a lighter keratin treatment is usually the answer. If you want a sleeker, more polished finish that holds up against London humidity, a Brazilian-style smoothing system is often the better fit. ## Frequently asked questions ### How long does a keratin treatment or Brazilian blow dry last? Results typically last three to five months, depending on your hair type, how often you wash it, and the products you use at home. Sulphate-free shampoo is essential, as sulphates strip the keratin out faster. Many of our Hammersmith clients book their next appointment around the four-month mark to keep results consistent. ### How much does a Brazilian blow dry cost at Butler & Lawler? Our smoothing treatments start from £170 (price correct at time of publishing, please check our service page for the latest pricing). The exact cost depends on hair length, thickness, and the system used. We will give you a clear price at your consultation before any work begins, so there are no surprises. ### Can I have my hair coloured at the same appointment? Colour and smoothing can work together beautifully, but the order and timing matters. We recommend booking a consultation so we can plan both services around your hair condition. In some cases, the colour goes first and the smoothing follows; in others, we space them out. ### Will my hair look flat or lifeless afterwards? No. A well-applied smoothing treatment removes frizz and bulk without removing body. Your hair will still move, still have shape, and still hold a curl if you want one. The difference is that it sits the way you want it to first time, every time. ### Do I need a patch test? Yes. A patch test is required at least 48 hours before your appointment. This is a quick visit and protects you against any allergic reaction to the product. ## Ready to book? Choosing between a keratin treatment and a Brazilian blow dry is easier when you can talk it through with someone who works with both every week. For enquiries please use our [contact page](https://www.butlerandlawler.co.uk/contact-us), call, or pop in. We are on Dalling Road in Hammersmith, a two-minute walk from Ravenscourt Park. 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