Crystallizing: Color technique using gel for chunky highlights

ByDr. Celestine (Certified Trichologist)

What is Crystallizing?

Crystallizing is a hair treatment that seals the cuticle layer with a glass-like shield using specialized polymers. It locks in moisture and reflects light for extreme shine. Most miss this: It actually rebuilds broken protein bonds temporarily—like dental fillings for hair fractures.

I see this work best when hair feels like rough sandpaper before treatment. The polymers fill eroded areas of the cuticle that daily wear tears open. Think of it like pouring liquid glass over cracked pavement—it smooths everything flat.

When Crystallizing Saves Frayed Strands

Your hair cuticle lifts like pinecone scales when damaged. Crystallizing glues them down flat with film-forming silicones. Imagine shrink-wrap sealing a bundle of splintered pencils—that’s how it contains split ends temporarily.

80% of my clients don’t realize this isn’t permanent repair. It washes out after 6-8 shampoos since water breaks the polymer bonds. I warn patients: Never combine with oil-based serums—it causes slippery separation in my clinic.

The Humidity Shield Surprise

Hair swells when humidity sneaks under raised cuticles. Crystallizing creates a waterproof barrier that blocks moisture invasion. Picture rain sliding off a waxed car hood instead of soaking in.

In humid climates, I see 50% less frizz rebound versus standard serums. But coarse hair types get less benefit—their wider cuticle gaps need heavier sealants. That’s why I test porosity first.

Why Over-Crystallizing Backfires

Too many layers trap moisture inside the cortex. Your hair puffs up like a sponge in steam as internal pressure builds. Think of double-bagging leftovers—condensation ruins the texture.

I measure buildup with a slip-test: If strands feel sticky, we clarify before reapplying. Weekly treatments cause dull collapse in fine hair—I limit it to monthly for most.

Will It Work For You?

Yes

  • If your hair snaps easily when wet
  • When humidity turns strands into a frizz halo
  • If dullness persists after deep conditioning

No

  • If you use heavy oils daily
  • When scalp psoriasis or eczema is active
  • If hair feels gummy or sticky already

From My Experience

My clinic’s microscopy shows crystallizing works best on medium porosity hair—low porosity repels the polymers, while high porosity can’t hold them. I pre-treat with a chelating shampoo to remove mineral buildup that blocks adhesion.

For chemically relaxed hair, I dilute the formula. The alkaline exposure creates deeper cracks that over-absorb product. Three clients learned the hard way—their hair stiffened like candy glass until we stripped it out.

Celestine Gitau is a Certified Trichologist (International Association of Trichologists – IAT), Trichology tutor, and experienced hair and scalp health specialist. She has extensive expertise in diagnosing, treating, and managing hair loss across all hair types, with a focus on afro-textured hair. Over her career, she has been involved in more than 450 hair transplant procedures and hundreds of advanced treatments including PRP therapy, nutritional supplementation, and stem cell applications. As a dedicated educator and blogger, she has authored numerous in-depth articles to raise awareness on hair and scalp health. Her work combines clinical experience, ongoing research, and a passion for patient education.
Note: The information shared is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidance.