Does protein or keratin for hair straightening prevent water and moisture from reaching it, especially with the use of creams, oils, and heat?

The process of applying protein or keratin for hair straightening does not prevent water from reaching the hair during ablution (wudu') or ritual bathing (ghusl). This is because these substances nourish the hair, much like oil that is absorbed, and do not leave a physical barrier that prevents water from touching the hair. Consequently, the ablution and ritual bath of one who uses these methods are valid. This is the fatwa issued by the Islamic Research Academy (Majma' al-Buhuth al-Islamiyyah) affiliated with Al-Azhar.