Are you applying the correct hair masks, oils and conditioners but your hair is still frizzy, flat and breaking?
Well, prior to betting on the dry factor, have you thought that your hair could just be lacking in protein? Your hair is largely made up of a protein called keratin, and it, unfortunately, takes a beating on a daily basis.
From sun damage to heating styling tools, color treatments, bleach jobs, and even the food you eat; all of these things can factor into stripping your hair of its much needed protein.
This is damaging as it makes your hair dry, coarse and unmanageable. Protein treatment for hair can help to strengthen your hair and make it soft and shiny.
What Is a Protein Treatment for Hair?
Protein treatment is the hair care product that delivers proteins to hair, including keratin, Protein treatment is a hair care product that infuses the hair with proteins, such as keratin, collagen, or plant-based amino acids, to provide strength or rebuild damaged hair. Consider it as a bandage for the small breaks in your hair’s cuticle layer. It protects your hair from more damage, too.
Lots of formulas have oils or butters that help seal in moisture, so you end up with strength and softness all in one. They’re good for use at home or in a salon for a potent hitter.
But here’s a crucial distinction: protein treatment doesn’t substitute for your normal shampoo and conditioner. It’s not a replacement but rather works in conjunction with them as a little extra oomph.
Benefits of a Protein Treatment for Hair
If applied properly, you might experience:
- Softer, less-frizzy hair
- Hyderated and silky hair
- Reduced hair fall during brushing and styling
- End (hair) with less splits visible
- Hair becomes stronger and stretches more without breaking
These benefits are cumulative, so don’t expect to see a miracle after one use.
How Does a Protein Treatment for Hair Work?
Hair damage gives the hair strand tiny holes and rough patches on every strand. Protein molecules are small enough to fit into these spaces and chemically bind with the hair’s surface. This gives the strand a thicker, stronger, and more even feel.
Most products are available in three types:
- Intensive treatment masks that are left on for a few minutes
- Rinse-out treatments that are applied in the shower
- Leave-in products that are used following a wash
The right form depends on your hair type and how damaged your hair is.
5 Best Types of Protein Treatment for Hair
Instead of hunting for certain products, it’s best to be familiar with what you need in general for your type of hair.
1. Hair Masks with Keratin
As keratin is a major building block of hair, these masks make sense for hair that’s dry, overstyled, or chemically treated. They also tame frizz and flyways for smoother finishes overall.
Suitable for: Heat damaged and color treated hair.
2. Collagen Deep Treatments
Collagen treatments are designed to reinforce the hair strand and minimize the appearance of split ends. If your hair is weak and stretches when wet, these are a good option.
Ideal for: mild to severe hair loss.
3. Wheat and plant-based protein treatments
Hydrolysed wheat and other plant-based proteins are mild and light and I use them often. They bring a bit of strength without weighing hair down, which is good for a lot of hair types.
Best for: Fine hair, and anyone who wants to lean into plant-based.
4. Protein Leave-In Serums
These are light products used post wash.They also help protect hair from heat and control frizz throughout the day. They’re a great choice when you’re short on time or want to keep your routine simple.
Ideal for busy people, anyone dealing with frizz, or those who use heat-styling tools often.
5. Salon Protein Treatments
Stronger concentrations of protein are found in professional treatments and these are applied by your salon pro. They work on hair that is really damaged – such as hair that’s been regularly bleached or had lots of harsh chemical processing.Talk to your stylist in advance and ask what they use.
Best for:Extremely damaged hair.
How to Use a Protein Treatment for Hair at Home
- Wash your hair with a shampoo.
- Remove excess water by squeezing.
- Distribute the treatment on damp hair from mid-lengths to ends, avoid your scalp unless the label indicate to otherwise.
- Keep on for the time indicated by the product.
- Rinse thoroughly and finish off with a moisturizing conditioner.
For the majority of people, that’s once every two to four weeks. Extremely damaged hair may tolerate it more frequently, healthy hair less.
Final Thoughts
Good protein treatment for hair can really work wonders. Weak, brittle strands begin to feel stronger, and your hair is healthier on top of that. Choose the one that matches your hair type, don’t exaggerate and go easy on the little things which harm your hair like a little heat too much heat or too much sun like this short haircut are very cute.
And be patient. Hair doesn’t heal itself overnight, so keep doing what you’re doing and the results will come.
FAQs
How frequently should I apply a protein treatment to hair?
Typically every two to four weeks depending on the level of damage you have.
Are all hair types compatible with a protein treatment?
It’s good for most types of hair, but fine hair should use a lighter formula and very healthy hair may only need to use a protein treatment once in a while.
Can I apply it to coloured hair?
Yes. Coloured and bleached hair can be more in need of protein, but with a mild formula.
