6 Essential Proteins For Natural Hair: Strength, Moisture and Shine
There are a few signs your hair shows when it needs a protein treatment and you should be aware of them. The first sign is when your hair keeps breaking and won’t grow past a certain point, even when you’ve been diligent and consistently doing “everything that you’re supposed to” (like washing regularly, deep conditioning, detangling with care, moisturizing, etc). The second sign is if it gets mushy when it’s wet (as if it has been depleted of its “bone structure”). And last but not least, is when your hair doesn’t spring back when you pull it - you can test this by pulling a piece of shedded hair and see if it goes back to it’s original shape.
Protein treatments sometimes get a bad rep, but the truth is that they may be able to assist you in bringing your hair back to life. But the thing with protein treatments is that if you’re not careful, you risk getting a protein overload, which is far form desirable (I speak from personal experience). So don’t go overboard with these treatments opt instead to integrate them slowly into your routine until you find the right balance with moisturizing hair treatments.
A number of protein treatments may assist your kinky, coily or curly hair ingesting back it’s definition when it needs.
1.Hydrolyzed Keratin: A Game-Changer for Coily, Kinky or Curly
What is Hydrolyzed Keratin?
Hydrolyzed keratin is a protein derived from natural sources like wool, feathers or even human hair. This protein undergoes a process called hydrolysis, breaking it down into smaller, more absorbable molecules that can penetrate the hair shaft. This makes it a powerful ingredient for strengthening and repairing damaged hair.
Benefits of Hydrolyzed Keratin in Haircare
Strengthens Hair: it fills in the gaps in the hair cuticle, making strands more resilient to breakage.
Improves Elasticity: enhances the hair’s flexibility, reducing the chances of snapping during styling.
Reduces Frizz: helps smooth the hair’s surface, creating a sleek and shiny appearance.
Protects Against Damage: protects the hair from environmental stressors and heat styling.
Tips for Using Hydrolyzed Keratin
Use Sparingly: overuse can lead to protein overload, making hair stiff and prone to breakage. Limit the use of keratin-based products to once or twice a month, depending on your hair’s needs.
Pair with Moisture: balance keratin treatments with deep conditioning to keep hair hydrated.
Patch Test First: some people experience sensitivity. Always test new products on a small section of hair.
Follow Instructions: products containing hydrolyzed keratin often have specific usage guidelines to avoid over-processing.
Warnings Associated with Hydrolyzed Keratin
While hydrolyzed keratin is beneficial, excessive use can lead to protein overload. This occurs when the hair becomes too stiff and loses its elasticity. To prevent this:
Alternate between protein treatments and moisturizing treatments.
Limit the use of keratin-based products to once or twice a month, depending on your hair’s needs.
5 Popular Products with Hydrolyzed Keratin
Miss Jessie's Pillow Soft Curls
This lightweight styling lotion contains hydrolyzed keratin to soften and define curls without weighing them down. It's suitable for wavy, curly, and coily hair, providing a soft hold and enhancing natural curl patterns.
This shampoo is rich in biotin and keratin, promoting hair growth and strength during wash days. It's formulated to support healthy, textured hair, making it ideal for those with curly and coily hair patterns.
Kerotin Freshening Conditioner
Paired with the Freshening Shampoo, this conditioner contains biotin and keratin to nourish and strengthen textured hair. It aids in detangling and moisturizing curls, enhancing their natural bounce and shine.
Enriched with keratin protein and black rice, this luxurious conditioner is designed to repair and strengthen damaged hair. It's suitable for curly hair, helping to restore resilience and reduce breakage.
SUNATORIA Curly Hair Mask
A deep conditioning treatment enriched with natural argan oil and hydrolyzed keratin, designed to repair, hydrate, and moisturize dry, damaged curly hair. It helps reduce frizz and improve hair elasticity, making it suitable for coily and kinky hair types.
When incorporating these products into your haircare routine, it's essential to balance protein treatments with moisturizing products to maintain optimal hair health. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and monitor your hair's response to ensure the best results.
2. Silk Protein: A Luxurious Treat for Textured Hair
What is Silk Protein?
Silk protein is derived from the natural fibers of silkworm cocoons. This protein is hydrolyzed into smaller molecules, making it easily absorbable by hair. It is rich in amino acids that can deeply nourish and repair the hair.
Benefits of Silk Protein in Haircare
Enhances Shine: Imparts a lustrous, silky finish to dull, lifeless hair.
Improves Manageability: Makes hair easier to detangle and style.
Adds Moisture: Locks in hydration to prevent dryness.
Strengthens Strands: Repairs damage and minimizes breakage.
Tips for Using Silk Protein
Choose Lightweight Products: silk protein works well in sprays and serums that won't weigh down coily or curly hair.
Combine with Other Ingredients: pair with humectants like glycerin or aloe vera to maximize moisture retention.
Avoid Overuse: excessive protein can lead to buildup or stiffness.
Opt for Leave-Ins: silk protein is particularly effective in leave-in treatments that stay on the hair longer.
Warnings Associated with Silk Protein
While silk protein is generally gentle, overuse can result in product buildup. To avoid this:
Clarify your hair regularly with a gentle shampoo.
Alternate protein-based products with moisturizing treatments.
5 Popular Products with Silk Protein
Silk protein is a valuable ingredient for individuals with kinky, coily, and curly hair, offering benefits such as enhanced moisture retention, improved elasticity, and increased shine. Here are some popular hair products infused with silk protein that cater to these hair types:
This conditioner delivers a high concentration of silk protein, providing deep moisture to soften and add shine to dry, thirsty curls.
IGK Antisocial Leave-In Dry Hair Mask
A leave-in treatment that repairs and softens hair using bond-building technology, suitable for various hair types, including curly and coily textures.
Virtue Damage Reverse Hair Serum
A leave-in formula that quickly repairs damage and protects hair from future harm with a hair-identical protein, beneficial for maintaining healthy curls.
OUAI Treatment Mask for Fine and Medium Hair
A mask that helps restore hydration, repair damage, and add shine to fine/medium hair with shea butter, panthenol, and hydrolyzed keratin, enhancing the health of curly hair.
Curl Keeper Silk Leave-In Conditioner
A non-greasy leave-in conditioner that combats high humidity and heat, providing moisture and manageability to curly hair without buildup.
When selecting products, consider your hair's specific needs and porosity to ensure optimal results.
3. Wheat Protein: A Strengthening Ally
What is Wheat Protein?
Wheat protein is a plant-based protein derived from wheat. It is often hydrolyzed to make it small enough to penetrate the hair shaft, helping to strengthen and protect hair from within. Wheat protein is particularly beneficial for fine or damaged hair.
Benefits of Wheat Protein in Haircare
Boosts Strength: reinforces the hair’s structure, reducing breakage.
Adds Volume: helps plump up fine or limp hair.
Improves Moisture Retention: wheat protein has humectant properties, helping hair retain hydration.
Enhances Shine: leaves hair looking healthier and more vibrant.
Tips for Using Wheat Protein
Ideal for Fine Hair: if your coils and curls are fine or prone to damage, wheat protein can provide gentle reinforcement.
Combine with Moisture: Always pair protein treatments with deep moisturization.
Spot Treatments: Use products with wheat protein on particularly weak or damaged areas.
Warnings Associated with Wheat Protein
Overuse can lead to protein buildup, especially for those with low-porosity hair. To avoid this:
Use wheat protein products sparingly.
Alternate with moisturizing treatments to maintain balance.
5 Popular Products with Wheat Protein
Alba Botanica Strong Hold Style Gel
This styling gel provides firm hold without flaking, utilizing hydrolyzed wheat protein to strengthen hair strands.
Obia Natural Haircare Curl Enhancing Custard
Formulated to define curls and reduce frizz, this custard contains hydrolyzed wheat protein for added strength and elasticity.
Essations Hair Care Products
Essations offers a range of products infused with hydrolyzed wheat protein, designed to add volume and shine to curly and coily hair types.
MONDAY Haircare SMOOTH Shampoo and Conditioner
This award-winning duo incorporates hydrolyzed wheat protein and natural ingredients like coconut oil to smooth and nourish textured hair.
Ashley Marie Curly Coil Styling Gel
Enriched with hydrolyzed wheat protein and argan oil, this gel defines curls while providing nourishment and protection.
Wheat protein is a versatile and effective ingredient, particularly for textured hair that needs extra strength and moisture retention. Incorporating it wisely can lead to healthier, more vibrant curls.
4. Collagen: A Building Block for Coily, Curly or Curly Hair
What is Collagen?
Collagen is a structural protein naturally found in the skin, hair, and nails. In haircare, hydrolyzed collagen is used to improve the hair’s elasticity, moisture levels, and overall strength.
Benefits of Collagen in Haircare
Improves Elasticity: Helps hair stretch and bounce back, reducing breakage.
Increases Moisture: Hydrates the hair and scalp, combating dryness.
Adds Volume: Makes hair appear fuller and healthier.
Protects Against Aging: Prevents brittleness and thinning over time.
Tips for Using Collagen
Focus on Aging Hair: If your curls are thinning or losing elasticity, collagen can be particularly beneficial.
Combine with Scalp Care: Collagen-infused treatments can nourish the scalp, promoting healthy hair growth.
Use Regularly: Unlike other proteins, collagen is gentle enough for frequent use.
Warnings Associated with Collagen
Collagen is generally well-tolerated, but those with sensitive scalps should patch test before use.
7 Popular Products with Collagen
Curly Hydro Nourish Shampoo by Truth And Hair
Formulated with hydrolyzed collagen, aloe vera leaf powder, and hyaluronic acid, this shampoo aims to improve curl shine by 38%, promoting radiance and moisture retention.
Vital Care Curl Shampoo with Elastin and Collagen
This shampoo gently cleanses and nourishes the hair fiber from within, enveloping each curl to regenerate it and protect it from frizz.
This treatment is designed to deeply nourish and repair curly hair, enhancing its strength and elasticity.
The Curl Co. Curl Conditioner + Curl Cream Bundle
Enriched with Plantcol, a botanical alternative to animal-derived collagen, this bundle provides benefits similar to collagen, offering repair, strength, and moisture retention for curly hair.
Mairibel Curly Hair Treatment Curls Control Argan Collagen Elastin Kit
Infused with nourishing argan milk, collagen, and elastin, this set is designed to balance the pH of your hair, cleanse, and maintain its natural balance.
Renpure Biotin and Collagen Thickening Leave-In Treatment
Suitable for all hair types, this leave-in treatment aims to thicken and strengthen hair, providing moisture and protection.
Elizavecca CER-100 Collagen Coating Hair A+ Muscle Curl Cream
This cream is designed to nourish and define curls, providing a collagen coating that enhances hair elasticity and strength.
When selecting collagen-infused products, consider your hair's specific needs and porosity to ensure optimal results. Balancing protein treatments with adequate moisture is essential to maintain healthy, resilient curls.
5. Soy Protein: A Plant-Based Option
What is Soy Protein?
Soy protein is derived from soybeans and is a complete protein containing all essential amino acids. It is hydrolyzed for haircare use, making it capable of penetrating the hair shaft and improving its structure.
Benefits of Soy Protein in Haircare
Strengthens Hair: Repairs damage and reduces breakage.
Promotes Shine: Enhances the natural sheen of textured hair.
Improves Moisture Retention: Helps the hair hold onto hydration.
Supports Growth: Nourishes the scalp to promote healthier, stronger hair growth.
Tips for Using Soy Protein
Focus on Damaged Hair: If your curls are dry or brittle, soy protein can help restore vitality.
Use in Leave-Ins: Soy protein is effective in products that stay on the hair for extended periods.
Balance with Oils: Combine with moisturizing oils to prevent dryness.
Warnings Associated with Soy Protein
Overuse may lead to protein sensitivity, causing stiffness or dryness. To avoid this:
Use soy protein products occasionally.
Alternate with deeply hydrating treatments.
7 Popular Products with Soy Protein
Incorporating protein-enriched products into your haircare routine can significantly benefit kinky, coily, and curly hair types. Here are some popular products containing hydrolyzed keratin, silk protein, wheat protein, collagen, and soy protein:
It's a 10 Miracle Leave-In Plus Keratin
This leave-in treatment detangles, adds shine, and strengthens hair with hydrolyzed keratin, making it suitable for curly and textured hair.
A reconstructing complex that combines keratin and silk proteins to prevent breakage and add manageability to curly hair.
Medicube Soy Protein Leave-In Treatment
This lightweight leave-in treatment contains 11 plant-based proteins, including soy, to strengthen and protect curly and wavy hair.
Formulated with hydrolyzed wheat protein, this conditioner moisturizes and defines curls without weighing them down.
Fix My Curls Protein Styling Duo
This set includes a leave-in cream and defining hair gel, both enriched with proteins to strengthen and define curls.
Hair Dance Curly Protein Drops
A customizable protein treatment containing hydrolyzed wheat and soy proteins to boost curl definition and promote healthier-looking hair.
Specially developed for wavy and curly hair, this conditioner helps enhance curl definition and manageability.
When selecting products, consider your hair's specific needs and porosity to maintain a healthy balance between protein and moisture.
6. Oat Protein: A Gentle Hydrator for Textured Hair
What is Oat Protein?
Oat protein is derived from oats and is known for its soothing and hydrating properties. It is hydrolyzed for haircare use, allowing it to penetrate the hair shaft and improve moisture levels.
Benefits of Oat Protein in Haircare
Adds Hydration: Locks in moisture, combating dryness.
Soothes Scalp: Reduces irritation and promotes a healthy scalp environment.
Improves Elasticity: Makes hair more flexible and less prone to breakage.
Enhances Softness: Leaves hair feeling silky and manageable.
Tips for Using Oat Protein
Use on Dry Hair: Oat protein is particularly effective for combating dryness in textured hair.
Combine with Humectants: Pair with ingredients like glycerin for maximum hydration.
Opt for Gentle Formulas: Oat protein works well in mild, sulfate-free products.
Warnings Associated with Oat Protein
Oat protein is extremely gentle and unlikely to cause buildup or stiffness. However, always patch test if you have sensitive skin.
5 Popular Products with Oat Protein
Bright Body Flaxseed & Oat Protein Curly Hair Gel
This gel combines the moisture of a cream with the definition of a gel, providing soft, frizz-free, defined curls without crunch. It's particularly suited for 2A to 3C waves and curls.
Design Essentials Oat Protein & Henna Deep Cleansing Shampoo
This shampoo offers a deep cleanse that promotes fuller, thicker, and stronger hair. The natural blend of botanicals moisturizes and smooths the hair shaft, while oat protein and henna strengthen hair strands from the inside out.
KnoxFill Flaxseed & Oat Protein Curly Hair Gel
This product provides the softness of a curl cream with the definition and light hold of a gel, resulting in soft, frizz-free, defined curls without crunch. It's best suited for 2A to 3C waves and curls.
Ray's Reusables Flaxseed and Oat Protein Curly Hair Gel
This gel offers definition without crunchiness or flaking, combining the benefits of a gel and a cream for curly hair.
Little Salmon Flaxseed & Oat Protein Curly Hair Gel
This product provides the softness and moisture of a cream with the definition and light hold of a gel, suitable for 2A to 3C waves and curls.
These products incorporate oat protein to enhance moisture retention, strengthen hair, and improve elasticity, making them beneficial for textured hair types.
