Does my hair need protein?

Yes, your hair needs both protein and moisture to maintain good health and strength. Hair is composed of strong fibrous proteins like keratin, which form the hair cortex and provide elasticity, strength, shape, and structure. Moisture is essential for water binding, which helps keep the hair hydrated, reduces brittleness, and enables the maintenance of elasticity.

Your hair may need a protein treatment if you observe the following signs:

• Limp, stringy, or sticky hair.
• Poor elasticity resulting in easy breakage.
• High porosity or hair that is permeable to water.
• Shedding or just after dyeing your hair.

However, too much protein can cause a protein overload, leading to stiff and brittle hair. A balance between protein and moisture is crucial to achieve strong, healthy, and bouncy curls. If your hair is predominantly dry, it might require more moisture treatments. A simple way to determine if your hair needs protein or moisture is by gently stretching a strand of hair; it should stretch a little before bouncing back to its original length without breaking.

To maintain the optimal balance, a variety of moisture-boosting products and protein treatments (1-3 times a year for balanced hair) are recommended. A healthy diet with protein-rich foods (e.g., beef, chicken, salmon, eggs, lentils, beans, Greek yogurt) can also contribute to the necessary protein balance for healthy hair.