Proteins are a must for the health of all hair types, especially the natural and afro types. The lack of protein results in fragile and dull hair, since proteins are responsible for giving hair elasticity, strength and restores its damage.
There are many different types of protein treatments: with different intensities, application, and results. And each one of them is supposed to solve different needs, for different hair structures and damage levels.
If you are looking for the best protein treatment for your hair, this article will help you by explaining the main types of treatments and the recommendations and results of each one.
Proteins and their benefits
The hair structure is mostly composed of proteins, especially keratin. Our strands are constantly exposed to strong sun and wind, heat tools, pollutants, chemical treatments and even shampoo surfactants.
Those results in damages, that are nothing more than the loss of keratin protein from the hair cuticle. As hair loses keratin, the cuticles gain gaps. The more gaps, the harsher the texture and the more susceptible to breakage.
By replenishing protein, we fill these gaps and create a barrier around the hair. This barrier rebuilds the cuticles and prevents possible new damage. The result is stronger and smoother hair. This fix is temporary and tends to go away after some hair washes, but you can reapply the treatment to renew the effect.
However, it is important not to overuse it; otherwise you can have the opposite effect and hair gets even harsher. Each protein treatment has a minimal break that must be respected. During this break, you can intercalate the protein applications with the use of oils and moisturizing deep conditioners. That improves hair’s health and helps to keep it smooth.
Protein treatment for natural hair with light damage
Look for protein-based reconstructive treatments for routine care. There are complete hair care lines enriched with this ingredient: shampoos, conditioners, hair masks, leave-ins… Many of them contain the word “keratin” in some form. These are great for relaxed and color-treated hair, as well as any hair that doesn’t present damage signs but may need a boost.
These treatments can be used two to three times a month, but they must be balanced with hydrating conditioners to avoid dryness and breakage. Once the hair shows repairing signs, increase the break period to every couple of weeks.
Protein treatment for natural hair with several damage
If you have serious chemical damage to your hair, you’ll require intense protein therapy. In most cases of severe damage, a complete restoration effect is not possible and only a haircut can bring 100% healthy hair again. However, an intense protein treatment can still improve your hair’s appearance and texture.
This will very certainly necessitate a salon visit, since your hair needs to be evaluated by a professional and those types of protein treatments can only be applied by hairdressers. These treatments are meant to be used in cases when there has been a lot of breakage. They should be used once every six to eight weeks at the most.
Do not be tempted to do it more frequently because it will simply do additional damage to your hair. Keep a calendar of your treatments and be patient. With regular upkeep, you will notice gradual progress.
If you are looking for the best options for protein treatments, take a look at Metro Brazil’s website: we have authentic Brazilian hair care lines.
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