They strengthen, help preventbreakage, repair damage, and restore elasticity.
These treatments are especially helpful on chemically treated tresses, including color-treated or relaxed hair.
All protein treatments are not created equal, though.
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You want to ensure you’re choosing the right one to develop and maintain a healthy head of hair.
Ahead, experts break down everything it’s crucial that you know about selecting the proper protein treatment.
Meet the Experts
The Benefits
Protein molecules contain amino acids and are essential to the human body.
Hair is primarily comprised of proteins, most of which are keratin.
This damage causes hair to lose elasticity and become dry and brittle.
Over time, this may cause breakage.
Protein treatmentsare designed to create a protective barrier for your hair.
The result should be stronger hair that has an extra layer of protection from damaging elements.
It may also look and feel healthier.
However, a protein treatment is only a temporary fix, and it’s important not to go overboard.
The Precautions
Mason recommends proceeding with caution before using a protein treatment for the first time.
If you decide to move forward with a protein treatment, use them sparingly.
“Protein build-up can cause stiff hair that can break off easily.”
You should always follow up protein treatments with moisturizing conditioners, preferably adeep conditioning treatment.
You don’t want to use an intense product if you’re only trying to maintain your color-treated tresses.
Light Protein Treatments
For routine care, look for reconstructing treatments that contain protein.
Many include some form of the word “keratin.”
“My favorite is the cibu Repair + Protect Strengthening Mask,” Mason adds.
Sims loves the Flawless Deep Repairing Conditioning Mask.
Alternate using these protein treatments with a deep conditioner.
Once it shows signs of restoration, return to a treatment every couple of weeks.
For at-home protein treatments, try a product like Nexxus Emergencee Shampoo.
These treatments are designed forseverebreakage.
Therefore, they should not be used more than once every six to eight weeks.
Do not be tempted to do it more often because they will likely only damage your hair more.
Instead, track your treatments on a calendar and be patient.
You should see some improvement with proper maintenance.
When used properly, these intense treatments should halt most breakage.
However, your hair may still be too damaged to save.
Not only will your hairlookbetter, but it also gives you a fresh start.
However, it’s important not to overdo it to avoid making your hair brittle and stiff.
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