When Protein Becomes a Problem
Do I have too much protein in my hair?
Natural hair, that is cared for and left on its own, enjoys its own perfect balance. No additional protein required, nor any to be removed. The only time hair can have too much protein is when a protein treatment is overused. So if you've ever used a protein-specific hair treatment, this article is for you.
When Protein Becomes a Problem
The trouble starts with overuse. Layer on too many protein-heavy products and your hair stops being flexible. It becomes rigid. Brittle. More prone to breakage, not less. You heard that right, more prone to breakage.
The other common mistake? Using protein without pairing it with moisture. Protein and hydration work together, it's why we created the Collagen Mask. Straight up protein-treatments are for very specific hair needs, and should be considered only under the advice of your stylist. Skimp on moisture while loading up on protein, and you'll end up with hair that looks dull, feels rough, and snaps at the slightest tension.
Signs You Have Too Much Protein
Your hair will usually tell you when something's off. Watch for these:
Stiff, straw-like texture: This is the most telling sign. If your hair feels coarse and inflexible; not just dry, but almost crunchy, excess protein is likely making your cuticles too rigid.
Heavy or coated feeling: Hair that feels weighed down or like it has a film on it may have protein buildup. (Note: this can also signal general product buildup,look for clues in your recent routine changes and try a clarifying rinse first if you suspect it's possibly not protein-specific.)
Excessive frizz: Counterintuitive, but true. Especially on curly hair, where frizz can masquerade as texture. If your curls suddenly look more defined when you cut out protein products, they were probably being weighed down before.
Tangles and unmanageability: Overly stiff strands don't move well against each other, which leads to knotting and difficulty detangling.
Can't hold a curl: If your hair's suddenly refusing to hold a style it used to keep easily, protein rigidity may be throwing off its natural pattern.
How Do You Know If You Need Protein?
First consider what you do to your hair: if you suspect it has any damage at all, it could probably use a protein mask; Do you get chemical treatments at the salon? Do you colour your hair? Do you use a lot of heat styling? These are all things that manipulate the protein bonds in your hair, and routine treatments with a protein-based mask are beneficial. Read [insert protein blog name and hyperlink here] to make an informed decision.
If It's Not Protein, Then What Is It? Take a Simple Test
The answer is probably dehydration. It's not damaged, or overproteined, it's just really thirsty. Dehydrated hair is lifeless and dull, and loses elasticity. Enter your hydration superhero, the Mega Moisture Mask.
Take a Simple Test
When in the shower, take a wet strand of hair. Pull it from each end to stretch it to plus ⅓ of its length. If it stretches but doesn't return to its original size then it
and needs some mega moisture. Incorporate the Mega Moisture Mask, at least 1x a week to bring that spring and shine back to your luscious locks. Read here to learn what else this test can tell you about your hair.
The Bottom Line
Protein isn't something to fear, but it's not for everybody. And now you know what to look for! When you've got the balance right, the difference in your hair's strength, texture, and overall health is hard to miss.
