Beauty Hair

The Facts About Keratin, Protein And Getting Stronger Hair

Protein is powerful, ladies, and I don’t just mean the kind we get from chicken. The kind in our hair is equally important, and there is a major trend happening with women trying to pack their hair full of it. Do we all want our hair to be sleek, shiny, and able to withstand insane amounts of heat every day? Yes. But is it possible to go a little too far along the path to cuticle perfection? Oh, yes it is.

What are the facts? Protein and keratin products are great, but we have to be smart about them! Keratin is a protein in our hair that gives it strength and keeps the strands looking smooth. Over time it becomes weakened due to heat, styling, and environment. So we use products to fill the voids and make it look pretty again. Should you be using protein over products that add moisture? Adding moisture helps with dry, brittle hair, and will help to maintain elasticity. Adding protein will get some strength back in the hair strand and begin to smooth that cuticle layer. You may need it if hair is feeling mushy or stringy. The key is balance between moisture and protein, so if you feel that your hair has had too much of one, use a treatment of the other.

And the myth? That we all need to be stocked up on keratin shampoos, conditioners and leave-in protein cremes. Using too much protein can be harmful – if you overdo it, your hair can become very breakable and harder to manage.

So, what to use? I am a hair masque fanatic. I adore the Essential Repair Hair Masque by Pureology. I only use it every two weeks for fifteen minutes in the shower, and it feels heavenly. It costs a pretty penny at $50, but lasts awhile since I don’t use it all the time.

Something with less intensity? A wonderful spray-in strengthener is Eufora’s Fortifi Strengthening Spray. It’s lightweight, smells awesome and it can be used more often without over-proteinizing (it also improves elasticity and porosity)! Users should beware of daily use of too many products that promote adding keratin or protein.

As an additional treat, try some of these Feminspire staff faves:

Avocado – easy and cost effective! Mash it up, mix it with olive oil or peanut butter, and apply. Rinse after 15 minutes and behold! Silky smooth strands.

Another fun at-home remedy? Have a beer! In your shower! As recommended in the “Beer Hair” article by Jessica Knox.

What do you use to make your hair healthy and beautiful? Any favorite products or DIY tricks? Share with me in the comments! And if you have any questions, feel free to ask – I’m the expert.

Written by Jamie Fraiser