Protein Conditioners: {Part 2} of Care for Your Natural Hair: A Better Way

Do Naturals Need a Protein Conditioner?


There are different types of protein used in conditioners, eight types of commonly used proteins in most Conditioners are listed below:

• Biotin 
• Collagen 
• Hydrolyzed wheat protein 
• Keratin 
• Panthenol
• Silk amino acids
• Silk Protein 

Proteins are added to conditioners because the beauty industry is marketed for Caucasians. White people have thin fine hair which needs a lot of protein to maintain their hair health and its strength.

African Americans and those who wear their hair Natural have naturally thicker hair that holds on to protein; conditioners with added protein is not needed; enough protein is provided through diet (food).

Protein that are gentle enough for daily use:

Silk Protein 

Vegetable Protein

Wheat Protein

Proteins that are Harsh on Natural Hair (Use Once a Month/Once every 2 Months)

Collagen

Biotin

Keratin
Panthenol

Example Strong Protein Conditioner

The protein listed above are strong and can harden hair extremely fast, which can make hair brittle, dry, and very hard to moisturize. Using these types of protein once every month or two months can prevent dryness and breakage.

Black women who wear their hair natural can go without using protein conditioners also called (deep conditioners) and still maintain soft, healthy strong hair. While women who have relaxed hair or very thin hair benefit from using protein twice a week; more often.

When Should Protein NOT be in your Hair Care Regimen ??


 If after using a protein conditioner your hair becomes brittle, dry, hard, and/or courser than the usual texture:


Skip protein conditioners altogether


How do you know if you need Protein over time?

•  Over-Moisturized Hair- If your hair is stretchy (elastic like) 
•  Thin (Fine) Hair

If your hair is naturally fine (thin) a light protein conditioner works well to strengthen the hair.

If  your hair has been condition for over the recommend time (5-15 minutes), then your hair has been over moisturized. A light protein conditioner can strengthen soft stretchy hair; make sure you don't leave the conditioner in no longer than 15 minutes, any longer could cause your hair to be hard.


REMEMBER
Always pay attention to your hair, your hair have cycles when it needs protein or moisture. 

Learning how to find a balance takes time so please have patience.

NEXT: How do you know when your hair need protein or moisture ???