HairChemistry: Protein Overload

Source: http://www.thenaturalhavenbloom.com/2011/08/protein-treatments-coconut-oil-and.html
Yesterday on DiscoveringNatural Facebook page, we discussed Protein and Natural Hair. The topics ranged from Protein Sensitivity to Protein Treatments to Protein Overload. I have done previous posts on the first two subjects, but wanted to discuss Protein Overload.

What is Protein Overload
In the past, people have thought of Protein Overload as a myth, however, time and time again it has been proven that this situation actually exists. If you have been using protein in your hair without giving yourself a break with a moisture enriched non-protein treatment, and your hair feels dry and brittle, you might be experiencing Protein Overload.

Why we need protein in our hair
Remember, your hair needs protein, therefore there are some types of protein that will attach to the hair and create problems for people that are protein sensitive. Protein helps strengthen the hair and repair damage that has occurred in the hair. Products that contain ingredients such as Hydrolyzed soy protein has the ability to let the protein attach to the hair and provide strengthen properties to the hair strands. There are some other proteins that will do this.

How to reverse Protein Overload
Since Protein Overload can cause severe breakage, it is important to know how to reverse the effect of protein overload.  Here are some steps to take:
  • Clarify your hair with a clarifying shampoo or a sulfate shampoo
  • Use a non-protein deep conditioner (Read the ingredients make sure it contains no protein)
  • Apply a leave in conditioner that does not have any protein
These steps will help you.  Try to avoid using products with protein for at least 2 weeks, then gradually introduce protein back into your "hair's diet".

Have you ever experienced Protein Overload?

Comments

  1. UnknownApril 23, 2013 at 11:17 AM

    Great Post and thanks for posting. No I have not personally experienced protein overload. I don't use lots of protein on my hair, if any. I get my protein internally.

    Thanks for asking, take care!

    Zainab1
    AuNaturale007.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  2. NappyfuMay 28, 2014 at 7:59 PM

    Nope I've been lucky enough to have a balance between moisture & protein. Still get the equation down but nonetheless working on it.

    ReplyDelete

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

What to do if it seems like your natural hair is not growing

Image
@breezyspuffs (IG) If it feels like your hair isn’t growing, the issue may not actually be growth itself—hair grows about half an inch per month on average. The problem may be breakage, slow growth, or factors that hinder visible length retention. Here’s what you can do to promote healthier, stronger growth: 1. Check Your Routine for Breakage Causes: • Reduce heat styling: Excessive use of flat irons, curling irons, and blow-dryers can damage hair. Try air-drying or using lower heat settings and always use a heat protectant. • Limit chemical treatments: Frequent coloring, perming, or relaxing can weaken hair, leading to breakage. • Be gentle when detangling: Use a wide-tooth comb and start from the ends, working your way up to avoid pulling and snapping. 2. Moisturize Regularly: • Dry hair is more prone to breakage, so keep it hydrated. Use moisturizing conditioners, deep conditioners, or hair masks weekly, and consider leave-in conditioners or oils like coconut
Read more

Using Batana oil to get Thicker Hair and Grow Hair

Image
 I started using Batana oil on my scalp May 31st 2024.  Click this link to buy  https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP88c5jC4/ If sold out, you can find it here  https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8J1kdRf/ If sold out, try this link https://hotana.com/ March 2024 Here is my 3 weeks result. Click here to buy  How I use it, I use it every 2 days and apply to my scalp and edges. I do not rinse it out. On wash day , every 2 weeks, I apply it on my scalp and hair, cover for 30 mins and then shampoo and deep condition my hair. I then apply my leave in and reapply the Batana oil on scalp and edges and also my moisturizer on my hair.  The benefits of using batana oil for hair include- Hair growth: Batana oil contains nutrients that can help promote hair growth. - Moisturizing: Batana oil is a good moisturizer for hair, helping to keep it hydrated and healthy. - Hair strengthening: The fatty acids present in batana oil can help strengthen hair, reducing the chances of breakage. - Natural hair dye: Batana oil
Read more

How to get rid of split ends in Natural Hair

Image
  @breezyspuffs (IG) Getting rid of split ends in natural hair involves a combination of good hair care practices and regular maintenance. Here are some effective ways to manage and reduce split ends: 1. Trim Regularly • Schedule Regular Trims : Every 8-12 weeks, visit a professional stylist or trim your hair at home with sharp hair-cutting shears to remove split ends. • Search and Destroy Method : If you prefer not to cut your hair often, this method involves trimming individual split ends as you spot them. 2. Moisturize Your Hair • Use a Deep Conditioner : Regular deep conditioning helps retain moisture, making hair less prone to splitting. • Leave-in Conditioner : Apply a leave-in conditioner after washing to maintain hydration throughout the day. 3. Minimize Heat Styling • Limit Heat Tools : Reduce the use of flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers. • Use Heat Protectant : When you do use heat tools, always apply a heat protectant to minimi
Read more