Protein vs Moisture: What Does Your Hair Need?

Learn how to understand what your hair is telling you it needs.

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Photo Credit: Plated Skin Science

Everyone’s hair goals are the same, healthy, strong, and shiny, but how we get there might be different for all of us. Using more conditioner or a hair mask might not always be the answer. Let’s learn and figure out what your hair needs

Protein = Strength

Hair is made of about 95% protein, most of which is keratin. This keratin is responsible for your hair strength, structure, and elasticity. Hair protein treatments help create a barrier to help the strands retain moisture and protect it from any further damage.

Pro Tip: If your hair is limp, stretchy, mushy, or lost its curl definition you may need protein.

Hydration = Water

Hydration in hair refers to the presence of water in the inner layers, which is crucial for softness and reduced breakage. 

Pro Tip: If your hair is brittle, tangles easily, dull and lifeless focus on hair hydration.

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Photo Credit: Cecred

Moisture = Emollients 

Moisture involves locking in the hydration with oils or creams. Moisturizing productions give the hair a protective barrier to help lock in the hydration and maintain smoothness and shine.

Pro Tip: If your hair is stiff, rough, straw-like, and frizzy when after washing your hair needs moisture. 

How To Tell If Hair Needs Moisture
Photo Credit: Unruly

At the end of the day your hair needs protein, hydration and moisture. The importance is balancing all three to achieve your hair dreams. Understanding how to read your hair signs can help you see what the missing ingredient is.