Why Does Black Hair Need Protein Treatments and Reconstructors?
September 23, 2009 by Rick
Filed under Black Hairstyle
To understand why black tresses require protein treatments, you must first understand what the purpose of protein is. Hair is made up of Keratin a kind of protein. When the mane undergoes any chemical service or is damaged by misuse of heat tools, protein is lost hence the strands lose some its elasticity or strength.
By using products that contain protein in them, you improve the elasticity and strength properties. Very curly and kinky locks tend to be dry and quite fragile even in their natural state. With the addition of relaxers or colour services, the locks tend to become weaker. Using a protein based conditioner improves the health of the locks immensely and should be applied to any regimen.
Depending on the kind of protein used in the product it can perform a variety of functions. Here are some examples:
Hydrolyzed Human Hair Keratin – This is the most potent of the proteins and matches the keratin in human tresses exactly. It keeps the strands pliable and strong.
Hydrolyzed Keratin Protein – The protein has been broken down so it can penetrate all layers of the strands better and as such is excellent for deep conditioning. It also keeps it pliable and strong.
Silk Protein – Silk is the strongest natural fibres and has very small molecules that can penetrate the shaft. It is excellent for deep conditioning as it’s known to soften the locks.
Animal Protein – This will generally just coat the shaft and repair damage on the outer layers.
Vegetable Protein – This absorbs more easily into the strands without leaving any build up on the shaft.
Wheat Protein – Used in many conditioning products, this is a moisturizing and strengthening protein which also improves the hair’s ability to maintain moisture levels.
Collagen Protein – This increases the elasticity of the tresses.
Protein treatments range from relatively light to quite strong. The light proteins include protein shampoos and conditioners and protein reconstructors. They can safely be used weekly without adversely affecting the mane. A good light protein is Motions CPR Protein Reconstructor. Strong proteins on the other hand are neither shampoos nor conditioners. Their sole purpose is to impart protein to the strands so they are referred to as protein treatments. Good examples are Aphogee 2 Step Protein Treatment and Nexxus Emergencee. These should only ever be used when extreme breakage is being experienced or where breakage is anticipated e.g. before a chemical service. Their recommended use is every 6-8 weeks and should always be followed up with a moisturizing conditioner.
