Pump up your curls with protein power—here’s everything you need to know
Curly hair is a natural gift, but if you’re one of the lucky ones with those gorgeous locks, you know they require some serious TLC to look their best. Just like we load our meals with protein to stay strong and healthy, our curls crave that same nourishment as the extra eggs at breakfast—just in a different way. That’s where protein hair products come in, delivering the strength and resilience your curls need to stay fabulous.
Protein treatments are like a superfood for your hair, reinforcing each strand, reducing breakage, and restoring that all-important elasticity. If your curls are feeling a bit lifeless—whether from heat damage, chemical treatments, or just everyday stress, then protein-enriched products can bring them back to reality. Think stronger and more vibrant curls that bounce with every step—curly girls, this one’s for you.
Incorporating protein into your hair care routine doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune or wasting hours in the salon chair, you can do it right from home. Protein treatments create a protective barrier, filling in gaps in the hair cuticle and making each strand more robust. This is especially important for curly hair, which tends to be drier and more prone to damage––who doesn’t want curls that look and feel healthier?
Now, let’s dive into why protein is *needed* for curly hair. We’re giving you the lowdown on how to pick the right products, a selection of our top-rated protein-enriched options, and much more. Embrace the power of protein and show your curls the love they deserve—because though they’re high maintenance, boy isn't it worth it!
Why you need protein hair products
Girlie, let’s talk about why protein is an absolute must-have for your fabulous curls. Unlike straight hair, curly hair tends to be drier and more prone to damage due to its spiral shape, which makes it harder for natural oils to travel down the hair shaft. This is where protein comes in as a game-changer for curly hair care.
- Strengthens each strand: Protein is like a little superhero, swooping in to strengthen each strand of your hair from the inside out. This is more important for curly hair, as it’s more prone to breakage and damage. Talk about dramatic?
- Reduces breakage: We all know curly hair can be a bit fragile, right? Well, protein treatments work their magic to fortify your hair shaft, reducing the chances of breakage and helping your curls stay strong and healthy.
- Restores elasticity: Elasticity is key for those bouncy, beautiful curls we all love. Protein treatments help revitalize that springiness, allowing your curls to bounce back into shape and maintain their natural curl pattern.
- Protects against damage: Curly hair faces its fair share of challenges, from heat styling to chemical treatments. Protein treatments create a protective barrier, filling in gaps in your hair cuticle and shielding your locks from damage.
By incorporating protein into your hair care routine, you’re basically giving your curls the VIP treatment they deserve. But with so many protein-packed products out there, how do you choose the ones that are right for you? Let’s find out.
How to choose the right protein hair products for your curls
Now that we know why protein is *needed* for your curls—we have to learn all about how to choose the perfect protein hair products to keep your locks looking luscious.
Understand your hair heeds: Every curl is unique, so we’ve got to understand what your hair needs before diving into the world of protein treatments. Consider factors like your hair type, texture, and any specific concerns you may have, such as damage or dryness.
Read the labels: This one may sound obvious, but you’d be shocked to find out what’s written in the fine print of products. When it comes to protein hair products, not all formulas are created equal—so take a close look at the ingredients list and opt for products that contain high-quality proteins like keratin, collagen, or silk protein. Avoid products with harsh chemicals that could further damage your curls—because ingredients like Sodium LAURYL Sulfate(SLS) are a big no-no.
Consider your routine: Think about how often you’re willing to incorporate protein treatments into your hair care routine. Some products are designed for weekly use, while others are more intensive and may only be needed once a month or less frequently. Choose a product that fits seamlessly into your schedule—self-care Sunday? Perfect.
Research reviews: Before making a purchase, take some time to read reviews from other curly girls who have tried the product. Look for feedback on how the product performed, if it lived up to its promises, and if it made a noticeable difference in their curls’ health and appearance.
Trial and error: Finding the perfect protein hair products may require a bit of trial and error. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands and formulations until you find the ones that work best for your curls. And remember, what works for someone else may not necessarily work for you, so trust your instincts and listen to your hair.
By following our top tips, you’ll be well on your way to finding the protein hair products that will keep your curls looking their absolute best. Think of it as more of a marathon than a sprint—your hair is just like a makeup routine and it requires tried and tested products that work for you.
Five of our top-rated protein hair products
You’ve got all the protein 411, and know how to spot a sneaky ingredient, now all you need is some 10/10 products. Here’s our list of the highest-rated, protein-enriched products to take your curls to a protein-packed heaven.
1. Bouclème Protein Booster
Step up your curl game with Bouclème’s Protein Booster. This powerhouse treatment is specially crafted for curly hair, infusing each strand with hydrolyzed wheat protein to strengthen and fortify from within. Forget the breakage woes of yesterday and say hello to resilient, bouncy curls that turn heads wherever you go. Plus, it’s lightweight and won’t weigh your curls down—talk about a win-win!
How to use:
Dispense drops: Unscrew the lid and press the button to release six drops.
Mix: Add drops to a small amount of cleanser or conditioner.
Apply:
– With cleanser: Leave on for 5 minutes, then rinse.
– With conditioner/mask: Leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse. For intensive effect, leave in and style as usual.
2. Curlsmith Bond Curl Rehab Salve
Treat your curls to a spa day at home with Curlsmith’s Bond Curl Rehab Salve. Formulated with a blend of amino acids and quinoa protein, this luxurious treatment deeply nourishes and repairs damaged hair, leaving your curls softer, smoother, and more manageable. Whether your curls need some extra love or you just want to indulge in a little self-care, this salve has got you covered.
How to use:
Prepare your hair: Soak your hair with water. No need to wash it, just ensure it's wet to create the right foundation for this pre-wash treatment.
Apply generously: Dispense Bond Curl Rehab Salve and apply generously from root to tip, ensuring even coverage. Use a brush to fully detangle your hair.
Allow time to penetrate: Let the treatment sit on your hair to penetrate deep into the shaft. Leave it on for 15 to 30 minutes, depending on your hair's porosity and needs.
Rinse and follow up: Rinse thoroughly and follow with shampoo and conditioner as usual to complete your hair care routine. Enjoy your revitalized, silky-smooth curls!
3. Aphogee Two-Step Protein Treatment
Lap up stronger, healthier curls with Aphogee’s Two-Step Protein Treatment. Designed to repair and restore damaged hair, this intensive treatment works wonders for curly girls in need of a little extra TLC. Its unique two-step process penetrates deep into the hair shaft to strengthen and fortify from the inside out, leaving your curls looking and feeling their absolute best.
Aphogee's Two-Step Protein Treatment is a salon favorite for restoring curls to their former glory. But guess what? You can achieve salon-worthy results right at home! Here's how:
How to use:
Preparation: Start by gently cleansing your hair with Aphogee Shampoo for Damaged Hair. Rinse thoroughly and towel blot dry.
Application: Apply the Two-Step Protein Treatment by "scrunching" it through your hair until it's completely saturated. Avoid combing through the hair, and ensure even coverage throughout.
Treatment process:
– Leave your hair uncovered—do not use a plastic cap.
– Sit under a medium heat dryer with high airflow. Alternatively, you can use a hand dryer, but avoid agitating the hair while drying.
– Note: As the Aphogee Treatment dries, your hair will become extremely hard. Do not comb or brush your hair during this time.
Rinse and moisturize:
– Once dried, re-wet your hair and gently rinse thoroughly with warm water to remove all excess dried protein.
– Towel dry your hair and apply Aphogee Balancing Moisturizer to your hair and scalp. Leave it on for 2 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
4. Nexxus Keraphix Conditioner
Transform your curls from home with Nexxus’s Keraphix Conditioner. Enriched with keratin protein and black rice, this luxurious conditioner works to repair damage and restore the health of your hair, leaving your curls soft, smooth, and oh-so-shiny. No matter if your curls are feeling dry and brittle or you just want to give them a little extra love, this conditioner is sure to become a staple in your hair care routine.
Use as normal after Nexxus’s Keraphix Shampoo, or any shampoo of choice.
5. Curly Girl Method Bounce Back Protein
Give your curls the boost they need with the Curly Girl Method Bounce Back Protein treatment. Formulated with a blend of hydrolyzed proteins, this treatment strengthens and revitalizes your curls, leaving them healthy and full of life. If your curls feel a little lackluster or you want to amp up their natural bounce, this protein treatment delivers on its promises.
How to use:
Prepare the mixture: Spoon 3 teaspoons into a heatproof jug. Add 100ml cold water and leave for 15 minutes. Then, add 200ml boiled water and let it cool.
Application: Once cold, pour the mixture over dry hair, ensuring full coverage. Cover hair with a towel or shower cap and leave for 30 minutes.
Rinse out: After 30 minutes, rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry—then you’re done! For under 10 bucks, you can't go wrong with this one.
Protein in hair products is a need for curly girls
We've learned that curly hair, while undeniably beautiful, requires some extra love and attention to thrive (don’t we all?). With the right protein treatments, you can strengthen your curls, reduce breakage, and restore their natural elasticity, leaving you with commercial-ready hair.
Regardless of whether you indulge in a luxurious pre-wash treatment or pamper your curls with a salon-worthy protein treatment at home, the power of protein is now in your hands. So go ahead, girl, show your curls the love and nourishment they deserve, and watch them flourish with a protein-packed shine.
