Does Low Porosity Hair Need Protein? Here's The Tea

how often to do protein treatment on low porosity hair

Struggling with low-porosity hair can leave many feeling puzzled, especially when faced with breakage and the possibility of being protein-sensitive.

Low porosity hair struggles with its own set of challenges, often resisting moisture due to the tightly sealed hair cuticle.

This resistance can result in frizzy and dry hair lacking in elasticity.

But fear not! This article is your guide to navigating the world of protein treatments for low-porosity hair.

We’ll cover everything from the safety of using protein on low porosity hair strands to the best protein treatment, monthly protein treatments, and how to manage protein sensitivity.

What Is A Protein Treatment?

A protein treatment is a conditioning routine that infuses additional protein into the hair shaft, strengthening it from within.

Unlike a regular deep conditioner, which primarily adds extra moisture to the hair to restore elasticity, a protein treatment targets the hair cuticle, binding proteins to the hair strands.

This is important because our hair is made up of chains of proteins.

This process strengthens the hair, reducing susceptibility to damage and breakage.

For low-porosity hair, it’s important to alternate between deep conditioning treatments and protein treatments.

This balance helps maintain optimal protein-moisture levels, crucial for healthy hair.

While protein treatments are beneficial, avoiding overdoing them is vital, as excessive protein can cause protein overload, especially in low-porosity hair that is known for protein sensitivity.

I recommend incorporating a protein treatment into your routine once a month to avoid protein overload, which can lead to brittle hair and breakage.

By incorporating natural ingredients like olive oil, coconut milk, or almond oil, you can create homemade protein treatments tailored to your specific needs.

Does Low Porosity Hair Need Protein Treatments?

Absolutely, low-porosity hair greatly benefits from additional protein as it boosts hair strength and reduces hair breakage.

Given its inherent difficulty in absorbing nutrients, low-porosity hair is more susceptible to mechanical damage (and chemical damage when using chemical treatments).

Due to the hair’s inability to readily absorb extra moisture and proteins (even smaller proteins), they often remain on the surface, leading to product buildup and dry hair as well as brittle hair.

Regular protein treatments are important in reinforcing the hair shaft, strengthening hair strands, and improving overall hair health.

However, selecting the appropriate protein treatment and using it correctly is just as important.

Not all protein treatments are suitable for low-porosity hair.

Hydrolyzed proteins, for example, are typically more effective as they penetrate the hair shaft more easily.

Most proteins are large, high molecular weight molecules, unable to penetrate the hair fiber and instead binding to the surface of the hair.

Hydrolyzed proteins have been broken down to smaller proteins so that they can penetrate the cuticle layer and be absorbed more easily into the hair fiber.

While protein treatments can be highly beneficial, they should be integrated into a well-rounded hair care routine.

Most protein conditioners function by filling in gaps in damaged hair.

If there are no gaps present, so no need of protein, such as on exceptionally healthy low-porosity hair or hair that has already received enough protein, extra protein may build up on the hair’s surface.

In such cases, the hair may become brittle.

For medium and high porosity hair, protein conditioners are less likely to cause brittle hair. High porosity hair, in particular, is prone to damage, making it more receptive to protein.

Low porosity hair may require additional protein treatments if it’s subjected to color treatments or experiences damage.

Even extremely low porosity hair can struggle to retain moisture, making it prone to dryness and damage. In such cases, protein treatments are important for strengthening and protecting the hair from further breakage.

So, don’t discount protein treatments simply because your low-porosity hair appears resistant to protein when it’s in good condition.

When dealing with damaged low-porosity hair, more sites on the hair’s surface can effectively bind proteins, providing the strengthening benefits needed for hair repair.

Signs Your Hair Is in Need Of Protein

protein treatment for high porosity hair

Struggling with low-porosity hair can be a challenge, especially when it comes to maintaining moisture balance and preventing product buildup.

Here’s how to determine if your hair needs a protein treatment and how to give it the boost it needs:

Moisture Retention: If your hair lacks that healthy shine even after moisture treatment, it may not be absorbing moisture effectively.

Product Buildup: Notice your hair feeling heavy or greasy? This could indicate a product buildup on the surface.

Lack of Elasticity: If your hair doesn’t stretch and return to its original shape, protein can help improve the hair’s elasticity.

Excessive Frizz and Flyaways: Constant frizz and difficulty managing your hair suggest it could benefit from protein to smooth and strengthen.

Flaky, Lifeless Curls: When your curls lose their bounce and vitality, a protein treatment can revitalize and moisturize them.

Slow Hair Growth: If your hair growth seems sluggish, a protein treatment can stimulate growth and improve overall hair health.

If you notice these signs, it’s time to consider monthly protein treatments to restore hair health and curl pattern. Remember to balance protein treatments with moisturizing ones to maintain hair health.

For mild damage, consider a monthly protein treatment routine alongside weekly moisture treatments. Adjust the frequency based on your hair’s needs, especially after activities like swimming, coloring, or heat styling.

For severe hair breakage and damage, opt for an intensive protein conditioner like As I Am Rice Water Conditioner.

Use it weekly over three weeks to stop damage, then switch to a monthly high-protein treatment regimen with weekly moisture treatments to maintain strength.

Whether your hair needs occasional maintenance or intensive repair, incorporating protein treatments into your routine can help restore and maintain its health and vitality.

Benefits Of A Protein Treatment For Natural Hair

Protein treatments are effective in nourishing and softening natural hair by exfoliating dead cells from the scalp and replenishing essential proteins in the hair strands.

This process not only revitalizes the hair but also promotes thicker, longer, and healthier growth by adding extra body and volume to your natural locks.

Additionally, these treatments play a crucial role in reducing breakage, preventing split ends, and strengthening limp, brittle strands.

By restoring the natural balance of proteins, oils, and nutrients, protein treatments help maintain the overall health and vitality of your hair.

They work to ensure that your natural hair remains strong, resilient, and vibrant, promoting optimal growth and minimizing damage.

Best Proteins for Low Porosity Hair

When it comes to choosing the best proteins for low-porosity hair, it’s important to choose options that effectively penetrate the hair shaft, strengthen hair strands, and promote overall hair health.

Low porosity hair struggles with absorbing moisture and can be prone to product buildup, making the selection of proteins crucial for maintaining the right balance.

Keratin Protein

One of the top contenders for protein treatments in low-porosity hair is keratin protein.

Known for its ability to strengthen and repair hair from within, keratin protein effectively fills in gaps in the hair cuticle, improving elasticity and reducing hair breakage.

This protein is particularly beneficial for those with dry, brittle hair, helping to restore moisture balance and promote healthier strands.

Wheat Protein

Another excellent option for low-porosity hair is wheat protein.

Wheat protein is rich in essential amino acids that nourish and fortify hair strands, enhancing their resilience and protecting against damage.

It also helps with moisture retention, preventing dehydration, and promoting smoother, more manageable hair.

Hyaluronic Acid

For those with protein-sensitive low porosity hair, smaller proteins like hyaluronic acid can be a game-changer.

Hyaluronic acid penetrates the hair shaft effectively, providing hydration without weighing down the hair or causing protein overload.

It helps maintain moisture balance, leaving hair feeling soft, supple and revitalized.

When incorporating protein treatments into your hair care routine, it’s crucial to strike the right balance and use them alongside moisturizing treatments.

Deep conditioning with protein-rich hair masks or deep treatments on a monthly basis can help maintain hair health and prevent protein overload.

Additionally, opting for leave-in conditioners or hair moisturizers containing proteins can provide ongoing nourishment and protection for low porosity hair.

Ultimately, the key to finding the best proteins for low porosity hair lies in understanding your hair’s unique needs and selecting products that effectively address them.

By incorporating the right proteins into your hair care regimen, you can achieve stronger, healthier hair strands and maintain optimal moisture balance for luscious locks.

My Favorite Protein Conditioner For Low Porosity Hair

These are my top choices for protein conditioners for low-porosity hair:

This post contains affiliate links, if you click on any of these links I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Mielle Organics Babassu & Mint Deep Conditioner with Protein

This deep conditioner is a fantastic choice for low porosity hair due to its protein-rich formula.

Babassu oil helps penetrate the hair shaft, providing deep hydration and nourishment, while mint extract soothes the scalp and promotes healthy hair growth.

The additional protein helps strengthen and fortify low porosity hair, reducing hair breakage and promoting overall hair health.

With regular use, this conditioner helps maintain moisture balance and leaves low porosity hair feeling soft, smooth, and revitalized.

Mielle Organics Babassu & Mint Deep Conditioner with Protein

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SheaMoisture Hair Mask – Manuka Honey & Yogurt

Specifically designed for dry hair, this hair mask is an excellent option for low porosity hair types.

Enriched with Manuka honey and yogurt extract, it provides intense hydration and replenishes moisture to low porosity hair that struggles to retain moisture.

The protein power treatment helps repair and strengthen hair strands, reducing breakage and improving elasticity.

SheaMoisture Hair Mask - Manuka Honey & Yogurt

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As I Am Rice Water Conditioner

As a rice water conditioner, this product is ideal for low porosity hair as it helps improve moisture retention and strengthen hair strands.

Rice water is rich in amino acids and vitamins, promoting healthy hair growth and enhancing hair elasticity.

This conditioner deeply hydrates and nourishes low porosity hair, leaving it feeling soft, smooth, and more resilient.

With regular use, it helps repair damage, reduce frizz, and improve the overall health and appearance of low porosity hair.

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How To Apply Protein Treatments To Low-Porosity Hair

Applying protein treatments to low-porosity hair requires a thoughtful approach to ensure maximum effectiveness without causing protein overload or further buildup.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply protein treatments to low-porosity hair:

Preparation: Start by clarifying your hair to remove any buildup or residue that may hinder the penetration of the protein treatment. Use a gentle clarifying shampoo to thoroughly cleanse the hair and scalp, ensuring a clean slate for the treatment.

Choose the Right Product: Select a protein treatment specifically formulated for low-porosity hair, preferably one containing smaller proteins like keratin or wheat protein. These proteins are better absorbed by the hair shaft, maximizing their effectiveness without weighing down the hair.

Apply to Damp Hair: Low porosity hair tends to repel moisture, making it essential to apply the protein treatment to damp hair. After clarifying, gently towel-dry your hair to remove excess water while leaving it slightly damp.

Section Your Hair: Divide your hair into manageable sections to ensure thorough application of the protein treatment. Use clips or hair ties to keep each section separate and organized.

Apply the Treatment: Dispense a small amount of the protein treatment into your hands and evenly distribute it throughout each section of your hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends where the hair is most prone to damage. Avoid applying the treatment directly to the scalp to prevent potential irritation.

Massage and Detangle: Once the protein treatment is applied, gently massage it into your hair to ensure thorough coverage. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle your hair, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots.

Allow for Penetration: To allow the protein treatment to penetrate the hair shaft effectively, cover your hair with a plastic shower cap or wrap it in a warm towel. The heat will help open the hair cuticle, allowing the protein to penetrate more deeply. Most protein treatments require anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes to fully penetrate the hair shaft and deliver maximum benefits.

Rinse Thoroughly: After the designated leave-in time has elapsed, thoroughly rinse the protein treatment from your hair with lukewarm water. Be sure to remove all traces of the treatment to prevent potential stiffness or buildup.

Follow with Moisture: After rinsing out the protein treatment, follow up with a moisturizing conditioner or deep conditioning treatment to restore hydration and maintain moisture balance in your low-porosity hair.

how often to do protein treatment on low porosity hair

Applying a protein treatment to your low-porosity hair should align with your hair’s specific needs.

Starting with a frequency of once a month is typically appropriate, but it’s crucial to remain attentive to your hair’s condition and adjust the frequency accordingly.

Incorporating lightweight proteins such as silk, wheat, and soy into your routine is vital for maintaining optimal elasticity and moisture levels in low-porosity hair.

Striking a balance between protein treatments and moisture-rich products ensures that your hair remains healthy and vibrant.

Pin For Later!

Does Low Porosity Hair Need Protein? Here’s The Tea

What Is A Protein Treatment?

Does Low Porosity Hair Need Protein Treatments?

Signs Your Hair Is in Need Of Protein

Benefits Of A Protein Treatment For Natural Hair