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How to Remove Protein from Hair?

Published in Hair Care 3 mins read

The key to removing excess protein from hair involves clarifying and rebalancing moisture.

Here's a breakdown of how to effectively remove protein buildup:

Understanding Protein Overload

Before diving into removal, it's important to recognize the signs of protein overload:

  • Hair feels brittle and stiff: Excess protein makes hair less elastic.
  • Hair breaks easily: The protein can cause a hardening effect, leading to breakage.
  • Hair looks dull: Buildup can prevent moisture from penetrating, resulting in a lack of shine.
  • Hair feels straw-like: A rough and dry texture indicates an imbalance.

Methods for Removing Protein

Here are several approaches you can take to remove protein buildup:

1. Clarifying Shampoo

  • Purpose: Clarifying shampoos are designed to deeply cleanse the hair and remove buildup from products, including protein.
  • How to Use:
    1. Wet your hair thoroughly with warm water.
    2. Apply a clarifying shampoo, focusing on the roots and working your way down.
    3. Massage the shampoo into your scalp and hair for a few minutes.
    4. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
    5. Follow with a moisturizing deep conditioner.
  • Frequency: Use clarifying shampoo sparingly, typically once every 1-4 weeks, depending on your hair's needs and product usage. Overuse can strip your hair of natural oils.
  • Example: Look for clarifying shampoos that are sulfate-free and specifically formulated for your hair type.

2. Chelating Shampoo

  • Purpose: Chelating shampoos are stronger than clarifying shampoos and are designed to remove mineral buildup from hard water, as well as product buildup, including protein.
  • How to use: Follow same instructions as clarifying shampoo, but only use when absolutely necessary.
  • Frequency: Use rarely, only when clarifying shampoo doesn't work. Chelating shampoos can be very drying.

3. Deep Conditioning Treatments

  • Purpose: After clarifying, it's crucial to restore moisture to your hair.
  • How to Use:
    1. Apply a moisturizing deep conditioner to clean, damp hair.
    2. Distribute the conditioner evenly throughout your hair.
    3. Cover your hair with a shower cap or plastic wrap.
    4. Apply heat (using a hooded dryer or warm towel) for 15-30 minutes.
    5. Rinse thoroughly with cool water to seal the cuticle.
  • Ingredients to Look For: Humectants (like honey or glycerin) and emollients (like shea butter or coconut oil) can help replenish moisture.

4. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) Rinse (Use with Caution)

  • Purpose: ACV can help to clarify and balance the pH of your hair. However, it should be used with care as it can be drying for some hair types.
  • How to Use:
    1. Mix 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with 1 cup of water.
    2. After shampooing, pour the mixture over your hair, avoiding the eyes.
    3. Let it sit for 1-3 minutes.
    4. Rinse thoroughly with cool water.
  • Frequency: Use sparingly, no more than once a month.

5. Protein-Free Products

  • Purpose: To prevent future protein buildup, switch to protein-free shampoos, conditioners, and styling products.
  • How to Identify: Carefully read product labels and look for ingredients like "hydrolyzed protein," "keratin," "collagen," and "amino acids." Avoid products that contain these ingredients if you suspect protein overload.

Preventing Protein Overload

  • Listen to your hair: Pay attention to how your hair feels and adjust your product usage accordingly.
  • Alternate protein and moisturizing treatments: Balance your routine to avoid excessive protein buildup.
  • Use protein treatments sparingly: If your hair doesn't need protein, avoid using protein-rich products frequently.

Removing protein from hair requires a clarifying approach followed by deep moisturization and a balanced product routine. By understanding the signs of protein overload and implementing the appropriate methods, you can restore your hair's health and vitality.