Ask ApHogee: Can Protein Treatments Cause Hair Breakage?

MYTH: “Too much protein can cause your hair to become brittle and break”.

The misconception about excessive protein MAY stem from the fact that if you use ONLY the protein stage in a 2 step and don’t moisturize, or, if you do not rinse the excess protein off the outside of the hair shaft thoroughly, the hair can feel rough and brittle.

One of the most common misconceptions we get from our consumers regarding our 2 Step Protein Treatment is that frequent usage of protein on the hair is bad and that it can lead to more breakage. The simple fact is that hydrolyzed proteins have been a commonly used ingredient in many hair products for decades and the notion of “protein sensitivity” is a myth. Because of this popular misconception, hair protein treatments have received a bad rap and it’s time to clear the confusion.

So what are the benefits of using protein treatments?

Protein treatments are actually conditioners containing higher levels of protein (5-6%) than the average.Your hair may benefit from a product with a lower amount (0.5 – 1%) of a particular protein or alternatively from a product that has a higher amount of that same protein but blended with humectants and emollients for added softness. Proteins are used on the hair for adding strength, shine, for hydration and to reduce breakage. When hair is damaged, protein helps temporarily repair damaged areas in hair by filling in gaps caused by heat or chemical damage on the cuticle. Protein treatments are one of the only proven ways to keep the hair hydrated by slowing the loss of water. Therefore incorporating a protein treatment every 4-6 weeks is a great way to temporarily rebuild and strengthen the hair shaft.

So why is it advised to use the 2 Step Protein Treatment every 4-6 weeks?
The ApHogee 2 Step Protein Treatment is an intensive treatment that should be used to stop hair breakage and strengthen moderate to severely damaged and weak hair. Why is it a “Two-Step” process? Because you MUST follow up with the Balancing Moisturizer or any other moisturizing deep conditioner to help soften the hair. It is CRUCIAL to maintain a moisture/protein balance in order to reap the benefits of applying a protein treatment.

The reason why we advise our consumers to apply the 2 Step Treatment every 4-6 weeks is because over application simply wastes the product. With a normal hair care regimen of styling and washing, and proper application, the treatment is still bonded into the hair over this time. Any product applied on top of it with just rinse off and not contribute to strengthening.

The misconception about protein may stem from the fact that if you use ONLY the protein stage in a 2 step and don’t moisturize, or, if you do not rinse the excess protein off the outside of the hair shaft thoroughly, the hair can feel rough and brittle.

HOWEVER it is also true that if very delicate or fine hair is agitated while the protein is in the dried stage, breakage is possible.

Great news! So what kind of moisturizers should I be using along with the protein treatment?
In intervals between Two Step Treatments, a one-step strengthening conditioner such as our 2 Minute Keratin Reconstructor can be used weekly, or leave-in such us as our Pro-Vitamin Leave-In or just a moisturizer should suffice. An exception might occur if a color service, straightening, perm or other chemical service was done and created more damage.

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