Having a hair regimen is essential to maintaining moisture and retaining length. Although we often times stress the importance of moisturizing our tresses, we tend to ignore how important protein is for our hair. Though the thought of adding protein to your hair regimen might be frightening to some, it’s essential in fighting hair loss and keeping that hair growing strong.

Surprisingly enough, our hair is made up of 70 percent protein already. Despite this, adding more is important in order to maintain the balance between the products we use. But there are also some more obvious signs when our hair needs some strength.

If your hair has lost its elasticity, is kind of limp and mushy, has just been dyed, or is experiencing tremendous breakage and shedding, then a protein treatment is what you need. Protein works to strengthen the hair follicles and prevent them from breaking. It’s especially essential to those who are relaxed because it keeps your hair from breaking at the line of demarcation that forms when your new growth comes in.

For those of us who love to save a few bucks and actually get our money’s worth, a DIY protein treatment is super easy to make. Eggs and mayonnaise are both foods you probably already own that are high in protein. Adding these to an oil and a little bit of conditioner would make a great protein treatment at little-to-no cost.

There are also some great store bought products that can help to strengthen your hair. One well-known product is the Aphogee Two-Step Protein Treatment. The product runs about $5-$10 at your local beauty supply store, but it’s well worth the money spent.

Regardless of the method you decide to use, there are a few rules you should follow when it comes to treating your hair:

Protein treatments should be a monthly regimen. Protein is strong, and adding too much can be damaging to the hair shaft. If you don’t experience a lot of breakage in general, you can go a few months without it.
If using a store-bought treatment like the Aphogee product, be sure to follow directions closely. They are there for a reason and it’s essential that you follow them in order to maintain healthy hair.
After your treatment, follow up with a moisturizing conditioner. Protein is super drying on the hair, so it’s important to add that moisture back in and seal it with an oil.

Regardless of the method you decide to use, there are a few rules you should follow when it comes to treating your hair:

What’s your favorite DIY protein treatment? Let us know in the comments below!

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