How to Fix Protein Overload in Hair

Did you know our hair contains many different types of proteins? These proteins contribute to the hair’s bounce, sheen, and fullness. Healthy hair will always have a decent of protein. However, it’s possible to have too much protein in your hair. When that happens, your hair might look and feel a little burdened. This phenomenon is known as protein overload.

Typically, you can identify protein overload by inspecting your hair’s appearance. You may have excessive protein in your hair if it looks dull and brittle. A hair salon visit is your best bet to reverse the damage of protein overload. You can consult a hairstylist for a treatment plan. In addition, there are various home remedies to cure your hair. You can use products and take preventative measures to avoid the protein overload problem.

Here is a guide on how to fix protein overload in your hair:

What is protein overload in hair?

Protein overload causes your hair to look dull and lack its usual volume or lustre. Your hair will also lose its elasticity and feel brittle, with strands breaking when you tug or pull on them. Split ends are another common sign of protein overload.

Protein overload doesn’t happen due to dietary or lifestyle choices. Instead, it occurs due to treating your hair with excessive protein. Check your hair care products and watch for different types of protein. As a rule of thumb, you should minimize using products that contain proteins like:

• Wheat, rice, or quinoa protein
• Silk protein
• Hydrolyzed collagen

Clarifying shampoo for protein overload

A clarifying shampoo can fix the protein overload in your hair. First, you’ll want to soak your hair in regular warm water. Afterwards, begin cleansing with a clarifying shampoo for protein overload. The initial soak will eliminate excess oils and buildup, while the clarifying shampoo breaks down the proteins bonded to your hair.

The best clarifying shampoo for protein overload should be gentle and designed specifically for your hair type. Browse the Shamas Boutique and find the best products for damaged hair!

Best oils for protein overload

Sometimes, it’s possible to strip excess proteins from your hair with an essential oil routine. Peppermint, lavender, and clary sage are the best oils for protein overload treatment. Apply the essential oils to your scalp and allow them to take effect. Ideally, you should dilute the essential oils with another carrier oil beforehand to minimize unwanted damage. In addition to fixing protein overload, the essential oil can promote blood flow and encourage new hair growth.

Protein overload hair treatment

The protein overload hair treatment includes several steps. Start with clarifying shampoos and essential oils. If that doesn’t solve the issue, proceed with getting a haircut. Protein often builds up in the ends of your hair and gets locked in. If this happens, those split ends are virtually impossible to fuse back together. A quick, tidy trim can help bring the split ends under control.

In addition, you should take it easy on styling products. Heat styling, hair dye, and other products may all lead to protein overload. Sometimes, the problem lies within your complicated hair care routine. The more products you use, the likelier you accumulate excessive protein in your hair. Instead, you should simplify your hair maintenance process and only use the essential products.

Remember, you don’t need many hair products to create a beautiful hairstyle. Don’t be afraid to let your hair exist in its natural state for some time. Take a breather, let your hair hang loose, and allow it to recover from protein overload.

How to avoid protein overload in hair

After fixing your protein overload, you should take extra steps to prevent the problem from happening again. There are a few tips you should follow. Start by washing your hair once or twice a week with a clarifying shampoo. Choose a shampoo designed for your hair type to achieve the best results.

In addition, don’t overuse hair products containing keratin or other proteins. Follow the instructions on the package. Never layer two keratin products on top of each other. Likewise, limit the amount of conditioner you use. Conditioner only needs to be applied to the ends of your hair, so avoid overusing it on your roots.