Monday, January 3, 2011

A No-Nonsense Guide to Choosing the Right Protein Conditioner

Many people may not realize the mechanics of a good hair conditioner. In all honesty, conditioners are far more complex than most other hair products, such as shampoo. Conditioners are designed to treat the hair after shampooing or cleansing occurs. Conditioners often help replenish the look and feel of the hair after shampooing. Conditioners can help moisturize, add shine and manageability. Much like a fabric softener does to your clothing, after being washed in a detergent. A conditioner should, generally, only be applied to the hair shaft and the ends, especially, the ends. Never apply a hair conditioner to the scalp, it may build-up and create a limp look. However, when managing new growth or varying textures, applying protein deep conditioners to the roots is a highly effective way to ensure strength and lessen breakage at the line of demarcation (where the two textures meet).

In order to choose the right protein conditioner for you, you must consider the type of hair you have dry, oily, or normal. You must also consider whether your hair is thick or thin. However, knowing the condition of your hair is most important, whether normal, or mild to severe damage. This will help in defining the type of ingredients you are looking for in your conditioner. Look for ingredients that address your hair’s specific needs. Wheat protein, silk amino acids, and collagen proteins are all useful in increasing moisture retention and elasticity. These types of proteins are safe for weekly use. While keratin, vegetable and animal proteins act more as heavy strengtheners and should always be followed by a moisturizing conditioner. These types of proteins are ideal for those with damage and breakage. Proper application of the conditioner is very important, as well. It is important to either follow the directions on the contents or follow these simple steps: Pour the conditioner in your hands and rub them together, never apply a glob of conditioner to the hair directly. Apply even amounts of conditioner to the hair shaft and ends. As mentioned earlier, do not apply to the scalp and always condition the ends or tips the most. Since the ends of the hair are the oldest and longest exposed parts of the hair, concentrating on this area will certainly increase your growth retention. Additionally, most conditioners, even instant, need to be left on the hair for at least 1-3 minutes. But many women will attest to the sustained benefits of conditioning hair with heat for 15 minutes or more. Lastly, leave-in conditioners stay in the hair until the next washing and do not require a rinse, they offer extended . Just as important as the type of conditioner is the rinsing. It is important to rinse the conditioner off completely and as directed by the packaging instructions. Often times leaving residues of conditioner on the hair can attract dirt and dust, as well as leave you with a "greasy" or hard feel. When combing the hair while wet, be very careful, you're hair is at its most vulnerable state when wet, even after a good protein treatment. This is often when the most damage can occur. Remember! Choosing the right products for your hair is the first step to a successful hair growth journey.


2 comments:

jessie jeb ryan said...

thats really helpful, after growing hair, I tried Wed which was NOT good for me but now use others that protect hair more and moisturize better as my hair dries out in winter

Editor said...

I use Henna as my ''natural Portien''
it works just as well as the commercial protein as well but great article

Curlybronzed