Introduction

Protein vs keratin treatment are two popular options for improving the health and appearance of hair. Protein treatments focus on strengthening the hair and repairing damage while keratin treatments aim to smooth and straighten hair.

Protein treatments typically contain ingredients such as hydrolyzed keratin or other types of protein and their goal is to improve the hair’s strength, moisture retention and texture. On the other hand, keratin treatments contain a combination of keratin and chemicals (such as formaldehyde) to straighten and smooth the hair, reduce frizz and improve shine.

Results from protein treatments usually last 4-6 weeks while those from keratin treatments can last 2-5 months. It’s important to keep in mind that overusing protein treatments can lead to hair that is stiff or brittle, while keratin treatments contain chemicals that can be harsh and damaging if not applied and processed properly.

Why do you need hair treatment? – Protein Vs keratin treatment

There are several reasons why someone might need a hair treatment:

• To repair damaged hair: Treatments can help repair hair that has been damaged from heat styling, chemical processing or exposure to the elements.
• To add moisture: Treatments can add moisture to hair that is dry, brittle or frizzy helping to make it more manageable and soft.
• To address specific hair concerns: Treatments can target specific hair concerns such as hair thinning, dandruff or oily scalp.
• To improve hair health: Treatments can help improve the overall health and appearance of hair making it look and feel more vibrant and healthy.
• To enhance colour: Treatments can be used to enhance or prolong the life of hair colour.
• To increase manageability: Treatments can help make hair easier to style and manage reducing the time and effort required to get ready in the morning

What is Protein treatment for hair?

Protein treatment for hair is a type of hair treatment that helps to repair and strengthen hair. It works by adding protein to the hair shaft, which can help to fill in gaps or breaks in the hair, making it stronger and more resilient. The protein used in hair treatments can come from natural sources such as keratin or from synthetic ingredients.

Protein treatments are often recommended for people with damaged, dry, or brittle hair. They can help to restore the hair’s strength and elasticity, reduce breakage and improve the overall health and appearance of the hair.

Pros:

• Strengthening: Protein treatments can help to strengthen hair and reduce breakage by filling in and reinforcing the hair’s cuticle layer.

• Moisture retention: Protein can help to improve the hair’s ability to retain moisture, which can prevent damage and promote healthy hair growth.

• Damage repair: If the hair has already been damaged, a protein treatment can help to repair the hair shaft and restore its strength and elasticity.

• Improved texture: Protein treatments can help to improve the hair’s texture and manageability, making it easier to style and maintain.

• Protection: Protein can help to protect the hair from further damage and breakage, especially if the hair is exposed to harsh environmental conditions.

Cons:

It is important to note that overuse of protein treatments can result in hair that is too stiff and difficult to style. It is recommended to use protein treatments periodically and to follow the instructions carefully to avoid overuse.

Also Check :

What is keratin treatment for hair?

Keratin treatment for hair is a hair smoothing and straightening treatment that uses a protein called keratin to smooth and tame frizz, adding shine and reducing the amount of time and effort required to style hair.

The treatment typically involves applying a keratin solution to the hair, which is then sealed in with heat from a flat iron. The result is hair that is smoother, shinier and more manageable. Keratin treatments can last for several weeks and are often used to straighten curly, frizzy or wavy hair.

Pros

• Smoothness and shine: Keratin treatments can smooth down frizz and improve the hair’s overall shine, making it appear healthier and more manageable.

• Reduced styling time: By reducing frizz and making the hair more manageable, keratin treatments can also help to reduce the amount of time required for the styling.

• Protection from heat damage: Keratin treatments can help to protect the hair from heat damage caused by flat irons, curling wands and other hot styling tools.

• Reduced breakage: The smoothing and strengthening properties of keratin can help to reduce breakage and split ends, promoting healthy hair growth.

• Long-lasting results: Keratin treatments can provide long-lasting results, often lasting several months with proper aftercare.

Cons

It is important to note that some keratin treatments contain formaldehyde, a chemical that can be harmful if inhaled. If you are considering a keratin treatment, it is important to choose a product that is formaldehyde-free or to make sure the salon is well-ventilated to minimize the risk of exposure.

Difference between Protein hair and Keratin hair treatment

Feature	Protein Treatment	Keratin Treatment
Purpose	Strengthen hair and repair damage	Smooth and straight hair
Key ingredients	Protein (e.g. hydrolyzed keratin)	Keratin, chemicals (e.g. formaldehyde)
Effect on hair	Improves strength, moisture retention and texture	Improves shine, reduces frizz and makes hair more manageable
Length of results	Typically lasts 4-6 weeks	Typically lasts 2-5 months
Potential drawbacks	Can make hair stiff or brittle if overused	Chemical ingredients can be harsh and damaging to hair and scalp

Conclusion 

In conclusion, both protein and keratin hair treatments aim to improve the health and appearance of hair. Protein treatments are best for hair that is brittle, weak and damaged as they help to rebuild and strengthen the hair fibers. 

On the other hand, keratin treatments are ideal for hair that is frizzy, unruly and difficult to manage, as they provide a smooth, glossy finish and help to control frizz. It’s important to choose the right treatment based on your hair type and specific needs. Consult a hair professional to determine the best option for you.

FAQs

1. Does frizzy hair need protein?

Frizzy hair can benefit from both protein and keratin treatments but in different ways. Protein treatments can help to strengthen and repair the hair fibers, reducing breakage and improving elasticity, which can lead to reduced frizz. On the other hand, keratin treatments can provide a smooth, glossy finish and help to control frizz by temporarily filling in the hair cuticles.

2. How long does a protein treatment last?

The duration of a protein treatment varies depending on several factors such as the type of treatment, the product used and the hair type. On average, a protein treatment can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.

3. Which treatment is best for hair?

Depending on your hair, these are the suggested hair treatments you can avail  at Essensuals, Chennai.

Dry and brittle hair: Deep conditioning treatments and protein treatments can help to hydrate and strengthen the hair fibers.

Frizzy hair: Keratin treatments, smoothing treatments and anti-frizz products can help to smooth and tame frizz.

Dull hair: Glossing treatments, shine serums and deep conditioning treatments can help to add shine and luster to dull hair.

4. Does Keratin protein damage hair?

Keratin treatments can potentially damage hair only if not applied or maintained properly. Make sure you get your Keratin treatment from an experienced professional to avoid risking any potential damage to your hair. You can visit Essensuals salon to get it done today. 

5. Do protein treatments make hair thicker?

Protein treatments can help to improve the health and appearance of hair but they do not necessarily make hair thicker. Protein treatments help to rebuild and strengthen the hair fibers, reduce breakage and improve elasticity. This can give the appearance of thicker, stronger hair but the actual thickness of the hair shaft will not change. 

To add volume to hair, it’s best to try volumizing products, a different hairstyle or hair thickening techniques recommended by a hair professional.