how do you know if your hair needs protein? Or if you've had enough?

rheostaticsfan

The title says it all. Since discovering it, I've been using Ion Effective Care Treatment every time I wash (=every other day) and each day my hair has been getting heavier (in a good way) and softer and thicker and generally better. I took that to mean that it needed more protein.

Today for the first time since starting, my hair drier floofier, with heavy halo frizz. Does this mean my hair has had enough?

That's my working hypothesis, but if anyone has more experience to share, I'd appreciate it.

And if an expert could write a sticky post about how to tell if you're protein craving, it might help new members decide if this forum is for them.

Thanks so much!

bliss611

Hmmm. I have never heard of poofy hair from protein OD. Hair with too much protein tends to get dry and brittle. So, I'm going to say no.

Did you do something else differently today? Is the weather any different?

If suspect it's the protein, the best anti-dote to too much protein is a deep moisture treatment.

HTHs!

rheostaticsfan

Thanks, Bliss! Maybe floofier wasn't exactly the most apt. The surface is airier (hence floofy) but also dry/crunchy.

So far water and oil haven't fixed anything. Next time I wash I'll try a leave in and/or replace the Ion Effective Care with a non-protein conditioner.

bliss611

I find that oils don't help when my hair is dry like that. Someone finally explained it as "thirsty" hair so it needs moisture not lubrication that oils provide.

I would do a deep treatment with a water based conditioner (non-protein of course) and see how your hair reacts.

And for the future maybe alternate a non-protein conditioner with Ion to help balance protein & moisture.

Also saw this article that you might be interested in:
The Fine Art of Protein and Moisture Balancing for Black Hair Care - Associated Content from Yahoo! - associatedcontent.com