Protein vs. Moisture: Here's How to Tell Which One Your Hair Needs to Beat Damage
Damage isn't discerning. It can strike regardless of hair type. Do you color-treat your hair? It could be damaged. Do you heat-style your hair? Yep. What about travel? Have you exposed your hair to things like sun, heat, or salt water? All of these things can lead to split ends, dryness, dullness, and rough texture—the trademarks of damaged hair.
If you're like me, and you're on a journey of treating and reversing hair damage, you'll need to know what products and ingredients will benefit your hair the most. In other words, you'll need to know whether it needs protein or moisture. You see, protein and moisture are the two most critical components of healthy, shiny, expensive-looking hair, so when one (or both) is thrown out of balance, you see dreaded signs of damage appear. Ahead, learn how to tell if your hair needs protein or moisture. Then, see the best protein- and moisture-rich products to use.
The Basics of Protein and Moisture
Helen Reavey is a celebrity trichologist, hairstylist, and the founder of the scalp-care brand Act+Acre. She says to think of moisture and protein as the foundation of healthy, resilient hair—"one without the other leads to imbalance." Celebrity hairstylist Joey Scandizzo agrees, saying, "Your hair needs both moisture and protein so it can remain healthy and strong."
Both protein and moisture play specific roles in the hair strand. The former gives it strength and volume, whereas the latter gives it shine, softness, smoothness, and elasticity. Take it from Reavey, who says, "Protein strengthens the hair shaft by reinforcing its structure," she says. "Moisture keeps the hair soft, flexible, and smooth."
As Scandizzo puts it, "These two ingredients work together to restore moisture and infuse protein, hydrating, repairing, and strengthening your hair for a healthier appearance and texture."
How to Tell Which One Your Hair Needs
It's easy to say that your hair needs both protein and moisture, but what if you notice damage and you can't tell which one it's lacking? Luckily, the pros have some tips for figuring it out before you spend time and money purchasing a damage-reversing hair product. Start by analyzing how your hair looks and behaves. The experts say there are signs to look out for. See some of the most common ones below.
Your hair is most likely lacking protein if you see…
