Keratin is a protein that makes up our hair, skin, and nails. Unfortunately, constant exposure to heat styling equipment and harsh chemicals can damage it. Hydrolyzed keratin is a compound that can reverse the damage done to hair. It is found in many hair care products and helps rejuvenate, strengthen, and moisturize the hair. In addition, this protein increases the smoothness of the hair. In this article, we try to understand what hydrolyzed keratin is, how it benefits the hair, and much more.
What Is Hydrolyzed Keratin?
Hydrolyzed keratin is extracted from the nails, wools, and horns of animals. It is a large protein molecule and is broken down or “hydrolyzed” into smaller molecules through enzymatic hydrolysis. The smaller or hydrolyzed molecules have lower molecular weight and penetrate the hair shafts and strengthen the hair structure. It has a similar amino acid structure as the keratin produced naturally in humans. It works similarly to a peptide or collagen treatment for the skin. Read on to know how beneficial hydrolyzed keratin can be for hair. Benefits Of Hydrolyzed Keratin Powder for Hair
Research shows that
Hydrolyzed Keratin Powder can repair and condition damaged hair. These protein hydrolysates strengthen hair fibers and reduce hair breakage. · Hydrolyzed Keratin Powder are often added to hair coloring products for even color absorption.
· Hydrolyzed Keratin Powder protects the hair from the damaging effects of permanent bleaching, waving, and straightening products.
· It improves the texture and natural structure of the hair and forms a protective coating to shield the strands.
· It boosts hair moisture and elasticity and protects it from heat and photo-damage.
· It retains water content in the cortex by bonding with residual amino acids produced by hair proteins.
· Research shows that hydrolyzed keratin can help stimulate hair growth.
· Protein hydrolysates protect the hair from chemical and environmental aggressors to prevent hair damage.
· It also helps seal hair cuticles. This minimizes frizz and prevents flyaway. The amino acids from hydrolyzed proteins neutralize the negative electrical charge on the hair to eliminate frizz and friction.
· Hydrolyzed keratin has a similar amino acid structure to that of natural human hair. It is known to improve the tensile strengthen of damaged hair.
Is Hydrolyzed Keratin Good for Curly Hair?
Yes. This is because curly and kinky hair is porous and brittle and has a weak hair structure. Hydrolyzed keratin can easily penetrate curly hair and improve its protein content to enhance hair strength and structure. It may help enhance curl definition, so it is often suggested to be used in DIY hair masks and products.
Curly hair is more prone to damage and dryness, and hydrolyzed keratin can help minimize these issues. Research shows that it makes curly hair more manageable and frizz-free. It also improves hair color and shine. Moreover, you can also try protein treatments for natural hair, which can also help restore strength and elasticity to your curls.
How To Use Hydrolyzed Keratin for Hair
1. Hydrolyzed Keratin Hair Products: You can find many hair care products like shampoos, conditioners, hair masks, and serums containing keratin hydrolysates. Use these products regularly for hair repair and to improve the hair texture and tensile strength.
2. DIY Hair Products: Add a concentration of 0.5-3% of hydrolyzed keratin to your regular shampoo, conditioner, or hair mask to condition and protect the hair.
3. Deep Conditioning Treatment: You can add 0.5-3% concentration of hydrolyzed keratin to any deep conditioning treatment. Apply the product, put on a shower cap, and leave the treatment on overnight. Wash it off in the morning.
4. Indulge In Salon Treatments: Take the help of a stylist when using hydrolyzed keratin treatments. A seasoned hairstylist will be able to apply it properly and assure you frizz-free, strong tresses.
Conclusion
Hydrolyzed keratin is good for hair because it promotes hair growth, repairs damage, and enhances the texture of the hair. It also improves hair hydration and elasticity while shielding it from high temperatures and photodamage. Damage and dryness are more common in curly hair, and hydrolyzed keratin can help alleviate these problems. It makes curly hair more manageable and frizz-free. It also boosts the color and sheen of your hair. However, use it with caution as it can trigger allergic reactions, and overuse can have the reverse reaction. Consult a doctor and perform a patch test before using hydrolyzed keratin.
References1. Feather keratin hydrolysates obtained from microbial keratinases: effect on hair fiber