Proteins are building blocks of hair, skin and nails. More than 80% of our hair is composed of keratin (which is a protein). “A protein-rich diet can make your hair strong , long and healthy. About 100-150 mg of protein intake in a day is necessary. Without sufficient protein intake, hair can become brittle. In addition to proteins, vitamins and minerals like iron, vitamin A and Vitamin H, are also essential. Your hair needs a balance of protein, minerals and moisture to amplify your beauty,” says Dr Apratim Goel, dermatologist and laser surgeon Director, Cutis skin studio, Mumbai. She tells you the importance of proteins.
Sources of dietary protein: Fish, eggs, lean meats, red meat, poultry and cheese. Beans, lentils (dals) , nuts, dry fruits, tofu, and pulses are ‘secondary proteins’ or ‘plant proteins’ – they don’t contain the same amount of essential amino acids as animal proteins, and not absorbed easily.
External protein treatments for hair: There are many challenges that we face daily like pollutants, smoking, dirt, harsh chemicals, and even hard water. Keeping that balance in check needs assistance and hence many hair products that contain moisture as well as proteins and nutrients help us to overcome these challenges and maintain our crowning glory.
- Protein shampoos and conditioners: Many body building shampoos as well as volume enhancing shampoos and conditioning masks contain keratin along with cellulose and other additives that make hair thicker and fuller. It also strengthens hair and makes hair more voluminous.
- Serums: Hair serums and leave on conditioners are liquid preparations meant to apply and leave on to tackle the frizzy hair and also for hair shine. These serums contain essential oils and proteins like hydrolysed keratin as well as other ingredients like silicon, methicone, silk proteins, wheat proteins etc. However, avoid using heavy serums before styling the hair as it can cause hair to burn as well as appear thin and limp.
- Silk protein: It is (obtained from silk which in itself is obtained from an insect larva) helps to improve the shine of the hair while also adding to the hairs elasticity to prevent breakage. It helps strengthen the hair and helps to fill in the gaps between the damaged hair cuticles to make the hair more resistant to breakage.