The Benefits of Wheat Protein on Low Porosity Hair
May 6, 2022
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Low Porosity Hair has a hard time retaining moisture
Wheat protein, a protein derived from wheat germ is a popular ingredient in the personal care/beauty industry. In beauty products, wheat protein is most effective when broken down into smaller proteins. When this is the case, it is referred to as hydrolyzed wheat protein. Wheat protein is added into hair products due to its ability to improve the overall health, look and feel of hair. It provides multiple benefits that are great for all hair types but is particularly beneficial for low porosity hair types.
Low porosity hair has a tight outer cuticle layer which makes it difficult for moisture and other particles to get inside the strand. Most protein molecules are too large to get inside low porosity hair strands. This can lead to product buildup on the strand and protein overload of low porosity hair. Because of the small particle size of hydrolyzed wheat protein, it is able to penetrate the hair shaft where other proteins would not. This allows wheat protein to strengthen and reinforce the hair strand from within.
Wheat protein also has the ability to attract water molecules, thereby adding moisture to hair. Moisture increases the volume and fullness of hair for an overall healthier appearance. The combination of hydration and strengthening is exactly what low porosity hair needs to maintain health and for those with natural and or curly hair, the combination of moisture and protein provided by wheat protein can cut down on the number of products needed to treat the hair and keep it healthy, moisturized, and strong.
Hydrolyzed wheat protein:
Reduces breakage – breakage has many causes, two of which are dryness and weakness. Wheat protein corrects both of these causes of breakage by providing hydration and repairing weakened hair by reinforcing the protein structure. Hair that is properly moisturized and strong, is elastic, and can be styled and manipulated without causing breakage.
Attracts moisture – hydrolyzed wheat protein has the ability to pass through the hair cuticle and hydrate the hair shaft by binding with water molecules and holding the moisture within the hair strand. It is beneficial to use wheat protein with products such as deep conditioners to maximize the hydrating benefits of the products.
Improves overall hair health – hair looks its best when it is moisturized, strong and shiny. In addition to boosting the shine and preventing breakage, wheat protein also helps retain moisture in the hair. While wheat protein does not directly impact hair growth, by preventing breakage it does help to retain length so that hair is able to become longer.
Wheat protein is beneficial for all hair types. Its small size makes it great for low porosity hair, but its benefits extend to all hair types. It is particularly beneficial for those with curly hair, as it may help to support curl strength and shape. Although hydrolyzed wheat protein is applied topically to hair, people with gluten or wheat allergies or sensitivities should avoid it. Wheat protein should only be used once every 4-6 weeks or so and never in combination with other proteins since this can lead to protein overload and dry, brittle hair. Low porosity hair in particular is particularly sensitive to excessive protein. Be sure to follow the directions on product packaging since the concentration of wheat protein varies from product to product.