KNOW THE DIFFERENCE: Protein and Moisturizing Conditioners

For those looking to add strength and moisture to their hair, deep conditioning on a consistent basis is key.

Pictured below are two various conditioning products (which are both great, by the way). One moisturizes, while the other provides protein.

Here’s a segment explaining the difference:

ORS Replenishing Conditioner - A PROTEIN CONDITIONER

Protein conditioners help to make the hair stronger…You normally need to follow up treatments with a moisturizing conditioner. If you use too much protein on your hair, it will feel hard and brittle, and could eventually break off.

Protein Based Conditioners (Light/Medium) - For limp, lifeless, thinning and overly elastic hair. For best results, use a light protein conditioner weekly until hair regains strength and body.

For hair that is not experiencing significant thinning or inelasticity but needs a little extra strength, alternate between deep conditioning with a moisture based conditioner and light protein based conditioner each week.

Mizani Moisturefuse

Moisturizing conditioners are water-based and essential for natural hair in restoring softeness and moisture. They help to make the hair soft and retain elasticity, which aids in decreasing hair breakage…Using moisturizing conditioners too often can cause the hair to feel weak and limp.

Moisture Based Deep Conditioners - For dry, dull, brittle and breaking hair. For best results, use weekly under heat.

For hair that is not experiencing significant breakage or dryness but needs a little boost in moisture, alternate between deep conditioning with a moisture based conditioner and light protein based conditioner each week.

On the whole, it’s usually good to do protein treatments occasionally vs. moisturizing products which are normally used daily. A protein treatment once every 2 weeks (or once a month) should do your hair justice and give balance. However, one should always pay attention to their hair “signals.” You’ll know when enough is enough with either conditioning product. Only your hair can tell.

Homemade Conditioner Recipe

Natural Conditioner

1 egg yolk

1/2 tsp olive oil

3/4 cup lukewarm water

Beat the egg yolk until it's thick and white. Add the oil and mix well. Then add the water into the egg mixture and mix well.  Massage into clean, damp hair. Rinse with plenty of warm water after about 10 minutes.

Protein-Rich, Nourishing Conditioner

1 egg white

5 tbsp plain yogurt

Beat the egg white until foamy. Gently fold in the plain yogurt. Apply to your hair and let it soak in for 10 – 15 minutes. Rinse with plenty of warm water. Style as usual.

We recommend you clean your hair with (Natural Shampoo) before applying the conditioner.