People with curly hair often need to be extra careful about their products, and protein-rich products have become the bane of many curlies’ existence. Finding the right protein-free shampoos and conditioners for curly hair can be tedious, but we break it down in this post.
Protein free shampoos and conditioners are necessary for curly hair that is sensitive to protein or has low porosity. Excessive protein that isn’t needed can make hair strands rigid and dry, potentially causing damage. Switching to protein-free shampoos and conditioners can reduce hair damage and restore moisture.
You don’t have to worry about spending hours scouring through products—we already did that, so you don’t have to.
This post will discuss protein-free products, examples of some good options to try, and how to recognize proteins in hair care products so you know what to avoid.
Protein-Free Hair Products and Curly Hair
You might want to use protein-free hair products on your curly hair, like if you have protein-sensitive hair or you want to prevent protein overload. Protein sensitivity is common with curly hair types because many curly textures have low porosity.
Low porosity strands, which are already high in keratin within their structure, make them resistant to moisture absorption.
Adding more protein, often unwanted, can lead to brittle, stiff, and straw-like hair, increasing the risk of breakage and hair loss. Read more on proteins for low-porosity hair in my blog titled, “Best Proteins for Low Porosity Hair.”
If your curls are protein-sensitive, avoid protein products or use them sparingly. Too many protein products, the wrong type for your hair, using them at the wrong time, or leaving them in your hair for long periods can all cause protein overload (discussed later).
Proteins are not bad, and your hair does need some to stay healthy, but too much of anything is never a good thing – as they say. Protein-free products are also ideal for people with sensitivities or allergies to proteins.
Protein Free Shampoos
Shampoo is one of the most used hair products that anyone with hair uses, curly or not. That means switching to protein-free shampoos is one of the best ways to reduce or omit adding extra protein to your strands.
For your ease of reference, we have provided the ingredient lists for each product. Nevertheless, it is important to know that these lists may be outdated. Therefore, we recommend referring to the information on the product bottle for the most accurate and current details. Also, make sure to check the size of the product as each site varies.
Here are our picks for the best protein-free shampoo:
As I Am Curl Clarity Shampoo
Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Powder, Phyllanthus Emblica Fruit Powder, Citrus Reticulata (Tangerine) Fruit Extract, Fragrance/Parfum, Citric Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Limonene.
Alikay Naturals Moisturizing Black Soap Shampoo
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice(Aloe Vera Juice,Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Kernel Oil, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Potash(Ashes of Plantain Skins, Cocoa Pods, Shea Tree Bark), Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Fragrance (Parfum), Botanical Blend Ingredients.
Aunt Jackie’s Curls & Coils Oh So Clean!
Ingredients: Aqua, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Cocamide MEA, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycol Stearate, Glycerin, Parfum, Sodium Chloride, Polyquaternium-7, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter, Olea Europaea Fruit Oil, Tetrasodium EDTA, Magnesium Nitrate, Sodium Benzoate, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Magnesium Chloride, Methylisothiazolinone, Citric Acid, d-Limonene, Hexyl Cinnamal, Linalool, Amyl Cinnamal, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Yellow 6 (CI 15985), Yellow 10 (CI 47005).
Curl Junkie Curl Assurance Gentle Cleansing Shampoo
Ingredients: WATER/AQUA/EAU, DECYL GLUCOSIDE, COCAMIDOPROPYL BETAINE, GLYCERIN, SODIUM LAURYL GLUCOSE CARBOXYLATE, LAURYL GLUCOSIDE**, HYDROXYETHYLCELLULOSE, BRASSICA ABYSSINICA (ABYSSINIAN) OIL, CAMELLIA SINENSIS (GREEN TEA) LEAF EXTRACT, XANTHAN GUM, TOCOPHERYL ACETATE, GUAR HYDROXYPROPYLTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE, SILK AMINO ACIDS, PHENOXYETHANOL, CAPRYLYL GLYCOL, TETRASODIUM EDTA, FRAGRANCE/PARFUM, *BENZYL BENZOATE, CITRIC ACID. *Fragrance Component.
CURLS Pure Curls Clarifying Shampoo
Ingredients: Purified Water, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Decyl Glucoside, Lauramide DEA, Peg-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Peg-10 Sorbitan Laurate, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Oil, Sodium Cocoyl Apple Amino, Lactic Acid, Chondrus Crispus (Carrageenan), Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) Fruit Extract, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Extract, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate, Sodium Chloride, Caramel.
EDEN BodyWorks Coconut Shea All Natural Moisture Shampoo
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Glycerin, Cetrimonium Chloride, Glycol Distearate, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Panthenol, PEG-50 Shea Butter, Polyquaternium-72, Polyquaternium-11, Fragrance (Parfum), PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Dehydroacetic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol.
Giovanni Smooth as Silk Shampoo
Ingredients: Aqua (Purified Water), Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Lauryl Glucoside, Decyl Glucoside, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Sodium Lauryl Glucose Carboxylate, Glycerin, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, *Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, *Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Leaf Extract, *Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Valencia Orange) Extract, *Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract, *Cymbopogon Schoenanthus (Lemongrass) Extract, *Echinacea Purpurea Extract, *Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract, *Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Extract, *Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, *Macrocystis Pyrifera (Sea Kelp) Extract, *Mangifera Indica (Mango) Extract, *Salix Alba (Willow Bark) Extract, Xanthan Gum, Glycol Distearate, Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5), Citric Acid, Polysorbate 20, Potassium Sorbate, Phenoxyethanol, Natural Fragrance. *USDA Certified Organic.
Giovanni Tea Tree Triple Threat Shampoo
Ingredients: Aqua (Purified Water), Sodium Coco-Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, *Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, *Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, *Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Menthol, Glycerin, *Eucalyptus Globulus (Eucalyptus) Leaf Oil, Lauryl Glucoside, *Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, *Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Sodium Lauryl Glucose Carboxylate, Decyl Glucoside, Polyquaternium-7, Polysorbate 20, Fragrance , *Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5), Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Potassium Sorbate, *Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, *Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Extract. *USDA Certified Organic.
Jessicurl Gentle Lather Shampoo
Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Decyl Polyglucose, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, C 12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, PEG 150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Panthenol, Diazolidinyl Urea, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate.
Kinky-Curly Come Clean Moisturizing Shampoo
Ingredients: Purified Water, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis / Organic Mandarin Orange Fruit, Organic Marigold Flower, Salix Alba / Organic White Willow Bark, Ascophyllum Nodosom / Organic Sea Kelp, C14-16 Olefin, Sulfonate And Cocamidopropyl Betaine (Coconut Derived), Phytic Acid, Citric Acid, Sea Salt, Phenoxyethanol, Natural Fragrance.
Mop Top Detox Shampoo
Ingredients: WATER, SODIUM C14-16 OLEFIN SULFONATE, COCAMIDOPROPYL BETAINE, COCAMIDE MEA, SODIUM PHYTATE, PANTHENOL (VITAMIN B5), ALLANTOIN, LINUM USITATISSIUM (LINSEED) SEED EXTRACT, VITIS VINIFERA (GRAPE) SEED EXTRACT, URTICA DIOICA (NETTLE) EXTRACT, GLYCERIN (VEGETABLE DERIVED), POLYSORBATE-20, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, POLYQUATERNIUM-10, GLUCOSE, PEG-120 METHYL GLUCOSE DIOLEATE, SODIUM HYDROXIDE, PHENOXYETHANOL, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN, CITRUS SENENSIS OIL, CITRUS LIMON OIL, CITRUS AURANTIFOLIA OIL, CITRUS PARADISI OIL.
MopTop Salon Gentle Shampoo
Ingredients: WATER, ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF EXTRACT, SODIUM METHYL COCOYL TAURATE, COCAMIDOPROPYL BETAINE, PEG-18 GLYCERYL OLEATE/COCOATE, GLYCERIN, GLYCOL STEARATE, HYDROXYPROPYLTRIMONIUM HONEY, SILK AMINO ACIDS, HYDROLYZED WHEAT PROTEIN, HYDROLYZED SOY PROTEIN, HYPNEA MUSCIFORMIS EXTRACT,GELLIDIELA ACEROSA EXTRACT, SARGASSUM FILIPENDULA EXTRACT, ROSMARINUS OFFICINALIS (ROSEMARY) LEAF EXTRACT, SALIX ALBA (WILLOW) BARK EXTRACT, URTICA DIOICA (NETTLE) EXTRACT, TOCOPHERYL ACETATE, PANTHENOL, SORBITOL, POLYQUATERNIUM-10, TETRASODIUM EDTA, PHENOXYETHANOL, CAPRYLYL GLYCOL, SORBIC ACID, SODIUM CHLORIDE, CITRIC ACID, FRAGRANCE.
TGIN Moisture Rich Sulfate Free Shampoo
Ingredients: Aqua (Purified Water) Infused With Phyllanthus Emblica Fruit (Amla) Extract, Vaccinium Myrtillus (Bilberry) Extract, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugar Cane) Extract, Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis(Orange) Fruit Extract, And Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Fruit, Disodium Cocoamphodipropionate, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Polysorbate 20, Cocamidopropyl Betaine (Derived From Coconut), Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Decyl Glucoside, Polyquaternium-10, Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Fragrance, Caprylyl Glycol, Edta Disodium, Panthenol (Pro Vitamin B5), Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E).
Uncle Funky’s Daughter Rich & Funky Moisturizing Cleanser
Ingredients: Water, Extracts of Comfrey, Rosemary, Horsetail, Willow Bark, Calendula, Kelp, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium C14-26 Olefin Sulfonate, Cocamide MEA, Polysorbate 20, Fragrance, Polyquaternium-10, PEG-55 Propylene Glycol Oleate, Cetrimonium Chloride, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, Annatto.
Righteous Roots Clarifying Shampoo
Ingredients: Purified Water, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Methyl Oleoyl Taurate, Lauryl Glucoside, Coco Glucoside, Polysorbate, PEG- Methyl Glucose Trioleate, Propanediol, Citrus Paradisi Grapefruit Peel Oil, Glycerin, Adansonia Digitata Oil, Baobab Oil, Camellia Oleifera Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima, Avocado Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia Tea Tree Leaf Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii Shea Butter, Panthenol, Allantoin, Mentha Piperita Peppermint Oil, Menthol, Urtica Dioica Nettle Root Extract, Phytic Acid, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Acrylamidopropyltrimonium Chloride, Acrylamide Copolymer, Annatto Extract, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol.
Protein Free Conditioners
Why would you want a protein free conditioner? Protein free conditioners are preferable for giving your hair optimal moisture without inundating your hair with too much protein.
So, if you have low porosity hair or are struggling with protein sensitivity, using a protein free conditioner could be the answer to your prayers. Trust me, your hair will thank you!
Protein free hair conditioners are also great for those who want to extend the time between washes, as they will help to keep your hair moisturized without causing protein overload.
There are a number of protein free conditioners on the market, here are our picks:
Alikay Naturals Caribbean Coconut Milk Conditioner
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice(Aloe Vera Juice), Cetearyl Alcohol(Coconut derived),Stearalkonium Chloride(Coconut derived,Vegetable Glycerin, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Milk Powder, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Oil, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Leaf Extract, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) Oil, Citric Acid, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Behentrimonium Methosulfate (Natural Detangling Agent), Fragrance (Parfum), Botanical Blend Ingredients.
As I Am Olive & Tea Tree Oil Conditioner
Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, Betaine, Glycerin, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Fragrance/Parfum, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Phytosterols, Polyquaternium-37, Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Extract, Piroctone Olamine, Quaternium-53, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Caprylic Acid, Quaternium-80, Polyquaternium-10, Propylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, Phenoxyethanol, Polyacrylamide, Caprylyl Glycol, Menthol, Propylene Glycol, PPG-1 Trideceth-6, Origanum Vulgare Leaf Extract, Citric Acid, Citronellol, Geraniol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Lilial, Linalool.
Bounce Curl Super Smooth Cream Conditioner
Ingredients: *Organic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, **Cetearyl Alcohol, **Hybrid Safflower Oil, **Glycerin, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, **Propanediol, Panthenol (Pro-vitamin B5), Polyquternium-10, *Nigella Sativa (Virgin Black Cumin) Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), **Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil, **Vanillin, Lactic Acid, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, **Anthemis Nobilis (Chamomile) Flower Extract, **Althaea Officinalis (Marshmallow) Root Extract, **Geranium Maculatum Oil, **Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, **Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, **Brassica Oleracea Italica (Broccoli) Seed Oil, **Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Extract, **Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Extract, **Pogostemon Cablin Oil, **Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail) Extract, **Caryocar Brasiliense (Pequi) Oil, **Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Oil, **Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Seed Oil, **Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, **Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Seed Oil, **Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, **Boswellia Carterii Oil, Caprylyl Glycol. *Certified Organic **Plant Derived 100% Oil Scent (no synthetic fragrance).
Bumble and Bumble Conditioner
Ingredients: Water, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Esters, Glycerin, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Behentrimonium Chloride, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Macadamia Integrifolia Seed Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Gardenia Tahitensis (Tiare) Flower Extract, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hydrolyzed Corn Starch, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein Pg-Propyl Silanetriol, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Hydrolyzed Wheat Starch, Dimethicone, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glyceryl Stearate Se, Panthenyl Ethyl Ether, Sodium Pca, Ethylhexylglycerin, Dimethiconol, Pantethine, Potassium Stearate, Sodium Chloride, Citric Acid, Bht, Fragrance, Linalool, Hexyl Cinnamal, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Disodium Edta, Phenoxyethanol.
Cantu TXTR Leave-In + Rinse Out Conditioner
Ingredients: Water, Cetearyl Alcohol, Canola Oil, Glycerin, Shea Butter, Dicetyldimonium Chloride, Behentrimonium Chloride, Myristyl Myristate, Quaternium-91, Polyquaternium-7, Spearmint Leaf Oil, Fragrance (Parfum), Phenoxyethanol,Ethylhexylglycerin, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Citric Acid.
Curl Junkie Curl Assurance Smoothing Conditioner
Ingredients: Water/Aqua, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Cetyl Alcohol, Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil, Butyropermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Fruit, Rosa Canina (Rosehip) fruit Oil, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Leaf Extract, Yucca Leaf Extract, Matricaria Recuitita (Chamomile) Flower Water, Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail) Leaf Extract, Melissa Officinalis (Melissa) Leaf Extract, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Leaf Extract, Triticum Vilgare (Wheat) Germ Oil, Cetyl Esters, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Polysorbate 60, Simmondsia Chinesis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Glycerin, Hydroethylcellulose, Tocopheryl Acetate, Phenoxyethanol, Capryly Glycol, Fragrance/Parfum, *Benzyl Benzoate, *Limonene. *Fragrance Components.
Curl Junkie Beauticurls Argan and Olive Oil Daily Hair Conditioner
Ingredients: Water/Aqua, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Cetyl Esters, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Virgin Coconut) Oil, Panthenol, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Yucca Leaf Extract, Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail) Leaf Extract, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Leaf Extract, Piperita (Peppermint) Leaf Extract, Melissa Officinalis (Melissa) Leaf Extract, Propylene Glycol, Diazolidinyl Urea, Iodopropylnyl Butylcarbamate, Fragrance/Parfum, *Benzyl Benzoate, Citric Acid. *Fragrance Component.
Giovanni 50:50 Balanced Hydrating/Calming Conditioner
Ingredients: Aqua (Purified Water), Cetyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Polysorbate 60, Phenoxyethanol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Hydroxypropyl Guar, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Panthenol, Cetrimonium Chloride, Citric Acid, Natural Fragrance, *Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, *Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, *Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract, *Betula Alba (Birch) Extract, *Malva Sylvestris (Mallow) Extract, *Achillea Millefolium Extract, *Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, *Equisetum Arvense Extract, *Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Extract, *Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, *Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Extract, *Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Extract, *Tussilago Farfara (Coltsfoot) Flower Extract, *Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Extrac. *USDA Certified Organic.
Giovanni Smooth as Silk Conditioner
Ingredients: Aqua (Purified Water), Cetyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol, *Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract, *Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Valencia Orange) Fruit Extract, *Mangifera Indica (Mango) Fruit Extract, *Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, *Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, *Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract, *Macrocystis Pyrifera (Sea Kelp) Extract, *Cymbopogon Schoenanthus (Lemongrass) Extract, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, *Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, *Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Phenoxyethanol, *Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Cetrimonium Bromide, Natural Fragrance, Ethylhexylglycerin. *USDA Certified Organic.
Giovanni Tea Tree Triple Threat Conditioner
Ingredients: Aqua (Purified Water), Cetyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol, *Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, *Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, *Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Menthol, *Eucalyptus Globulus (Eucalyptus) Leaf Oil, *Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, *Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Propanediol, *Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, *Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, *Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Extract, Fragrance, Phenoxyethanol, Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5), Cetrimonium Bromide, Ethylhexylglycerin. *USDA Certified Organic.
Mielle Organics Mongogo Oil Hydrating Conditioner
Ingredients: Water (Aqua, Eau), Cetearyl Alcohol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Ppg-3 Benzyl Ether Myristate, Behentrimonium Chloride, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, C10-40, Isoalkylamidopropyl-Ethyldimonium Ethosulfate, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Plukenetia Volubilis, (Sacha Inchi) Seed Oil, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Nut Oil, Schinziophyton Rautanenii (Mongongo) Kernel Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Fragrance (Parfum), Phenoxyethanol, Dipropylene Glycol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Panthenol, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Phyllanthus Emblica (Amla) Fruit Powder, Tocopheryl Acetate, Benzoic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glycereth-2 Cocoate, Disodium Edta, Citric Acid.
Mill Creek Tea Tree Conditioner
Ingredients: Deionized Water, *Organic Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, Polysorbate-60, Stearalkonium Chloride (Fiber Based Content), Argania Spinosa (Argan) Oil, Glycerin, *Organic Prunus Serotina (Wild Cherry) Bark Extract, *Organic Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, *Organic Hamaelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Leaf Extract, *Organic Hydrastis Canadensis (Goldenseal) Extract, *Organic Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Flower Extract, *Organic Humulus Lupulus (Hops) Extract, *Organic Equisetum Arvense (Field Horsetail) Extract, Biotin, Citric Acid, Hydrolyzed Keratin, Panthenol (Provitamin B5), Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Natural Fragrance.*Certified Organic Ingredients.
NaturAll Hydrating Avocado Conditioner
Ingredients: Water (Aqua, Eau), Brassicyl Isoleucinate Esylate, Brassica Alcohol, Diheptyl Succinate, Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer, Jojoba Esters, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax, Polyglycerin-3, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi) Fruit Juice, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Glyceryl Caprylate, Glycerin, Natural Fragrance (Parfum), Mangifera Indica (Mango) Seed Butter, Arginine, Panthenol, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glyceryl Stearate.
The Mane Choice Soft as Can Be 3-in-1 Conditioner
Ingredients: Aqua (Water, Eau), Cetearyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Parfum (Fragrance), Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Benzyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Propylene Glycol, Quaternium-80, Dehydroacetic Acid, Citric Acid, Glycerin, Tocopheryl Acetate, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Lonicera Japonica (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract, Biotin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Panthenol, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Extract, Equisetum Arvense Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Extract, Ulmus Fulva Bark Extract, Tussilago Farfara (Coltsfoot) Leaf Extract, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Althaea Officinalis Root Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate.
Righteous Roots 2-n-1 Conditioner
Ingredients: Purified Water, Cetyl Alcohol, Butyrospermum Parkii ( Shea) Butter, Behentrimonium Chloride, Stearyl Alcohol, Citrus Paradisi ( Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Cetrimonium Bromide, Simmondsia Chinensis ( Jojoba ) Seed Oil, Adansonia Digitata Oil ( Baobab Oil), Panthenol, Melaleuca Alternifolia ( Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Root Extract, Menthol, Mentha Piperita ( Peppermint) Oil, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol.
How to Identify Protein-Free Products
Proteins can be found in shampoos, conditioners, stylers, and treatments, and many products do not mention the protein on the front of the package. Knowing how to identify the proteins can be helpful.
The easiest and best approach to be sure you aren’t getting more protein than your hair requires is to read the ingredients on the product label. If protein is present, you know to look further until you find one without proteins.
On the ingredient list, you can see how much protein is in the product by looking at where it’s listed on the product label.
If there’s protein in the first 5 to 6 ingredients, that means the product has a lot of protein. If protein is listed further down the ingredient list, there’s less.
To identify protein ingredients in hair products, look for ingredients such as:
- Hydrolyzed collagen
- Keratin
- Hydrolyzed silk
- Hydrolyzed wheat
- Amino acids
- Peptides
- Rice
- Quinoa
- Soy
- Vegetable
- Hydrolyzed oats, oat flour
How to Identify Protein Overload in Your Hair
When your hair feels dry, brittle, straw-like, more tangly than usual, and breaking a lot, it might be a sign that you have protein build-up. If you want to test for protein overload, you can follow a simple strand test:
Here’s how you can do that:
- For the best results, start with a small section of clean, dry hair and stretch it out.
- If the hair strands stretches out and then snaps back into place, your hair has enough moisture.
- You may have protein overload if the hair doesn’t stretch or breaks before snapping back.
How to Eliminate Protein Build-Up in Your Hair
Try a clarifying shampoo or apple cider vinegar rinse if you have protein buildup. You may need this treatment more than once for excess build-up situations.
Follow up with a protein-free leave-in Conditioner or protein-free deep Conditioner to add moisture back into your hair.
Do Protein Hair Products Have Benefits?
Protein is essential for hair because it’s one of the main components of hair. Hydrolyzed proteins have been used in hair care products for years, and even small amounts can make a significant difference.
Benefits of Hydrolyzed Proteins:
- Adds support to hair.
- Slows water loss by forming a film over the hair.
- Keeps hair hydrated by penetrating below the cuticles.
- Protein temporarily repairs damage in hair by filling in the holes and gaps along the cuticle.
- It is used as a conditioning agent.
- It is also essential for strength and hydration.
- Helps reduce hair breakage.
How are Natural Ingredients and Natural Oils Beneficial in Protein free Shampoos and Conditioners?
Natural ingredients and natural oils in protein-free shampoos and conditioners offer various benefits, especially for hair that does not require or is sensitive to additional certain types of proteins. Here’s why they are beneficial:
- Moisture Retention: Many natural oils, such as coconut oil, olive oil, and jojoba oil, have excellent moisturizing properties. They can help to seal in moisture, making hair more pliable and less prone to breakage.
- Nutrient-rich: Natural ingredients often contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that nourish the scalp and hair. For instance, aloe vera contains vitamins A, C, and E, which can help to promote healthy hair growth and protect against damage.
- Scalp Health: Certain natural ingredients like tea tree oil possess antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can help maintain a healthy scalp environment, warding off dandruff, dry scalp, and other scalp conditions.
- Gentle Cleansing: Natural cleansers, such as saponified oils or soap nuts, can gently cleanse the hair without stripping it of its natural oils.
- Sebum Regulation: Some natural oils can mimic the natural sebum produced by the scalp. For instance, jojoba oil is structurally similar to human sebum, helping to balance oil production on the scalp.
- Shine and Luster: Natural oils can impart a natural shine to the hair. For example, argan oil, often referred to as ‘liquid gold,’ is renowned for giving hair a glossy look.
- Protective Barrier: Natural oils can form a protective barrier around the hair shaft, guarding against environmental aggressors like pollution, sun, and harsh weather.
- Fragrance without Chemicals: Essential oils, when used in hair products, provide natural and pleasant fragrances without the need for synthetic perfumes, which can be irritating to some individuals.
- Fewer Side Effects: Generally, natural ingredients and oils tend to have fewer side effects compared to synthetic ingredients, making them suitable for individuals with sensitive scalps or allergies.
- Sustainability: Using natural and sustainable ingredients in hair care products can be better for the environment, especially if they are sourced responsibly.
FAQs
Does Low Porosity Hair Need Protein?
Protein for low-porosity hair is not needed as much as other hair types because this hair type can absorb and retain moisture well, so protein treatments are not always necessary.
If you use proteins, aim for smaller types to fill empty spots within the hair fiber to repair and strengthen damage.
How Can I Add Protein to Low-Porosity Hair?
Use protein-rich treatments and products, but not in all your styling products at once. Try deep conditioning with a protein-rich conditioner or deep conditioner.
This will add protein to your hair, help temporarily fill in the gaps in your hair’s cuticle, and give your hair some extra strength.
What Should I do if I have Protein Overload?
You must cut back on the number of protein-rich products you use. You should also cleanse your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any build-up.
