Last month I put out a Youtube video called Protein & Moisture Balance | STOP THE BREAKAGE. In this video I explained what an imbalance of protein and an imbalance of moisture look like. I also explain how to handle either of these situations.
Once you get your hair balanced, you still have to do the work to maintain the balance. To do this I have developed a routine that is working well for me.
Regular Checking of Shed Hairs
Each wash day I tug on some of my shed hairs. I'm looking for the hair to give a little, then resist. Of course, if you pull on any single strand hard enough it WILL break. I just don't want it to stretch out and break weakly or to make a hard, brittle, snapping break.
Regular Light Protein Treatments
I use the ion Repair Solutions Reconstructor every 3 weeks to give my hair a shot of light protein. It is usually recommended to use these treatments every other week, but the ion can begin to make my hair feel out of balance when used that frequently.
See, this is where that regular strand testing comes into play.
Now, the formula of the ion Reconstructor that I use is the old one. So, I can also recommend using the ApHogee 2 Minute Reconstructor since I have used it in the past with success.
Hard Protein Treatments as Needed
I'm still waiting to see how long "as needed" can stretch. In October of 2015 I experienced a lot of breakage due to my hair being over-moisturized. I responded with the Nexxus Emergencee Reconstructive Treatment and haven't had to do it again!
These treatments should come out when your hair has gone so far out of balance that a "cute" reconstructor here and there is just not enough.
In the past I have also used ApHogee 2-Step Protein Treatment and Balanced Moisturizer. I don't prefer this treatment due to the mess and smell but IT WORKS!
Moisture Based Products
Learning how to read ingredients labels on products has been a Godsend for me. I make sure that my products have mostly moisturizing ingredients. If there is protein, I make sure that it is low on the ingredients list.
For learning about product ingredients, I recommend my post on identifying proteins and the book Hair Products 101: A 4-Step Process to Empower You to Select the Best Products for Your Hair by Chicoro.
I use all of the above to maintain hair that is balanced and retaining length. If you find that you are experiencing breakage and are unsure of the source, get your hair balanced first. Then, use these steps and treatments to keep your hair balanced.
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