Maintaining hair health and providing your locks with the nutrients they need can sometimes be challenging. However, there are many beneficial ingredients for your hair and scalp that you can look for when scanning product labels. Some of these ingredients include jojoba oil, tea tree oil, silk proteins, and this article will delve more specifically into the importance of keratin and how sources that contain keratin can benefit your hair.
What is Keratin?
Keratin is made up of multiple structural proteins and is found in our hair, skin, and nails. The word “keratin” comes from the Greek word “Keras” which translates to horn. Keratin is a strong and resilient component in both humans and animals that serve as a protective barrier against external factors. Hair is made up of about 88% Keratin so when someone is keratin deficient, they will more than likely experience a decrease in hair, skin and nail health.
Where is Keratin found?
Food: Keratin can be obtained from outside sources such as food. When searching for keratin-rich foods look for items that are high in vitamin C as well as foods that contain biotin. Foods with biotin aid in protein metabolism which provides a foundation for keratin. Additionally, whole grains and lean protein are other good food sources for improving the keratin in your hair skin and nails.
Topical Products: Similarly to Biotin, keratin is naturally produced within the body, can be found in food, as well as in topical products. Hydrolyzed keratin is very popular among over the counter topical treatments such as shampoos and conditioners, nail treatments, as well as lotions.
Benefits of Hydrolyzed Keratin
When keratin is hydrolyzed (broken down into smaller components) and placed in hair treatments, it actually creates a protective barrier on the hair while simultaneously imparting shine. Hydrolyzed keratin has also been shown to replenish the hair and skin with moisture while also improving the skin’s elasticity. As a result of its moisturizing properties, shampoos and conditioners containing hydrolyzed keratin are a favorable option for those with limp, dry and brittle hair. Shampoos and conditioners with hydrolyzed keratin are also great for making unruly hair more manageable.
Tags: keratin, keratin for hair growth, keratin for hair loss