Protein: Can You Have Too Much of a Good Thing? June 20, 2025 09:12

Can You Have Too Much of a Good Thing?

(Yes — Especially When It Comes to Protein and Hair)

We’ve all heard that protein is good for damaged hair — and it is. But like red wine, retinol, and reality TV, it’s best enjoyed in moderation. Because yes, protein overload is a real thing, and if your hair has ever gone from silky to straw-like after a ‘repair’ treatment, you’ll know exactly what we’re talking about.

We had a chat with Salon Owner Jennifer Morgan to get the low down on hair condition and what we need...

Let’s break it down.

Wait, isn’t protein supposed to help damaged hair?
Yes — to a point. Hair is made primarily of keratin, a tough but flexible protein that gives each strand its structure. Colouring, bleaching, heat styling, and chemical services all chip away at this structure, so it makes sense that protein treatments are often recommended to strengthen and rebuild.

But here’s where it gets tricky: while a little protein can repair and reinforce, too much protein can do the opposite. Instead of flexible and strong, hair becomes rigid, dry, and prone to breakage. Imagine a twig that bends versus one that snaps — that's the difference between balanced and overloaded.

The (very light) science
Protein treatments usually contain hydrolysed proteins — these work by temporarily patching up the cracks in damaged strands, making them feel stronger and smoother.

But if you keep layering protein on top of protein (especially without enough moisture), your hair becomes stiff, brittle, and resistant to hydration. Essentially, you’ve created a hard little protein shell around your hair… and guess what? Shells crack.

How do you know if your hair has too much protein?
Here are the tell-tale signs:

Hair feels stiff, crunchy, or like dry hay
It snaps easily when brushing or styling
It’s dull and doesn’t hold a wave or style
Products that usually work just... don’t anymore
How does this happen?
Most often, it’s one (or more) of these:

Using protein-rich masks, leave-ins, or shampoos too often
Layering multiple protein-heavy products at once
Using protein when your hair doesn’t actually need it (looking at you, fine-haired friends)
Forgetting to balance with proper hydration
So what should you do?
Stop using the protein products for now.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate — deep conditioning masks, nourishing oils, and leave-in moisture sprays are your best friends.
Once your hair is feeling soft and flexible again, reintroduce protein sparingly — maybe once every few weeks if your hair is coloured or chemically treated.

Protein vs Moisture – What’s Your Hair Really Craving?

Here’s a quick cheat sheet.

Your Hair Might Need PROTEIN If:
You’ve coloured, lightened, or chemically treated it
It feels stretchy, weak, or mushy when wet
You’ve been heat styling more than usual
It’s limp, flat, or feels like overcooked noodles
There’s more shedding than usual
Try: A protein-rich mask or a strengthening treatment — but just once every few weeks unless we’ve recommended otherwise.

Your Hair Might Need MOISTURE If:
It feels dry, rough, or brittle
You’ve got frizz and flyaways that won’t quit
It breaks when brushing or styling
It’s dull or lifeless
You’ve been in the sun, sea, or chlorine
Try: A hydrating mask, steam treatment, or leave-in conditioner — weekly or even daily in small doses.

So… How Do You Know What Your Hair Needs More Of?

Here’s our insider method. Add up the points to see whether your hair is crying out for protein, moisture, or a bit of both.

Protein Needs (Strength)
Hair is 70–80% protein
Score 1 point for each of these:

Permanent colour
Demi colour
Highlights or bleach
Permanent straightening
Perms
Fine hair (naturally protein-poor)

Moisture Needs (Softness)
Hair is 12–15% moisture
Score 1 point for each of these:

Blow-drying
Hot tools (straighteners, curling irons)
30%+ grey
Air conditioning
Environmental exposure (sun, wind, salty air)
Natural curl or coarse hair (which tends to be dry)


Example:
Fine hair with foils + daily blow-drying =
2 points protein
1 point moisture

You’ll need a bit more strengthening than hydrating in your home care routine.

The Bottom Line? It’s All About Balance

Too much protein makes hair brittle. Too much moisture makes it floppy. Healthy hair needs a perfect mix of strength and softness — and we’re here to help you find it.

To find out what your hair needs book in for a FREE consultation with any of our team

Book online at morganandmorgan.co.nz or call us on 09 489 1913.