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15 Best Protein Treatments For Natural Hair, According To Experts

 

Meet the key to stronger, shinier hair.

If your type-4 hair is feeling weak and brittle, chances are you need to introduce a protein treatment into your haircare routine. Why? Because protein treatments are your first line of defense against breakage and split ends, especially when you're working with already-dry hair (hi, 4a, 4b, and 4c). Protein treatments for hair help strengthen your coils by filling in any holes, gaps, and cracks along your damaged cuticle, leaving you with healthier, softer, and more resilient hair over time.

But before you run out and grab the first protein treatment you can find, it’s important to understand that (1) all protein treatments are not created equal, and (2) using them incorrectly can actually lead to more damage and breakage. So to save you from a game of trial-and-error, I spoke to two hair experts—hairstylists Debra Gomes and Leigh Hardges—to break down everything you need to know about using a protein treatment on your natural hair, plus the 15 best formulas for every coil and curl type to try right now.

Our top picks for best protein treatment for natural hair of 2023:

 

Now keep scrolling for the full list of the 15 best protein treatments for natural hair that’ll help get your hair back on track.

BEST STRENGTHENING PROTEIN TREATMENT FOR NATURAL HAIR
Verb Reset Repairing Hair Mask

Pros:

• Clean formula contains natural, plant-based ingredients

Cons:

• Some reviewers complain about the consistency

This protein treatment from Verb is one of Gomes's favorite picks—she says she uses it on herself and on her clients—since it's "packed with lots of nutrients, vitamins, and oils for your hair that help repair and replenish the damaged cuticle," she says. Leave it on damp, freshly washed hair for five to seven minutes and the formula's quinoa protein, green tea extract, and honey will work to hydrate and strengthen.

THE REVIEW: “Since bleaching my hair, I have used so many deep-treatment conditioners and this one is my favorite," reads a review. "It makes my hair feel so soft and silky.”

BEST PROTEIN TREATMENT FOR DRY, DAMAGED NATURAL HAIR
Briogeo Don't Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask

Pros:

• Can be used by all hair types and textures

Cons:

• On the pricey side

Another one of Gomes's go-tos (and a winner of our 2022 Readers' Choice Beauty Awards), this protein treatment will actually transform your dry, thirsty hair. The combo of rosehip oil, amino acids, biotin, and almond oil immediately moisturize your curls and strengthen your hair. “If your curls are lacking definition, adding consistent protein treatments to your routine will really help,” says Gomes.

THE REVIEW: "I’ve tried so many hair masks and this is the only one that I’ve ever truly been able to see a drastic difference in the moisture and strength of my hair," says a tester. "I have very dry ends, and it’s nearly impossible for me to keep them from getting frizzy or dried out, but this mask really helps.”

BEST SHINE-ENHANCING PROTEIN TREATMENT FOR NATURAL HAIR
Palmer's Coconut Oil Formula Moisture Boost Protein Pack

Cons:

• Single-use packaging is more wasteful than other types of packaging

Strength and shine are the name of the game with this protein treatment for natural hair. With hydrating ingredients (hi, coconut oil and vitamin E) and rich proteins (like hydrolyzed silk and keratin), this formula is a no-brainer for anyone wanting to restore their hair to a super shiny and soft state. It's v reasonable too: $21 scores you a pack of 12 masks.

THE REVIEW: "I've tried literally everything to help smooth my curls and enhance their shape and nothing worked until I came across this," reads a review. "I use this treatment and then dry my hair with a diffuser and the amount of shine and you can see is incredible."

BEST AFFORDABLE PROTEIN TREATMENT FOR NATURAL HAIR
Hask Keratin Protein Smoothing Deep Conditioner Packette

Pros:

• Most budget-friendly option on the list

Cons:

• Some reviewers had trouble storing the sachet in the shower after opening it

Don't feel like dropping a ton of $$ on your protein treatment? This mask is super affordable without sacrificing on quality, thanks to the formula's keratin, rice protein, coconut oil, and jojoba seed. Consider it a staple for anyone with weak, color-treated hair.

THE REVIEW: “My hair loves this conditioning mask and the smell is so divine," one tester's review reads. "I love that it's thick but not heavy—it rinses out well and doesn't leave hair heavy or with a residue.”

BEST PRE-POO PROTEIN TREATMENT FOR NATURAL HAIR
Curlsmith Bond Curl Rehab Salve

Pros:

• Testers say you get a lot of product for the price

Cons:

• Pre-pooing can be a time-intensive step

This pre-poo treatment is loaded with chia proteins to strengthen, sweet almond oil to hydrate, and a shit ton of superfoods (think: prickly pear, kale, guava, shiitake mushroom, and more) to rehab even the driest, most damaged of hair types. Leave it on your hair for 15 or 30 minutes before you go in with your usual cleanser and conditioner and you'll immediately get the hype.

THE REVIEW: “This has made such a significant difference in the look and feel of my curls," writes a reviewer, adding that "my frizz has been significantly reduced and my curls are much more defined." "I only have to use a small amount or product to get the desired look I want. I’m very happy," writes another reviewer.

BEST PROTEIN TREATMENT WITH BIOTIN AND CASTOR OIL
Tgin Miracle RepaiRx Curl Protein Reconstructor

Pros:

• Helps reduce frizz and flyaways

Cons:

• Jar-style packaging can be messy

Hydrating black castor oil and strengthening biotin come together in this protein mask to work wonders on dry, damaged hair. This formula is also a great pick for cutting down on product buildup and feels nice and soothing on the scalp (shout out jojoba and avocado oils). To get the most out of this bb, massage it through freshly washed hair, cover with a plastic cap, and let it sit for three mins before rinsing it out.

THE REVIEW: “This right here!!! My hair feels like butter after I use this,” writes one reviewer. “It's made my hair tremendously less frizzy without making it heavy or greasy in the process. Will definitely be purchasing again!”

BEST DETANGLING PROTEIN TREATMENT FOR NATURAL HAIR
Arvazallia Fortifying Protein Hair Mask

Pros:

• One of the more affordable options on the list

Cons:

• Some testers said it left their hair feeling clumpy

There's nothing like trying to run your fingers through your hair and getting caught halfway through. Not only is it awkward, but knots and tangles can also lead to major breakage. Fortunately, this protein treatment is packed with hydrolyzed wheat protein and argan oil to smooth out clumps, so you can finger-comb your hair in peace.

THE REVIEW: “This mask turned my damaged locks into soft, luscious, bouncy, well-hydrated hair. If your hair is processed, dry and brittle then I recommend that you give this conditioner a chance. You will not be disappointed.”

BEST LIGHTWEIGHT PROTEIN TREATMENT FOR NATURAL HAIR
Kiehl's Olive Fruit Oil Deeply Reparative Hair Mask

Pros:

• Has a lightweight texture and feels non-greasy on hair

Cons:

• Some reviewers said it wasn't nourishing enough for their dry hair

One reason this deep conditioner with protein is better than any relationship you've been in: You don't have to compromise. The formula is rich, but it won't leave behind a coating of grease on your natural hair. It's also mega-hydrating without weighing down your curls, courtesy of the formula's olive fruit and avocado oils. I mean, what's not to love?

THE REVIEW: “I have thick, curly hair and this is the best deep conditioner I have ever used," a reviewer writes. "It makes my hair healthy and soft and so easy to style too."

BEST PROTEIN TREATMENT NATURAL HAIR THAT'S COLOR-TREATED
Aphogee Two-step Treatment Protein for Damaged Hair
 

Pros:

• Helps repair bleached, over-processed hair

Cons:

• Some testers say the instructions were confusing to follow

This protein treatment for natural hair will legit breathe life back into your hair. Thanks to collagen proteins, this treatment strengthens and hydrates your hair, leaving it baby soft. Oh, and another plus? It’s sulfate-free so it won’t strip or fade your hair color.

THE REVIEW: "This product is a miracle!!!! After bleaching my hair my curls just completely disappeared :( One treatment later and I finally got them back!!!! 100 percent satisfied.”

BEST PROTEIN TREATMENT FOR FRIZZ AND FLYAWAYS
Mielle Organics Babassu Oil Mint Deep Conditioner

Pros:

• Works great on protective styles

Cons:

• Some testers say it's pricey for the amount of product you get

This protein treatment for natural hair will have you looking like you just stepped out of the salon. Lipids and babassu oil work to hydrate your hair from the inside out, leaving you with a silky-smooth finish—no unwanted frizz or flyaways included.

THE REVIEW: "I honestly love this deep conditioner for my 4a/4b hair, as it's the only one that provides amazing slip and leaves my hair extremely soft after just one use," writes one tester.

BEST PROTEIN TREATMENT FOR 4C HAIR
SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Masque

Pros:

• Thick, custard-like texture is super moisturizing

Cons:

• Can be easy to use too much product

Fact: 4C hair need a ton of moisture to be healthy and happy. Thankfully, this protein treatment for natural hair delivers with the help of Jamaican castor oil and shea butter. It’ll give your hair the moisture it needs without making it limp or greasy.

THE REVIEW: “I love this for my hair—it has made so much of a difference in just a short amount of time," writes one reviewer. "My hair doesn't break off like it used to and is extremely soft and elastic too."

BEST CRUELTY-FREE PROTEIN TREATMENT FOR NATURAL HAIR
Giovanni Nutrafix Hair Reconstructor

Pros:

• Reviewers love the scent

Cons:

• Some testers say they wish it gave their hair more slip

If your hair is in need of some major TLC (maybe after one too many dye jobs), this protein treatment is here for you. It infuses protein into dull curls, repairing even the most damaged of hair. And if you’re into using cruelty-free products, this treatment will fit right into your hair routine.

THE REVIEW: "I love this stuff," says a tester. "It's probably the best deep conditioner I've used for my type 4 hair—and it's animal-friendly too!"

BEST PROTEIN TREATMENT FOR TYPE 3 CURLS
Creme of Nature Argan Oil Intensive Conditioning Treatment

Pros:

• Helps define curls and give them extra shine

Cons:

• Can be hard to find in stock

If you have yet to experience the magic of argan oil, let me introduce you to this protein treatment for natural hair. The MVP ingredient deeply hydrates hair and will give your 3a or 3b curls a nice, soft shine without leaving behind any heavy grease.

THE REVIEW: "This is perfect for my 3a/b curls," one reviewer says. "It ticks all the boxes as it deeply conditions my dry hair and keeps my ends from breaking. I get compliments on my hair every time I use this.”

BEST SCALP-FRIENDLY PROTEIN TREATMENT
Tropic Isle Living Jamaican Black Castor Oil Protein Conditioner

Pros:

• Helps create a healthy environmental for optimal hair growth

Cons:

• Some testers said they didn't like the texture

Try this protein treatment if you want to strengthen your hair and soothe your scalp. Moisturizing avocado oil, grapeseed oil, and vitamin E repair damage and split ends, while Jamaican castor oil gives dry and flaky scalps a shot of hydration.

THE REVIEW: “This treatment has helped keep my scalp from drying out and my hair super soft too," says a tester, adding that "my ends did not need clipping as often as they used to so so I noticed extra length too.”

BEST BUDGET PROTEIN TREATMENT FOR NATURAL HAIR
Ors Olive Oil Strengthen & Nourish Replenishing Conditioner

Pros:

• Helps with detangling and makes styling easier

Cons:

• Some reviewers said it left some residue on their hair

A really, really good protein treatment for natural hair doesn’t have to come with an out-of-budget price tag. This olive and sweet orange oil treatment will bring life and bounce back into your curls for less than $10.

THE REVIEW: “I have fine, relaxed afro hair and have been struggling with damage but this seems to bring life back to my dry lifeless hair," writes one reviewer. "And you can't beat the price point."

What does a protein treatment do for natural hair?

Think of a protein treatments as intensive hair therapy—they’re filled with hydrating and strengthening ingredients (like hydrolyzed proteins, amino acids, and natural oils) that help temporarily fill in the cracks and gaps in your damaged hair cuticle so it's stronger and more resilient. With continued use, protein treatments can make hair become stronger and less vulnerable to splitting and snapping.

How can I tell my hair needs protein?

If you’re using moisturizing masks left and right to no avail, it’s time to up the ante. Hardges describes the feeling of hair that needs protein as “mushy when wet.” Additionally, if your hair easily snaps during combing and detangling, it may be time to introduce a protein treatment to your routine.

How often should I use a protein treatment?

“No more than once a month,” says Hardges. This is because too much protein can actually have the opposite effect on your hair. When protein starts to build up on the hair, it won’t allow for moisturizing and nourishing ingredients to penetrate the hair shaft; this can lead to dryness, brittleness and breakage.

What’s the difference between a protein and keratin treatment?

While keratin is a type of protein, a keratin treatment is one that’s offered in-salon and is more intense than the protein treatments that you use at home. Keratin treatments are meant to smooth the hair in a way that changes the texture, which cannot be done at home.

The in-salon keratin formulas also have much more than just protein in them and those chemicals are the ones that are responsible for the change in hair texture. You can find at-home keratin treatments (there’s one on this list, in fact), but they perform in the same way as the other at-home protein treatments, which just help to repair damage and strengthen strands.

How to choose a protein treatment for natural hair:

Hone in on your hair type

Some formulas will be way too heavy or way too light for certain hair types. For instance, 4A and up curls will need thicker, more moisturizing formulas while those on with more fine and wavy hair will want something lighter that won’t weigh hair down.

Pick your protein properly

Hardges recommends plant proteins for at-home use. In addition to plant protein, opt for a formula that also contains moisturizing agents, like oils and butters, too. Proteins and moisture go hand in hand, says Gomes, so you really want something that’s going to offer that two-pronged approach.

Remember, high price doesn't equal high quality

There are plenty of A+ protein treatments out there (many of them listed above) that come at price point that doesn't break the bank. Sometimes the simplest, least complicated formula is the one that your hair needs. So, don’t be fooled by the idea that more expensive is better, because that’s not always the case.

Meet the experts"

Debra Gomes is a hairstylist at Salon Du Jour in Providence, RI. Gomes specializes in curls and color.

Leigh Hardges is a natural hair expert and hairstylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago, IL.

 

Why trust Cosmopolitan?

Lisa DeSantis is a freelance writer who has been in the beauty industry for nearly ten years. She began her career in beauty and fashion at QVC and has since written for and contributed to top women's magazines and digital brands such as Health, Real Simple, Cosmopolitan, Motherly, Byrdie and more. She has tested thousands of products and considers herself a professional guinea pig who's always on the search for the next big trends in beauty, wellness, and beyond.