Two Effective Protein Treatments For Relaxed Hair

When I first started my relaxed hair journey I was a big proponent of using protein treatments on my hair. I had specific weeks built into my relaxed hair regimen specifically protein wash days.

That changed after I gave my hair protein overload by giving it too much protein. Now that I am several years past that protein overload setback with my hair I’ve started integrating protein back into my hair regimen in two different ways.

aphogee's two protein treatment options lying on white background.
(This post includes affiliate links. Should you click an affiliate link and make a purchase I will make a small commission.)


One way I did that is by using shampoos, conditioners, and moisturizers that have protein ingredients. The other way is by using protein treatments. The two protein treatments I have used most consistently on my hair are the Aphogee Two Step Protein Treatment and the Aphogee Two Minute Intensive Keratin Reconstructor.


Why give relaxed hair protein

The main reason to give relaxed hair some protein is because it’s lacking protein due to natural or manipulated breakdown of the protein keratin in the hair strands.

This can be a result of the relaxer process or just daily manipulation of our hair from styling or washing it. Even environmental stressors like the sun and wind can contribute to the breakdown of the keratin in the hair.

When hair strands lack protein they can feel mushy or break off. Those are two key signs that you can consider pulling out and using a protein treatment.



About the Aphogee Two Step Protein Treatment

This is a salon-level hair treatment so it’s meant to be very effective and last longer. It claims to drastically reduce hair breakage for 4-6 weeks after it’s used.

This hair treatment has strong proteins that fuse to the hair with the application of heat. You can tell this is happening because the treatment hardens the hair so you have to be very careful with how you treatment.

The way I would apply the Aphogee Two Step Protein Treatment is by pouring some in a spray bottle and saturating my freshly washed hair with it. With my hair uncovered, I would sit under my hooded dryer until my hair hardened.

Now this is important, I would go straight to the shower to rinse my hair. I did not comb, brush, run my fingers through my hair, or even touch my hair other than to tell if it was hardened. The reason is my hair would break off because of how hardened it was.

It’s very important to use a moisturizing conditioner afterward to help balance out the protein given to the hair. Aphogee has a rinse-out balancing moisturizer that will sometimes be paired with the treatment in packette form or if you buy a bundle.

The Aphogee Two Step Protein Treatment is says it’s highly recommended for use on hair that
  • Is too weak or fine to take a perm, bleach, straightener, or relaxer. It’s recommended to use a week before the hair service
  • Is over-bleached.
  • Won’t hold color. It’s recommended to use before the color application for 30% less fade after 10 shampoos and truer shades
  • Breaks when combed or brushed
  • Is mushy when wet and brittle after drying
  • Has lost it’s curl pattern due to chemical over-processing

You can purchase this protein treatment at Sally Beauty and Amazon.



About the Aphogee Two Minute Intensive Keratin Reconstructor

This is a protein treatment that has a simpler process than the two step treatment because it’s only one step. It’s formulated to restore softness, elasticity, and strength in the hair with a blend of keratin amino acids, botanical oils, and vitamins.

Like the Two Step, it can be used on relaxed hair and is best suited for 
  • Repairing damage caused by chlorine and hard water
  • Treating hair that is brittle, has moderate damage and breakage
  • Helping to prevent breakage and split ends

When I use this reconstructor on my relaxed hair I apply it after shampooing my hair. I don’t need a spray or applicator bottle for this, I can just apply it with my hands like a conditioner.

After applying it I leave it on for two to five minutes. Then I follow up with a moisturizing deep conditioner.

I could apply heat to help it penetrate even more but that just takes extra work and I feel like the heat in the shower from the steam and hot water is a good substitute.

The Aphogee Two Minute Intensive Keratin Reconstructor can be purchased at Sally Beauty and Amazon.


The protein treatment I currently use

Right now I’m using the Aphogee Two Minute Intensive Keratin Reconstructor on my hair. I use it whenever my hair feels like it needs a burst of protein. I like that it’s a lighter protein treatment so I have more control over how much protein I’m giving my hair.

While I used the Aphogee Two Step as my protein treatment in the past I don’t feel like my hair needs that much protein anymore. I don’t want to cause protein overload again and end up doing more harm than good.


0 comments