How To Increase Keratin In Hair Naturally?
Discover natural ways to boost keratin in your hair for stronger, shinier locks. Learn about the best foods, hair care tips, and lifestyle changes to enhance hair health.
Written by Dr.Sonia Bhatt
Last updated on 29th May, 2025
Introduction
Healthy, strong, and shiny hair is something we all desire. Keratin, a natural protein found in our hair, plays a crucial role in maintaining its strength, elasticity, and overall health. When keratin levels drop, hair can become weak, brittle, and prone to breakage. But you can boost keratin production naturally with the right diet, hair care routine, and lifestyle changes.
What Is Keratin and Why Is It Important for Hair?
Keratin is a fibrous protein that makes up the structure of your hair, skin, and nails. It acts as a protective shield, keeping your hair strong and resistant to damage from heat, pollution, and chemicals. When keratin levels are low, hair may become:
Dry and frizzy
Prone to split ends
Weak and easily breakable
Dull and lifeless
Signs of Keratin Deficiency in Hair
If your hair lacks keratin, you may notice:
Excessive hair fall
Slow hair growth
Rough and brittle texture
Lack of shine and smoothness
Consult Top Doctors for Your Symptoms
How to Increase Keratin Naturally
Here are practical ways to increase keratin levels through everyday habits:
1. Eat a Keratin-Boosting Diet
Since keratin is a protein, consuming foods rich in protein and essential nutrients can help boost its production. Include these foods in your diet:
Protein-rich foods: Eggs, chicken, fish, lean meats, lentils, and beans help build strong hair strands.
Biotin sources: Nuts (almonds, walnuts), seeds (sunflower, flaxseeds), and whole grains boost keratin production.
Vitamins A & C: Carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, oranges, and berries support collagen formation for hair strength.
Zinc & Iron: Oysters, pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, and leafy greens support hair growth.
Healthy fats: Avocados, olive oil, and fatty fish keep hair nourished and moisturised.
2. Use Keratin-Friendly Hair Care Products
Avoid shampoos with harsh sulphates and parabens, as they strip natural oils and weaken hair. Instead, opt for:
Sulphate-free shampoos
Protein-rich conditioners (containing hydrolysed keratin or silk protein)
Natural oils (coconut, argan, or almond oil for deep conditioning)
3. Try DIY Keratin Hair Masks
Natural ingredients can help strengthen hair by boosting keratin production:
Egg & Yoghurt Mask
Mix 1 egg with 2 tbsp yoghurt and 1 tbsp honey. Apply to hair, leave for 30 minutes, then rinse.
Avocado & Olive Oil Mask
Combine 1 mashed avocado with 2 tbsp olive oil. Massage into hair, leave for 20 minutes, then wash off.
Banana & Coconut Milk Mask
Add 1 ripe banana to ½ cup coconut milk. Blend, apply, and rinse after 30 minutes.
4. Reduce Heat and Chemical Damage
Excessive use of heat styling tools (straighteners, curlers) and chemical treatments (colouring, perms) can damage keratin. To protect your hair:
Use a heat protectant spray before styling.
Limit the use of hot tools.
Opt for natural hair treatments instead of harsh chemicals.
5. Stay Hydrated
Water helps maintain hair elasticity and prevents dryness. Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily to keep your hair hydrated from within.
6. Manage Stress
Stress can lead to hair thinning and loss by disrupting keratin production. Practice relaxation techniques like:
Yoga
Meditation
Deep breathing exercises
7. Get Enough Sleep
Sleep is essential for cell repair, including hair follicles. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep to support keratin production.
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience severe hair loss, extreme dryness, or scalp issues despite following these tips, consult a dermatologist. They can check for underlying conditions like hormonal imbalances or nutrient deficiencies.
Final Thoughts
Boosting keratin naturally requires a combination of a healthy diet, proper hair care, and a balanced lifestyle. By making small changes, you can strengthen your hair, reduce breakage, and achieve shinier, healthier locks.
If you're struggling with persistent hair problems, consider booking a consultation with a dermatologist on Apollo 24|7 for personalised advice and treatment options.
Consult Top Dermatologists
Consult Top Doctors for Your Symptoms
Dr Usha B K
Dermatologist
4 Years • MBBS,MD (Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy), DNB (Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy), Fellowship in Trichology
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Virtual Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
Dr Ridhima Lakhani
Dermatologist
10 Years • MBBS, MD, DNB
New Delhi
Apollo 24|7 Virtual Clinic - Delhi, New Delhi
Dr Ritika Shanmugam
Dermatologist
9 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology, venereology, Leprosy)
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Virtual Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
Dr. Kavitha Killaparthy
Dermatologist
23 Years • MBBS,DIPLOMA(DERMATOLOGY,VENEREOLOGY,LEPROSY)
Hyderabad
JDS Skin & Hair Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Jyotirmay Bharti
Dermatologist
15 Years • MBBS, DDV
Gurugram
SQUARE ROOTS- HAIR, SKIN AND LASER CLINIC, Gurugram
Consult Top Dermatologists
Dr Usha B K
Dermatologist
4 Years • MBBS,MD (Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy), DNB (Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy), Fellowship in Trichology
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Virtual Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
Dr Ridhima Lakhani
Dermatologist
10 Years • MBBS, MD, DNB
New Delhi
Apollo 24|7 Virtual Clinic - Delhi, New Delhi
Dr Ritika Shanmugam
Dermatologist
9 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology, venereology, Leprosy)
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Virtual Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
Dr. Kavitha Killaparthy
Dermatologist
23 Years • MBBS,DIPLOMA(DERMATOLOGY,VENEREOLOGY,LEPROSY)
Hyderabad
JDS Skin & Hair Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Jyotirmay Bharti
Dermatologist
15 Years • MBBS, DDV
Gurugram
SQUARE ROOTS- HAIR, SKIN AND LASER CLINIC, Gurugram
