The Benefits of Milk Protein in Hair

Your hair is made of proteins, which are necessary for tissue growth and repair. There are two types of protein in milk, casein and whey, and both can benefit your hair. A diet low in protein may cause hair to thin or go into a dormant stage and stop growing. Healthy hair is the direct result of a healthy body, and a nutritious diet that includes milk protein may result in thick, shiny hair. Choose organic sources of both whey and casein or products specifically labeled "No added growth hormones" since extra growth hormones may contribute to hair loss.

Whey, a byproduct of cheese-making, has been used to prevent hair loss, strengthen hair and help it grow faster. Often sold as a nutritional supplement for weight gain and to create muscle mass, the external use of liquid whey can stimulate hair follicles. Mix one egg yolk, honey and liquid whey to form a paste. Massage the mixture into your scalp, and wrap a warm towel around your head to help the protein penetrate your scalp. Wait 20 minutes, then rinse with warm water for shiny healthy hair.

Casein contains a large amount of the amino acid glutamine -- it's actually 20 percent glutamine, one of the 22 different amino acids that form the building blocks of all protein. Glutamine has been shown to stimulate the hair follicle growth cycle and is especially useful in growing hair, according to a report by the Society of Investigative Dermatology.

Healthy hair requires protein and carbs, making milk proteins useful for healthy hair growth. Dairy products containing the proteins casein and whey also have naturally occurring sugar, known as lactose. Most other animal sources of protein such as meat, fish and eggs do not contain carbohydrates. Your body requires both protein and carbs to grow strong, healthy, shiny hair, notes U.S. News and World Report.