What Is Keratin Protein? And Why Toppik Fibers Use It

Quick answer: Keratin is a tough, fibrous structural protein that makes up most of your hair, nails and the outer layer of your skin. Toppik hair fibers are made from coloured keratin, so they look and feel like real hair when they cling to thinning strands.

What Is Keratin Protein?

Keratin is a family of structural proteins built from long chains of amino acids, rich in cysteine. These chains twist together and form strong bonds, which gives hair its strength and flexibility. Each hair strand is mostly keratin, protected by an outer layer called the cuticle.

Why Does Hair Lose Strength?

Heat styling, harsh chemicals, sun exposure and everyday wear can damage the cuticle and the keratin underneath. Damaged hair looks thinner and breaks more easily. Thinning caused by genetics, hormones or health conditions is different: it comes from the follicle, not the keratin in the strand, and needs advice from a dermatologist.

How Keratin Is Used in Toppik Hair Fibers

• Looks like real hair: because the fibers are made of the same protein as hair, they reflect light naturally instead of looking like powder.
• Clings with static: the fibers carry a light static charge, so they wrap around existing hairs and stay in place.
• Washes out cleanly: the fibers sit on top of your hair and rinse out with shampoo.

See how to apply them in our Toppik application guide.

Keratin Fibers vs Keratin Treatments

A keratin salon treatment is a smoothing process applied to the hair to reduce frizz. Keratin hair fibers such as Toppik are a cosmetic concealer: they add the look of density for the day and wash out. They do different jobs and can be used together.

Are Keratin Hair Fibers Safe?

Keratin fibers sit on the hair surface and do not block pores, so they are suitable for daily use. As with any cosmetic, try a small amount first if your scalp is sensitive. Our Toppik fibers were tested by PCSIR Lahore; see the PCSIR lab test report.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is keratin protein?

Keratin is a fibrous structural protein that makes up hair, nails and the outer layer of skin. It gives hair its strength.

Is Toppik made of keratin?

Yes. Toppik hair building fibers are made from coloured keratin, the same protein as natural hair.

Does keratin in Toppik make hair grow?

No. The keratin in Toppik is cosmetic. It covers thinning areas but does not change hair growth.

Is a keratin treatment the same as keratin hair fibers?

No. A keratin treatment smooths hair at a salon; keratin fibers like Toppik make thin hair look fuller and wash out with shampoo.

Related Toppik Guides

• How to use Toppik hair fibers
• Is Toppik bad for your hair?
• Is Toppik effective?
• PCSIR lab test report