
Beyond The Zone Protein Cocktail 8 oz
- Restores manageability to brittle hair
- Protects against split ends
- Doesn’t weigh hair down
- Conditions dry hair
- Instantly detangles
$20.59
As someone who loves to experiment with different hair care products, I’m always on the lookout for treatments that can help transform my locks. So when I first heard about Beyond The Zone Protein Cocktail, I was instantly intrigued. This nourishing treatment promises to strengthen, repair and protect hair that has been damaged from coloring, thermal styling, sun exposure and more.
But before purchasing this product, I wanted to really understand everything it could offer my hair. Were the results really that impressive? How exactly does it work to improve hair health? And is it worth the investment for someone like me who heat styles frequently? After lots of research, I feel ready to share everything I’ve learned in this comprehensive buying guide.
What is Beyond The Zone Protein Cocktail?
Beyond The Zone Protein Cocktail is a reparative hair treatment made by the brand Beyond The Zone, created by renowned stylist Martin Parsons. This leave-in treatment contains a blend of proteins, amino acids and botanical extracts that are formulated to penetrate the hair cortex and provide intensive nourishment.
The key ingredients that set this product apart are hydrolyzed wheat protein and hydrolyzed soy protein. These small proteins are able to temporarily fill in gaps and holes within the hair strand caused by damage. This helps strengthen the hair and prevent future breakage. The cocktail also contains moisturizing panthenol, antioxidant vitamin E and botanical extracts like aloe vera for additional replenishment.
How Can It Benefit Damaged Hair?
If you regularly use hot tools, color or chemically treat your hair, chances are you have some level of damage. This can cause dryness, frizz, split ends and breakage over time. Beyond The Zone Protein Cocktail is designed to target this damage and provide serious repair.
The hydrolyzed proteins in the formula create a protective coating around each strand to reinforce strength. This helps mend split ends and prevent further breakage. The proteins also attract and seal in moisture, combating dryness and improving manageability. Vitamin E and aloe vera provide additional antioxidants and hydration as well.
Users report seeing improved texture and shine after just one use. With continued application, Beyond The Zone Protein Cocktail can help restore hair’s health, leaving it looking and feeling stronger and softer. For those with severe damage, this treatment can be a real game-changer.
Using it as a Leave-In Treatment
One of the things that makes Beyond The Zone Protein Cocktail so convenient is that it is designed to be used as a leave-in treatment. There’s no need to rinse after applying – you simply work it through damp or dry hair and style as usual.
I like using it on towel-dried hair right after shampooing. The directions say to apply a quarter-size amount to mid-lengths and ends, then comb through evenly. I’ll often follow with my favorite styling products and heat protectant before blow drying or curling.
Leaving it in maximizes the effects of the proteins and nutrients. My hair feels noticeably softer, smoother and more hydrated this way. Just be careful not to overdo it, as too much product could make hair feel greasy. Start with a small amount and add more if needed.
Where to Buy It
Beyond The Zone Protein Cocktail is sold at beauty supply stores like Sally Beauty, Ulta and Amazon. The 8 oz bottle typically costs between $15-$20. They also offer a more economical 33.8 oz liter size for those who want to save on multiple bottles.
If you’re already familiar with Beyond The Zone styling products like their Noodle Head Curl Cream or Bada Bing Styling Gel, you may be able to find the Protein Cocktail at the same retailers. You can also buy directly from the brand’s website.
Just make sure to check the expiration date before purchasing. Since it contains natural extracts, the nutrients can degrade over time. I try to use mine within a year of opening for best potency.
How to Use for Best Results
To get the most out of Beyond The Zone Protein Cocktail, there are a few simple tips I’ve picked up:
- Always use on freshly cleansed hair – the proteins can better penetrate when there’s no product buildup.
- Apply it evenly from roots to ends – don’t just treat the damaged parts.
- Let it sit for a few minutes before styling – this allows it to soak in.
- Use it 1-2 times per week for maintenance – more often for severely damaged hair.
- Add heat when possible – this helps the ingredients absorb into the hair shaft.
- Focus on mid-lengths and ends if hair is fine – too much protein can cause limpness at the roots.
Following these steps, I’ve noticed a big improvement in the overall health of my hair. The key is consistency. Don’t just use it once a month – make it part of your regular routine for best results.
Using on Color-Treated Hair
As someone who likes to experiment with different hair colors, I was concerned that Beyond The Zone Protein Cocktail might fade or alter my dye. However, I was pleased to discover that it’s actually safe for color-treated hair when used properly.
The key is to avoid applying it right before coloring – protein can make hair more resistant, preventing the color from depositing evenly. Just make sure to use it a few days after coloring or touching up roots when the cuticle is sealed.
I’ve found the ingredients can actually help lock in vivid colors and provide extra protection against fading caused by washing and sun exposure. My hair definitely feels stronger and less prone to dryness after coloring.
Just keep in mind that everyone’s hair responds differently. If you notice any issues with color absorption after using the Protein Cocktail, try cutting back on the frequency. But in most cases, it shouldn’t cause problems.
Key Ingredients That Make it Effective
When researching the Protein Cocktail, I was impressed by the well-chosen blend of nourishing ingredients:
- Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein: Penetrates cortex to reinforce hair and prevent breakage.
- Hydrolyzed Soy Protein: Fills in damage and bonds to strengthen strands.
- Panthenol: B-vitamin that hydrates and thickens hair over time.
- Vitamin E: Powerful antioxidant that protects from UV and free radical damage.
- Aloe Vera: Soothes hair, adds shine, and seals in moisture.
- Jojoba Oil: Mimics natural oils to soften hair without greasiness.
I like that it uses two types of smaller proteins along with moisturizing ingredients. This balanced formula saturates every strand with nutrients but won’t overload fine or limp hair. It’s the ultimate rehab for damaged locks!
How Much Protein is in the Formula?
When I first saw the name “Protein Cocktail”, I’ll admit I was skeptical about how much protein it could actually contain. Many products claim to be protein treatments yet have minimal amounts.
According to the company, 8 oz of Beyond The Zone Protein Cocktail contains a total of 23,358 mg of hydrolyzed proteins. That’s over 20 grams of protein in each bottle!
This high concentration is key for filling gaps in the hair cortex and providing lasting repair. Even with daily use, you shouldn’t have to worry about protein overload or buildup. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly without leaving residue.
For me, this high dose of proteins made a notable difference in improving my hair’s elasticity and resilience. A little goes a long way, making it well worth the price.
Is It Sulfate-Free?
One thing I wanted to confirm about Beyond The Zone Protein Cocktail was whether the formula contained sulfates, a detergent that can be harsh and drying for hair.
I was happy to find that it is completely sulfate-free. Instead of sulfates, it uses gentler cleansers like decyl glucoside to help remove buildup without stripping hair.
This makes it safe for all hair types, including colored and chemically treated hair. Those with drier or more porous strands don’t have to worry about it causing further dryness.
However, it does still produce a light lather, which helps distribute the proteins evenly from roots to ends. So you get a gentle cleanse without any harsh ingredients.
What Do Other Users Have to Say?
To get a better sense of real customers’ experiences, I looked at reviews of the Beyond The Zone Protein Cocktail on sites like Influenster and Ulta. Overall, it receives consistently positive feedback with an average rating of 4+ stars.
Users say it leaves hair feeling stronger and more elastic after the very first use. Many love how lightweight it is compared to other protein treatments. It doesn’t feel sticky or tacky in the hair.
Most agree that a little goes a long way. Some even dilute it in water in a spray bottle to stretch it further. Customers with bleached, colored and heat-damaged hair see the most dramatic improvements in texture and manageability.
Critical reviews mention an unpleasant scent, tangling with overuse, or results not living up to claims for their hair type. But the vast majority say it’s a holy grail product and better than more expensive salon treatments.
Cost Breakdown
When considering any hair product purchase, it helps me to break down the cost per use. Here’s a look at what you can expect from an 8 oz bottle of Beyond The Zone Protein Cocktail:
- Bottle size: 8 oz
- Price: Approximately $15-$20
- Uses per bottle: Around 15-20 (using a quarter-size amount each time)
- Cost per use: About $1 – $1.50 per use
Compared to some leave-in treatments I’ve used, this actually provides pretty good value. I get over a month’s supply for under $20. For the dramatic improvements in hair health, I think it’s worth the investment – especially if you only use it 1-2 times per week.
Can It Be Used Daily?
When I first started using Beyond The Zone Protein Cocktail, I’ll admit I got a little overzealous and used it every day. I quickly found that too much protein can make hair feel brittle and stiff.
The brand recommends using it 1-2 times per week for maintenance, or 3-4 times per week for severely damaged hair. I’ve found every 2-3 days is the sweet spot for me.
Daily use is not recommended or necessary. It’s better to space out applications to allow hair’s natural oils to return. For added moisture, I like to use a hydrating mask mid-week between Protein Cocktails.
This balance of protein and moisture keeps my hair in the best condition without overload. Listen to your hair – if it ever starts to feel crispy, cut back on uses.
Can It Prevent Breakage and Split Ends?
One of the reasons I started using Beyond The Zone Protein Cocktail was to combat post-shower breakage and split ends. No matter how gently I detangled, I would still lose dozens of long strands.
But after consistently applying the protein treatment each week, I’ve noticed significantly less hair coming out during brushing or washing. It helps reinforce those weak points prone to splitting.
Of course, it’s not a miracle cure – I still get trims every 8-10 weeks to keep splits under control. But it’s made a noticeable difference in minimizing damage between cuts.
By filling in cracks and holes in the hair shaft, it helps prevent strands from snapping. My hair feels more resilient overall. I’ve finally stopped coming out of the shower with piles of lost hair!
The Benefits of Protein for Hair
After trying Beyond The Zone Protein Cocktail, I have a whole new appreciation for the power of protein! Here are some of the biggest benefits I’ve experienced:
- Improved elasticity and strength
- Seals split ends to prevent damage
- Locks in moisture and adds shine
- Protects hair from UV rays
- Prevents post-wash breakage
- Minimizes frizz and flyaways
- Makes hair easier to manage and style
- Protects color from fading
Protein is crucial for building strong, healthy hair. Without enough, strands become weak and prone to breakage over time. For damaged or frequently heat-styled hair, a protein boost is a must!
Using on Curly or Wavy Hair
As someone with naturally wavy hair, I’m always cautious about using products that could weigh down my texture. I was pleased to find that Beyond The Zone Protein Cocktail is lightweight enough for waves and curls.
The key is applying it sparingly and avoiding the roots if your hair is fine. Those with tighter coils may want to stick to mid-lengths to ends only. You can always add a bit more if needed.
My hair is quite dry and porous, so I don’t have problems with it feeling heavy or falling flat. But those with oilier scalps may consider just using it as a pre-wash treatment before shampooing.
I make sure to scrunch my waves after applying to avoid straightening the curl pattern. So far I haven’t noticed it inhibiting bounce or volume. My waves always spring right back after drying.
Does It Make Hair Feel Greasy or Coated?
This is always my worst fear trying new hair products – that they will leave my fine strands feeling greasy, limp and gross. I was so happy to find Beyond The Zone Protein Cocktail gives your hair a clean feel!
The formula goes on thinly and absorbs instantly – you’d never know you have product in. There’s no weird buildup or sticky residue leftover. Just soft, shiny, bouncy hair.
As long as you apply it sparingly and avoid the scalp, it won’t make your hair feel dirty or weighed down. A little goes a long way with this stuff. I just use what I can gather in my palm, no more.
Of course, everyone’s hair has different levels of natural oils. But in general, it’s designed to provide lightweight nourishment that won’t make hair feel coated or flattened.
How It Compares to Similar Protein Treatments
Beyond The Zone Protein Cocktail stands out from many protein treatments I’ve tried in a few ways:
- The consistency is lightweight and quick to absorb, with no stickiness.
- It smooths the cuticle for easier detangling and blowouts.
- Works well as a leave-in – no need to rinse out.
- Leaves hair bouncy, not stiff or brittle feeling.
- Soft, clean scent – not plasticky.
- Provides good value compared to salon brands.
- Less risk of protein overload for fine or color-treated hair.
Not all protein treatments are created equal! I find the Beyond The Zone formula provides the right balance of strength and softness for optimal results.
Can It Help Treat Split Ends?
To be totally honest, nothing can fully “fix” split ends or mend splits once they’ve already formed. The only true solution for splits is trimming them off to prevent further damage.
However, protein treatments like Beyond The Zone Protein Cocktail can help temporarily reinforce and seal split ends to minimize breakage in between trims.
It works by filling in cracks and smoothing the rough, lifted cuticle of split strands. This makes them less prone to catching and snapping off. It also helps protect the weakened areas of hair closest to the ends.
So while it won’t eliminate splits if you already have them, it can strengthen and minimize damage until your next trim. Used proactively, it may also prevent split ends from forming in the first place.
Should You Apply to Wet or Dry Hair?
The Beyond The Zone Protein Cocktail is flexible enough to be used on either damp or dry hair. I prefer to apply it to freshly washed, towel-dried hair so it can penetrate easily.
Adding a bit of water helps the proteins absorb better before I apply other stylers on top. This maximizes the strengthening effects.
You can also use it as a finishing touch on dry hair to tame flyaways, add shine, and reinforce strands before heat styling. This is great for quick protection on second- or third-day hair.
I recommend avoiding putting it directly on soaking wet hair since the water content may dilute the formula. For best results, apply it to damp strands after gently squeezing excess water out.
Does It Have a Strong Scent?
I’m quite sensitive to strong scented hair products, so I was relieved that Beyond The Zone Protein Cocktail has a fairly light, inoffensive scent.
It has a clean, slightly floral fragrance that reminds me of baby powder or dryer sheets. While some customers find the smell unpleasant, I don’t think it’s overpowering.
The scent comes from added fragrance rather than the ingredients themselves, so it doesn’t really linger in your hair once dried. It also doesn’t clash with other products or perfumes.
Those who prefer unscented products may want to look elsewhere. But considering most protein treatments have an odd chemical odor, I find this one refreshing. A quick spritz of something like Florida Water helps mask it if needed.
The Bottom Line
If you’re looking to breathe new life into damaged, overworked hair, Beyond The Zone Protein Cocktail delivers impressive strengthening and softening results. This leave-in treatment gives your strands a nourishing protein boost without the hassle or expense of a salon.
While it may not completely transform severely distressed hair overnight, consistency really pays off. Used properly 1-2 times per week, most users report dramatic improvements in texture, shine and manageability.
Just remember – a little goes a long way with this stuff. Focus on mid-lengths to ends and avoid overdoing it at the roots. For best results, apply to clean damp hair before styling and let it work its magic! Your hair will thank you.