Matcha Boost is Ecoslay’s plant-based protein hair strengthening treatment for damaged, breakage-prone, and elasticity-depleted curls. Its triple-protein complex of hydrolyzed quinoa protein, vegan hydrolyzed keratin, and matcha fills microscopic gaps in the hair cuticle, rebuilds strength and elasticity, reduces shedding, and revives limp or over-conditioned curls — without the stiffness associated with traditional protein treatments. 

Yes, if overused or left on too long. Signs of protein overload include hair that feels dry, stiff, or brittle, breaks with very little stretch, or becomes crunchy despite conditioning. To avoid this, follow the usage time and frequency guidelines for your damage level, always follow Matcha Boost with a moisturizing deep conditioner, and do not exceed 20 minutes on hair at any time. If you experience protein overload symptoms, pause Matcha Boost and focus on moisture-only treatments until balance is restored. 

A: The thin consistency is by design. A thinner formula penetrates the hair shaft more effectively than a thick cream, allowing the hydrolyzed proteins to reach and fill the microscopic gaps in the cuticle. Do not be alarmed — apply liberally, let it work during the timed treatment, and rinse thoroughly. Reviewers consistently report that the results far outperform what the formula’s appearance suggests. 

Frequency depends on your hair’s damage level. Highly damaged, color-treated, or highly porous hair: use weekly or every 2 weeks for 15–20 minutes. Moderately damaged hair: every 3–4 weeks for 10–15 minutes. Healthy hair maintenance: once a month for 5–10 minutes. Fine or low-porosity hair: every 6–8 weeks for a maximum of 5 minutes to avoid protein overload. Always follow with a moisturizing deep conditioner, like Banana Cream Deep Conditioner. 

Matcha Boost works on all curl patterns from fine waves (2a) to thick, kinky coils (4c). It is particularly beneficial for color-treated, heat-damaged, transitioning, and chemically processed hair regardless of curl type. Fine and low-porosity hair should use shorter contact times (5 minutes maximum) and less frequent application. 

Yes. The hydrolyzed keratin in Matcha Boost is sourced from wheat and soy proteins, not animal proteins. This makes it a fully vegan, keratin alternative. It functions identically to animal-derived keratin in filling the hair’s

The matcha extract in Matcha Boost is a powerful antioxidant compound that helps promote hair follicle growth. Matcha’s natural caffeine content also helps reduce shedding by blocking DHT, a hormone linked to hair loss. The antioxidants in matcha also help protect the scalp from environmental oxidative damage.

Matcha Boost is a protein treatment, not a moisturizing conditioner. Deep conditioners like Ecoslay’s Banana Cream add moisture, slip, and softness. Matcha Boost rebuilds the hair’s structural protein layer, restoring elasticity and strength. Both are needed: use Matcha Boost first, then follow with Banana Cream or another moisturizing conditioner to balance the protein deposit with moisture. 

Take a single wet strand and gently stretch it. If it stretches significantly before breaking, your hair is protein-deficient and needs a treatment like Matcha Boost. Other signs: lots of breakage and shedding, curls that have lost definition, hair that feels mushy or gummy when wet, and hair that doesn’t respond to moisture treatments the way it used to. 

Yes. Matcha Boost is specifically formulated to be safe for color-treated hair. The hydrolyzed quinoa protein is particularly valued for its color retention properties — it creates protection around the hair shaft that helps seal in color molecules. Regular use can help extend the vibrancy of color-treated hair and reduce the porosity that causes color to fade quickly. 

For best results: Combine Matcha Boost with Ecoslay’s Banana Cream Deep Conditioner for a restorative cocktail combo that moisturizes, strengthens, and revitalizes curls.  Finish with your preferred styler, such as Orange Marmalade Flaxseed and Aloe Curl Definer. 

 The formula is identical in both. The 8oz pouch is Ecoslay’s signature eco-friendly packaging made from recyclable materials — significantly less plastic than a traditional bottle. The 8oz Pouch + Jar bundle includes a refillable glass mason jar so you can decant from the pouch, reducing waste further and keeping the conditioner accessible in the shower. The 2oz mini is TSA-compliant for travel.

Matcha Boost is handmade in small batches in Atlanta, Georgia by the Ecoslay team. The matcha extract is sourced through Ecoslay’s Farm-to-Pouch partnership with Metro Atlanta farms.  Ecoslay is a BCorp certified, Black-owned, woman-founded company.