Achieving flawless hair starts with understanding the proper application sequence of your haircare products. While shampoo and conditioner are essential, maximizing the benefits of styling products like shine spray, mousse, and heat protectant requires a strategic approach.
Think of it as a layering system, similar to skincare, but in reverse. Celebrity hairstylists Yianni Tsapatori and Hiral Bhatia share their expertise on the intricate art of layering conditioners, creams, and gels for optimal results.
Step 1: Shampoo
The foundation of any good hair day begins in the shower. Choose a shampoo that caters to your scalp type, whether it’s oily, dry, or prone to dandruff. A coin-sized amount is sufficient to cleanse and prepare your hair for the subsequent steps. Avoid harsh ingredients like parabens, sulfates, and chemicals, opting instead for natural alternatives to promote healthy hair growth. If you have an oily scalp, a clarifying shampoo is your best bet. For dry scalps, prioritize moisturizing and hydrating options.
Step 2: Mask
Beyond the basic shampoo and conditioner routine, deep conditioning masks provide an extra dose of nourishment. Whether your hair requires TLC, color treatment recovery, hydration, heat damage repair, or a revitalizing boost, these masks are a quick fix. Apply them directly after shampooing, allowing the opened hair follicles to absorb the conditioning ingredients. Leave the mask on for 3 to 20 minutes before rinsing. Limit masking to once a week for optimal results, especially if you have fine hair to avoid limpness.
Step 3: Conditioner
Just like choosing the right shampoo, selecting the appropriate conditioner is crucial. Consider your hair texture when making your choice. For dry and fine hair, opt for a moisturizing gel-based conditioner. Dry, coarse hair benefits from a cream-based conditioner. If your hair is severely damaged, look for products promoting repair and frizz control. Volumizing, light, or balancing options are ideal for oily tresses.
Step 4: Leave-in Treatments
Leave-in treatments, available in creams, lotions, sprays, and oils, are essential for maintaining hair health, locking in moisture, and restoring balance after shampooing. Choose a nourishing and lightweight formula. For dry or damaged hair, consider using an oil followed by a serum. If your hair is oily, avoid overusing products. Argan oil is a versatile option for smoother, shinier strands, starting from the nape and working your way up.
Step 5: Mousse or Thickening Spray
Add volume to your hair with mousse, especially if you have fine tresses. Apply it to damp hair, scrunching it from the bottom up or applying it to the roots before blow-drying for a smooth finish. Alternatively, a root-lift spray can enhance volume.
Step 6: Heat Protectant
Excessive heat from styling tools can lead to breakage, permanent damage, and even hair loss. Safeguard your hair’s health with a heat protectant, available as sprays, creams, or thermo-protective products that activate with heat. These formulas typically contain vitamins and silicone to create a protective barrier over your cuticles.
Step 7: Finishing Spray
Achieve your desired look with a finishing spray. For a ruffled, voluminous hairstyle, texturising spray or dry shampoo adds a lived-in feel. For sleek styles or Hollywood waves, opt for hairspray or spray wax. Apply these sprays to bone-dry hair, as using them on damp hair can leave it sticky and clumpy.
By mastering the art of layering hair products, you can unlock the secret to salon-worthy results at home. Remember to choose products tailored to your specific hair type and needs, and enjoy the transformative effects of a well-structured haircare routine.
