Getting into a hair care routine is just like embarking on a skincare routine. If your hair care routine hasn’t changed since high school — or it’s limited to lather, rinse, repeat — it may be time to pay more attention to your mane. Whether you sport a low-key ponytail most days or live for blowouts, your hair deserves a little TLC.
But the process of finding that routine can seem a little daunting, especially when there are numerous options for people with the same hair type. Once you’ve found one that works for you, you’ll rarely stray away from it.
Your routine ultimately depends on a few factors. Here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know to find the hair care ritual that will be right for you.
1. Your natural hair texture or type
Hair types tend to be fine, thick, or coarse and fall into one of these categories: straight, wavy or curly. Each has its upsides and downsides. For example, straight hair usually looks and feels greasy quicker than curly hair due to oil speedily making its way down the hair shaft.
2. Whether your hair has been bleached, dyed, or otherwise chemically processed
If your hair has come into contact with dye, bleach, or chemicals, you may have to think extra hard about your routine. People with dyed hair are advised not to wash it every day to prevent premature colour fading and dryness. Bleached hair may also require some extra nourishment in the form of conditioner or hair masks.
3. How you want to wear your hair daily
Do you like to straighten your hair? Curl it? Leave it completely natural? It’s another thing you’ll have to consider, especially if you’re a fan of using damaging heat tools.
4. Whether you have specific concerns that you want to address
It’s normal to find at least one aspect of your hair problematic, whether it’s frizz, a flaky scalp, or dry, damaged strands. Knowing what the problem is, is half the task done. The rest involves finding the best solution.
The order of your routine matters and consistency is key. You’re not going to notice dramatic results overnight, although the effects of masks and certain styling products can be immediately noticeable. It takes time for your hair to get used to new products. In some cases, this may be a week. But dry or damaged hair may take at least a month to reap the benefits.
The order you apply products can also make a difference. While this does depend on your hair type and texture, there are a few general rules. For example, shampoo, conditioner, and any in-shower products should be applied first, followed by heat protection, a volumizer or mousse, and shine serum. Then you can dry and style your hair, setting it with a gel (or similar product) and hair spray. Make sure your final styling product is one that seals in moisture and helps keeps hair healthy.
But when it comes to frequency of use, it’s best to consult a professional like Oriental Hair Solutions. Get in touch with us here.