Starting a hair care routine is like starting a skin care routine. Once you’ve found one that works for you, you will rarely get lost.
But the process of finding that routine can seem a bit overwhelming, especially when the options are numerous for people with the same hair type.
Here you will find everything you need to know to find the right hair care routine for you.
Your individual routine ultimately depends on a few factors
From the feel of your hair to the styles you prefer, all of these elements will change the routine you end up choosing.
Your natural hair type or structure
Hair types are typically fine, thick, or coarse and fall into one of four categories:
• straight
• wavy
• curly
• tangled
Each has its advantages and disadvantages. For example, straight hair generally looks and feels greasy faster than curly hair because the oil flows down the hair shaft quickly.
If your hair has been bleached, colored, or otherwise chemically treated
If your hair has been exposed to dyes, bleaches, or chemicals, you may need to think more carefully about your routine. People with colored hair are advised not to wash it daily to avoid premature discoloration and dryness. And bleached hair may need additional nutrients in the form of conditioners or hair masks.
Knowing what the problem is half the task. The rest is to find the best solution.
However, every routine shares a few basic elements
Although your hair type and concerns will change your hair care routine in some ways, there are a few basic steps that everyone can benefit from.
Cleanse
Cleansing is a balance between removing dead skin cells and product residue without stripping the hair of its natural oils.
Without proper washing, sebum will build up, creating an unwanted oiliness.
The skin renews about every 28 days, and this can be noticeable if the hair is not clean.
And if you’re an avid swimmer, you don’t want to leave chlorine on your locks. The longer he sits, the more time he has to strip the hair of its natural elements and cause damage.
Condition
Conditioners have countless benefits. The main one is hydration, but others include detangling, shine and frizz reduction.
The main ingredient of a conditioner is a Trusted Source cationic surfactant.
When hair is wet, this sticks to it, coating the strands to replenish the moisture that shampoo may have removed.
Moisturize and seal
To add further hydration to the hair, you may want to embark on a twostep process known as moisturize and seal.
This can be particularly useful for kinky or curly hair that tends to be dry.
The aim is to seal in moisture, not to lock in dryness, using a hydrating product and sealing oil.
Detangle
Detangling is essential for stopping breakage and for making your life a whole lot easier.
The products and tools used in each step vary widely
While most people follow the above steps religiously, there are no defined products or tools that you must adhere to. Instead, experiment to find the ones that work for you.
Cleanser and Conditioner
• Clarifying shampoo: Shampoo that works in depth, clarifying formulas work to remove build-up from the hair. Limit use to about once a month as they can remove natural oils.
• “Daily” shampoo: Used for regular shampooing, this shampoo may not need to be applied daily as the name suggests, but whenever your hair needs a good cleaning.
• “Daily” or rinse-out conditioner: The conditioner you use the most is probably the one that rinses out after a few minutes. It is best applied in the middle and on the ends as applying to the roots can result in a greasy looking scalp.
• Leave in conditioner: With this type of conditioner, you apply it the same way, but don’t rinse it off. This helps to increase the nutritional level.
• Deep conditioner: For even more hydration, try a deep conditioner. These conditioners are ideal for dry hair and are designed to stay in place for longer.
Moisturizer and Sealer
• Hair Lotion: After the hair has been cleansed and conditioned, a cream-based lotion can provide additional protection against breakage and dryness. It also provides a light, non-rigid hold.
• Oil: When it comes to oil, a little goes a long way. By enhancing the natural oils in your hair, it locks in moisture and strengthens strands.
Detangling
• Comb: Wet hair can break more easily when brushed, although this does not apply to textured or curly hair types. A wide-toothed comb may be a less damaging alternative.
• Brush: Different types of brushes exist. Some find the bristles too hard for their hair, so go for a plastic version. Try not to brush your hair too much. Once a day is usually sufficient.
• Spray: If you notice rising tears when brushing or combing, apply a detangling spray beforehand.
• Serum: A richer way to deal with those tangles, a detangling serum can further condition and soften the hair so that the combs work perfectly.
Go natural where possible
Letting your hair breathe can work wonders. This can involve restricting heat use by letting it airdry and avoiding straighteners and curling irons.
Even putting hair up in a tight ponytail can cause strain, so leave it down to stop the pull. And if you don`t need to use a styling product, don`t use it. That way, you`ll reduce residue buildup.
The Basics
Building a hair care routine can take a few days or even weeks. But once that’s taken care of, you’ll be on your way to getting the hair you deserve.
Credit: healthline
Photo credit: curlygirlswag
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