10 Effective Hair Products And Reasons To Use Them - By: Katie Pierce

Hair care is just as important as skincare, but it often doesn’t receive the same attention. Still, it goes without saying that you must invest time and energy in taking care of your crowning glory, too. If you’re new to hair care, you may be struggling to figure out which products you need. But you’ve come to the right place; let's demystify hair care!

First of all, the hair care products that work for others might not work for you. So, start by knowing your hair and paying attention to its needs. Below are other considerations for choosing hair care products plus effective products for various hair types.

Considerations when choosing hair products

Hair Type and Hair Needs

The needs of a straight-haired person are different from the needs of a curly-haired person. However, it is fairly common for individuals with wavy or even curly hair to grow up having the same routine as those with straight hair. So, the first step to finding the right hair products is to look closely at your hair type. 

Typically, hair that falls flat from root to tip is straight while hair that resembles an “S” is curly. For wavy hair, loose curls may be noticeable from the eye level to the ends, or from the crown.

Next, pay attention to your hair’s needs. If you notice conditions like dandruff or split ends, you’ll need to consider those when looking for products. Special situations like having a scalp sunburn will also require special treatment and care.

Weather and Seasons

Humidity affects your hair a lot. Specifically, humid weather can cause dry, frizzy hair. So it’s crucial to look for products formulated to account for this. Cold weather can also strip your hair of moisture. So, you may need extra moisturizing products in the winter.

Product Ingredients

To save money on beauty and fashion, it is important to know that high-end brands are not the only ones that can be good for your hair. Looking at product ingredients instead of brands is a helpful tip. Couple that with knowing which ingredients are good for your hair type and you can stick to a budget while having glamorous hair.

Brand Reputation

Of course, the product ingredients are not the only things that matter. If you prefer cruelty-free hair products or eco-friendly hair care brands, you can look for certifications from established organizations such as PETA and Leaping Bunny.

Hair care products for all hair types

Beyond your regular shampoo and conditioner, here are a couple of essential hair products for any hair type.

Dry Shampoo

Washing your hair too often can make it brittle and flat. But what if your hair becomes too greasy when you go a day without a wash? Dry shampoo is the answer. A good dry shampoo will cleanse  and volumize your hair and get rid of oils. Use it anytime you need to look presentable but have no time to wash your hair. You can also use dry shampoo on the days between your washes to keep your hair oil-free. A word of caution, though, don’t use dry shampoo more than once or twice a week as it can lead to breakage over time. To reiterate, dry shampoo is not a permanent substitute for washing your hair. 

Leave-in Conditioner

After conditioning your hair in the shower, it may feel redundant to use leave-in conditioner. But we assure you that it’s worthwhile! A leave-in conditioner is easy to run through your hair and it instantly makes your strands softer and smoother. For people with waves and curls, it can even be great for detangling and combing.

Hair Oil

Constant heat styling can take a toll on your strands. Hair oils are here to the rescue! Oils help hydrate the hair as well as keep it soft, shiny, and smooth. Coconut oil and argan oil are popular across hair types but you may need to experiment to find the best one for you.

Hair Mask

Hair masks’ superpower is locking in moisture and providing a hydration boost to your scalp and strands over time. Hair masks also reduce breakage and hair fall. Overall, masks not only reverse damage but protect your locks from further harm. Use the masks once a week or twice a month depending on your hair’s condition.

Hair care essentials for straight hair

Clarifying Shampoo

If you have straight hair, chances are you struggle with oiliness. That’s because the oil from your scalp goes through your strands without the interference of curls. Clarifying your hair is a good way to get rid of excess oil and product buildup, which also contributes to greasiness and flakes.

Lightweight Creams

Stay away from hair products containing shea butter, silicones, and heavy oils because these can weigh your strands down. Instead, opt for lightweight hair creams that are enriched with aloe vera and honey.

Hair care essentials for wavy hair

Hair Mousse

Styling wavy hair can be tricky for those who are used to straightening their waves. Instead of fighting your loose curls, however, you may find it easier to use a hair mousse to style them. A mousse defines your curls and protects your hair from damage.

Light Hair Oils

Frizz and moisture are commonly experienced by people with wavy locks. That’s why it’s best to keep your hair hydrated. Light oils like avocado, argan, and jojoba infuse moisture without weighing your hair down. 

Hair care essentials for curly hair

Polyquat

Products that contain a polyquat (e.g. polyquaternium-10, 37, or 69) are great for curly hair because they support detangling and moisturizing. Polyquats are often found in conditioning products but can also be found in mousses and shampoos.

Pomade or Cream

A good styling cream will help keep your curly hair, especially the tips, hydrated and less prone to breakage. For tight curls, consider using an alcohol-free pomade to lock your hair in place and retain moisture.

Final words

Hair type, weather, ingredients, and brand reputation are vital considerations when looking for hair products. Remember that hair care is a journey and you may not get the formula right the first time, but you will if you keep trying. Find more helpful beauty tips on christinaflach.com!

*This article was a collaboration written by Katie Pierce and expert reviewed by Christina Flach*