Over the last few months, I’ve received quite a few questions regarding my hair care routine so I figured I would share my routine/favorite hair products with all of you!
For reference, I have very long wavy hair that has been permanently colored for a few years (I’ve had red hair, purple hair, and several shades of brown). I’m back at my natural color now, but it’s still dyed. Some products might not work best for you based on the texture and health of your hair, so keep that in mind as you try new products.
Washing Your Hair
Let’s start with the basics: washing your hair. I only wash my hair 3-4 times a week. The less you wash your hair the better! Every time you wash your hair you are adding product onto it and are stripping it of some of the nutrients it needs. When I do wash my hair I use the Pantene Repair and Protect Shampoo and Conditioner. I really like using matching shampoo and conditioner and I ALWAYS use a shampoo and conditioner made for moisturizing and repairing hair. About once a week I use a deep conditioner or mask on my hair. The one I’ve recently been loving is the Biolage Hydrasource Aloe Hair Mask. This helps my hair retain moisture and reduce frizziness.
When I get out of the shower I brush my hair using a Wet brush. This is the only time I ever brush my hair! Brushing your hair can damage it and break off split ends, so it’s important not to over brush your hair. I also ALWAYS let my hair air dry (I don’t mind sleeping with wet hair). This reduces the amount of heat on my hair significantly and helps it stay healthy.
Styling Your Hair
One thing that has been a game changer for my hair is reducing the amount of heat on it. Not only do I not blow-dry my hair, but I also rarely straighten it or curl it. Ever since I stopped straightening it, my hair has been so much healthier! If I do choose to straighten/curl my hair I always make sure to do it right after I wash and air-dry it so that I can keep the styled hair for a few days until my next wash.
If your hair is looking a little flat and greasy, my favorite product to use is the Chi Texturizing Hair Spray. This product is really light weight on your hair but still gives it volume! I spray this in my roots and rub it in with my finger tips to get the desired volume and I’m ready to go!
If you’re like me and you like wearing your hair up, I strongly recommend scrunchies or non-damaging elastics. Regular hair elastics can actually cause breakage in your hair! I always have a scrunchie on my wrist. They never leave marks in my hair even if my hair’s in a ponytail all day (plus they’re cute).
Elastics and Scrunchies – $3.97
Before Bed
I usually shower at night, but if it’s a day where I’m not washing my hair, I always put my hair into two loose braids before bed. This helps my hair stay untangled while I’m sleeping and gives it a nice wave in the morning. This has been another game changer for me. It reduces breakage and styles it for the morning. I also don’t wake up with bed head anymore because of the loose braids! I also sleep on a silk pillow case. This helps with reducing breakage and damage ESPECIALLY if you sleep with wet hair! (It’s also good for your skin).
I hope this helps you and answers any questions you may have! Keep in mind all of these steps take time to see progress in your hair. I’ve been taking care of my hair diligently for YEARS and I’m finally happy with where I’m at. It’s definitely a journey!