The Ultimate Hair Care Guide: Understanding Your Hair Type and Building a Custom Routine

Jan 19, 2023

Are you tired of not knowing what to do with your hair? 

Well, you're in luck because we've got the ultimate guide to understanding your hair type and building a custom routine. Whether you've got curly, straight, thick or fine hair, we've got all the tips and tricks you need to make your locks look and feel fabulous.

We know that hair care can be overwhelming, with so many products and techniques to choose from. But don't worry, we're here to make it simple for you. 

By understanding your hair type, you'll be able to create a routine that's tailored to your specific needs and concerns.

We'll be covering everything from how to identify your hair type to the best products and techniques for your specific hair concerns. So, grab a cup of tea and get ready to become a hair care pro. With our expert guidance and the right products, you'll be on your way to fabulous locks in no time.

Let's get started!

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The four different hair types

When it comes to hair, there's no one-size-fits-all approach. That's because everyone's hair is unique, with its own texture, density, and pattern. To take the best care of your locks, it's important to understand your hair type. 

Here's a quick guide to help you identify which category you fall into.

Straight Hair

If you have hair that falls without any curls or waves, then you have straight hair. It's the most common hair type, and it's usually the easiest to manage. But even with straight hair, there can be variations. Some people have fine and limp hair, others have thick and coarse hair.

Wavy Hair

If you have hair that's somewhere between straight and curly, then you have wavy hair. It tends to have a slight "S" shape and can frizz easily. Wavy hair can be a bit tricky to manage, but with the right products and styling techniques, you can keep it looking shiny and bouncy.

Curly Hair

If you have hair that forms tight curls, then you have curly hair. It's more prone to frizz and dryness than straight or wavy hair, so it's important to use a good conditioner and a styling product that's designed for curls. With the right care, curly hair can be bouncy and full of life.

Coily Hair

If you have hair that forms tight, springy curls, then you have coily hair. It's the most fragile hair type, so it requires extra care. Coily hair is prone to dryness and breakage, so it's important to use a gentle shampoo and a deep conditioner. With the right care, coily hair can be healthy, shiny and full of volume.

It's important to remember that hair can be a combination of two or more textures, and that the texture can change over time.

So, next time you're looking at your hair, 

How to identify your hair type

Hopefully, you’ve got some idea of your hair type now but how do you 100% know which category you fall into, so you can start to better understand what products and techniques work best for you?

There are a few ways to determine your hair type:

  1. Look at the pattern: The most obvious way to determine your hair type is to look at the pattern of your curls or waves. If they're tight and springy, you likely have coily hair. If they're loose and bouncy, you likely have curly hair. If they're subtle and bendy, you likely have wavy hair. If your hair falls straight, you likely have straight hair.
  2. Consider the texture: Hair texture refers to the thickness or fineness of each strand. Fine hair is thin and silky, while coarse hair is thick and wiry. Medium hair is in between the two. You can check your hair's texture by running your fingers through it and comparing it to the little descriptions.
  3. Take the porosity test: Porosity refers to how well your hair absorbs and holds moisture. To test your hair's porosity, take a strand of it and place it in a cup of water. If it sinks, your hair is low porosity, if it floats, your hair is high porosity. Bit strange? It’s worth it.
  4. Consult a professional: If you're still unsure about your hair type, it's best to consult with a professional hairstylist. They have the training and expertise to accurately identify your hair type and recommend the best care and styling techniques.

Your hair type can change over time, and it can be affected by a lot of different factors such as genetics, hormone levels, and health. So, even if you think you know your hair type, it's always a pretty good idea to re-evaluate it and adjust your hair care routine if things have changed since the last time you checked it!

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Creating your haircare routine

Do you want to achieve that red-carpet-worthy hair that you've always dreamed of? Well, we've got the solution for you: a consistent hair care routine.

Why you need a consistent haircare routine

A consistent hair care routine is the key to having healthy, beautiful hair that makes you feel confident and fabulous.

Think about it, when you have a routine for washing and conditioning your hair, along with using the right products, your hair will thank you by staying healthy and strong. Plus, you'll be able to say goodbye to common hair issues such as dryness, dandruff, and hair loss.

But it's not just about the health of your hair, a consistent hair care routine can also make your hair look amazing! Imagine having clean, shiny, and well-moisturized hair that's less prone to breakage and split ends. Who wouldn't want that?

Let's be real, who has time and money to waste on constantly trying new products? By developing a consistent hair care routine, you'll be able to figure out what products and techniques work best for your hair type and save you both time and money.

But most importantly, a consistent hair care routine can help you achieve the look you've always wanted. Whether you're going for voluminous curls, sleek and straight locks, or a healthy and shiny mane, we've got you covered.

Taking care of your hair can also be a form of self-care. It's a chance to take a little time for yourself, relax and unwind after a long day or start your day feeling refreshed and renewed.

So, are you ready to establish a hair care routine that will have your locks looking and feeling their best? 

Celeb-inspired hair care routine

Are you ready to get the red-carpet-worthy hair of your dreams? A consistent hair care routine is a must-have for any celebrity, and it's the key to having healthy, beautiful hair that makes you feel like a star.

Let's start with the basics: shampoo and conditioner. A good shampoo is essential for cleaning your hair and scalp, while a conditioner helps to moisturise and detangle your locks. But the secret is not just in using any shampoo and conditioner, it's about finding the right ones for your hair type.

The next step is to pay attention to your styling products. Many celebrities swear by leave-in conditioners, hair oils, and serums to keep their hair looking healthy and shiny. These products can help to protect your hair from heat damage and environmental stressors, as well as add extra moisture and shine.

And don't forget the importance of deep conditioning. Regularly treating your hair with a deep conditioning mask or treatment can work wonders for keeping your hair healthy and strong.

But it's not all about the products, celebrities also know the importance of protecting their hair from the elements. This means using a heat protectant before styling with heat tools and protecting their hair from the sun by wearing hats or hair scarves.

And last but not least, regular trims are a must for celebrities. Regular trims help to keep split ends at bay and promote healthy hair growth.

So, there you have it! 

A hair care routine used by top celebrities. It may seem like a lot, but incorporating these simple steps into your routine can make a huge difference in the health and appearance of your hair. Remember, the key is to find the right products and techniques for your hair type, and to be consistent with your routine. You got this!

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6 promises you need to make to your hair 

By incorporating these tips into your hair care routine, you'll be well on your way to having beautiful, healthy hair. 

Remember, the key is consistency and patience, it might take some time to see the results but it will be worth it in the end.

  1. Use the right products for your hair type: It's important to use products that are formulated for your specific hair type. There are products that are designed to work with your hair's unique characteristics.
  2. Avoid heat damage: Heat tools like flat irons, curling irons and blow dryers can cause damage to your hair, so it's best to avoid using them too often or with too much heat. If you must use heat tools, make sure to use a heat protectant before styling and keep the heat setting low.
  3. Protect your hair from the sun: Just like your skin, your hair needs protection from the sun. Sun exposure can cause damage to your hair and make it dry and brittle. Use a hair oil or serum with SPF, wear a hat or use a hair scarf when spending time outdoors.
  4. Deep condition regularly: Regular deep conditioning treatments can help to keep your hair healthy and strong by adding moisture and nourishment. It's also a great way to repair damaged hair.
  5. Trim your hair regularly: Regular trims are important for keeping split ends at bay and promoting healthy hair growth. Aim to trim your hair every 6-8 weeks.
  6. Get enough sleep and exercise: Taking care of your overall health can have a big impact on the health of your hair. Make sure to get enough sleep, eat a healthy diet, and exercise regularly. This can help to improve blood circulation, which can promote healthy hair growth.

Hair products you need in your life 

We all know that having the right hair products can make a huge difference in the health and appearance of our hair. But with so many options available, it can feel like borderline breakdown levels of overwhelming when you’re trying to figure out which products are right for you. That's why we've put together a list of must-have hair products that you need in your life.

From shampoos and conditioners to leave-in conditioners, hair oils and serums, we've got you covered. We've done the research, and we're sharing our top picks for the best hair products to help you achieve healthy, beautiful hair. Whether you have curly, wavy, straight or coily hair, we've got the perfect products for you.

Our list includes some of the most popular hair care brands and their best-selling products. These products have been tested and tried by some of the top hairstylists in the industry, so you can trust that they will work for you too.

So, are you ready to discover the hair products you need in your life? From the must-have essentials to the latest trends, we've got you covered. Let's dive in!

Types of hair products available

  1. Shampoo: A good shampoo is essential for cleaning your hair and scalp. It helps to remove dirt, oil, and other impurities from your hair, leaving it feeling clean and refreshed. When choosing a shampoo, make sure to choose one that's formulated for your specific hair type, whether you have oily, dry, or normal hair.
  2. Conditioner: A conditioner is a must-have for keeping your hair healthy and strong. It helps to moisturise and detangle your locks, making them easier to manage. Conditioners also help to repair damaged hair and prevent breakage. Like shampoos, conditioners are formulated for different hair types, so make sure to choose one that's right for your hair.
  3. Hair oil: Hair oils are great for adding moisture and shine to your hair. They can help to protect your hair from heat damage and environmental stressors, as well as tame frizz and flyaways. Some popular hair oils include argan oil, coconut oil, and castor oil.
  4. Leave-in conditioner: Leave-in conditioners are a great way to add extra moisture to your hair. They can also help to detangle your hair and make it easier to style. A leave-in conditioner is typically applied to damp hair after washing and can be used as a styling product.
  5. Hair serum: Hair serums are a must-have for anyone who wants to achieve healthy, shiny hair. They can help to tame frizz and flyaways, add shine and moisture, and protect your hair from heat damage. Hair serums are typically applied to damp hair before styling or can be added to your leave-in conditioner.
  6. Hair mask/treatment: Hair masks and treatments are designed to provide deep moisture and nourishment to your hair. They can help to repair damaged hair, smooth frizz, and add shine. They are typically used once a week or as needed.

These are just a few of the hair products available, but it's important to remember that everyone's hair is unique and what works for one person may not work for another. 

hair care guide

How to choose the right products for your hair type

When choosing hair products, it's important to consider your hair type and what your hair needs. Here's a quick guide on how to choose the right products for your hair type:

  1. Shampoo: If you have oily hair, look for a shampoo that is formulated to remove excess oil. If you have dry hair, choose a moisturising shampoo. If you have normal hair, a gentle, everyday shampoo will suffice. And if you have colour-treated hair, you'll want a shampoo that is specifically formulated to protect and preserve your colour.
  2. Conditioner: If you have curly or coily hair, a deep conditioner is a must-have.
  3. Hair oil: If you have curly or coily hair, hair oil is great for adding moisture and shine, and helping define curls. If you have fine or thin hair, a lightweight oil such as argan oil or jojoba oil is best. For dry or damaged hair, a heavier oil such as coconut oil or castor oil will help
  4. Leave-in conditioner: If you have curly or coily hair, a leave-in conditioner is a must-have to keep curls defined. If you have fine or thin hair, a lightweight leave-in conditioner is best to avoid weighing your hair down. For dry or damaged hair, a moisturising and reparative leave-in conditioner is the best bet.

The best-branded hair care brands and their best-selling products

From repairing damaged hair to adding volume and texture, these haircare brands have something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a natural and organic option or something to tame frizzy hair, here is a selection of top-rated hair care brands that will have you covered. 

Discover the best hair care brand and products the market has to offer.

  • Aveda: Their Damage Remedy line is a fan favourite for repairing and protecting damaged hair.
  • Bumble & Bumble: Their thickening line is great for giving fine hair a boost of volume.
  • Dr Hauschka: Their Hair Oil is perfect for nourishing and revitalising dry, damaged hair.
  • K18: Their Keratin Treatment is a must-have for those looking to tame frizzy and unruly hair.
  • Olaplex: Their Hair Perfector No. 3 is a must-have for those looking to repair and strengthen damaged hair.
  • Oribe: Their Dry Texturising Spray is a cult classic for adding volume and texture to hair.

These are just a few of the many amazing hair care brands out there, but these are definitely some of the most popular and well-loved by hair care enthusiasts. Give them a try and see the difference for yourself!

Hair Concerns and Solutions

We know that taking care of our hair can sometimes be a real challenge. Whether you're struggling with dandruff, hair loss or dryness, it can be hard to know where to start. But don't worry, carry on reading for help and advice.

Common hair concerns and how to fix them!

Let's start with dandruff. 

This can be a real pain, but the good news is that there are plenty of ways to keep it under control. 

One of the most effective things you can do is use a gentle shampoo specifically formulated for dandruff control. Make sure to follow up with a conditioner to keep your scalp hydrated. Another tip is to try to avoid products with harsh chemicals, which can dry out your scalp and cause dandruff.

Next up, hair loss.

This can be a real concern for a lot of people, but there are things you can do to promote hair growth. One of the most effective things you can do is to use a hair growth-promoting shampoo and conditioner. You can also consider using a hair growth serum or supplement to give your hair an extra boost. And don't forget to be gentle with your hair when styling and brushing, as tugging and pulling can cause hair loss.

And last but not least, dryness. 

This can be caused by so many things, from harsh hair products to heat styling to even the weather. To combat dryness, make sure you're using a hydrating shampoo and conditioner, and don't forget to give your hair a little extra love with a hair mask or oil. These products can be a real game-changer when it comes to keeping your hair hydrated and healthy.

There are plenty of things you can do to tackle common hair concerns. With a little bit of effort and the right products, you can have the healthy, beautiful hair you've always wanted. 

Don't be afraid to experiment and try new things!

hair oil

Top product picks for tackling your specific hair concerns

So, what products should you be using for the problems?

Dandruff

Hair loss

Dryness:

It goes without saying, we’re basing our recommendations based on our customer feedback and team favourite. You should always consult with a hair care professional to determine the best products for your specific hair type and concerns.

Wrapping it up

And there you have it! 

You're now officially a hair care pro thanks to our ultimate guide. 

Remember, understanding your hair type is key to building a custom routine that will leave your locks looking and feeling their best. Don't be afraid to experiment with different products and techniques until you find the perfect routine for you.

And don't forget, at Beauty Scent we've got all the hair care products you need to keep your locks looking and feeling fabulous. From shampoos and conditioners to treatments and styling products, we've got you covered. 

Treat yourself to some new hair care goodies, you deserve it!

big brand haircare products, olaplex