How to Build a Hair Care Routine (For Men)

A good hair care routine doesn't need to be complicated; it should be simple and effective. The first step is to equip yourself with the right tools and knowledge about hair care products. No matter your hair type or shape, you can easily implement a routine and achieve healthy, attractive hair.

Select the right shampoo and conditioner. Not all products are the same. You need to choose ones that match your hair type for the best results. If possible, select a sulfate-free shampoo and a silicone-free conditioner, as these ingredients can make your hair dry and unappealing. Here's a quick guide for choosing products based on hair type:

• If you have dry, frizzy hair, opt for moisturizing or hydrating products that include oils, butters, and other nourishing ingredients.
• If you have oily or fine hair, products containing tea tree oil and chamomile are ideal.
• If your hair is brittle or damaged, choose restorative products with proteins like collagen and keratin.

Wash your hair two to three times a week. You might think that washing your hair every day is best, but it's actually too frequent. Washing too often strips away the natural oils produced by your scalp, causing your hair to become frizzy and dry. For men, washing two to three times a week is sufficient.

• If your hair gets greasy quickly, you can rinse it with just water on days you don’t use shampoo. Water will cleanse the hair without removing the protective oils.
• Initially, when you reduce the frequency of washing, your scalp will continue to produce oil for a week or more until it adjusts. Just be patient, and your hair will stay cleaner for longer.

Wash your hair with warm or cool water instead of hot water. While it's fine to use hot water, the heat can dry your hair. It’s better to use warm or cool water when washing. If you must use hot water, finish by rinsing your hair with warm or cool water to help keep it healthy, shiny, and free of frizz or roughness.

Pat your hair dry instead of rubbing with a towel. Wet hair is fragile, as the water softens the keratin in your hair. Rubbing it aggressively can cause breakage. Instead, gently blot your hair with a towel to absorb moisture, and allow it to dry naturally.

Use gel or wax in moderation. If you like a sleek style, apply gel or wax to damp hair to keep it glossy all day. Use a small amount if your hair is short, as too much can make it look greasy and unappealing.

• Gel is generally lighter and easier to work with. Choose alcohol-free products as alcohol can dry out your hair.
• Wax and styling creams are better for curly hair as they are thicker. However, they are harder to wash out, so use them sparingly.

Comb your hair after applying styling products. After applying your product, use a comb to evenly distribute it through your hair. Then, comb one side neatly and style it as you wish. It’s best to comb in the direction your hair grows: comb down toward the nape and along the sides, and comb the top of your head forward. If the front of your hair is longer, you can sweep it to the opposite side.

• If you have curly or tangled hair, it's best to use a wide-tooth comb to detangle, or skip combing entirely. Using a fine-toothed comb will make your hair frizzier.
• You don't always have to comb your hair forward. Try different styles; tease the top instead of parting it, or style it upright.

Limit hair drying. While a blow dryer can speed up drying, frequent use can damage your hair. If you're concerned about thin hair, it's better to let your hair air-dry instead of using a dryer.

• When blow-drying, aim the dryer in the direction your hair grows to keep it smooth.
• If you want more volume, you can direct the dryer against the grain of your hair.

Maintain long hair. If your hair is between 2 and 5 cm long, you need to take extra steps to keep it healthy and neat.

• Use a deep conditioner if your hair feels dry. Get a hair mask and use it once a week to keep your hair smooth.
• Opt for a wide-tooth comb instead of a brush. Brushes can cause long hair to break, so it's better to use a comb to detangle.
• Apply hair oil. Put a small amount of oil on damp hair as a leave-in conditioner. Using the right amount will make it more effective.

Trim your hair regularly. Good hair care habits won’t make a difference if your hair is unruly. Men usually get their hair cut once a month, though some may only need a trim every three months. Find a routine that works for you and stick to it regularly.

Massage your scalp while washing your hair. This step improves blood circulation, promoting quicker hair growth. It also helps nourish your current hair and encourages longer hair growth. Gently massage your scalp in circular motions with your fingertips, focusing on thinning areas.

• Some oils are effective in stimulating hair growth. You should try massaging with coconut oil, tea tree oil, or almond oil before shampooing and then rinse with water.

Avoid rough handling of your hair. Hair strands are more likely to break if you scrub them with shampoo, rinse with hot water, and then rub them roughly with a towel. Treat your hair gently at each step of your hair care routine.

Maintain a balanced diet. Certain nutrients are essential for thicker and healthier hair. You should eat well to nourish your hair from within. Only use hair products if your diet isn't supporting your hair health. Here are some necessary foods:

• Protein. Eat meat, eggs, nuts, beans, and other sources of protein to keep your hair healthy.
• Vitamin B. This is found in meat, eggs, and leafy greens. If you're vegetarian, consider taking a B-vitamin supplement.
• Omega-3 fatty acids. Salmon, sardines, avocados, and walnuts contain these essential nutrients.