Buzz
You may have your skincare routine memorized, but hair care can be trickier. We all know conditioner follows shampoo, but what about serums and oils? Heat protectants? Hair masks?
The truth is, post-shower hair care often turns into a chaotic experiment rather than a structured routine. Mixing up your styling products won’t do your hair any favors. Just like you wouldn't apply face oils before serums, using the wrong order can reduce effectiveness or even damage your strands. "Knowing the right order for applying hair products is just as essential as your skincare routine," says Michelle Lee, professional hairstylist and co-owner of Salon Eva Michelle in Boston, Mass. "Products penetrate your hair differently, and the right order maximizes their benefits."
While every hair type has its own needs, some general rules can help you get the best results. Similar to the skincare rule of applying from lightest to heaviest, Lee suggests an FSF approach for hair: foundation (shampoo, conditioner, masks), structure (leave-ins and protectants), and finish (styling products and texture sprays).
We asked Lee to provide the best order for layering hair products, whether you use just one or all of them. The sequence remains the same. (Note: This starts after shampooing; if you choose to pre-poo, feel free to apply those treatments first.)
1. Shampoo and Conditioner
This step is pretty basic, but it's crucial: your styling process starts in the shower. Make sure to select a shampoo and conditioner tailored to your hair type. Whether you have fine and straight, thick and curly, kinky, or color-treated hair, the right shampoo and conditioner can enhance your natural texture and make styling much smoother.
If you have dyed hair, opt for a formula designed for color-treated locks (look for products free of parabens and with fewer surfactants). If your hair is dry or damaged, go for something hydrating, and if you have fine hair that lacks volume, try volumizing products. Regardless of your choice, Lee advises using a clarifying shampoo once a week to help eliminate styling buildup from your scalp.
2. Hair Mask
Now's the moment to bring out any rinse-off hair masks or treatments. Lee suggests working the mask through your hair with your fingers (avoiding the scalp), and letting it sit for 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing it out. While hair masks can replace your usual conditioner, you can layer them on top if your hair is particularly dry or damaged—just be mindful not to over-apply as it may weigh your strands down.
3. Detangler
Your styling products won’t absorb well over tangles, so applying a detangler right after the shower (before any other products) is crucial. Along with ensuring even application of your wet products by balancing the porosity of the hair, it will also help prevent breakage during styling. Be sure to focus the detangler on the mid-lengths and ends of your hair to avoid a greasy scalp.
4. Leave-in Conditioner and/or Hair Oils (if not Heat Styling)
After detangling your hair, it's ideal to start with a moisturizing leave-in conditioner. Apply it while your hair is still damp—this is when your strands are most receptive (as your cuticles are open), and it will help prevent frizz as your hair dries.
Hair oils can be a bit tricky since they can be applied to both wet and dry hair. If you're not heat styling, this is the perfect time to use them, as your hair will absorb the ingredients better. However, if you plan to heat style, hold off. Applying oil before styling can damage your strands. Lee also points out that not all oils are the same: "Some oils are meant for blow-drying, while others are for after styling. Always check the directions if you're unsure."
5. Thickening/Volumizing Mousse
If volume is your goal, now's the time to add it. Apply a pump of volumizing mousse directly at your roots, scrunching as you go to boost lift and body. Focus on the roots and mid-lengths, leaving the ends untouched.
6. Heat Protectant
Before using any heated styling tools such as a blow-dryer, curling iron, or flat iron, it is essential to apply a heat protectant to safeguard your hair from damage. Spray the product evenly throughout your hair, and use a fine-toothed comb to distribute it from the roots to the tips. Once that's done, you're free to style your hair with heat as you wish.
7. Styling cream and/or hair oils (when heat-styling)
After you've styled your hair, apply a styling cream or oil to add shine, enhance texture, and reduce frizz. Be cautious with oils—only a small amount is needed to achieve the desired effect.
8. Beach or texture spray
To complete your hair routine, finish with a beach or texture spray to secure your style. Whether you prefer a matte or shiny finish, avoid using hairspray on damp hair as it can cause it to become sticky or clump together. Start with a light application on completely dry hair and add more if necessary to perfect your look.
