How to layer your hair products the right way

We already know that when building a skincare routine, layering is key to the effectiveness of serums and moisturisers. Well, the same goes for your hair products. Applying them in the correct order will ensure you see the best results when it comes to the health of your hair and adding an extra boost of hydration. 

As with skincare, once again, consistency is king. The same way you would religiously apply serums, eye creams, oils and moisturisers, take this mentality to your hair. Only through repeat usage will you see true results.

We would never skip skincare before putting on makeup, so why are we not giving out hair the same treatment? It is useless to paint without first priming your canvas, so, to ensure your hair looks like a masterpiece, take time to prep. This will guarantee that you reap extra benefits from all your products.

Start by assessing your hair’s needs. Do you have product build-up? Could your strands do with some added hydration? Is your scalp in need of an exfoliation? Once your problem areas have been identified, then it is time to look for the right product. 

This is a step we would recommend you start about an hour before you wash your hair. Give your chosen product time to work its magic. There is no point rinsing it out minutes after you have put it in - give it time to do its thing.

Shampooing is an obvious step, but don’t forget to do it twice. Remember that the first time loosens all the dirt and oil that has built up on your scalp and the second washes it away. 

Be mindful of what shampoo you choose though. If you find your hair getting oily quickly, your shampoo may be too harsh. Try something slightly gentler and see if that makes a difference. 

There are some optional steps here too. If you have blonde hair you may occasionally want to use purple shampoo to help eliminate any brassy build-up. Curly hair may also benefit from shampoo specially designed to look after curls. Your hair, your choice. 

Rinse-out treatment is an umbrella term. Similar to a pre-shampoo this is an additional step that is dependent on your hair’s needs. Typically, this is a hair mask that is tailored to deliver certain results, such as colour correction, hydration or repair. Take the time to assess your lengths and apply accordingly. Let this sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing out so you see the best results.

Related: The best tried and tested hair masks to heal tired tresses

Conditioning is the final step to do whilst in the shower. Choose a conditioner that matches your shampoo as they have been designed in tandem to complement each other. 

Concentrate conditioner on the lengths of your hair and keep away from the roots. Applying it close to your scalp means you risk weighing your hair down or encouraging excess oils. Rinse out thoroughly. We recommend finishing your in-shower hair care with a blast of cold water as it can help preserve natural oils and is better for your hair cuticle.

At the risk of repeating ourselves, the choice of leave-in treatment varies depending on your hair's needs. Those blessed with curls may choose to add a curl cream to enhance their natural texture (for top tips in this department look to the Vollan twins and their guide to curly hair.) 

Others may choose to add a leave-in conditioner for extra softness between washes. We recommend something that works to protect and strengthen your hair, such as a bond repair treatment, because who doesn't want that?

Think of mousse as you would makeup - what is your desired result? Are you looking for a matte, shiny or satin finish and from this tailor your purchases.

Mousse is best used for volume and should be concentrated on the roots. It is a great way to achieve this result without using excessive heat. We also recommend using a mousse that contains keratin, to help nourish your locks that little bit more. Avoid using too much, however,  as overuse could leave your hair feeling crunchy. 

Serum is a fantastic way of controlling frizz and locking moisture into your hair. This is not a necessary step, but one we recommend.  Use sparingly and work through the ends of your hair as this is the most exposed part, and therefore the most damaged. 

If this is not a step you regularly choose to do, perhaps look at implementing it at specific times of the year. Winter can be gruelling for your hair, so a touch of serum could help work a little magic. Additionally, if your hair hates humidity, when going on holiday serum could make all the difference. 

Once again, a completely optional step, but for those who struggle with dry hair, we suggest you add some oil to your routine. Oil can add another layer of hydration to your hair and improve its elasticity, making it less prone to breakage.

Related: The best hair oils for luxe shiny locks

They’re called finishing sprays for a reason. Welcome to the final step of your hair care routine. These sprays will ensure all of your effort does not go to waste.

A texturising spray can create a sexy tousled look, whilst hairspray ensures maximum hold. If you have curly hair, an anti-humidity spray could be worth adding to your routine to help eliminate frizz and add soft hold.

Related: Your hair needs SPF too – here are the protective products you need

Always use heat protectants after all other products as they need to be in direct contact with any heat to activate. If you put it anywhere else in your routine, you might as well not apply it. Products such as oils can offer some protection, but always add a dedicated cream or spray to your locks before applying heat of any kind.

Related: Tried & Tested: Is Oribe’s new 'Gold Lust Dry Heat Protection Spray' the silky-soft answer to healthy hair?

The best time to apply hair spray is after curling. Heat your hair on your tool of choice. Once taken off the heat, hold the hair in a ringlet until cold and then apply hairspray. This will ensure maximum hold and longevity.