Perfecting your hair care can be as challenging as piecing together a complex puzzle, especially when managing different hair issues. Fortunately, hair serums make things a bit less complicated. Designed to target specific concerns and provide nourishment, these little wonders can make a difference in your hair care routine.
At Everything Hair, we’re here to help you find that ideal product and fit it easily into your routine. Let’s explore how the right hair serums can enhance your hair’s health and appearance.
What exactly is a hair serum?
A hair serum is a lightweight, liquid-based treatment, often made with silicones, that boosts both the health and appearance of your hair. It forms a protective layer over the cuticle—the outermost part of the hair fibre—smoothing and strengthening it.
Some serums address multiple issues at once, while others focus on specific hair needs. If you want to focus on taming fizz and adding quick shine, a serum can be a key player in your hair care products lineup.
What does hair serum do?
Serums act as a shield that seals the cuticle, locking in all the moisture. Their typically lightweight formulas deliver a host of benefits to enhance your tresses.
Hair Serum Benefits:
- Frizz Control
- Shine Enhancement
- Heat Protection
- Protection Against Environmental Damage
- Tangle Reduction
- Moisture Sealing
- Split End Prevention
- Colour Fading Prevention
- Lightweight Texture
Some serums also offer medicinal properties. For example, a hair growth serum specifically formulated to stimulate the scalp can boost circulation, delivering essential nutrients for healthier, thicker hair. There are also products designed to enhance scalp health, addressing issues like dryness and dandruff to create a stronger foundation for your hair.
Different Types of Hair Serums
Choosing the right base for your serum depends largely on your hair type and the specific needs you’re addressing. Here are some quick criteria to help you decide:
- Silicone-Based Serums: Ideal for unruly, frizzy hair and heat protection.
- Water-Based Serums: Perfect for oily hair, fine hair, or scalp treatments.
- Oil-Based Serums: Best suited for very dry, thick, or curly hair.
When should I apply my hair serum?
Hair serum is typically a leave-in treatment that should be included in your post-wash routine. Apply a small amount of serum to damp or freshly styled hair, depending on the type of product you’re using.
- Begin with a few drops, gently warming them between your palms.
- Start by applying the serum to the ends of your hair.
- Gradually work your way upward, covering the lower sections.
- Move on to the mid-lengths and finish with the top.
This method ensures you don’t overload the top of your hair, which could make it look oily. Remember, serums should enhance your hair, not weigh it down.
Can I use hair serum every day?
Hair care experts usually don’t recommend using hair serums every day. Daily use might make your hair look greasy and dull, even if the product is top-notch.
- For the best results, apply the product one to two times a week.
- If your hair is particularly dry or damaged, use it up to three times a week. Keep an eye on how your hair reacts and adjust as needed to find the right balance.
- Exception: Hair growth serums with minoxidil, for example, are intended for daily use to continuously stimulate the scalp and support regrowth.
Choose the Right Hair Serum for Your Hair Type
1. For Dry, Thick and Frizzy Hair
Thick, frizzy hair needs a little extra love. A silicone-based serum works wonders here, forming a barrier that locks in moisture and keeps your hair hydrated. Just a heads up: if you’re using silicone in your serum, you might want to skip it in your other hair products to avoid buildup.
2. For Dry, Thin and Frizzy Hair
Thin hair that frizzes easily needs a delicate touch. We suggest using a lightweight water-based or silicone-based serum that hydrates without adding weight, so your hair stays smooth without losing volume. You can also go for specifically formulated volumising serums.
3. For Oily Hair
Go for water-based serums with natural ingredients like tea tree oil, which can help balance oil production without over-drying your hair. Ensure the serum is non-greasy and won’t add extra weight or shine to oily hair.
4. For Dull Hair
If your hair looks a bit dull and lifeless, reach for serums with jojoba or argan oil. These ingredients can bring back the shine and make your hair look healthier. Biotin, Vitamin E and other supplements can also be helpful, giving your hair a boost of vitality.
5. For Curly Hair
Curly hair thrives on hydration. Choose a hair serum that’s rich but lightweight, something that keeps your curls defined without weighing them down. The goal is to reduce breakage and keep your curls bouncy and full of life.
6. For Coloured Hair
Colour-treated hair can be more prone to dryness, so it also needs some help to stay vibrant. Look for specially formulated treatments that lock in colour and prevent fading while offering hydration. Cream-based formulas are great for thick hair, while a nourishing oil blend can keep your colour looking fresh and your hair soft.
7. For Severely Damaged Hair
Repairing serums with keratin, proteins, or amino acids can help strengthen and repair damaged hair. Natural ingredients like coconut oil or silk proteins can also provide deep conditioning and help restore the hair’s structure.
Hair Serum vs Hair Oil
Which is better, hair serum or hair oil? It really depends on your hair type, specific concerns, and what you want to achieve. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
Hair Serum
- Purpose: A hair serum is perfect for achieving sleek, smooth hair with added shine and frizz control. Many serums also offer the benefit of heat protection.
- Texture: Lightweight and often enriched with silicones, it smooths and shines without weighing your hair down.
- Best For: Hair serums are ideal for fine to normal hair types or anyone looking for instant polish and a glossy finish.
Hair Oil
- Purpose: Deeply conditions and nourishes, targeting dryness and split ends.
- Texture: Hair oils are heavier, more emollient and rich in potent natural oils such as coconut, jojoba, and argan.
- Best For: Dry, damaged, or curly hair that needs extra moisture and repair, and it’s also great for scalp treatment.
Many people find using both products beneficial—serums for everyday styling and shine and oils for occasional deep conditioning treatments.
Serum Solutions for Lustrous Locks at Everything Hair
Whether your goal is to tame frizz, boost shine, or strengthen your strands, the right serum can do wonders. Remember to apply it gently, keep styling heat moderate, and get advice from hair care pros when you need it.
And if you’re wondering where to find the best hair care products in South Africa, look no further! At Everything Hair, we believe great hair starts with great care. That’s why we’ve lined up the best serums and other hair care solutions for every hair type. Shop with us today and check out our blog for easy, expert advice.
Let’s make sure your hair not only looks fantastic but feels wonderfully healthy every day!
