The Complete Guide to Hair Products: Choosing and Using the Right Products for Your Hair

Hair products are essential to keep hair healthy, clean, moisturised and well styled. The market offers a wide range of products, each designed to meet specific needs, from moisturising treatments to styling and heat protection products. However, with so many options available, it can be difficult to understand which products are really needed and how to use them correctly. This article will explore the various types of hair products in detail, offering advice on how to select the most suitable ones for your hair type and needs.

1. Shampoo: The Basis of Hair Care

What is Shampoo and How it Works

Lo shampoo is the most essential hair care product, designed primarily to cleanse the hair and scalp of sebum residues, dirt and styling products. Shampoos are formulated with surfactants, which are cleansing agents that help lift and remove impurities from the hair.

Shampoos can vary widely in their composition, adapting to different hair types and specific problems. For example, a shampoo for dry hair will have moisturising ingredients, while a shampoo for oily hair will be formulated to remove excess sebum without over-drying the scalp.

Types of Shampoo

• Shampoo for dry hair: Formulated with moisturising ingredients such as coconut oil, argan oil and shea butter. These ingredients help keep hair moisturised and soft, preventing dryness and brittleness.
• Shampoo for oily hair: It contains purifying agents such as clay and green tea, which help control sebum production and keep the scalp clean and fresh.
• Shampoo for damaged hair: Enriched with hydrolysed proteins, keratin and other nutrients that help repair and strengthen hair damaged by chemical treatments or excessive heat.
• Shampoo for coloured hair: It contains ingredients that protect the colour and prevent it from fading, such as UV filters and antioxidants.
• Anti-dandruff shampoo: Formulated with antimicrobial and antifungal ingredients such as selenium sulphide and zinc pyrithione, which help fight dandruff and soothe an irritated scalp.

How to Choose the Right Shampoo

Choosing the right shampoo depends on the type of hair and the specific needs of the scalp. For example, those with dry hair should look for shampoos with moisturising ingredients, while those with a sensitive scalp may prefer a shampoo free of sulphates and parabens. For more tips on how to choose the right shampoo, you can consult this comprehensive guide.

2. Conditioner: Hydration and Protection

The Role of Conditioner in Hair Care

Conditioner is the essential complement to shampoo and serves mainly to moisturise and protect the hair after cleansing. Conditioners contain emollient and moisturising ingredients that help detangle hair, reduce frizz and protect hair from external agents. Unlike shampoo, conditioner is designed to be applied only on the hair and not on the scalp, as it may weigh down the roots and reduce volume.

Types of Conditioner

• Conditioner for dry hair: It contains natural oils, butters and ingredients such as aloe vera, which help to restore moisture and keep hair soft and shiny.
• Conditioner for oily hair: Light and free of heavy oils, this type of conditioner helps to moisturise the hair without weighing it down or adding excessive oiliness.
• Conditioner for coloured hair: Formulated with ingredients that protect colour and add shine, this conditioner helps keep hair vibrant and shiny for longer.
• Deep conditioner or hair mask: An intensive treatment that penetrates deep into the hair shaft to repair and nourish damaged hair.

How to Apply Conditioner

Conditioner should be applied after shampooing on damp hair. It is important to distribute the product evenly over the entire length of the hair, concentrating on the ends, which tend to be drier and more damaged. Leave the conditioner on for at least 2-3 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. For best results, use a conditioner that complements your shampoo. For more tips on how to use conditioner correctly, visit our information page.

3. Styling Products: Creating and Maintaining the Perfect Hairstyle

Gels, Mousses, Pomades and Waxes

Styling products are essential for creating and maintaining the desired hairstyle. These products offer a variety of textures and hold levels to suit different styling needs, from strong, long-lasting hold to soft, natural curls.

• Hair gel: Offers strong hold and shine. Ideal for hairstyles structured that require durable fixation.
• Mousse: Light and volumising, the mousse is perfect for adding body and volume to fine hair without weighing it down.
• Pomades: With a creamy consistency, the pomades offer a flexible hold and a glossy or matt finish, ideal for classic hairstyles such as the pompadour.
• Waxes: Similar to pomades but with a stronger hold and a matt finish. Waxes are perfect for defined and textured hairstyles.

How to Choose the Right Styling Product

The choice of styling product depends on the type of hair and the desired hairstyle. For example, those with fine hair might prefer a light mousse to add volume, while those with curly hair might opt for a defining cream or gel. To find out which styling product is best suited to your needs, see this guide.

4. Hair Oils and Serums: Nourishment and Shine

Benefits of Hair Oils and Serums

Hair oils and serums are highly concentrated products that offer intense hydration, protection and shine to the hair. These products are ideal for dry, damaged or frizzy hair, and can be applied to the ends to prevent split ends or over the entire length for extra shine.

• Hair oils: Like argan oil, coconut oil and jojoba oil, they are rich in fatty acids and vitamins that help nourish the hair and protect it from environmental damage.
• Hair serums: Formulated to fight frizz, add shine and protect hair from external aggressions such as humidity and heat styling.

How to Use Hair Oils and Serums

Oils and serums should be applied to damp or dry hair, concentrating on the ends and lengths. It is important to use only a small amount to avoid weighing hair down. For more information on how to use hair oils and serums correctly, visit our dedicated section.

5. Heat Protectors: Protecting Hair from Heat

The Importance of Thermal Protectors

Heat protectants are essential products for those who regularly use hot styling tools such as straighteners, curling irons and hairdryers. These products create a protective barrier around the hair, reducing damage caused by high temperatures and preventing dryness and breakage.

Types of Thermal Protectors

• Thermal protection sprays: Lightweight and easy to apply, the sprays are ideal for even coverage over the entire length of the hair.
• Heat-protective creams and lotions: They offer additional protection and are ideal for thicker or damaged hair that needs more moisture.
• Heat-protective oils: They combine the benefits of oil with heat protection, ideal for dry or damaged hair.

How to Use Heat Protectors

Heat protectants should be applied to damp or dry hair before using any heat styling tools. It is important to distribute the product evenly to ensure complete protection. For more tips on how to protect your hair from heat, see this guide.

6. Hair Colour and Bleach: Changing the Look

Hair Dyes and Colours

Hair colour is a popular way to change or improve one's appearance. Hair dyes can be semi-permanent or permanent and are available in a wide range of shades to suit every taste. Permanent dyes penetrate the hair shaft and provide long-lasting coverage, while semi-permanent dyes deposit colour on the surface of the hair and fade with washing.

Hair Bleach

Bleach is used to lighten hair, removing the natural colour. This chemical process is often necessary before applying lighter shades or bright colours. However, bleach can damage the hair if not used correctly, so it is important to follow instructions carefully and consider using reconstructive treatments after bleaching.

How to Maintain Hair Colour

Maintaining hair colour requires the use of specific products that protect and prolong the life of the colour, such as shampoos and conditioners formulated for coloured hair. For more tips on how to care for coloured hair, visit our dedicated section.

7. Hair Treatments: Solutions for Specific Needs

Types of Hair Treatments

Hair treatments are formulated to address specific problems such as damaged, thin hair or a problematic scalp. These products may include masks, treatment oils, serums and no-rinse treatments, each with a specific objective.

• Reconstructive masks: They help repair hair damaged by chemical treatments or heat, providing intense hydration and deep repair.
• Volumising treatments: Formulated to add body and thickness to fine, volume-deficient hair.
• Scalp treatments: They treat problems such as dandruff, itching and a dry or oily scalp.

How to Use Hair Treatments

Hair treatments must be chosen according to the specific needs of the hair and scalp. They can be used as part of the weekly routine or as needed. It is important to follow the product instructions for best results. To find out which treatments are right for you, see our guide on hair treatments.

8. Final Considerations on the Choice of Hair Products

Choosing Products Suitable for Your Hair Type

Every hair type is different and requires specific products to keep it healthy and beautiful. It is important to assess one's needs before choosing a product, taking into account factors such as dryness, oiliness, porosity and the level of hair damage.

Avoiding Aggressive Ingredients

Many hair products contain harsh chemical ingredients such as sulphates, parabens and silicones that can damage hair in the long run. Preferring natural, chemical-free products can help keep your hair healthy and strong.

Experimenting and Adapting the Routine

There is no one-size-fits-all solution. Everyone's hair responds differently to products, so it is important to experiment to find the combination of products that works best for you. In addition, hair needs can change over time due to factors such as climate, the stress and hormonal changes, so it is important to adapt your hair care routine accordingly.

For more in-depth information on hair products and personalised advice, visit the blog of New Freestyle.