Your Guide to a Healthy Hair Routine That’ll Help You Achieve Luscious Locks

We all want healthy hair that’s worthy of being swayed around in a shampoo commercial. But let’s be honest—getting there can feel like an overwhelming, sometimes moot, task. There are so many products, so many tips, and so many “rules” that it’s hard to know where to start. But here’s the thing: the journey to healthier hair doesn’t need to be stressful. In fact, with a little knowledge and the right products, it’s totally manageable. And today, I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know about building the healthy hair routine of your dreams.

Having healthy hair isn’t just about using the right products; it’s about taking the right steps. Trust me, I’ve been there—I get it. Starting a hair care routine can feel daunting, especially if you’re not sure what your hair actually needs. But the key is understanding your hair type, figuring out what works for it, and committing to the right routine. 

So let’s dive into it.

What Is a Healthy Hair Routine?

A healthy hair routine is a set of steps you regularly take to ensure your hair stays nourished, strong, and looking its best. It goes beyond just washing your hair—it’s about using the right products for your hair type, minimizing damage, and taking care of your scalp.

The benefits of having a healthy hair routine abound. For instance, having a hair regimen can improve your hair’s strength, boost its natural shine, reduce split ends, and even help you manage hair loss. Plus, a good routine can also help prevent damage caused by heat styling or harsh chemicals. But here’s where things get interesting: the steps in a healthy hair routine can (and probably should, honestly) vary depending on your hair type.

For example, someone with straight hair may have different needs than someone with curly hair. And if you have color-treated hair, there are additional steps you need to take to keep your hair healthy. Don’t worry—we’ll break it all down for you.

How to Have a Healthy Hair Routine

Understand Your Hair Type.

The first step in creating your healthy hair routine is understanding what type of hair you have. Is your hair straight, wavy, or curly? Is it fine or thick? Each hair type has its own needs, so knowing your hair’s natural texture and structure is key to choosing the right products. Curly hair, for example, often needs extra moisture and products that define the curls, while straight hair might require products that add volume or shine.

Consider Your Lifestyle.

Your hair routine should also align with your lifestyle. If you have a busy schedule, you may need products that are easy to apply and quick to use. On the other hand, if you have more time, you might want to indulge in extra steps—namely hair oil treatments or using a wide tooth comb to detangle after washing. For those of us who use heat tools like curling irons or turn to blow drying on the regular, it’s also important to protect your hair with heat protectants.

Know When (and How) to Wash Your Hair.

It might sound obvious, but washing your hair the right way is a critical step in maintaining healthy hair. Depending on your hair type and lifestyle, you might not need to wash your hair every day. For curly hair, in particular, washing your hair too frequently can strip away natural oils, leading to dryness and sometimes breakage. A good rule of thumb is to wash your hair every two to three days, or whenever it feels necessary. Also, keep in mind that washing your hair with hot water can cause dryness, so try using lukewarm water instead.

Pro tip: Your shampoo should lather to signify that your strands are clean. If it doesn’t lather, you should shampoo again. 

Don’t Skip Conditioner.

Conditioner is essential for healthy hair, regardless of your hair type. After shampooing, always follow up with conditioner to replenish moisture and keep your strands soft and manageable. When applying conditioner, make sure to do so from the mid-lengths to the ends of your hair, as this is where it needs moisture the most. You can probably skip the roots because it’ll likely lead to build up.

Invest in a Shower Head Filter

The water in your shower can play a big role in the health of your hair—particularly if you’re in a city that has hard water. Hard water contains minerals that can build up on your hair, leaving it dull and lifeless. If you’re dealing with this, consider investing in a shower head with a filter. It will help reduce mineral buildup and leave your hair feeling softer and shinier.

Best Hair Care Routine for Healthy Hair

Step 1: Start with a gentle shampoo.

Choose a sulfate-free shampoo that’s gentle on your hair and scalp. A shampoo that strips your hair of its natural oils can lead to dryness, frizz, and breakage. This is even more true if you have curly hair. If you have color-treated hair, make sure to use a shampoo formulated specifically for color protection to help maintain your vibrant hues. More often than not, purple shampoo is your best bet.

Step 2: Apply conditioner.

After shampooing, it’s time for conditioner. If you have curly hair, look for a conditioner that provides deep moisture and helps define your curls. A leave-in conditioner can also be a great option for extra hydration and to keep your curls bouncy throughout the day. For straight hair, a lightweight conditioner may be best to avoid weighing your hair down.

Step 3: Use a wide tooth comb to brush your hair.

Once your hair is conditioned, gently detangle it with a wide tooth comb. This helps prevent breakage and ensures your hair stays healthy and strong. It’s really crucial for curly hair, as dry curls are more fragile and prone to damage.

Step 4: Deep condition regularly.

For extra hydration, consider using a hair mask once a week. This is especially important if you’ve been styling your hair with heat or if you have color-treated hair. If you’re wondering how to use hair masks, we got you. Simply apply them to damp hair, leave them on for the recommended time (should be on the label), and rinse thoroughly. The right mask can help restore moisture, repair damage, and give your hair that shiny, healthy glow.

Step 5: Air dry or blow dry with care. 

Whenever possible, allow your hair to air dry to reduce heat damage. If you do need to blow dry, make sure to use a heat protectant and blow dry your hair on the lowest heat setting. Remember, protecting your hair is key to maintaining its health in the long run.

By following the steps we outlined and incorporating the right products into your routine, you’ll be well on your way to having healthy, beautiful hair. And if you’re looking for a product that’s a game-changer, be sure to check out our Verb hair products reviews to find what works best for your hair type.

Remember: Healthy hair starts with a solid routine, so get started today—and your hair will thank you for it.