How To Care For Every Type Of Hair Texture

“Hair texture.” It’s a phrase used often, but rarely fully understood. It’s not curl pattern, as frequently assumed. Instead, it refers to the hair shaft’s circumference, resulting in the categorization of fine, medium, and thick. As expected, each specific hair texture has its own unique needs; however, too frequently those needs aren’t met.

Let’s face it: Hair products aren’t one-size-fits-all. While some people are well-aware of this fact, many still find themselves buying whatever hair product their favorite celeb suggests, or falling for that enticing commercial that promises endless hair growth and bountiful volume.

Very rarely does it cross the mind that the hair texture being shopped for isn’t the target of the product’s formulation. It then results in disappointment when the hair isn’t rendering the same look, and the cycle begins all over again. Many of the issues that come from caring for hair stem from not properly identifying a hair texture’s needs. But now, as many are gearing up for winter hair color revamps and bracing to expose locks to the bone-chilling elements, there’s no better time to transform a hair routine into one that helps your hair reach its fullest potential.

According to hair stylist and hair educator Courtney Foster, when dealing with any hair type, two things will always be important: appropriate cleansing and moisture. “More specifically, the rules are shampoo, condition, and moisturize,” she says. “Regardless of your texture, these steps are important in maintaining healthy and manageable hair. Shampoo cleanses the scalp and opens the hair cuticles while conditioner moisturizes and closes the cuticle. A deep conditioner or hair masque adds another level of moisture which stays on the hair longer than a traditional conditioner and sometimes uses heat.”

But that’s not all to consider here. What good is well-moisturized hair if breakage is rampant? Maintaining healthy ends is one of the most important aspects of length retention, meaning consistent trims are a must. “The general rule for trimming hair is around eight to 12 weeks,” Foster says. “This number can vary depending on the condition of the hair — meaning damaged hair may need more frequent trims — and style of the hair. For example, short bobs or pixie cuts require ample trims to maintain the desired style.”

Natural supplements can also be used to support the hair health of all hair textures. Nutrafol’s Core supplement contains horsetail, a botanical that naturally contains silica, which is known to increase tensile strength of hair, and reduce brittleness from within.

These rules apply to all hair textures, but depending on whether your hair is fine, medium, or thick, there are also specific secrets to healthy locks that you should be following ASAP.

“Fine hair tends to get oily quickly, making the hair look limp and lifeless, so shampooing often is beneficial,” Foster says. But contrary to popular belief, when it comes to fine hair, less is actually more. Foster suggests those with a thinner grade of hair should stay away heavy products and opt for those formulated with more lightweight ingredients. “Avoid using a lot of oil- or cream-based products,” she insists. “Holding sprays, texturizing sprays, and thickening mousse will help to add volume and fullness to hair.”

As expected, those with medium-textured hair have a lot more options when it comes to products — but that doesn’t mean that anything goes. “Medium hair types are typically the easiest texture to manage. [This hair texture type] responds well to pretty much any product,” Foster says. However, medium hair textures still have the capacity to become dehydrated, meaning wash schedules don’t have to be as rigid due to density. “Once or twice a week for shampooing and conditioning, with monthly treatments are perfect for this hair texture type,” Foster advises. “A lightweight oil will help keep flyaways intact.”

Having a much higher porosity, thick hair absorbs moisture much quicker than other textures, requiring that little extra TLC. “Thick hair is naturally dry and frizzy. Using products that hydrate and smooth out the hair cuticle is a must,” Foster says.

Due to the hair’s quick absorption of product, frequent washes can exacerbate dehydrated hair. “Most women with this hair type can go longer without shampooing, so every 2 weeks is OK if your hair doesn’t show signs of needing to be cleansed sooner,” Foster says. “If straightening is an option, a blowout cream or serum should be applied for smoother and longer lasting results.”

As the weather changes and winter approaches with a vengeance, it’s now more important than ever to take heed to hair’s needs. While some hair textures may need less or more protection than others, it’s important to remember to create a barrier for your hair from the chilling cold. “Using a heavier conditioner or masque will help with drying and keeping the hair cuticle sealed,” Foster insists. And in case you haven’t already incorporated it into your wardrobe, using silk or satin lined hats and scarves will prevent hair breakage while still keeping warm you warm.

So if you’re tired of spending countless hours toiling how to make your hair grow, appear fuller, or simply feel healthier, try out the above tricks and products like Nutrafol and watch your hair begin to flourish.