A Simple Hair Care Routine for Healthier-Looking Hair

Hair care becomes complicated very quickly when every new problem leads to another product. Start by getting the basics right: gentle washing, conditioning, careful drying and a routine that matches your hair type.

1. Start with less

Hair care becomes complicated very quickly when every new problem leads to another product. Start by getting the basics right: gentle washing, conditioning, careful drying and a routine that matches your hair type.

2. 1. Wash your scalp, not just the lengths

Apply shampoo primarily where oil and buildup collect. Let the lather move through the lengths rather than aggressively scrubbing the ends.

3. 2. Condition the lengths

Apply conditioner mainly through the mid-lengths and ends, especially if your hair tends to be dry or tangles easily. Leave it on for the recommended time.

4. 3. Detangle gently

Start at the ends and work upward rather than pulling through knots from the roots. A wide-tooth comb can be useful for many hair types.

5. 4. Be careful with heat

Frequent high heat can make hair more fragile. Use the lowest effective temperature, avoid repeatedly passing over the same section and consider a heat-protective product when appropriate.

6. 5. Do not overcomplicate wash days

A consistent basic routine is often easier to maintain than a weekly rotation of masks, oils, treatments and styling products.

7. 6. Keep your scalp in mind

A healthy-looking routine starts at the scalp. If you have persistent itching, scaling, pain or unusual hair loss, it is better to ask a dermatologist than keep adding products.

8. 7. Protect hair while sleeping

If your hair tangles easily, experiment with a loose style and a smoother pillowcase or other gentle protection. Avoid tight styles that pull at the roots.

9. 8. Trim when your ends need it

Trimming does not make hair grow faster, but removing damaged ends can make it look and feel neater and can reduce the need to keep detangling split ends.

10. Build a routine you will actually use

A simple shampoo, conditioner and one or two targeted products can be enough. Your hair's texture, chemical treatments, scalp condition and styling habits all matter, so adjust based on how your hair responds.