You probably layer skin-care products while you sleep, but figuring out how to layer products in your hair-care routine can be confusing. That’s understandable—with so many hair-care products on the market, applying each product in the right order can feel like a lucky charm. Luckily, it’s not as complicated as you might think: Consistency in hair-care formulas, along with your hair type and concerns, can help determine the best way to build your hair-care routine. In the first section, we’ll walk you through the proper order for your hair-care routine, from your shower routine to your post-shampoo care routine. Be sure to follow these hair-care steps the next time you style your hair.

What is the right hair care routine for your hair type?

You won't get much out of your hair care routine if you don't first choose a formula that's tailored to your hair's needs. So the right "hair care routine" ultimately depends on your hair type, concerns, and styling habits.

First, assess how damaged your hair is. Chemically treated hair (like dyed or curly hair) tends to need more restorative formulas to help it look healthy. Virgin hair, on the other hand, is often easier to care for because it’s closer to its natural, healthy state.

Another factor to consider when choosing the best hair care routine is hair porosity, which is simply the ability of your hair to absorb and retain moisture. Low porosity strands tend to have a harder time absorbing hair care products, making moisturizing especially difficult. Meanwhile, high porosity hair tends to be dry, frizzy, and dry out quickly. This condition is often associated with curly, frizzy, or chemically treated hair. Note that all hair is porous, but dry, damaged hair is even more porous.

Ultimately, determining your hair type can help you better care for its unique characteristics. The four main hair types are as follows:

Straight hair

Straight hair is usually shiny, with little curl or wave. It tends to lack volume and needs a lot of help to hold its style. It can also be quite oily because sebum from the scalp can slide down the hair shaft more easily than curly hair. Volumizing formulas are great for this type of hair, as are cleansing products that can help reduce excess oil. You can use the Nubeà Sustenia Volumizing Shampoo and Conditioner

Wavy hair

Wavy hair tends to have a loose, tangled texture that can be styled in a variety of ways. Frizz, flat roots, and uneven curl patterns are often the main concerns for those with this hair type, so smoothing products are essential. Similar to straight hair, it can also become greasy more quickly than tight curls. You can use the Nubeà Equisebo Sebum Control Shampoo

frizzy hair

If you have curly, kinky or coily hair, chances are you have frizzy hair. Volume may not be an issue, but your hair may have trouble retaining moisture. You’ll want to make sure that any formulas that come into contact with your hair provide enough moisture without weighing it down. You can use Nubeà Sustenia Hydrating Shampoo 200ml

Curly hair

Curly hair is naturally textured—no matter what you call it, curly hair is the most voluminous hair type with a more porous texture and a zigzag shape. Curly hair is often extremely dry, brittle, and prone to shrinkage. Look for products that help your hair retain moisture and lengthen your curls.

How do you choose the right products for your hair type?

Generally, your hair type and desired style will dictate the types of products you choose. For example, if you have finer hair, lighter foams can give your hair volume and shine without weighing it down. Conversely, the best hair care routine for those with thick or curly hair may call for stronger-hold formulas to help tame hair without making it feel greasy. Thicker gels, oils, and conditioners are good places to start. There are no hard and fast rules here, but the general order in which you apply them still holds true. Which brings us to our next point...

Steps to use hair care products

Using products in a consistent order (generally, from lightest to heaviest) allows each formula to do its job. On the other hand, following the wrong order can prevent the products from penetrating and working as intended. You also don't have to use every product at once: You may need as few as two or as many as five, depending on the type of hair you're going for. Either way, you should follow the recommended hair care steps below.

1. Shampoo

Proper shampooing helps to clean your hair and scalp so that the remaining products can be absorbed more effectively. Gently apply the recommended amount of shampoo to your scalp in a circular motion. Massaging is important because it can help remove dirt and other buildup that a quick shampoo may not have. Allow the lather to run down the length of your hair before rinsing thoroughly.

2. Conditioner

You’ll apply conditioner after rinsing. Use shampoo and conditioner in the same system to get the most benefit. When applying conditioner, focus on the hair shaft and ends and avoid the roots. Conditioners are often designed to hydrate hair where they need it most (like the drier, older ends) and can weigh down the roots if used incorrectly. Let your formula work for the recommended time on the label before rinsing.

3. Mousse, gel or hair cream

Next in the correct order of hair care products is mousse, gel or hair cream. These are usually standalone products that can be chosen based on your hair type and desired hairstyle.

If your hair lacks volume and you want to add a little volume, use a styling gel designed to add height to curls. Anyone who wants to hold or shape their natural look can choose gel.

4. Hair serum or essential oil

Serums or hair oils should be used as the last step in your hair care routine. Depending on the formula, you can apply each product to damp or dry hair. We recommend following the instructions on the label.

5. Hair spray

The final step in your hair care routine is to spritz on some hairspray or styling gel—both of which should always be applied to dry hair. Using these sprays on wet or damp hair can cause smudging, clumping, and ruin your entire style.

Hair Care Product Layering Tips

Now that you know the basics of a proper hair care routine, here are some other styling tips to keep in mind.

Experiment with different combinations

There’s no rule that says you have to stick to a rigid hair care routine. While it’s best to use shampoo products regularly to see full results, styling products are a little more flexible. Some days you may need conditioner and mousse to keep your hair soft, while other days you may need a control gel and shine oil to give you a trendy, voluminous look. You can certainly customize your product combinations based on your styling intentions—just make sure you don’t stray too far from the order of hair care steps outlined above.

Consider hair length and thickness

Using the right amount of product for your hair type is essential. Those with thick, curly or super long hair may want to cut their hair and double the amount of product to ensure every inch of their hair gets the benefits. On the other hand, anyone with thin, fine or short hair may want to consider using half the recommended amount to avoid making the product worse. It’s always easier to start with less and increase over time rather than risk going overboard.

Press the restart button

Even if you follow a good hair care routine, build-up of residue in your hair can prevent your future styling products from working as intended. That’s where a clarifying shampoo comes in. This detoxifying formula can help remove heavy impurities from your hair (and scalp), restoring bounce, shine, and vitality. Try Nubeà Essentia Scalp Detox Shampoo 200ml . Detoxifying shampoo with Pine, Rosemary, Sage, Eucalyptus, Lavender, Tea Tree Oil and botanical extracts. Deeply cleanses and stimulates microcirculation to help regrow healthy hair.