Understanding the Purpose of Hair Serum
Smoothing the Hair Cuticle:
The smooth application of serum helps to flatten the raised cuticles, making the hair surface smoother. This results in less friction between hair strands, which in turn reduces tangling and makes the hair easier to comb through.
Reducing Frizz:
By sealing the hair cuticle and providing a protective layer, serum helps to keep moisture in and prevent the hair from absorbing excess humidity from the environment, which is a common cause of frizz.
Adding Shine:
The ingredients in serum can give the hair a glossy and healthy-looking appearance. It reflects light, making the hair look more vibrant and well-conditioned.
Protecting from Damage:
Some serums contain ingredients that offer protection against heat styling tools (such as hairdryers, straighteners, and curling irons) and environmental factors like UV rays. This helps to prevent damage and keep the hair in better condition over time.
Preparing the Hair
Washing and Conditioning:
Start with a clean slate by washing your hair with a suitable shampoo and conditioner. Choose products that are appropriate for your hair type (e.g., oily, dry, damaged, or color-treated). For example, if you have dry hair, use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to replenish moisture. Rinse the conditioner thoroughly to ensure no residue is left on the hair, as this can affect how the serum is absorbed.
Towel Drying:
Gently pat your hair dry with a towel. Avoid rubbing the hair vigorously as this can cause frizz and damage the hair cuticle. Leave the hair slightly damp but not dripping wet. The ideal moisture level is around 70 – 80% dry. This allows the serum to spread evenly and penetrate the hair more effectively.
Applying the Hair Serum
Determining the Right Amount:
The amount of serum you need depends on the length and thickness of your hair. For short to medium-length hair, a pea-sized amount is usually sufficient. For longer or thicker hair, you may need a bit more, about a dime-sized amount. It’s better to start with a small amount and add more if needed, as using too much serum can make the hair look greasy and weighed down.
Warming the Serum in Your Hands:
Rub the serum between your palms to warm it up. This helps to distribute the product evenly and makes it easier to apply. The warmth also activates some of the ingredients, enhancing their effectiveness.
Sectioning the Hair:
Divide your hair into small sections, starting from the bottom and working your way up. This ensures that each section of hair is evenly coated with the serum. You can use clips to hold the sections that you’re not working on.
Application Technique:
Start at the mid-lengths of the hair and work towards the ends. Avoid applying the serum directly to the roots, as this can cause the hair to look flat and greasy near the scalp. Gently run your fingers through the hair, spreading the serum evenly along the hair shaft.
For added smoothness and frizz control, you can use a comb or a brush to distribute the serum more evenly. A wide-toothed comb is a good option for detangling and spreading the serum without causing too much breakage.
If you have particularly frizzy or damaged areas, you can apply a little extra serum to those sections, but be careful not to overdo it.
Styling the Hair
Blow Drying (Optional):
If you plan to use a hairdryer, you can do so after applying the serum. Use a low to medium heat setting and a diffuser attachment if you have curly hair to reduce frizz and enhance the natural curl pattern. The serum will act as a heat protectant to some extent, but it’s still important not to expose the hair to excessive heat. As you blow dry, continue to run your fingers or a brush through the hair to ensure even drying and to maintain the smoothness and shape.
Straightening or Curling:
If you’re using heat styling tools like a straightener or a curling iron, make sure to apply the serum before styling. This will not only protect the hair from heat damage but also help the style last longer and look smoother. When using the styling tools, glide them slowly through the hair, taking care not to tug or pull too hard. The serum will help the tools glide more easily and give a more polished finish.
Letting the Hair Air Dry:
If you prefer to let your hair air dry, the serum will still work its magic. You can gently scrunch or twist the ends of your hair for added texture and definition. As the hair dries, the serum will help to keep it looking smooth and shiny.
Final Touches
Checking for Evenness:
Once your hair is dry or styled, check for any areas where the serum may not have been evenly distributed. If you notice some parts looking dull or frizzy, you can apply a tiny amount of serum to those areas and smooth it out with your fingers.
Fixing Flyaways:
Use a small amount of serum on your fingertips to tame any flyaways. Gently press down on the flyaway hairs to make them lie flat and blend in with the rest of the hair.
Refreshing Later in the Day (If Needed):
If your hair starts to look a bit dull or frizzy later in the day, you can apply a very small amount of serum to the ends and lightly smooth it over the surface of the hair. This will help to revive the shine and smoothness without making the hair look greasy.
Conclusion
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