Cutting my hair short seemed like it would make my life easier, and while blow-drying is faster, styling it takes more effort. Long hair was simpler; a messy bun always worked. But I love my short hair and it’s motivated me to take better care of it. I even curl it now! This extra effort includes using hair products—something I avoided before because I hate that gunky feeling.
My hair is curly, frizzy, dry on the ends, and full of cowlicks, so my stylist convinced me products would make a huge difference. I committed to a new routine, and it’s completely transformed my hair. Here are my top seven products:
1. **Kristin Ess ‘The One’ Shampoo & Conditioner:** I initially bought these for the pretty packaging, but a year and several repurchases later, I’m hooked. They’re amazing! The scent is great, and my hair feels incredibly soft and light, almost like virgin hair.
2. **Davines Oi oil:** I usually avoid hair oils, but this one is fantastic. It adds shine, smooths my ends after heat styling, and works well on damp hair before blow-drying. I even use the leftover oil to moisturize my hands. The travel size is a great way to try it before committing to the larger, pricier bottle.
3. **Living Proof ‘Restore’ Hair Mask:** After a clarifying shampoo, I use this hair mask every three washes. It’s expensive, but worth it. It adds incredible shine, tames frizz, and doesn’t weigh my hair down if you rinse it thoroughly. I let it sit for 20 minutes, rinse with warm water, and then finish with a blast of cold water.
4. **Ouai Scalp Scrub:** My stylist scrubs my scalp, and it feels amazing! This scrub exfoliates, increases circulation, and promotes healthy hair growth. They even have a CBD version now!
5. **Ouai Hair & Body Shine Mist:** This smells incredible—seriously, the best scent ever. It adds a subtle shine and makes my hair smell amazing. Plus, it works on your body too!
6. **Living Proof Smooth Blowout Concentrate (heat protector):** A heat protectant is essential if you use hot tools. This one cuts down drying time, protects my hair, and gives me a smooth blowout that requires minimal flat-ironing.
7. **Living Proof ‘Perfect Hair Day’ Dry Shampoo:** This is the best dry shampoo I’ve ever used. It’s lightweight, doesn’t leave a chalky residue, and my hair looks and feels clean. My partner even uses it!