Hair Serums: Do They Really Work?

A hair serum acts as a heat protectant, provides sheen, reduces dryness and calms frizz.

There are three methods for using a serum:

Apply on damp hair prior to blow drying which provides a smoother finish.

• Put on dry hair when you are flat ironing for a sleek, shinier finished style.
• Use to style hair which can improve the appearance of dry, frizz hair and acts against humidity and steam.

The majority of serums contain silicones and conditioning properties that aid in smoothing the hair cuticle when heat is applied.

Long are the days of Afro Sheen! It is much better to use a hair serum rather than a hair oil or grease which tends to burn or fry the hair and cause damage.

When applying a hair serum, it’s best to use a small amount. Less is more. Serums are also helpful when dealing with humidity and also lock in moisture.

You should also take into consideration the texture of your hair. If you have thin, fragile hair, it’s best to use a lighter serum that will not weigh the hair down. However, thicker, coarser hair will need a heavier serum. (It still doesn’t mean to coat the hair excessively). The same rule applies to thicker hair textures:  Less is more.

For best results, you should use a hair serum when your hair is freshly washed. You do not want gels, oils and waxes to mix with serums. A leave in-conditioner is all you really need prior to adding the serum prior to heat styling. After you have used the heat appliance, you may want to use an oil moisturizer, oil spritz or sheen spray to protect against dryness.

As you may know, heat styling is not recommended on a regular basis. Even though heat protectants are shielding and protecting your hair from damage and breakage. The long term exposure to heat will eventually break down the natural curl pattern. Your hair will begin to lose its natural elasticity and texture. Hair ends will tend to look frayed. It will also become dry, brittle and weak. If you are chemically processed; whether colored or permed, this will enhance the level of brittleness eventually leading to breakage.

Of course, everyone has different hair types and textures. You may want to experiment with a variety of serums if you are not familiar with using one. But most of all, Be gentle to your hair. Don’t take it for granted. At all cost, treat it and yourself with respect and TLC.