Hair serum is a styling product that coats the surface of your hair. It’s made with a base of silicone, a rubber-like substance that sits on top of your strands.
There are different types of hair serums for different hair goals. Depending on the product’s formula, a hair serum might reduce frizz, add shine, or straighten your hair. Some formulas may also protect against various forms of damage.
Here’s a look at the benefits of hair serum and how to use it. And if you’re looking for product recommendations, we have that covered, too.
What are the benefits?
Hair serum can benefit your hair in several different ways. Let’s take a closer look at what hair serum can do for your locks.
Controls frizz
If your hair is weak and damaged, it may look frizzy or dry. You may also have flyaways, or hair that looks like it’s standing on end.
The silicone in hair serums can help control these issues. It adds weight to weak strands, giving them more substance. Silicon’s ability to coat your hair also helps lock in your natural curl pattern.
Boosts smoothness
The antifrizz effect of hair serum also helps improve the smoothness of your hair. This is due to the coating action of silicone, which creates the appearance of sleek and polished strands.
Reduces tangles
When your hair is smooth and sleek, it’s less likely to tangle or knot. The detangling effect of hair serum can make your hair easier to comb, style, and manage.
Promotes shine
When your hair is smooth, it tends to look shinier and glossier. Plus, some types of silicone used in hair serum can help reflect light, which increases the appearance of overall shine.
Protects against damage
Because hair serum coats your hair, it can help protect your strands from different types of damage. This includes damage caused by:
- chemical processing (like coloring, perming, or straightening)
- heat damage (from blow drying and heated styling tools)
- environmental stress (like sun exposure)
- mechanical stress (due to repeated hair styling)
Some hair serums are marketed as heat protectants, which are applied before using heat styling tools.
How to use hair serum
To get the most out of your hair serum, it’s important to apply it properly. Here’s how to do it.
For best results, apply your initial application of hair serum to clean, damp hair.
Add 1 to 2 drops of hair serum to the palm of your hand. Warm the serum between your hands for 5 seconds.
Apply to your hair, working from the ends up to the middle of your strands. Try to spread the product evenly with your hands. Avoid applying the serum to your roots or using too much product, as this can make your hair look greasy.
Be gentle when applying hair serum. Avoid pulling through your hair, which can cause damage.
Once you’ve finished applying the serum, use a wide-tooth comb to gently distribute the serum evenly from the middle of your strands down to the ends.
Style your hair as usual.
If necessary, you can use a serum throughout the day to touch up your hair.
