Product 101 for long lasting hair ✨

Written By Amorette Melero

Your Hair: Fabulous for Days with Minimal Upkeep

So you want your hair to look as fabulous as it can for several days with minimal upkeep, right? RIGHT. This guide is for you. I am the QUEEN of putting effort into my hair for one day and then expecting it to perform for the next 5 days lol.

For that salon-quality hold and feel, you’ll need to start with the right products and in the correct ORDER. I’m breaking down the process into 5 steps:

  1. WASH

  2. PREP + PROTECT

  3. HOLD

  4. SET

  5. MAINTAIN

Let’s start with: WASH

Good hair starts in the shower, heck, even before with a good hair detangling and scalp stimulating massage. Your hair washing routine should be designed for your current hair type and/or if it’s color treated. For example: if you have textured or curly hair, your shampoo and conditioner should be moisturizing and deeply hydrating for that perfect no frizz look.

Shampoo and conditioner lay the foundation for your hair care routine. They prep each strand for the benefits of styling treatments and serums.

With that being said, here are the three shampoos I recommend for pretty much any hair type:

  • Oi Shampoo by Davines: Perfect for any hair type. It’s nourishing and provides the perfect amount of cleansing.

  • Ritual Salvation by Evo: A repairing shampoo that’s designed for colored or damaged hair types. If you have heat damage, this shampoo will provide the essential proteins and care it needs to feel whole again.

  • Dede Shampoo by Davines: For those that have fine hair or scalp sensitivities. This delicate shampoo cleanses hair and scalp while leaving shine and softness behind.

PREP + PROTECT

After stepping out of the shower, it's essential to focus on the PREP + PROTECT step for your hair. This phase is crucial as it prepares your hair for the styling products that follow. Just as you would use a moisturizing primer in your skincare routine, applying a leave-in conditioner or a creamy detangler serves to soften and protect your hair.

When your hair is wet, it is at its most vulnerable. Before we begin detangling, it's vital to condition the strands to minimize breakage. Using a leave-in conditioner helps to close down the hair’s cuticle, reducing its porosity. This ensures more even product distribution as you layer in additional styling products later on.

By taking the time to prep and protect your hair, you'll set the stage for healthier, more manageable locks. Here are the products I use behind the chair to achieve a perfect base that condition and protect against heat:

  • Oi All In One Milk by Davines: This sprays on using a light mist and smells AMAZING.

  • Olaplex No. 6: A thicker and creamier product that is applied very similarly to lotion, perfect for smoothing the hair.

  • Mane Ivy Hair Elixir: A lightweight serum that moisturizes hair. It can be used wet and dry to hydrate your locks.

HOLD

Now, we want that style to last! The HOLD step is all about adding structure and volume before you dry and style your hair. Using products like blowout spray, mousse, or smoothing cream will give your hair the lift and hold it needs to stay in shape for days.

Here are my top picks to hold your style in place:

  • Blowout Spray: Provides volume and keeps your hair looking full and lifted.

  • Mousse: Adds body and hold, especially great for those who need a little extra texture.

  • Smoothing Cream: Ideal for sleek styles, it controls frizz while giving you that smooth, polished look.

SET

After styling, it’s time to SET everything in place to keep it fresh for days. This step is key for locking in the style and adding texture. Dry shampoo, hairspray, and a little oil will keep your hair looking like you just left the salon.

My go-to products to set the style:

  • Dry Shampoo: Keeps your hair looking fresh by absorbing oil, perfect for extending the life of your style.

  • Hairspray: Adds hold to keep your style in place without feeling stiff.

  • Hair Oil: A few drops add shine and tame flyaways without weighing your hair down.

MAINTAIN

To keep your hair looking fabulous all week, the MAINTAIN step is all about touch-ups. Refreshing with oil, dry shampoo, or a serum or leave-in will help your hair stay smooth and styled without redoing everything.

Favorite maintenance products for those final touches:

  • Hair Oil: Keeps ends hydrated and smooth.

  • Dry Shampoo: Another quick refresh to remove any excess oils.

  • Serum or Leave-In: Helps detangle and add softness if your hair starts to feel dry.




Amorette Melero