Zoe’s Top Hair Care Tips for Healthier, Happier Hair

Hi, I’m Zoe Forsythe, founder of Salon Shelf and a seasoned stylist with over 20 years' experience. I believe that great hair care doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether your goal is to restore natural shine, keep your hair resilient, or discover the perfect routine for your unique hair type, I’m here to share my top, easy-to-follow hair care tips. These are my go-to techniques that can help anyone achieve healthy, beautiful hair.

1. Prioritise Scalp Health
   Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp. Think of your scalp as the foundation for hair growth! Regularly exfoliate with a gentle scalp scrub or apply a moisturizing serum to clear buildup, balance oils, and create an ideal environment for strong, shiny hair to thrive.

2. Choose Products Based on Hair Porosity
   Hair porosity—how well your hair absorbs and retains moisture—significantly impacts which products will work best for you. Low-porosity hair usually benefits from lightweight, water-based products, while high-porosity hair thrives with thicker, more hydrating formulas. To find out your porosity, try this: place a clean strand of hair in water. If it floats, you likely have low-porosity hair; if it sinks, your hair is high-porosity. This quick trick can guide you in selecting products that truly work for your hair.

3. Always Protect Against Heat
   For those who love hot tools like straighteners, curling irons, or blow dryers, heat protectant is essential. Apply it every time you style to smooth the hair, reduce frizz, and prevent breakage. Heat protectant acts as a barrier for your cuticles, minimizing split ends and helping keep your hair healthier over time.

4. Incorporate a Nightly Hair Routine
   A simple nightly routine can be a game changer. Consider switching to a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction, or loosely braid your hair before bed to prevent frizz and tangling. These small steps help you wake up with smoother, more manageable hair each morning.

5. Adjust Products Seasonally
   Your hair’s needs vary with the seasons. In summer, try lightweight, hydrating products to shield from sun and heat, while winter calls for moisture-rich products to combat dryness and static. Seasonal adjustments keep your hair healthy and looking vibrant year-round.

6. Be Brand-Neutral and Product-Focused
   The best products for your hair might come from different brands. Embrace a “brand-neutral” approach to mix and match products that truly meet your hair’s needs. This flexibility allows you to build a personalized routine that works specifically for you.

7. Stay Curious and Keep Learning
   Hair care is a journey, and there’s always something new to learn. Follow hair care blogs, ask your stylist for advice, or even consider a class on hairstyling. Each new tip or technique empowers you to care for your hair like a pro.

These straightforward tips can help you achieve hair that feels healthier, softer, and stronger. At Salon Shelf, we’re here to support your unique hair journey, guiding you to find the best products and routines to help you look and feel your best.