Hair Care for Fine Hair

The routine at a glance

1. 1Detangle dry, ends first
2. 2Scalp-first wash, light lather
3. 3Condition the ends, rinse fully
4. 4Blot gently, dry low

The 4 steps

1. Detangle dry, ends first. One small section at a time, working from the ends up. Hair is delicate when it is wet, so use a wide-tooth comb instead of a brush to detangle wet hair.
2. Scalp-first wash, light lather. Use lukewarm water and a small amount of shampoo. Apply shampoo to your scalp, instead of the entire length of your hair, then let the rinse carry it down.
3. Condition the ends. If you have fine or straight hair, apply conditioner to the ends of your hair. Use a coin-sized amount on the last few inches, then rinse it out fully.
4. Dry gently, heat low. Roughly rubbing your hair dry can cause damage. Press water out with a soft towel instead, then blot the lengths dry. Excessive heat can cause damage, so limit blow drying and use of tools like flat or curling irons — air-dry when the routine allows.

Two mistakes that undo the routine

• Daily full-length shampooing — apply shampoo to your scalp, instead of the entire length of your hair, then rinse the lengths clean.
• Heavy conditioner at the roots — if you have fine or straight hair, apply conditioner to the ends of your hair, then rinse fully.