Many people spend a significant amount of money on haircare products only to find that their hair does not look or feel the way they expected. This often happens because the products chosen do not match the physical texture of their hair strands. Understanding your specific hair texture is the most important step in building a routine that actually works. By learning how to identify your hair type and selecting products designed for its unique structure, you can achieve better results and maintain healthier hair. 

Determining Your Hair Texture

Hair texture describes the thickness or diameter of each individual hair strand. This is different from hair density, which refers to how many hairs you have on your head. To find your texture, take a single strand of hair and place it on a white piece of paper.

Product Guide for Fine Hair

Fine hair has the smallest diameter. Because each strand is so thin, this hair type is prone to breakage and can be easily overwhelmed by heavy ingredients.

• Washing Frequency - Natural oils from the scalp travel down thin strands very quickly. Most people with fine hair find they need to wash their hair more frequently to prevent a flat, greasy appearance.
  

• Moisture Levels - This hair type needs hydration to stay healthy, but too much moisture causes the strands to stick together. Use products that offer "volume" or "body."
  

• Application Tips -

• Apply conditioner only from the middle of the hair down to the ends.

• Avoid the scalp area when using oils or leave-in treatments.

• Choose foaming products or lightweight mists instead of thick creams.
  

• What to Avoid - Heavy ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil in large amounts, and thick waxes.

Product Guide for Medium Hair

Medium hair is the most common hair type. It is generally stronger than fine hair and has more natural volume, making it easier to style in different ways.

• Washing Frequency - This texture usually stays clean for two to three days. It does not become oily as fast as fine hair but is not as dry as coarse hair.
  

• Moisture Levels - A balance of moisture and strength is key. You can use a wider variety of oils and conditioners without worrying about losing volume.
  

• Application Tips -

• Use a rinse-out conditioner every time you wash.

• A light hair oil can be used on the ends to keep them from splitting.

• Standard lotions or smoothing creams work well for controlling frizz.
  

• What to Look For - Ingredients like jojoba oil or sunflower oil which provide shine without excessive weight.

Product Guide for Coarse Hair

Coarse hair has the widest diameter and is the most resilient. However, the structure of the strand makes it difficult for moisture to get inside, which often leads to a rough or frizzy texture.

• Washing Frequency - Coarse hair can go the longest between washes because the scalp oils take a long time to move down the thick strands. Over-washing can lead to more dryness.
  

• Moisture Levels - This hair type requires the most moisture. Look for products labeled "intense hydration," "rich," or "smoothing."
  

• Application Tips -

• Use thick, creamy conditioners and let them sit for a few minutes before rinsing.

• Apply leave-in conditioners while the hair is still damp to lock in water.

• Use heavy oils or serums to coat the hair and provide a smooth finish.
  

• What to Look for - Rich butters, argan oil, and glycerin to help pull moisture into the hair.

Recommended Haircare Products from Essentials.lk

At essentials.lk, we stock a wide variety of products specifically chosen to meet the needs of different hair textures. Our selection includes all your favourite international brands that offer reliable results for cleaning, conditioning, and styling. Here are a few of our favourite picks from our hair collection; 

• L'Oreal Paris Elvive Colour Protect Wonder Water 

This liquid product acts as a fast-acting conditioner for colour-treated hair. It works well for fine and medium textures because it provides shine and softness without using heavy waxes. It helps to smooth the surface of the hair in a short amount of time.

• Cantu Avocado Hydrating Hair Gel With Avocado Oil And Shea Butter

This gel is intended for thick and coarse hair that needs a strong hold. The inclusion of avocado oil ensures that the hair remains hydrated while the style is set. It is useful for managing frizz and defining natural patterns in the hair.

• African Pride Moisture Miracle Rose Water & Argan Oil Curl Mousse 

This foam is designed to add definition to wavy and curly hair. It uses rose water and argan oil to provide light moisture. The mousse format is beneficial for those who want to define their hair texture without the weight of a heavy cream.

• OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco Penetrating Oil 

This oil is a practical choice for individuals with dry or coarse hair. It is applied to damp hair to help improve softness and shine. The formula assists in protecting the hair from the heat of blow dryers and flat irons.