If you live a life of constant movement between work, the gym, social events and more, then most likely you put a lot of stress on your hair. And most likely, smoothness and shine are at the top of your hair concerns. In real life, this combination is called silkiness. Most likely, you have seen such strands in almost every shampoo commercial. But is it possible to achieve such an effect? How to get silky hair at home?
Content How to get silky hair: Wash strategically How to get silky hair: Be careful when using a blow dryer and curling iron How to get silky hair: Finish with a shine serum How to get silky hair: Brush your hair daily – the right way How to get silky hair: Add a weekly hair mask How to get silky hair: Use a silk pillowcase How to get silky hair: Get regular hair cuts How to get silky hair: Review your diet
There are many everyday habits that can damage your hair and affect how shiny and silky it looks. WomanEL wants to help you and shares expert advice.
How to Get Silky Hair: Wash Strategically
Every hair type needs its own cleansing schedule. But the main goal is not to overdo it. “You can definitely overdry the cuticle, which will result in a rough texture instead of smoothness,” says dermatologist Blair Murphy-Rose.
But don't wash too little, either. The key is to find a balance (some signs that it's time to wash your hair include a greasy appearance, darkened roots, a change in smell, itchiness, and product buildup). “It's important to remove product buildup and residue from your scalp, which can slow hair growth,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose.
To achieve smoothness and shine while you’re cleaning, use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner and avoid using very hot water, says Becca Raziuddin, director of training at Blo Blow Dry Bar. After you’ve shampooed, rinse your hair with cold water to “close the hair cuticle, lock in moisture, and make your hair shiny and smooth,” says hairstylist Dawn Jarvis.
How to achieve silky hair: be careful when using a hairdryer and curling iron
Damp hair takes longer to dry. And prolonged heat can lead to brittleness and coarsening of the cuticle. Instead of rushing to turn on the dryer right after a shower, wrap your strands in a microfiber towel turban first. “This will help dry your hair about 80 percent without frizzing or using heat, keeping your hair super shiny,” says celebrity colorist Aura Friedman. “In an ideal world, you would towel dry your hair completely and never touch a hot tool, but I understand that’s not always realistic,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose.
She adds that you can and should use a heat protectant to protect your hair from heat-related damage. Look for products with ingredients like oils, keratin, and UV protection. “Think of your hair as your favorite frying pan,” says Kenna Eman, co-owner and hairstylist at Kenna Kunijo. “The more heat we apply (even with a protectant), the duller the hair will look.”
How to get silky hair: finish with a shine serum
When you get your hair styled at a salon, you’ll notice that they usually apply a finishing serum. For an instant boost of shine, you should do the same. But don’t be fooled – these serums don’t just add shine.
“Hair serums typically contain nourishing and hydrating ingredients that help repair and smooth the cuticle,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose. “It’s not just about lubricating the hair and reflecting light, it’s also about protecting the hair.” Look for a silicone-based serum, says Raziuddin, who recommends Pock and Lock by Color Wow.
How to achieve silky hair: comb your hair every day – the right way
You don't have to wash your hair every day. But you should brush your hair every day to distribute natural oils evenly throughout your hair and keep it silky, says Eman. Curly hair is best brushed with special products to achieve silkiness, such as styling products, detanglers, and conditioning masks.
One general tip: Since wet hair is more fragile, use a wide-tooth comb instead of a regular comb, says Cody Renegar, a hairstylist in Los Angeles. When your hair is dry, a boar-bristle comb or any other soft-bristled comb will also work.
How to Get Silky Hair: Add a Weekly Hair Mask
A weekly hair mask is the optimal solution for those who want to restore their hair's natural shine and strength. Source: freepik.com
To keep your hair smoother and softer, it's important to deep-condition it periodically. A hair mask once a week is a good goal, says Raziuddin. Any other mask can weigh down your strands. And they'll look limp and greasy, not bouncy and shiny. When shopping for a product, look for high-quality hair products that are free of sulfates, parabens, and sodium chloride.
It's also important to choose a mask that's right for your hair type. “Dry hair can usually handle a very rich mask with oils and silicones that will coat and protect the hair,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose. She notes that a mask with minimal fragrance will prevent irritation.
How to achieve silky hair: use a silk pillowcase
Dr. Murphy-Rose advises treating your pillowcase like any other fabric. If you wear a top or jacket made of a rough material, your hair is likely to get tangled or frizzy—your pillowcase is no different. Sleeping with a silk pillowcase or bonnet will help prevent your hair from tossing and turning while you sleep, causing friction and damaging the hair cuticle.
“I also recommend not going to bed with wet hair, especially tied up. Tying up wet hair causes the cuticle to contract as it dries and become brittle,” she adds. Not to mention, if you go to bed with a wet head, you’re more likely to have to do a lot of heat styling in the morning, which can make it more dull.
How to get silky hair: get your hair trimmed regularly
To avoid split ends, don't forget to visit the salon. Those with straight hair should get their ends trimmed every six to eight weeks, says Renegar. Those with curly hair may want to get their hair trimmed every four months.
Dr. Murphy-Rose agrees with the importance of trimming, adding that the hair cuticle is more fragile at the ends of the hair. This can lead to split ends along the length of the hair shaft, leaving hair looking frizzy and dull. “Having trims and trims will not only help your hair grow longer and healthier, but it will also help prevent cuticle damage and make your hair feel silky,” she says.
How to achieve silky hair: review your diet
Think about what you're putting into your body. A 2021 study found that nutrient deficiencies can lead to changes in the structure, texture, and vitality of your hair. This suggests that what you eat plays a bigger role than you might think.
“It’s really important to make sure your diet is balanced and contains enough protein, vitamins, and minerals to help you grow healthy, less brittle hair,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose. Eman adds that healthy fats like olive oil, avocado, and fish are great for boosting shine.
No matter when and how you use all of these tips, remember that silky hair doesn't happen overnight. It often takes months to notice a change in your hair's condition. So for best results, continue to follow these tips consistently. If you don't see any improvement, see your doctor to discuss other options.
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