In the world of hair products, it’s easy to feel a bit lost. With so many options out there, and everything promising perfect, glossy locks, it can be hard to know where to start. So, what exactly is a hair serum? When should you use it, and what’s the difference between a hair mask, a serum, or a hair oil? We’re here to break it down for you.
What is a hair serum?
A hair serum is a lightweight, liquid product specifically designed to protect, nourish, and style your hair. It forms a protective layer over your strands, shielding them from external damage. Depending on the serum, there are even more benefits, like adding shine, making your hair more resilient, or taming frizz.
When should I use a natural hair serum?
If you frequently use styling tools like blow dryers, straighteners, or curling irons, a serum is your new best friend. It creates a hydrating and protective barrier over your hair, preventing heat damage. Plus, a good hair serum transforms your hair into a silky, shiny dream.
Most conventional hair serums contain silicones that make your hair feel smooth. But here’s the thing,silicones are actually a liquid plastic coating your hair. Yep, you read that right: plastic. That’s not something you want for your hair. Once you start using silicones, it’s hard to stop. They’re added to make hair feel smoother, softer, and easier to detangle, but it’s all a façade. In reality, they form a plastic layer around your hair, which can make it dull and tangled over time.
Moreover, silicones block the beneficial ingredients in your products from penetrating the hair. Non-water-soluble silicones even cause "build-up," layering on your hair and scalp, which can lead to scalp issues and weigh down your hair. Not something you want, especially if you have curls or finer hair.
Luckily, we’ve found natural serums free of silicones that still leave your hair soft. Ingredients like Vitamin B5 and protein molecules can penetrate the hair, making it stronger, more resilient, and softer,just like in the Moisture + Protein Infusion.
A natural hair serum can also be a lifesaver if you live in a humid climate where your hair constantly joins the frizz competition. The serum locks in moisture and seals your hair, making frizz a thing of the past. In colder months, it can also help with static by sealing the hair cuticle.
Differences between a hair serum, hair mask and hair oil
The key difference is that a hair serum forms a protective layer around your hair, while a hair mask or oil works from within. Some natural hair serums, however, can also nourish the hair from the inside out.
A hair serum primarily protects, adds shine, and tames frizz, while a hair mask is designed to nourish and repair damaged hair. Hair oils are mostly used to hydrate and feed your hair, with some oils offering heat protection, like the Luxurious Hair + Scalp Treatment Oil.
These products also differ in how you use them. While hair serum and hair oil can be used daily, a hair mask is typically applied once or twice a week. Some hair oils can also be used weekly as a scalp treatment.
But one product doesn’t exclude the other! A hair serum, oil, and mask can work wonderfully together to give you healthy, radiant hair.
How to use a hair serum
Using a hair serum is easy, just like applying a hair oil. You can apply it to dry or towel-dried hair. And for those who can’t decide… you can use both products together. Just be cautious,your hair can quickly look greasy if you overdo it with oils and serums. A few drops are more than enough. Focus on the mid-lengths and ends of your hair, as applying it to your scalp can create a greasy look.
Beste natural hair serum for dry hair
If your hair is particularly dry or you feel like giving it some extra love, the hair serums from Sans [ceuticals] are a perfect choice. Try the pH + Shine Corrector or the Moisture + Protein Infusion. And if you really want to pamper your dry hair, you can also use the Nourishing Hair Hydratant Ultra+ Hair Treatment as a hair mask.
It’s also important to add moisture at every step of your hair routine to combat dryness. If you want to know more, check out our blog on styling products.
