Build a Hair Routine You Can Actually Maintain

A routine only works if you can repeat it.

The most complicated regimen in the world is useless if you dread doing it.

Start with the essentials.

Step 1: Cleanse

Choose a cleanser based primarily on your scalp and overall routine.

Ask:

• Is my scalp oily?
• Dry?
• Buildup-prone?
• Sensitive-feeling?
• Sweaty?
• Covered by a protective style?

Step 2: Condition

Choose conditioning based primarily on the hair strands.

Ask:

• Do they feel dry?
• Fine?
• Coarse?
• Tangled?
• Chemically processed?
• Heat styled?

Step 3: Treat when needed

Masks and intensive treatments can be useful.

They do not need to appear in every wash-day routine for every person.

Step 4: Add targeted care

This may include:

• oil;
• edge care;
• beard care;
• protective-style maintenance; or
• another specific product.

Add steps because they solve a real routine need—not because a social-media routine has twelve products.

Match the routine to your life

If you realistically have 30 minutes, build a 30-minute routine.

Consistency usually matters more than complexity.