I once considered a shampoo, conditioner, weekly hair mask and heat-protecting spray to be the basics of a solid haircare regime. That was until I started using hair serums…
Since adding a variety of hair serums to my non-negotiable beauty arsenal, I’ve noticed my overall hair health level up. Aside from the factors you’re likely to associate with a hair serum, like adding gloss and shine, they can address a whole host of specific needs.
“The chemistry behind serums means that they can be highly concentrated to deliver very specific benefits,” explains Kuldeep Knox, founder of Chāmpo haircare. “Because they are usually composed of very small molecules, they are readily absorbed by hair, which means you can use less and get more value for money. They can be easily formulated to deliver a wide range of results, such as adding volume, managing frizz, and protecting against heat or pollution damage.”
With so many fantastic hair serums on the market, however, it’s easy to get overwhelmed when trying to find the perfect match. That’s why I’ve created the ultimate edit of hair serums for every hair type and concern. Happy hair incoming.
An ultra-concentrated vegan-friendly serum that increases the appearance of hair density while reducing signs of shedding. Fill the pipette and evenly disperse throughout the scalp on damp or dry hair daily.
Made with avocado oil, this lightweight serum works to make the hair look and feel soft and shiny without weighing it down and is especially good for anyone wanting to tame frizz, flyaways and dry ends. “The formula is also clear so is completely safe to use on bleached hair without the fear that it will turn your blonde brassy,” says Bleach London founder Alex Brownsell.
There’s a reason this product gets rave reviews for adding shine to dull, dry and damaged hair. The prickly pear seed oil is enriched with antioxidants, omega fatty acids and amino acids, which reinforces each strand, and the Tacoma butter deeply moisturises and softens. Plus, it protects hair from artificial heat up to 230°C.
For when you want your hair super sleek and straight, look for a serum that has smoothing properties. Whenever I know I’m going to whack out my trusty GHDs, I’ll always apply this to my hair when it’s damp, as it not only helps to make it super straight and shiny but also protects from heat damage.
A leave-in formula that gives a lease of life to dull and dehydrated curls by lubricating and infusing moisture into each strand. “My top tip would be to use a hair serum to separate bundled curls,” says Michelle Thompson, Afro and textured hair specialist and Colour Wow ambassador. “Not only will this help to seal the cuticles and create more definition, but it also creates more bounce and shine to the hair.”
This bi-active, trichological serum includes caffeine to target the hair loss hormone DHT to help delay shedding and stimulate hair growth, amino acid to help improve volume and build body, and Ayurvedic Haritaki extract to invigorate the scalp and promote hair growth. “Serums are formulated to be highly concentrated, so start small and slowly increase usage amounts to determine what is best for you, your hair and scalp,” says Knox.
“A hair serum is important for the scalp because it provides nourishment and stimulation,” says Michelle Ranavat, founder of Ranavat skincare and haircare. Concocted with anti-fungal jasmine to combat dandruff, this serum will not only keep flakes at bay but also encourage hair follicle repair and control breakage. Ranavat’s top tip? “Massage the oil into the scalp as it increases circulation and encourages healthy hair growth.”
If you colour your hair, you’ll know getting the perfect shade often takes time and money. This lightweight serum reduces colour oxidisation by gently exfoliating and sealing the hair’s surface, meaning your hair colour will be more enhanced and vibrant for longer.
For me, this is an everything-but-the-kitchen-sink serum. It’s amazing for dry and damaged hair as it boosts shine and replenishes lost moisture without weighing it down. But it’s a particular favourite of mine as it does all of this while providing artificial heat protection up to 232°C—and I’m all for a multipurpose product.
When you have fine hair like I do, it’s important to use products that aren’t going to weigh it down, making it look limp and greasy. This multitasking serum tames frizz, protects against heat, repels humidity, hydrates and adds shine and is specifically designed for those with finer hair. Plus, it’s a really great price point.
Split ends are often unavoidable due to factors like the weather, styling tools, colouring, bleaching and chemically treating the hair. To give yourself a bit more time in between trims, work this ultra-lightweight formula through the ends of dry hair to instantly seal.
