7 Reasons To Use Hair Serum: Discover The Benefits, Results And More

Hair care can be deeply personal. What works for one may not work for another, and sometimes, even the basics like shampooing and conditioning don't quite get us that salon-like finish. That's where hair serums come in. These lightweight, often silicone-based formulations can add a soft sheen, reduce frizz, and even offer protection from environmental damage. But how exactly do they work, and do we all need one? In this article, we'll explore hair serum benefits & how to use hair serum for smooth hair, offering insight, not insistence, on how you might enhance your hair care routine.

Also Read:

Hair Serum: Benefits, Usage Tips And How To Choose The Right One For Yout; Photo Credit: Pexels

What Is Hair Serum?

Hair serum is typically a silicone-based liquid designed to coat the surface of your hair, creating a protective layer. Unlike oils that penetrate the hair shaft, serums work on the outer surface, often providing instant smoothness, added shine, and frizz control.

Serums come in different formulations, some with botanical extracts, vitamins, and UV protectants. Choosing one that fits your hair type is key. From curly to fine strands, there's a serum that may suit your texture and needs.

1. Enhances Hair Smoothness And Shine

One of the most talked-about benefits of hair serum is its ability to give hair a smoother texture and glossy finish. This effect comes from the silicone content that smooths the hair cuticle, reflecting light and reducing the appearance of dullness.

A study published in the International Journal of Trichology (2015)* noted that silicone-based products could temporarily improve hair shine and manageability without damaging the hair shaft.

2. Helps Tame Frizz And Flyaways

Humidity can wreak havoc on hair, especially for those with curls or dry hair. Serums can provide a barrier that locks in moisture while keeping excess humidity out.

For those wondering how to use hair serum for women to tackle frizz, the answer often lies in applying it to damp hair, not soaking wet, not dry.

3. Acts As A Heat Protectant (In Some Formulations)

Certain hair serums are designed to offer protection from heat styling tools such as straighteners, curling irons, and blow dryers. While they might not replace a dedicated heat protectant, they can be an extra layer of defence.

According to the Dermatologic Therapy Journal (2019)**, heat-styling tools can cause protein degradation and cuticle damage if hair isn't adequately protected. Using a serum before styling may reduce this impact.

Hair Serum: Benefits, Usage Tips And How To Choose The Right One For You; Photo Credit: Pexels

4. Reduces Tangling And Breakage

Hair that's dry or damaged can tangle easily, leading to breakage when brushed. A good serum can lubricate the strands, making detangling easier and less traumatic.

If you're exploring the best hair serum benefits and how to use hair serum for smooth hair, this is one feature that might appeal to those who experience breakage during combing.

5. Offers UV Protection For Hair

UV rays don't just affect your skin, they can degrade hair proteins, too. Some serums include UV filters that may help protect hair from sun exposure, especially during summer.

A study published in Photochemistry and Photobiology*** confirmed that UVB rays can damage hair fibres by causing protein loss and fading hair colour. Using products with UV shields could be beneficial in reducing that impact.

6. Useful in Post-Wash Styling Routines

How long after hair wash to apply hair serum is a question many ask. Ideally, serum works best on damp hair (meaning towel-dried, still soft and pliable, but not wet enough to drip). This helps the product distribute evenly and lock in moisture as the hair air-dries or is styled.

Hair Serum: Benefits, Usage Tips And How To Choose The Right One For You; Photo Credit: Pexels

7. Can Work on Dry Hair for Quick Fixes

While serum is generally recommended for damp hair, there are moments when applying it on dry hair, say, mid-day or post-commute, can help with frizz or dryness. Just make sure to use a small quantity to avoid greasiness.

So, if you are confused about when to apply serum on hair, wet or dry? The answer is: mostly damp, but dry in a pinch.

How To Use Hair Serum (Step-by-Step)

1. Start with freshly washed, towel-dried (damp) hair.

2. Take a few drops (pea-sized amount) in your palm and rub hands together.

3. Apply from mid-length to the tips, avoiding the roots and scalp unless product specifically instructs to do so.

4. Comb through with fingers or a wide-tooth comb.

5. Style as desired.

Hair Serum: Benefits, Usage Tips And How To Choose The Right One For You; Photo Credit: Pexels

How To Choose The Right Serum

With so many options, picking the right serum can be tricky. You could consider the following factors and read the labels on the product:

Hair Type:  Each person's hair has its own unique characteristics and needs. For example, curly hair might need a serum that defines curls and reduces frizz, while fine hair might need a lightweight serum that adds volume without weighing it down.

Ingredients: The ingredients in a hair serum determine its benefits. Argan oil is known for its moisturising and nourishing properties, keratin helps strengthen and repair damaged hair, and silk protein adds shine and smoothness.

Purpose: Hair serums are designed for different purposes. Some provide heat protection before styling, others enhance shine, and some smooth and control frizz. Choose a serum that addresses your specific hair goals.

Products Related To The Article

1. TRESemme Gloss Ultimate Ultra Shine Hair Serum with Macademia & Coconut Oil - 50 ml

2. LOreal Professionnel Xtenso Care Serum For Frizz-Free, Smooth & Manageable Hair - 50ml

3. LOreal Paris Extraordinary Oil Anti-Frizz Serum With Heat Protection - 100 ml

4. TRESemme Keratin Smooth Anti-Frizz Hair Serum With Argan Oil, for 2X Smoother Hair-50ml

5. Livon Set Of 3 Hair Serum For Dry & Frizzy Hair For Shine & Damage Protection - 50ml Ea

6. Be Bodywise Hair Serum Roll On With Rosemary & Redensyl For Hair Growth - 25 ml

7. Dove Scalp+Hair Therapy Density Boost Revitalizing Scalp Serum 50 ml

8. WishCare Hair Growth Serum Concentrate - 30ml

9. Livon 2 Pcs Hair Serum For Dry & Frizzy Hair For Shine & Damage Protection - 100ml Each

10. Dove Radiant Shine UV Protect Hair Serum With Bio-Protein Care - 48 ml

A Flexible Addition to Hair Care

Hair serums are not a must-have for everyone, but they can be a supportive part of a broader hair care strategy, especially for those seeking smoother, shinier, or more manageable locks. They don't replace deep conditioners, masks, or healthy diets, but they offer convenience and instant results for those who choose to use them.

If you're exploring ways to reduce frizz or enhance shine without committing to an intensive routine, a serum might just be worth trying out. The best part? You can always opt in or out depending on your hair's needs.

Sources:

*Silicones in Hair Care by Int J Trichol

**Thermal Damage to Hair by Dermatol Ther

***Photodamage to Hair by Photochem Photobiol.

Disclaimer: The images used in this article are for illustration purpose only. They may not be an exact representation of the products, categories and brands listed in this article.