I Desire My Hair to Appear as If I've Had Weekly Salon Appointments—This Product Has Led Others to Believe I Have.

      I've had quite the experience with my hair over the years, so let me take you back to where it all started. In my younger days, I had very thick, naturally curly hair that was hard to handle. I longed for sleek, straight hair, which led me to use hair straighteners almost daily. Additionally, I decided that my dark brunette roots were not appealing to me, so I bleached my hair to a bright blonde when I reached 16. Consequently, my hair became quite damaged, and I found myself searching online for solutions to "stop hair breakage" every week. After reluctantly taking a break from bleach and heat styling, and incorporating some of the finest shampoos, conditioners, and hair masks into my routine, my hair has gradually revived. While focusing on my hair health, I've grown to appreciate my thick, natural texture, and nowadays, I switch between styling my hair and letting it air dry. Regardless of whether I opt for straight and sleek or curly and voluminous hair, there’s always one product I reach for in the mornings to complete my look: a top-notch hair serum.

      Hair serums deserve more attention, as they can significantly enhance the appearance and feel of your hair. In fact, hairstylists highly recommend these serums and often use them as the finishing touch when styling clients. Below, I’ve compiled some of my all-time favorite hair serums and consulted celebrity hairstylist Jay Birmingham to discover what makes these products exceptional. You're welcome!

      What Does a Hair Serum Do?

      If you’re aware, numerous hair serums exist on the market, each serving unique purposes, like strengthening hair or securing your style. However, most serums are designed to smooth the hair and boost shine. Birmingham states, "A quality hair serum is undoubtedly one of my essentials for achieving any hairstyle. It's fantastic for smoothing and sealing, retaining moisture, adding shine, minimizing tangling, enhancing manageability for styling, and repairing split ends. If you bleach your hair or use many heat tools, I love utilizing a serum to protect, control frizz, and add shine."

      Can a Hair Serum Work for All Hair Types?

      I was curious if hair serums are effective for all hair types, and the answer is yes. Birmingham confirms, "Hair serums can absolutely work for all hair types. Some may be better suited for specific types or textures, but in general, they offer numerous benefits across the board." For those with dry or damaged hair, serums can provide ample hydration and nourishment. Conversely, if you have oily hair, a serum can help balance out excess oil. Serums work well on straight hair but are equally beneficial for curly hair, offering a protective layer to manage flyaways and accentuate your natural texture.

      How to Use a Hair Serum

      As previously mentioned, many serums are available, and they can be used in various ways. Some serums are meant to be applied at night as a leave-in treatment, while others should be the final step in your styling routine. Some can even be applied to damp hair to help retain moisture before drying. "To use a hair serum, I would begin with freshly washed and brushed hair, then take two pumps of Jay B’s Split Seal Serum," advises Birmingham. "Rub it in your hands first for even application, then start by working the product from the ends up to the mid-strands and finish at the top. Always try to avoid applying it directly on the scalp. Once distributed evenly, style as desired."

      The Best Hair Serums, Tried & Tested

      1. **ghd Dramatic Ending Smooth and Finish Serum**

       Best for: Post-styling

       Why it’s the best: GHD excels with hair products, and this serum is no exception. Designed for final application (though it can also be used on damp hair before blow drying), it’s suitable for all hair types, smoothing hair, defining curls, adding shine, and controlling flyaways.

       My review: I love using this serum on mornings when my hair is unruly. It locks in my style and imparts salon-like shine. It’s lightweight and non-greasy, which is a huge plus.

      2. **Oribe Hair Alchemy Fortifying Treatment Serum**

       Best for: Damaged hair

       Why it’s the best: This luxurious serum is stunning and contains the brand's signature ingredient blend to strengthen hair, add moisture, and increase elasticity. Suitable for dry and damp hair, it can also be used overnight.

       My review: I adore this serum, often using it overnight when my ends feel dry. It has an incredible scent and leaves my hair soft and smooth. A little goes a long way, so be cautious not to apply too much.

      3. **John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Hair Serum**

       Best for: Thick hair

       Why it’s the best: This affordable serum works wonders.