Between split ends, dry scalp and frizzy flyaways, finding the right hair treatment can feel like decoding a beauty riddle.
Let’s face it, modern haircare is no longer just shampoo and conditioner. With words like bond repair, peptide and metal detox thrown around, it’s easy to get lost. Between wondering what number Olaplex is used for what or reading your salon’s treatment menu like it’s in Latin, it can get overwhelming. So, how do you know what your hair actually needs? We break it down by concern so that you can choose whether to DIY it at home or have the professionals take care of it.
DAMAGE CONTROL: BOND-BUILDING TREATMENTS
If your hair has been bleached, coloured, straightened or just regularly abused by heat, it’s time to repair the inner structure, the stuff you can’t see but definitely feel.
Olaplex is a pioneer in bond-building tech. The company’s salon duo (No. 1 and No. 2) is typically used during and after colouring to reduce breakage, while the at-home No. 3 continues the rehab. It doesn’t give an instant soft and shiny feel but, over time, it’s like therapy for your strands.
K18 is the newer, fuss-free rival to Olaplex, working in just four minutes to reconnect broken keratin chains. You can opt for it as a pre-colour treatment at salons or use the at-home, leave-in version post-wash. The best part is that no rinsing is required.
Redken’s Acidic Bonding Concentrate is great if you’re after a protein-packed formula that strengthens without leaving hair stiff. Use the shampoo and treatment together for the full effect.
For in-salon care, L’Oréal Professionnel’s Metal Detox is ideal before or after colour. It removes metal particles (common in hard water, a problem in the Middle East) that can react with hair dye and lead to breakage. It’s perfect for those who colour regularly and want to avoid long-term damage.
QUENCH THE THIRST: HYDRATING TREATMENTS
Dry, brittle or textured hair thrives on hydration. If you’re heat-styling too often or exposed to harsh weather changes, moisture can make or break your hair’s shine and bounce.
Moroccanoil’s Intense Hydrating Mask is a rich, argan oil-based treatment that adds shine and manageability, perfect for coarse or thick hair types. A once-a-week ritual is enough to make a noticeable difference.
Briogeo’s Don’t Despair, Repair! is a clean beauty favourite, formulated with algae extract and vitamin Bs. It hydrates without heaviness, so it’s a solid pick for finer hair, too.
For expert-level nourishment, Kerastase’s Fusio-Dose is custom-blended in salons based on what your hair lacks – moisture, density, strength or shine. The treatment is quick but tailored, and the difference in feel is immediate. At home, L’Oréal Professionnel Absolut Repair offers a salon-quality option without the hefty price tag. The mask is lightweight but leaves hair feeling smoother, especially when paired with its matching shampoo.
SCALP CARE: BECAUSE GOOD HAIR STARTS FROM WITHIN
We often forget that the scalp is skin, too, and when it’s not happy, there will be signs. Whether it’s flakes, itchiness or hair thinning, the right treatment can make all the difference.
Olaplex No. 4C Bond Maintenance Clarifying Shampoo is a great addition if your roots are feeling heavy or lifeless. It tackles product build-up, hard water residue, excess oil and pollution, all of which can poorly affect scalp health and dull your locks. Think of it as a reset button for your hair, leaving it fresh, clean and ready to absorb all the goodness from your treatments.
Aveda’s Pramāsana Scalp Treatment feels like a facial for your scalp – it’s balancing, exfoliating and refreshing. It works well with the brand’s scalp cleanser for those who suffer from build-up.
For in-salon care, many stylists now offer scalp detox rituals which combine exfoliation with massage and targeted serums. Ask about them if your scalp feels congested or your hair’s been falling out more than usual.
SMOOTH OPERATORS: TAMING FRIZZ AND FLYAWAYS
If frizz is your constant nemesis, especially in the hot or humid months, it’s worth investing in smoothing treatments that do more than just flatten flyaways.
Living Proof’s No Frizz range is science-backed and humidity-resistant. The leave-in treatment forms a weightless shield around each strand, ideal for fine to medium hair.
Virtue’s Smooth Conditioner, powered by Alpha Keratin, helps tame the halo without compromising bounce; it is an option if you want smoothness without causing your tresses to become limp.
Professionally, you could also consider a hair botox treatment. But don’t worry, this one has no needles involved. This semi-permanent treatment uses keratin and amino acids to smooth and revive hair without the harshness of traditional straightening and formaldehyde formulas.