I’ve been spending more time on hair care since I’ve been getting balayage and babylights twice a year. While I love the end result of hair painting and coloring, it can also dry out your hair over time. So I thought I’d share a few hair serums I’ve tried over the years that have helped restore softness and smooth out strays.

olaplex

Out of all the brands I’ve tried, Olaplex is my all time favorite because it really works and you can see results immediately after the first use. I’ve only needed to use the products a few times a week. Olaplex offers a 3-4-5 bond maintenance system which works really well to repair hair. Since their products can be pricey for the size, I’ve found I’ve been able to get great results with:

• Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector
  The No. 3 Hair Perfector is one my favorites to have on hand, which I apply directly to damp hair after showering. It’s also great for smoothing out stray hairs throughout the day. A little goes a long way!

• Olaplex No. 5 Conditioner
  I use this about once ever few weeks as a treat for my hair, especially recently after I’ve had my hair colored or touched up.

• Olaplex No. 6 Bond Smoother. The No. 6 Bond Smoother is a hair mask you apply to damp hair for at least 10 minutes before washing out. You can also leave it in overnight if you tend to shower in the mornings.

These are all available from Sephora, which is having a site-wide sale. If you’re a Sephora Rogue member, you can use HEYROUGE now for 20% off. For VIB members, use HEYVIB for 15% off and Insiders, use HEYINSIDER for 10% off starting May 2nd.

kevin murphy leave-in repair

My hairstylist recommended Kevin Murphy Leave-in Repair after he noticed the dry ends of my hair. I started applying a single pump of treatment to my damp hair immediately after showering and brushing my hair. Over the course of a few months, I did notice my ends getting softer. Compared to several serums, this is for repair, not just looks.

MOROCCAN OIL treatment

This is one of the most popular serums out there. It’s perhaps one of the most cost effective options out there given the amount you need to use. It works well as a serum on damp hair, but note, this doesn’t repair hair. I love how this treatment comes in several sizes, including a 1.5 oz that’s perfect for travel. While some people love the smell, it’s not one of my favorites, but it does keep my hair smooth.

oribe

There’s something about Oribe products that make your hair feel premium. I also love the scent! I’ve tried their Intense Conditioner for Moisture & Control and love how it makes my hair feel silky smooth. I apply this as a conditioner in the shower, but make sure to leave it on for at least 10 minutes. While this product produces great results, you do end up needing to use quite a bit of product. Given the high price point and the 10 minute minimum in the shower (I hate wasting water!), I haven’t restocked on this product. Compared to other products though, I’d say this still comes in second to Olaplex in terms of results.

I’ve also tried their travel size Supershine Moisturizing Cream, but it doesn’t seem to really smooth out my hair as well as the other products discussed in this post.

R+co high dive

R+CO High Dive was one of the first hair creams I tried. It does make your hair extremely soft and comes at a much cheaper price point than Oribe. I love this scent from this product as well. Like Oribe though, I find I tend to need to use more product to get results. I also apply this to damp hair after a shower. Note, I wouldn’t recommend this if you’re looking for volume.

Recap of products: