How to use a hair serum?

A hair serum is a treatment designed to act in a targeted manner, whether on the scalp or the hair fibre. For the scalp, this type of serum can, for example, stimulate microcirculation and thus promote hair growth thanks to molecules such as caffeine. Hair serums formulated for the scalp can also combat excess sebum, soothe irritation and relieve itching, as well as reduce dandruff by rebalancing the skin microbiota. On the lengths and ends, which consist of dead matter, the role of hair serums is more mechanical and protective. These treatments serve to nourish, protect and minimise hair fibre breakage. Some serums intended for the lengths also aim to tame frizz and add shine.

The efficacy of hair serums depends on the compatibility between the serum type, the requirements of the scalp or hair fibres, and the properties of the hair.

Since not all hair serums are applied in the same way, it is important to read the product instructions carefully.

Some are suitable for both the scalp and the hair lengths, but this is quite rare. Most of the time, hair serums target one area or the other. As for treatments designed for the scalp, they can be applied either before or after the shampoo, depending on the formulation. Leave-in hair serums are generally intended for daily application or every other day. To apply them, it is generally advised to separate the hair into sections and to dispense a few drops directly onto the skin, avoiding overloading the scalp and unnecessarily greasing it. You can then perform a gentle scalp massage, which will help to optimise the product’s penetration into the skin and thus its efficacy.

Some scalp serums are applied before shampooing and then rinsed out. These formulations are often richer or more concentrated, designed to work intermittently, a few times per week. The frequency depends on the specific concern targeted and on the composition of the hair serum: some can be used daily, while others are applied on a weekly basis.

For both lengths and ends, there are rinse-off and leave-in serums. Those that do not require rinsing are generally used after shampooing and/or styling. Some hair serums are applied to dry hair, particularly to tame frizz, while others are used on damp hair. To make the most of their benefits, we recommend depositing a few drops into the hollow of your hand, then rub your palms together to distribute the product. You can then work it through the entire lengths, concentrating on the ends.

Thermo-protective serums, often available in spray form, should themselves be applied before using your hair dryer, your flat iron or curling wand. Their purpose is to form a protective barrier around the hair fibre to minimise breakage and prevent heat-induced moisture loss. The usage frequency aligns with that of heated styling tools, ideally with every styling session.

At Typology, we offer a restorative hair serum enriched with hyaluronic acid and plant-based keratin. Formulated with 99% naturally-derived ingredients, this non-greasy serum hydrates and strengthens the hair fibre to minimise breakage and impart shine and softness. This hair serum can be used daily on the lengths, focusing on the ends, on dry or damp hair. Depending on your hair type, one pipette (fine hair) to two pipettes (thick hair) is sufficient.