Long hair, short hair: should they receive the same care?

Whether they measure a few centimetres or reach the lower back, hair fibres share the same structure. Each hair fibre consists of three concentric layers They are the medulla at the centre, the cortex, the intermediate layer that makes up most of the hair and determines its strength, elasticity, and colour, and the cuticle, the outer layer composed of flat cells stacked like tiles. This cuticle protects the interior of the hair from mechanical, thermal, and chemical damage. Each hair grows from a follicle in the dermis of the scalp. Although overlooked, the scalp is essential for healthy hair.

Despite this common structure, each hair strand is unique in its texture, diameter, shape (straight, wavy, curly, coiled) and its behaviour when exposed to moisture or hair products, that is, its porosity. These differences depend on genetic and biological factors, but also environmental. The hair care routine, trimming frequency or degree of exposure to the sun influence the appearance and health of the hair. Although all hair shares the same architecture, no two are identical and each requires different care. The same applies to long and short hair.

Long hair is a visible sign of youth, requiring a greater care. The longer the hair, the older the fibres and the more they have faced stress: repeated brushing, friction against clothing, exposure to UV rays, heat from styling tools, pollution, and humidity. Each centimetre of a hair fibre reflects several weeks of life under mechanical, thermal, and chemical stress. These ongoing stresses damage the cuticle, which thins and lifts over time, making the cortex more vulnerable. The hair fibre loses cohesion. It becomes more porous and prone to split ends. This wear is evident at the tips, the section of hair that has existed for several years.

To prevent split ends, trim hair ends every two months.

Alongside this, daily hair care is essential. The weekly number of shampoos depends on scalp sebum production rather than hair length, and for long hair it is essential to follow a wash with the application of a conditioner. In addition to easing detangling—reducing brush strokes that can weaken hair fibres—the conditioner improves texture by enhancing cuticle scale adhesion to the shaft and restoring the protective hydrolipidic film.

To further protect hair length and prevent weakening, we also recommend applying a nourishing mask once or twice a week focusing on the ends. Often compared to conditioners, the hair masks deliver deeper nutrition. They are richer in nourishing, repairing, and film-forming agents. They have a stronger wrapping and repairing effect on the hair fibre. Depending on the mask, leave on for around fifteen minutes or overnight.

Tip If desired, you can replace hair masks with weekly plant oil treatments.