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(Beauty Report Card)

This $26 Moisturizing Cream Is The Best Thing To Ever Happen To My Fine Hair

Zero frizz involved.

by Catherine Santino

March 5, 2022

Catherine Santino

fine hair

Despite a life-long affinity for beauty, I could never quite figure out how to manage my fine, finicky hair. For a long time, I figured that the best option was to just do the bare minimum; once, a hairstylist even told me that I should never use any styling products because they would make my hair look thinner. I kept my strands at varying bob lengths for years, but leading up to my wedding in November 2021, I decided to grow it out — forcing me to find a new routine with the best hair products for my fine hair.

While I don’t struggle with dandruff per se, I have very dry skin and my scalp definitely feels the effects of that, especially in the winter. When I wash, I want to make sure my roots get nice and clean, but I also don’t want to completely dry out my scalp. Out of the shower, it’s difficult to find products that give me volume and shine without weighing my hair down or making it look greasy faster than it already does on its own.

Through a lot of trial and error, it’s safe to say that I’ve finally found the ideal routine for taking care of my super fine hair in its newly long state. There are certainly still times when I look like I haven’t seen a hairbrush in years, but I’ve curated a solid arsenal of products that can easily get me into tip-top shape — keep reading to get the full scoop.

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necessaire scalp duo

When the sleek and luxurious body care brand Nécessaire launched its first shampoo and conditioner, I knew I had to try it. Because the formulas are scalp-focused, I had high hopes that they would be great for my dry, flaky skin — and they did not disappoint. The shampoo leaves my hair feeling squeaky clean without further drying out my scalp, while the conditioner is hydrating yet super lightweight.

davines salt scrub

SOLU Sea Salt Scrub Cleanser

This clarifying shampoo is a dream for those with a dry, easily irritated scalp. The sea salt scrub gently exfoliates while leaving a seriously clean feeling with its luxurious lather. I’ve also found that it keeps my hair grease-free for longer than any shampoo I’ve ever tried.

acv apple cieder vinegar rinse

Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse

Over-washing my hair can easily dry it out, but some days I still want a refresh. This apple cider vinegar rinse gives me that clean feeling to tide me over until the next wash without stripping. I’ll be honest; the smell is pretty off-putting, but luckily it doesn't stick around once you’ve rinsed the product out.

amika Supernova Moisture and Shine Hair Cream

Supernova Moisture and Shine Hair Cream

Anyone with fine strands knows that it’s nearly impossible to find a styling product that will smooth frizz and add shine without weighing your hair down, and this cream has totally changed the game for me. It can be applied to wet or dry hair, but I find it works best for me when my hair is either dry or just a little damp. I typically use a dime-sized amount from my mid-lengths down, then take what is left on my hands to carefully smooth any flyaways closer to my roots. It adds so much softness and shine without ever feeling heavy or greasy — plus it functions as a heat protectant, so if I’m heat styling, I don’t need to add another product on top. It’s basically perfect and I will use it forever.

olaplex No. 8 Bond Intense Moisture Hair Mask

No. 8 Bond Intense Moisture Hair Mask

If I’m heading to a special occasion or just want my hair to look and feel extra good, I’ll use this moisture hair mask from Olaplex. In just a few minutes on wet hair, it makes my locks impossibly soft and shiny; sometimes I’ll even use a small amount on dry hair to tame frizz.

batiste dry shampoo

I’ve tried so many dry shampoos over the years, and I always come back to this one. It’s only $8 yet it performs far better than any high-end option, giving my hair a boost of volume and texture while refreshing it on a second (or third, or fourth...) hair day. Plus, there’s no weird gunky feeling, no overly perfume-y scent, and it blends in quickly — even on my dark hair.

ouai Matte Pomade

On days when I just can’t be bothered to do my hair, I love pulling it back into a low bun or claw clip. However, these styles can cause my pesky baby hairs to make themselves known, effectively ruining the sleekness I’m going for. This matte pomade is perfect for smoothing down baby hairs or taming flyaways without making my hair feel crunchy. A little goes a long way, so I just take a tiny amount on my finger, apply it where I want, and then brush it through with a boar bristle brush or even a spoolie.

amika Blow Dryer Brush

Blow Dryer Brush

At $100, this dryer brush is certainly not cheap, but it’s a lot easier to swallow compared to some options on the market. In my opinion, it’s worth the investment. Because my hair is prone to frizz and breakage, I used to rarely blow dry or heat style my hair. I still air dry most days, but if I’m after a fresh-from-the-salon look, I reach for this brush. It gives me insane volume while leaving my hair soft and smooth — aka, the perfect blowout.