Simple treatment “recipes” our stylists recommend between visits: hot oil, protein/moisture balance, and finishers that support silk presses and curly sets without heavy buildup.
Pair with scalp health 101 and book specialty treatments through appointments.
How to use these treatments between salon visits
A good at-home routine is less about exotic ingredients and more about timing and balance. Hair that feels mushy, overly stretchy or limp after washing usually wants protein; hair that feels rough, brittle or snaps easily usually wants moisture. Checking how your strands behave on wash day tells you which treatment to reach for. Rotating them on a schedule you set in advance is less reliable.
Hot oil, kept simple
Warm a few tablespoons of a light oil such as jojoba, sweet almond or olive oil by setting the container in a bowl of hot water. Never microwave it, and test the temperature on your wrist first. Work it through damp hair in sections and cover with a plastic cap for 20 to 30 minutes. Then shampoo gently. Coconut oil suits many textures, but some people find it leaves hair stiff. If yours feels hard afterward, switch to a lighter oil.
Protein and moisture balance
- Moisture mask: mix a generous scoop of your usual conditioner with a little aloe vera gel and a teaspoon of honey. Leave it on under a cap with gentle warmth.
- Light protein: use a store-bought protein treatment and follow the label for timing. Overdoing protein can leave hair dry and stiff, so always follow it with a moisturising conditioner.
Finishers that won't weigh hair down
Before a silk press, skip heavy butters and use a heat protectant on clean, fully conditioned hair. For curly sets, a small amount of leave-in layered under a lightweight gel or mousse holds definition without residue. If products start to build up, use a clarifying shampoo every few weeks to reset.
Patch-test any new ingredient on your inner arm first. If your scalp is itchy, flaking or sore, see a dermatologist before trying home remedies. For more ideas from the salon, browse our guides or see the full list of services.