How Much Hair Product Should I Use?

Does a little really go a long way? Should I be using more shampoo? How much mousse is too much mousse?  Perhaps, you’ve also asked yourself one of these questions when it comes to how much hair product to use. To help you get it right (and let’s be honest, we needed some guidance, too!), we enlisted the expertise of one of our talented SALON by milk + honey stylists, Ann M. Whether your hair is fine, curly, thick, or somewhere in between, she breaks down the amount of hair product we should be using — below.

Have another hair-related question? Leave it in the comments and we’ll respond shortly.

Shampoo

For those with fine hair, Ann suggests using a nickel-sized dollop of shampoo. For thicker or curlier hair, increase to a quarter size. If you feel your hair is dirtier than usual, add a little more. It’s important to remember that when you’re shampooing your locks to focus on three areas: the scalp, the nape, and behind the ears.

For best results, use the Kevin.Murphy Hydrate.Me Wash ($29). Great for all hair types.

 

Conditioner

A little goes a long way when it comes to conditioner.  Fine hair types should use a quarter-sized amount and those with curly or thick hair should use a half-dollar-sized amount. When conditioning, starting at your roots will weigh down your hair, making it feel heavy and greasy. Instead, start midway through your hair and work it into the ends. “When conditioning thick or curly hair, comb the conditioner through it when you’re in the shower. It will help evenly distribute the product as well as help to detangle,” says Ann.

Use Kevin.Murphy Hydrate.Me Rinse ($29) if you have fine hair.

Use Kevin.Murphy Smooth.Again ($29) if you have thick or curlier hair.

 

Davines Conditioner

“Just like traditional bottle conditioner, you won’t need a lot of this product,” Ann advises. For Davines conditioners, use two fingers to scoop out a dime-sized amount from the tub. Depending on your hair type, you may need a little more, but it’s better to start out small and then build to the correct amount. Those with fine hair should use a quarter size; thicker and curlier hair should use a half-dollar amount. 

Ann’s favorite Davines conditioners for fine hair are the Melu Conditioner ($32) and Dede Conditioner ($32).  “Dede is lightweight and great for guys and kids.” Those with thicker or curlier hair should try Nounou Conditioner ($32).

Hair Mask

“Hair masks are ideal for those with a thicker hair,” says Ann. If you have a finer hair type, she suggests the Kevin.Murphy Repair.Me Treatment ($32). The Repair.Me Treatment is a strong conditioner that provides deep hydration to over-processed, dry, or brittle fine hair. Start by applying a half-dollar-sized amount of the mask onto your hands and then massage throughout your hair. If you’re looking for a more hydrating mask, try this brilliant stylist tip. “To enhance the treatment, after applying your mask, wear a plastic cap or hot towel for 15 to 20 minutes. Then, rinse your hair with cool or cold water to seal the hair follicles with nutrients from the treatment.”

Ann loves to mix a quarter-sized amount of both the Davines Nounou Hair Mask ($36) and Davines Minu Hair Mask ($36) to create the ideal treatment. 

 

Leave-in Treatment

Designed for both finer and thicker hair types, leave-in treatments are a great addition to your haircare routine. Treatment serums allow you to quickly style your hair without a long wait time. For fine hair types, Ann suggests five to seven sprays throughout your hair. Thicker hair types will need about 10 to 15 sprays.

Ann’s top leave-in treatment is Davines Oi All In One Milk ($34). Not only will it leave your hair shiny and smooth, but it also pulls double duty as a heat protectant.

 

Curl Enhancers

“Curl enhancers will not only provide a long-lasting hold for your curls, but some have smoothing agents which will protect your hair against frizz,” says Ann. Specifically designed for curly hair types, curl enhancers work to define your natural curls. If you’re using a serum, pump out about a quarter-sized amount.  Those using a curl-enhancing mousse, try five to eight short sprays. After applying your curl-enhancing mousse, twist the curls in the direction that the hair lays. Then, finish the look by using a diffuser or letting your hair dry naturally.

Ann’s favorite curl enhancers are Davines This Is A Curl Building Serum ($28) and Davines This Is A Curl Moisturizing Mousse ($28) . 

Mousse

When it comes to applying mousse, the product should cover every single strand of hair. Finer hair types should use four to five short sprays, and thicker/curlier hair types should use about three to four long sprays. After spraying the product into your hands, Ann suggests clapping your hands together and then raking the product through your hair. It’s best to start from the middle to the end of the hair shaft and work towards your scalp.

Ann’s go-to mousse is Kevin.Murphy Body.Builder ($39). 

 

Hair Shield

If you love giving yourself at-home blowouts, curls, or straightened-hair looks, this product is essential. Fine hair textures should use about five to seven sprays, while thicker and curlier hair types should use anywhere between 10 to 15 sprays. “To provide the most protection, I always tell my clients to divide their hair into sections before using a heat protectant,” says Ann. Start by dividing your hair from ear to ear, then apply the product. For a little extra protection, spray your brush with the heat protectant and then brush the product through your hair.

Try the Davines Essential Melu Hair Shield ($38).

 

Hairspray

“There’s no set rule on how much hairspray you should apply.” Ann suggests adjusting the types of hair sprays you use. Those with finer hair types should look for products that are lighter and easier to work with, while those with thicker and curlier hair should look for products with a stronger hold. Before spraying hairspray onto your locks, Ann suggests holding the bottom of the can onto the top of your head. Where the can ends is how far away you should hold the hairspray when applying it to your locks. Apply using a windshield wiper motion through your hair until you have the desired hold.

Stylist tip: Don’t stay in one spot for too long. By staying in one spot for too long, the product will create a thick coat over your hair, making it appear dry and crunchy.

Ann’s favorite hairsprays are Davines Hair Assistant ($39) for finer hair types and Davines This Is A Strong Hairspray ($32) for thicker and curlier hair types.

 

About Ann

Ann M. is a stylist at our SALON by milk + honey South Lamar location. Want to schedule a hair service with her? Click here.