What to use and skip for your hair type—for healthier hair growth
ET Online |
1/8
Straight hair
If your strands lie flat from root to tip and rarely tangle, you likely have straight hair. This type gets oily faster, so it needs lightweight, sulphate-free shampoos and clarifying once a week. Avoid heavy oils or thick masks—they can make it limp and greasy. Using the right products helps reduce scalp buildup and boosts volume naturally.
2/8
Wavy hair
S-shaped waves that frizz easily in humidity usually mean wavy hair. It needs light curl creams or mousse to hold the wave without stiffness. Avoid waxy gels or thick oils that make waves fall flat. Choosing wisely defines your texture and keeps your strands light and bouncy.
3/8
Curly hair
Defined spirals with shrinkage after drying are signs of curly hair. It craves moisture, so use deep conditioners, sulphate-free cleansers, and curl-safe leave-ins. Avoid products with alcohol—they dry curls out fast. When cared for properly, curls retain shape, stay soft, and break less.
Amazon Top Deals
POWERED BY

Crompton Ozone 75 Litres Desert Air Cooler for home | Large & Easy Clean Ice Chamber | 4-Way Air Deflection | High Density Honeycomb Pads | Everlast Pump | Auto Fill| 3 Year Brand Warranty
₹9,798Buy Now43%
OFF

LG 32 L Convection Microwave Oven (MC3286BRUM, Black, 360° Motorised Rotisserie for Bar-be-queing, 301 Auto Cook Menu, Stainless steel cavity, Indian Cuisine, Tandoor Se, Steam Clean & Diet Fry)
₹19,340Buy Now19%
OFF
4/8
Coily or kinky hair
If your strands form tight coils or zigzags, often feeling dry, you likely have coily or kinky hair. Rich moisturisers, hair butters, and oils like castor or coconut keep it nourished. Avoid frequent shampooing or high-manipulation styling. With proper care, this hair type grows strong and retains moisture better.
5/8
Oily or greasy hair
If your roots feel greasy within a day of washing and your hair often looks flat, you likely have oily hair. Look for shampoos with tea tree oil, salicylic acid, or clay that cleanse without over-drying. Avoid creamy conditioners—opt for lightweight gels or sprays applied only to the ends
6/8
Fine or thinning hair
If your hair lacks volume, shows scalp easily, or won’t hold styles, it’s likely fine or thinning. Go for protein-enriched, volumising shampoos with biotin. Avoid heavy oils or masks—they can weigh hair down. Focus on gentle styling and minimal heat.
7/8
Coloured or chemically treated hair
If your hair has been bleached, dyed, straightened, or rebonded recently, it’s more porous and prone to breakage. Use colour-safe shampoos that are sulphate-free, and deep condition weekly with keratin or amino acid masks. Limit heat styling to avoid further damage.
8/8
Dandruff-prone scalp
If you experience flaking, itching, or tightness—especially in winter or after oiling—your scalp needs treatment. Use dermatologist-approved shampoos with ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, or selenium sulphide. Avoid putting oils directly on the scalp, as they can trap fungus and worsen dandruff.