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Hindustan Times
17-06-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
How to choose the best hair serum for every hair type: Expert tips
From frizz control to repairing damage, a good hair serum can truly transform your hair. But with so many options out there, each claiming to add shine, reduce breakage, or boost growth, it is easy to feel confused. Every hair concern has a matching serum, but there is a catch. Serums only work when they are suited to your specific hair type and needs. The right formula can smooth flyaways, protect against environmental stress, and even support healthier hair growth. The wrong one? It might weigh your hair down or do nothing at all. If you have been choosing products based on influencer trends or glossy packaging, it is time to rethink your routine. This science-backed guide will help you find the best hair serum that actually works. Hair serums are leave-on treatments that help solve specific hair issues, including frizz, dullness, breakage, or hair fall. Unlike oils that deeply nourish, serums are lighter and work on the outer layers of the hair shaft or the scalp, depending on the formula. 'Hair serum is a fluid product, which is left to absorb into the scalp or strands, depending on the requirement. It works differently based on the hair and scalp condition,' Alsha Shaikh, cosmetologist and founder at Luna clinic, tells HT Lifestyle. Using a random serum can sometimes do more harm than good. If your hair is already oily, a thick, silicone-heavy serum might weigh it down even more. If your hair is dry or coloured, a lightweight one may not give the nourishment you need. 'We need the right hair serum to protect hair from environmental pollutants, frizz, and damage. It also differs person to person based on hair type,' says Alsha Shaikh. 1. Fights frizz: Hair serums coat the hair shaft, smoothing rough cuticles and reducing frizz caused by humidity or dryness. 2. Adds instant shine: The best hair serum for women and men creates a light-reflective layer on your strands to make them look glossy and healthy. 3. Protects from environmental stressors: Many serums form a protective barrier that shields hair from heat styling tools, UV rays, and environmental pollutants, preventing long-term damage. 5. Boosts growth: The best hair growth serum with actives like Redensyl or Procapil strengthens roots, reduces hair fall, and supports healthier hair growth. A topical human platelet extract hair serum with renewosome technology improves hair density and volume, as per a study published in the International Open Access Journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. The expert shares a few tips for choosing the best hair serum for your hair type: Your hair texture, oil levels, and overall condition define what kind of serum you need. "Oily hair needs a water-based, non-greasy serum. Frizzy hair benefits from something more moisturising. The right serum makes a huge difference in hair growth and texture,' shares the expert. Straight hair usually gets weighed down easily, while curly hair tends to be dry and needs extra hydration. Coloured or chemically treated hair often requires reparative ingredients. Fine hair needs lighter textures; thick or coarse hair can handle rich formulations. So, before adding that shiny bottle to your cart, figure out what your hair actually is to prevent many bad hair days. Here are the top ingredients experts recommend: ● Argan oil: Often called 'liquid gold,' it is rich in antioxidants and fatty acids that nourish dry, brittle hair. It smooths frizz, adds shine, and helps repair damage from heat and colouring. It also protects your hair against oxidative damage, according to the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. ● Dimethicone: It is a lightweight silicone that coats the hair shaft to prevent moisture loss. This ingredient helps with detangling, smooths frizz, and gives that glossy, polished finish. ● Glycerine: The best hair serum with this humectant helps draw moisture from the air into your hair strands. It can help reduce dandruff and boost hydration, as per a study published in the SKINmed Journal. ● Redensyl: It is a plant-based compound that stimulates hair follicles to promote new growth. This ingredient can strengthen hair and combat hair loss by targeting hair stem cells and the dermal papilla, as per a study published in Cureus. ● Procapil: Another growth-focused ingredient that strengthens hair at the root, improves blood circulation in the scalp, and helps combat thinning. ● Lightweight silicones: Unlike heavy silicones, these don't weigh hair down and are better for thin or straight hair. They create a smooth layer without buildup. ● Natural butters (like shea or mango): The best hair serum with these ingredients is good for deep nourishment and protection. Not all serums are hair-friendly; some do more long-term damage than good. According to the hair expert, 'Harsh chemicals like phthalates, parabens, heavy silicones, colorants, and artificial fragrances can cause scalp irritation and further damage.' These ingredients can clog hair follicles, trigger allergic reactions, or lead to a build-up that weighs hair down. Heavy silicones, in particular, may give an instant smooth finish but create residue that blocks moisture over time. Also, avoid strong artificial fragrances if you have a sensitive scalp. Most serums on the market are leave-in, meaning they stay on your strands or scalp for better absorption and longer-lasting effects. 'Serums are usually for leave-on purposes to increase absorption,' says Alsha. However, some scalp-specific issues, like seborrheic dermatitis or a sensitive scalp, may require wash-off formulations with ingredients like ketoconazole or salicylic acid. When choosing a texture, think about your lifestyle: a lightweight serum suits daily use and fine hair, while a rich serum with oils or butters suits thick, dry, or curly hair that needs moisture retention. Always perform a patch test if you are new to scalp serums, especially medicated ones. And never layer too many products, serums work best when they are not competing with others. While the best hair serum is available at every price point, not all are created equal. 'Serums can come at any price, but what matters is the potency and clinical credibility of the ingredients,' explains Alsha. High-end salon serums often use more concentrated actives, fewer fillers, and are clinically tested for results. Budget-friendly options may still be effective, but often rely on basic silicones for a temporary finish. That said, some mid-range products balance value and quality very well, especially those with proven ingredients like redensyl or argan oil. Look beyond price tags and read the label. If a serum lists its key actives upfront and doesn't hide behind heavy fragrance or marketing fluff, it's likely worth trying. A good serum can only work if you apply it correctly. And no, it's not just 'rub it and go.' According to Alsha, the application depends entirely on your goal. ● For hair growth, apply to dry scalp. ● For damaged hair, it can be applied to wet or dry hair. ● Curly hair benefits most when used on wet hair to define curls. ● Always start with just a few drops, warm it between your palms, and focus on mid-lengths to ends unless it's a scalp serum. ● Avoid applying too close to the roots, unless directed, and never overload fine hair. ● For scalp serums, part your hair and gently massage the serum in for maximum absorption and circulation boost. Hair serum isn't just a finishing product; it is a treatment, a protectant, and sometimes even a growth booster. But it all depends on choosing the right one. As Alsha Shaikh advises, pay attention to your hair type, concerns, and ingredient list. So next time, while picking one, don't just go for the hype. Instead, go for the formula that gets your hair. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Elle
05-06-2025
- Health
- Elle
The 5 Best Peptide Products to Help Boost Hair Growth
Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy. Unless you're genetically blessed with thick, flowing locks, many of us wish for a little (or a lot) more hair. You may have naturally thin hair or have experienced some uncharacteristic hair loss lately. Chances are, you're probably on the hunt for alternative ways to make your hair grow faster and thicker—and you're not alone. I deal with hair loss occasionally, especially when I'm stressed out and trying to grow out my very short bob. Thankfully, there are plenty of tips and tricks for us thin- and short-haired folks, including one of my best-kept secrets: peptide products for hair growth. Peptide lip treatments and peptide serums have gotten a lot of good press lately, but the star ingredient can also work wonders on hair. 'Peptides encourage hair growth by improving blood flow to the scalp and strengthening the structure of hair follicles,' shares Dr. Candace Thornton Spann, a board-certified dermatologist in Las Vegas and the co-owner of Couture Dermatology & Plastic Surgery. 'They can also result in the formulation of more collagen, a building block that's vital to the health of the hair follicle,' she adds. Peptide hair serums are very beneficial to those on a hair growth journey, and there are plenty of hair growth shampoos, hair growth vitamins, and other treatments with peptides to explore. After speaking with Dr. Spann and other editors, scrolling through hundreds of customer reviews, and trying a few myself, I landed on the five best peptide products for hair growth—check them out below. This watery serum is meant to be applied and left on your scalp to work its magic. Thanks to peptides, caffeine, and various plant-based extracts, it not only densifies and thickens your hair but also helps your mane appear more voluminous overall. Key ingredients: Peptides, caffeine, Redensyl, Procapil, Baicapil Size: 1 oz. Ulta rating: 4.1/5 stars An ELLE editor says: 'I don't remember how I discovered this product, but I'm forever grateful I did. During the first two years of the pandemic, I applied the formula religiously every night, and I credit it for nursing my scalp and hair back to health after shocking and noticeable hair loss. I was amazed by the volume it provided (especially when I apply it while my hair is still damp from a shower) and how many baby hairs sprouted all over my head in the few weeks after I started using it.' —Carol Lee, associate beauty e-commerce writer Hair care starts in the shower, and you can set your strands up for success by utilizing this shampoo and conditioner to cleanse and revitalize your hair and scalp. Rosemary oil is known for encouraging blood circulation in the scalp (which encourages healthy hair growth), and the addition of peptides and plant proteins translates to stronger, less breakage-prone locks. Key ingredients: Rosemary oil, peptides, ceramides, proteins Size: 8.4 fl. oz. x2 Necessaire rating: 4.5/5 stars An ELLE editor says: 'First of all, the scent of this duo is incredible—if you like rosemary, treating yourself to this is a must. I've gotten multiple compliments on how good my hair smells when I use this, and it's currently in my rotation of shower products. Additionally, I've been applying a lot of heat to my hair these days, and my hair has maintained its strength and health—I don't doubt that using these products has something to do with it.' —Carol Lee Nutrafol is one of those hair growth supplements that actually work. 'I used to get highlights, and my hair incurred a ton of damage. It got to the point where I didn't feel like my hair could grow any longer than my shoulders. I tried Nutrafol supplements as a sort of last-ditch effort, and I couldn't believe how quickly my hair started growing—and how healthy it looked,' says ELLE beauty editor Katie Berohn. This set also includes the brand's collagen powder, which features marine collagen peptides to provide hydration and other materials for strong, healthy hair. Key ingredients: Marine collagen peptides, saw palmetto, tocotrienol complex, ashwagandha Size: 120 capsules and 12.03 oz. of powder Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars An Amazon reviewer says: 'This product really works! My hairdresser (without knowing I was taking anything) commented that my hair was growing and filling out more. I was thrilled!' K18's hair oil features the brand's signature peptide, an ingredient that strengthens strands and makes them appear smoother. By preventing and repairing damage, the silicone-free oil allows your hair to grow without breaking off before it can reach your desired length. Key ingredients: Peptides, hemisqualane, squalane, avocado oil Size: 1 fl. oz. An Amazon reviewer says: 'This stuff has helped my damaged, broken off hair so much. My hair was ruined with bleach, and this has been such a game changer in my hair journey. While it doesn't help with growth, it helps repair the damaged hair. 10/10. Will purchase again!' You may already drink caffeine to wake you up in the morning, but when applied topically, the ingredient can also wake the scalp and make your hair feel and appear denser. Other starring ingredients include peptides to promote the health of hair follicles and grape stem cells to thicken hair. Key ingredients: Grape stem cells, peptides, caffeine Size: 3 oz. Act + Acre rating: 4.8/5 stars An Act + Acre reviewer says: 'I tried this after seeing this on social media and reading the reviews. I have fine hair and breakage in one section. This has helped with the breakage and gives my hair volume at the scalp. As a bonus, I don't have frizz or flyaways on the small hairs around my hairline.' Dr. Candace Thornton Spann is a board-certified dermatologist in Las Vegas, the co-owner of Couture Dermatology & Plastic Surgery, and the founder of ReTress. The best way to go about treating hair loss is to figure out the root of the problem. 'It is important to identify and address what's leading to hair loss. For example, vitamin deficiencies can cause hair loss. Treating vitamin deficiency can encourage hair growth,' Dr. Spann says. She also recommends scalp oiling and scalp massage to promote hair growth. According to Dr. Spann, it all depends on what kind of hair loss you're dealing with. 'Something like alopecia areata, a non-scarring, autoimmune type of hair loss, can be completely reversed. Female pattern hair loss can be reversed if the follicles are treated early before follicles become scarred,' she says. However, follicles that are already scarred are unable to recover. As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, beauty writer Carol Lee spoke to a dermatologist, tested formulas, and combed through customer reviews to find the best peptide products for hair growth.
