5 HAIRCARE INGREDIENTS YOU NEED IN YOUR ROUTINE

Garnier Keratin Sleek Conditioner 200ml, £7.99

Keratin is perhaps the most famous ingredient in the haircare world. This protein has become the face of glossy blowouts and healthy-looking locks thanks to its smoothing and strengthening properties that help prevent breakage and promote growth. The best way to include keratin in your routine is through treatments, deep conditioners and masks. These rich formulas allow the proteins to coat the hair and provide deep nourishment. The Garnier Keratin Sleek conditioner is our go-to for affordable, no-fuss application that can help soften dry frizz-prone hair.

Cosrx Peptide 132 Bonding Oil Serum 28ml, £23

Beloved by skincare icons like Hailey Bieber, peptides have long been used in facial treatments. But did you know they’re also a secret weapon for your hair? By stimulating follicles, peptides can help stimulate hair growth, reduce shedding and boost density (who said Pam Anderson’s 90s volume couldn’t be yours?). High-potency serums and treatments are the most efficient way to use peptides on your hair, like the Corsx Bonding oil serum, which delivers lasting softness in a fast-absorbing formula. The final step your routine has been missing.

The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution 30ml, £6.10

The concept of using any kind of acid on your hair might ring alarm bells, but we often forget that haircare starts at the root. Your scalp needs just as much TLC as the skin on your face, so active ingredients are a must for removing dead skin and regulating oils. The Ordinary's 2% solution helps to target dandruff, flakes and build-up, making it the perfect pre-shampoo treatment.

Note: this product is only to be applied to the scalp, not the lengths and ends of your hair.

Briogeo Destined For Density Caffeine + Biotin Peptide Density Shampoo, £30

You probably already consume caffeine as part of your daily ritual, but we’re not talking coffee here. Much like salicylic acid, caffeine is a powerful ingredient that is believed to stimulate the scalp and lessen hair loss. When applied to the root, caffeine-based serums help promote softer, shinier-looking hair. But you can also integrate caffeine in your daily haircare. This shampoo from Briogeo is our current standout, formulated with biotin and copper to nourish your strands from root to tip. Just massage into the scalp before cleansing to ensure your oft-neglected roots get a well-earned pick-me-up.

The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane 30ml, £9.90

You know that feeling of waking in the night desperate for a glass of water? Well, consider squalane that cold, refreshing H2O you’ve been gasping for. If your hair is dry, dull or prone to breakage, this simple ingredient can help to lock in moisture and increase heat protection while reducing breakage. Serums and creams are the best way to get the most out of squalane, so reach for products like The Ordinary’s 100% squalane as post-wash treatment that’ll nourish your ends. Plus, it provides heat protection too.