10 Korean hair care tips to get smooth and silky hair

When you hear of Korean beauty, your mind immediately thinks of skincare but their haircare routine has equally as much to offer. If you dream of getting soft, silky and shiny hair like the Koreans, you need to try some Korean hair care tips that will transform your hair in no time. From giving your locks some texture to making them shine, making small changes to your hair care routine the Korean style will help! Without further ado, let’s make your hair stronger and healthier.

10 Korean hair care tips

Here are some top Korean tips to make your hair shiny, smooth, and healthy:

1. Double cleansing

We know the wonders of double cleansing for skin and as per the Korean hair care routine, this method is useful for your hair as well. “This involves using a scalp-specific cleanser or an oil-based pre-shampoo treatment followed by a regular shampoo,” says dermatologist Dr Deepak Jakhar. The first cleanse helps to remove excess oil, product buildup, and impurities from the scalp, while the second cleanse ensures that the hair and scalp get cleaned properly. This method ensures that your hair and scalp  get thoroughly clean without stripping away its natural oils.

Tip: Use a gentle scalp cleanser or oil massage once or twice a week before shampooing to keep your scalp clean and balanced.

2. Scalp massage

If you have ever had a scalp massage, you know how relaxing it feels. Besides easing stress and tension, scalp massage is known to improve scalp health and promote hair growth. A 2016 study published by Eplasty revealed that regular scalp massages boost blood circulation and stimulate the follicles, producing thicker hair. It also helps distribute the natural oils evenly, leaving the hair naturally moisturised and shiny.

Tip: Use your fingertips or a scalp brush to massage it in a circular motion to enhance the benefits.

3. Hair mask

Just like a face mask, a hair mask also works to provide deep conditioning for your hair. Dr Jakhar explains, “Deep conditioning treatments are an essential part of Korean hair care that nourishes and hydrates your hair, which helps repair damage and add shine.” Though there are some market-based hair mask products available, you can also prepare one at home. Use ingredients such as bananas, honey, and egg yolks. The silica in bananas can give you softer and shinier hair by reducing dryness and dandruff, as per a study published by the Avicenna Journal of Medical Biotechnology.

Tip: Apply a banana hair mask once a week, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends of your hair. For extra nourishment, you can leave the mask on for an hour.

4. Rinse with cold water

A cold water rinse is a well-known Korean hair care trick. After shampooing and conditioning, rinsing your hair with cold water can seal the cuticles, which helps to lock in moisture and enhance shine. While there is limited research available, cold water is always a better option than using warm or hot water for washing hair. “Unlike hot water, cold water does not dry your hair or strip away its natural oil. In fact, it can keep your hair het smoother and shinier,” suggests Dr Jakhar.

Tip: After your regular shampoo and conditioner routine, finish with a cold water rinse to enhance shine and smoothness.

5. Leave in conditioner

Leave-in conditioners are a staple in Korean hair care routines because they provide deep hydration and protection throughout the day. While conditioner helps keep your hair soft and more manageable, a leave-in conditioner can double the benefits. Dr Jakhar says, “Instead of being washed out of your hair, they offer constant moisture, detangle hair easily, and protect against the pollution of UV rays.”

Tip: Apply a small amount of leave-in conditioner to damp hair, focusing on the mid-lengths to ends. This will help keep your hair soft, manageable, and less prone to breakage.

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6. Avoid heat styling

Hair styling can be appealing as it makes your hair look gorgeous, but it can do more harm than good. A study published by the Annals of Dermatology states that excessive heat can cause damage, leading to dryness, split ends, and dullness. To avoid this damage and maintain natural hair shine, Koreans prefer to air dry their hair or use heat-free styling methods like braiding or twisting damp hair to create natural waves. “By reducing heat styling, you can help preserve the natural texture and overall health of your hair,” says Dr Jakhar.

Tip: If you must use heat, apply a heat protectant spray beforehand and opt for the lowest heat setting possible.

7. Silk

Silk is not just for luxurious bedding, it is also excellent for your hair. Koreans often use silk pillowcases and hair wraps to protect their hair while they sleep. Unlike cotton, silk causes less friction, which helps reduce hair breakage and split ends. Switching to a silk pillowcase can prevent hair from becoming tangled and can also help keep hair smooth. Additionally, using silk hair ties is gentle on your hair compared to traditional elastic bands, reducing the risk of breakage.

Tip: Switch to a silk pillowcase and use a silk hair wrap or scarf at night to protect and maintain the shine.

8. Hair steaming

Hair steaming is a beneficial treatment that helps to open up the hair cuticles, allowing deep conditioning products to penetrate more effectively. You can use a hair steamer or even a homemade steam treatment by covering your hair with a warm, damp towel. “This process not only enhances the absorption of conditioning products but also provides a relaxing and rejuvenating experience for your scalp and hair,” according to Dr Jakhar.

Tip: Regular hair steaming can improve the texture and overall health of your hair.

9. Serum

Hair serum coats the surface of your hair and helps style it. In Korean hair care, serums are often used to address issues such as frizz, dryness, or lack of shine. A study published in Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology also supports that hair serum can help maintain sleek, shiny hair and manage common hair problems. In fact, it also protects from environmental stressors, such as UV rays and pollution.

Tip: Apply a few drops of serum to the ends of your hair, avoiding the roots, to prevent greasiness.

10. Rice water

When we are talking about Korean beauty tips, how can we miss out on rice water? It is the most popular Korean hair care ingredient, known for its numerous benefits. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, it promotes hair growth, strengthens strands, and adds shine, as per a study published by the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology. The inositol in rice water helps repair and prevent damage, improving elasticity and reducing frizz. It also balances the scalp’s pH, which can help with dandruff and dryness.

Tip: Regular use of rice water as a rinse or treatment can lead to healthier, more manageable hair.

Follow these tips and see the significant change in your hair!