Implementing a routine is one of the best things you can do for your hair. If you have never paid much attention to the upkeep of your locks, or you would like to do a better job of keeping hair strong, healthy and fresh-looking, start a hair care routine and love the hair that is naturally yours. Read on to start a hair care routine.

1. Shampoo thoroughly, daily or every other day depending on hair’s oiliness. First, brush or comb the hair to loosen dirt and dead skin cells from the scalp. Wet hair until all layers are saturated with water. Use about a tsp. of shampoo (more or less depending on your amount of hair) gently massaging it into your hair’s layers from the roots to the tips, covering the whole head. Rinse head completely with warm or hot water, until the shampoo has been completely washed away.

2. Condition the hair following a shampoo. For cream rinse conditioners, apply several teaspoons of the product to your hair, working it through until all hair is covered. Leave conditioner in for five minutes and rinse thoroughly. For leave-in conditioners, follow product directions, which will indicate whether to apply before or after hair has dried.

3. Treat hair gently after washing. Squeeze away excess water and wrap hair loosely in a clean towel. Press it firmly against the head to increase absorption. Let hair dry naturally whenever possible to minimize damage to the hair. If you must blow dry, do not start until the hair is already 3/4 dry. Do not let the dryer heat one section of hair too much, don’t let your scalp get hot in any place, and never continue to dry hair that is already dry.

4. Brush and comb hair when it is dry. Doing so to wet hair leads to split ends from pulling and tugging. When getting out tangles, always start at the ends of the hair and work your way up toward the scalp. Use a brush that is appropriate for your hair type. Use a small, soft brush for thin hair, and a large brush with bristles for hair that is long and thick.

5. Use hair care products that are right for your hair type. Shampoos, conditioners and styling products are specially created to accommodate the needs of specific hair types from thin and straight to thick and curly, chemically damaged and more.

6. Use an SPF spray for hair to protect your locks from sun damage.