The newer range of hair products takes inspiration from skin care with BB creams, primers and cleansers for your locks
The beauty market is flooded with various hair care products with a number of different functions. While shampoos, conditioners, gels and hairspray have become yesterday's news, the newer products come with fancier names and functions. In fact, it seems as if cosmetics have inspired these items that include hair cleansers, moisturisers, primers, serums and even BB creams. Though hair serums have been around for a while the current ones offer better results. Cleansers may seem like a fancier word for shampoo but are said to give a more thorough cleanse of the scalp and locks. Experts give us their take on these items.
Hair cleansers
More than a shampoo these help clean the hair in between regular washing and get rid of product build up. Unlike shampoos, they have fewer chemicals that may strip the locks leaving them dry and damaged. Rekha S Naidu, cosmetic manager, Advanced Hair Studios says, "A hair cleanser should be used once in 15-20 days. It thoroughly cleanses the hair and lets the cuticles breathe."
Hair primers
When it comes to skin care, primers are generally applied just before make-up and provide a smooth finish to the skin. Hair primers, that entered the market last year, work in a similar way prepping the hair before applying other products. It also helps protect the strands from humidity, styling heat and keeps them shiny and smooth. Natasha Naegamvala, director, Nalini of Nalini and Yasmin Salon says these come in spray or cream form. "It helps by filling in the gaps in and on the cuticle, and/or acting as a barrier between the hair and heated tools."
Hair serum
While skin serums are generally used as a lightweight component prior to a heavy moisturiser, hair serums work best as an end product to give a perfect finish. They not only help to control frizz, but add shine and tame flyaways. "Hair serum should be applied after ironing or blow dry or in case of chemical treatment. The serum has to be applied after every hair wash to get tangle free hair. It also helps in retaining the shine and gives free flow to the hair," says Rekha S Naidu. Adds Natasha, "One can choose between a water based serum, which is gentle on the hair as it would be let the hair breathe, or a silicone or oil based one that would give a lot more sheen."
Hair BB creams
Known for their multitasking abilities to moisturise skin, hide blemishes and improve the complexion, BB creams for hair do similar tasks. They are said to repair damaged ends, control the fuzz, add shine and control to the style. They also strengthen the mane and eliminate the need for several products. However, they are not popular in India yet. Avan Contractor, BBLUNT creative director and celebrity stylist, says Indian hair is very different and thus demands to be treated differently. "It is equally important to care for your hair as you would for your skin. Though personally I haven't worked with any primers or BB creams yet, just as your skin, your hair regime ought to include cleansing, toning and moisturising. Your conditioner can work as a great toner closing your hair cuticles, the same way a toner works to close the pores of your skin. Aside from a conditioner, a great leave-in cream helps to further nourish, enhance the natural movement of your hair and UV protect it whilst taming frizz," she says.
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