Dry & Dehydrated Hair

What are the best products for dry hair?
Kérastase Nutritive and Pureology Hydrate are where we start. Nutritive suits dry hair that also needs softness and shine. Pureology Hydrate is sulfate-free and great on dry, coloured hair. Add a weekly mask like Nutritive Masquintense or Chronologiste Masque Intense Régénérant. See our Nutritive guide for the full routine.

What's the difference between dry and dehydrated hair?
Dry hair is missing oils and nourishment, so it feels rough and looks dull. Dehydrated hair is missing water, so it feels brittle and loses its bounce, even if it looks shiny. Lots of hair is both, especially in a Central Otago winter. Hydrating shampoos and conditioners help with water; masks, oils and leave-ins help with nourishment.

Should I use Pureology Hydrate or Hydrate Sheer?
Hydrate is richer and suits medium to thick dry hair. Hydrate Sheer is the lighter version for fine hair that is dry but goes flat easily. If you're not sure, start with Sheer. You can add more moisture, but you can't take weight away. Comparison in Hydrate vs Hydrate Sheer.

What leave-in should I use for dry hair?
Kérastase Nutritive Nectar Thermique for blow-drying, since it protects from heat while it nourishes. Nutritive 8HR Night Repair goes on before bed. Nutri-Supplement Split Ends Serum is for dry, frayed ends. Use one at a time and see how your hair responds before stacking them.

What helps a dry scalp as well as dry hair?
Kérastase Nutritive Nutri-Supplement Scalp Serum is for a dry scalp; apply it to the skin and massage in. Keep showers lukewarm and avoid over-washing. If the scalp is itchy, flaky or sore and nothing settles it, see a GP or dermatologist. More in shampoo for a dry, tight scalp.

More reading: Best Hair Mask NZ, Best Hair Oil NZ.