A list defining the different types of basic products for styling hair, what type of hair they are best suited for, and how to use them.

With so many different hair products available, it’s difficult to understand what each one does. This list explains major hair care categories to help you choose exactly what you need.

Shampoo

Shampoo cleans from scalp to ends and is formulated for specific hair types. Dry or coarse hair needs a mild shampoo that has moisturizing ingredients. Oily hair needs stronger cleansers to penetrate and dissolve greasiness. Some specialize in adding volume and body by roughing-up the hair shaft making strands appear thicker. Shampoo for smoothing and colour-treated hair does the opposite. It has a low pH level so the shaft stays closed and colour deposits are not washed out. Clarifying shampoo is concentrated to remove product buildup and chlorine. Chelating is the strongest type and is used to remove not only buildup, but environmental residue and medication deposits.

Conditioner

Shampoo’s partner is also formulated for hair types and chemically treated hair. It adds moisture, and coats the hair to smooth and soften the cuticle. Traditional conditioners are washed out but leave-in varieties are also available. Leave-in conditioners straddle the more sophisticated Treatment category as they have advanced reparative properties that need to be left on the hair for maximum effectiveness.

Thermal Protectant

Hair needs to be guarded from heat damage caused by hairdryers and styling irons. These sprays add a layer of protection to create a barrier between the hair shaft and the heat being applied. Thermal protectants now have hold-factors built in so they become a two-in-one protection and styling product.

Mousse and Foam

These light, fluffy styling products offer low-hold and soft style. Works for any length of hair but does not provide firm hold for longer styles.

Gel

This styling aid has a light texture and provides light- to extra-hold determined by the complexity of your hairstyle. It can be applied to wet or dry hair and can create a “wet look” when left to air dry, or blend unnoticeably when styled with heat. Gel is easy to use for all hair lengths.

Styling or Grooming Cream

These products vary from a thick liquid to a solid balm offering light- to high-hold. These work well in all hair lengths due to their pliability and because they are “workable,” giving you plenty of time to style before drying and setting.

Pomade

Pomades are thick, solid gels that style hair to a smooth and sleek finish adding shine or to set a wet look. They are best for medium-hold styles of all lengths, but not recommended for thin hair.

Wax

Styling waxes distribute through hair easily and offer high-hold and definition. Waxes add high shine to wet or dry hair and are best for short or medium lengths.

Paste and Putty

These thick, sticky styling products give ultimate hold for intense styles like spikes and piecey, texturized looks. By emulsifying the product in warm hands, it becomes pliable to work through hair until it cools and holds the style in place. Best for short, textured hair it does not allow much styling time before it dries. Some brands provide all-day workability so that hair can be restyled. Different brands provide varying amounts of shine.

Hairspray

This finishing product holds your style in place providing light- to extra-firm hold and is available in both pumps and aerosols. Hairsprays are sticky liquids that form a net over your style keeping it either re-workable or stiff and fixed.

Knowing which of these basic products best suits your hair type and styling needs is the first step to great looking hair.

Sources: American Crew, John Paul Mitchell Systems