What Products Should I Use? - We Were Stumped Too, Until...

We all know the feeling - standing in front of the mirror, staring at our hair and wondering, "What on earth am I supposed to do with this?" Whether you're blessed with bouncy curls, sleek straight locks, or something in between, figuring out the right hair care routine can feel like a daunting task. But don't worry, love - we've got you sorted.

At Charlie's Hair and Beauty, we've spent the last 38 years helping our customers find the perfect products and techniques for their unique hair needs. We've seen it all, from the big 80s perms (what a time that was!) to today's natural, low-maintenance styles. And if there's one thing we've learned, it's that the key to happy, healthy hair is a consistent routine tailored to your specific hair type and concerns.

Let's transform your hair! Photo by Engin Akyurt from Pexels

So, where do you start? First things first - let's chat about your hair type. Are you rocking tight coils, loose waves, or pin-straight strands? This will determine what kind of products you need and how often you should be using them. For example, our curly-haired customers often find that a rich, creamy leave-in conditioner like the Camille Rose Curl Love Moisture Milk is a game-changer for keeping their curls defined and frizz-free.

Next up, think about your hair concerns. Is dryness your nemesis? Breakage driving you bonkers? Or maybe you're dealing with colour damage from that time you got a bit too excited with the bleach (hey, we've all been there!). Whatever your woes, there's a product out there to help.

One of our all time bestsellers is the BSSET Original Curl Cream. This brilliant multi-tasker is perfect for defining curls, taming frizz, and adding moisture - all without weighing your hair down. Our customers rave about how it leaves their hair feeling soft, bouncy, and full of life.

But of course, everyone's hair is different, so what works for your best mate might not be quite right for you. That's where we come in - pop into our shop in Shepherd's Bush for a chat, and we'll help you find the perfect products for your unique hair needs. We'll even let you in on a few of our secret styling tips, passed down through generations of the Charlie's family.

Now, let's talk about your actual hair care routine. We recommend starting with a gentle, sulphate-free shampoo to cleanse your scalp and hair without stripping away natural oils. This is especially important if you have coloured, dry, or damaged hair. One of our favourites is the Agadir Argan Oil Moisturising Shampoo - it's packed with nourishing ingredients like argan oil and vitamin E to leave your hair feeling clean, soft, and oh-so-shiny.

Next, follow up with a conditioner suited to your hair type. If you have fine hair, stick to a lightweight formula and focus on the ends to avoid weighing down your roots. For thicker, coarser hair, you can be a bit more generous - slather on a rich, creamy conditioner from root to tip, and let it work its magic for a few minutes before rinsing.

Once you're out of the shower, it's time for your styling products. This is where you can really have some fun and experiment with different looks. For a sleek, polished style, try a smoothing serum or oil like the Aunt Jackies Frizz Rebel – Coconut & Sweet Almond Oil. Just a pump or two will tame flyaways and add a gorgeous shine.

If you're embracing your natural texture, reach for a curl-defining cream or gel. We love the BSSET Original Curl Cream for bouncy, defined curls with no crunch. For extra hold and frizz control, layer it with a gel like the Agor Organic Flaxseed Edge Control.

And don't forget about your scalp! A healthy scalp is the foundation for healthy hair, so show it some love with a weekly deep conditioning treatment or scalp massage. The Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay is brilliant for clarifying and balancing your scalp - just mix it with a bit of water or apple cider vinegar, apply to your roots, and let it work its magic for 10-15 minutes before shampooing out.

So there you have it - the basics of a solid hair care routine. Of course, everyone's hair is unique, so don't be afraid to experiment and find what works for you. And if you ever need a bit of guidance or just fancy a chat about all things hair, you know where to find us - right here at Charlie's Hair and Beauty, where we've been helping London's loveliest locks look and feel their best since 1986.

Pop in and see us sometime - we'll put the kettle on and talk tresses over a nice cuppa. Until then, keep on embracing those gorgeous locks, whatever they may be. Cheers, love!

Hope this helps! And remember, every hair journey is unique - we're here to support yours.