Why is it that we never seem to want the hair we were born with when we were younger? I had thick, light brown wavy hair that didn’t do what it was told, ever, and a cowlick larger than Elvis’s. I wanted flat, straight hair that I could tuck behind my ears, just like my friend Fiona’s, but there were no hair heroes back then, and especially not for eight year olds! Times have changed since the 70’s and today, there are a stack of hair care products to suit all hair types. Here we take a good look at the hair care heroes available now.

Sudden curly hair?

After I had children, my hair went from thick and wavy to proper curly – no perm required! Apparently, this can happen, and it’s due to hormonal changes which can affect gene function. That curly gene got switched on and more active, and my wave went to curl.

It wasn’t long after I had children that commercial hair straightening irons came out. Oh, the joy – I could have curly hair one day and straight the next! THIS, without a doubt, was the answer to all my prayers, my hair care hero product. It was also around this time that I started taking more notice of what products were out there. If I was ironing my hair (let’s face it, that’s pretty much what it amounts to), I’d probably best protect it first, right?

So, heat protective spray and trusty Schwarzkopf tin of mousse for curls at the ready, that was me, set for the next 15 years, literally. Sure, I’d try the latest shampoo and conditioner when they came out, but I didn’t really bother looking for anything else.

 

The hair care industry has evolved

Then, WIB founder and Co-Director Annie, gave me some hair care products for curly hair that I didn’t even know existed. I realised I’d fallen behind the times and the hair care industry had rapidly evolved without me!

I’ve since discovered  countless products that cater to every hair type and texture. Whether you’re looking to repair damage, add volume, or enhance curls, there’s a product for it!

Here’s a breakdown of the latest hair products available and how each can enhance your hair routine. And the best bit? You can find them at your local supermarket or chemist, and they don’t cost a fortune either.

Scalp scrubs

Any hairdresser will tell you that a healthy scalp is the foundation of beautiful hair. Scalp scrubs are typically formulated with exfoliating ingredients to remove product build-up, dead skin cells, and oils, creating an ideal environment for hair growth.

• Function: Exfoliates the scalp, unclogs hair follicles, and encourages circulation.
• Best for: All hair types, especially those prone to oiliness or dandruff.
• How to Use: Apply a small amount to wet scalp, massage gently in circular motions, then rinse thoroughly. Use once a week.

 

Bond-building treatments

Bond-building treatments are relatively new but revolutionary for damaged hair. These products work at a molecular level to repair broken bonds in the hair structure. This damage is usually caused by chemicals, used in colouring, bleaching or heat styling.

• Function: Repairs and strengthens damaged hair from the inside out.
• Best for: Colour-treated, bleached, or chemically processed hair.
• How to Use: Apply to clean, damp hair and leave it on for the recommended time (often 10–15 minutes), then rinse. Use weekly for best results.

Hair primers

Hair primers, like makeup primers, create a smooth foundation before you start styling. They protect your hair from heat, enhance the effects of other products, and make your style last longer.

• Function: Protects hair from heat, smooths strands, and enhances styling.
• Best for: Anyone who uses heat-styling tools.
• How to Use: Apply a small amount to damp hair before blow-drying or styling.

Leave-in conditioners with hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid has been around for what feels like ages when it comes to skincare. But it’s one of the latest hair care products and it’s making waves (no pun intended)! Leave-in conditioners with hyaluronic acid lock in moisture, and make your hair feel softer and look shinier.

• Function: Deeply hydrates and softens hair.
• Best for: Dry or frizzy hair, or anyone in need of extra hydration.
• How to Use: Spray or distribute evenly on damp hair. You can layer it with other styling products too, which is a bonus.

 

Heat protection sprays with UV protection

Modern heat protection sprays are not only formulated to prevent heat damage from tools like straighteners and curlers but also protect against UV rays, which can fade colour and weaken hair.

• Function: Shields hair from heat and UV rays.
• Best for: Anyone using heat tools or spending time outdoors.
• How to Use: Spray evenly on damp hair before using heat tools or stepping outside.

Root lifting sprays

Root lifting sprays are designed to give your hair a boost at the roots. It will add volume and lift but won’t weigh your hair down. They’re ideal if you want to add body to fine or limp hair (I wouldn’t be surprised if Fiona has used this).

• Function: Adds volume and lift at the roots.
• Best for: Fine or flat hair in need of volume.
• How to Use: Spray at the roots of damp hair, then blow-dry for maximum lift.

Hair gloss treatments

Hair gloss treatments are a fabulous DIY when you want to add shine and refresh your hair – without committing to a full dye job. Hair gloss treatments add colour and shine and can even help reduce the frizz factor.

• Function: Adds shine and revives colour.
• Best for: Colour-treated or dull hair.
• How to Use: Apply to clean, damp hair and leave on for the recommended time before rinsing. Use every 4–6 weeks.

 

 

Curl creams and curl-defining mousses

This is where the fun began for me, recently. There are loads of new curl-enhancing products now on the market that I’m only just discovering. Curl creams provide moisture, while mousses offer definition and hold for curls and waves (but can leave your hair looking dry, in my experience).

• Function: Enhances and defines curls while taming frizz.
• Best for: Wavy, curly, or coiling hair types.
• How to Use: Apply curl cream to damp hair, then follow up with mousse for extra definition and hold.

Dry shampoos with tinted formulas

Dry shampoo is a lifesaver, but new products with tinted formulas now offer a little extra something for those of you with darker hair. These products refresh your hair, absorb oils, and add volume without the white residue that traditional dry shampoos can leave.

• Function: Absorbs oil and adds volume between washes.
• Best for: Oily hair, fine hair, or anyone looking to extend time between washes.
• How to Use: Shake well, spray onto roots, let it sit for a minute, and then brush or massage through your hair.

Hair perfumes and mists

Hair perfumes and mists are designed to add fragrance to your hair while being gentle enough not to dry it out. Many formulas also include conditioning ingredients to add a light shine.

• Function: Adds a pleasant scent and light conditioning.
• Best for: Any hair type that could use a fragrance boost.
• How to Use: Spray lightly onto dry hair from a distance of about 20-30 cm (8–12 inches).

 

Pre-shampoo treatments

Pre-shampoo treatments prepare the hair and scalp for shampooing. They’re often rich in nourishing oils and ingredients that hydrate, strengthen, and protect your hair from stripping during the wash.

• Function: Nourishes, strengthens, and protects hair before shampooing.
• Best for: Damaged, colour-treated, or dry hair types.
• How to Use: Apply to dry hair and let it sit for 5–15 minutes before shampooing.

Anti-frizz serums and oils with humidity protection

Living in Queensland, this product is a must for me, and anyone who lives in a humid region. Anti-frizz serums and oils are a go-to for smoothing hair. And, new formulas are now more lightweight and long-lasting, with added humidity protection to maintain smoothness in any weather.

• Function: Smooths frizz and protects hair from humidity.
• Best for: Frizzy or unruly hair, especially in humid climates.
• How to Use: Apply a small amount to damp or dry hair, focusing on the ends.

Microfibre hair towels

While not a product in the traditional sense, microfibre towels are a game-changer when it comes to keeping your hair healthy. They’re gentler on your hair than regular towels, and also help to reduce frizz, breakage, and drying time. Drying time is a biggie for me. I have long hair and it takes HOURS to dry. Now I’m asking myself why I don’t have one of these microfibre towels already?!

• Function: Reduces drying time and frizz.
• Best for: All hair types, especially curly or frizz-prone.
• How to Use: Wrap hair in a microfiber towel post-shower for gentle drying.

 

Hair masks with probiotic ingredients

Probiotic hair masks are a recent trend aimed at improving scalp health, with ingredients that balance the microbiome on the scalp. A balanced scalp microbiome can reduce itching, flaking, and inflammation.

• Function: Soothes the scalp and supports a healthy microbiome.
• Best for: Sensitive, itchy, or flaky scalps.
• How to Use: Apply to damp hair and leave on for 10–20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.

Final thoughts: find a hair care hero product that works for you!

With all of these latest hair care products available, it’s easier than ever to find something that helps your hair look its very best. Whether you’re adding a bond-builder to your routine for damage repair or experimenting with a new curl cream, there’s likely a product out there to make your hair look and feel healthier.

Just remember to introduce new products gradually and pay attention to how your hair responds to get the best results. And, when in doubt – ask your hairdresser! Happy styling!

Love You. Love Life.