10 Korean Hair Care Tips for Smooth and Silky Hair

When you hear about Korean beauty, your mind immediately thinks of skincare, but their hair care routine has just as much to offer. If you dream of having soft, silky and shiny hair like Koreans, you need to try some Korean hair care tips that will transform your hair in no time. From giving your hair texture to making it shine, making small changes to your hair care routine, Korean style will help you! Without further ado, let’s make your hair stronger and healthier.

10 Korean Hair Care Tips

Here are some of the best Korean tips to make your hair shiny, smooth and healthy:

1. Double cleansing

We know how wonderful double cleansing is for your skin, and just like the Korean hair care routine, this method is also beneficial for your hair. “This involves using a scalp-specific cleanser or an oil-based pre-shampoo treatment followed by a regular shampoo,” says dermatologist Dr. Deepak Jakhar. The first cleanse helps remove excess oil, product buildup, and impurities from your scalp, while the second cleanse ensures your hair and scalp are properly cleansed. This method ensures your hair and scalp are thoroughly cleansed without stripping their natural oils.

Tip: To keep your scalp clean and balanced, use a gentle cleanser or oil massage once or twice a week before shampooing.

2. Scalp massage

If you’ve ever had a scalp massage, you know how relaxing it is. In addition to relieving stress and tension, scalp massage is known to improve scalp health and promote hair growth. A 2016 study published by Eplasty found that regular scalp massages increase blood circulation and stimulate hair follicles, resulting in thicker hair. It also helps distribute natural oils evenly, leaving hair naturally hydrated and shiny.

Tip: Massage your scalp in circular motions to increase the benefits using your fingertips or a scalp brush.

3. Hair mask

Just like a face mask, a hair mask also works to provide deep conditioning for your hair. Dr. Jakhar explains, “Deep conditioning treatments are an essential part of Korean hair care that nourish and moisturize your hair, which helps repair damage and add shine.” While there are some commercial hair mask products available, you can also make one at home. Use ingredients like bananas, honey, and egg yolks. The silica in bananas can give you softer, shinier hair while reducing dryness and dandruff, according to a study published in the Avicenna Journal of Medical Biotechnology.

Tip: Apply a banana hair mask once a week, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends of your hair. For extra nourishment, you can leave the mask on for an hour.

4. Rinse with cold water

A cold water rinse is a popular Korean hair care trick. After shampooing and conditioning, rinsing your hair with cold water can seal the cuticle, which helps lock in moisture and increase shine. Although limited research is available, cold water is still a better option than using warm or hot water to wash your hair. “Unlike hot water, cold water won’t dry out your hair or strip away its natural oils. In fact, it can keep your hair smoother and shinier,” suggests Dr. Jakhar.

Tip: After your usual shampoo and conditioner, rinse with cold water to increase shine and softness.

5. Leave-in conditioner

Leave-in conditioners are a staple in Korean hair care routines because they provide deep hydration and all-day protection. While conditioner helps keep hair soft and more manageable, a leave-in conditioner can double the benefits. Dr. Jakhar says, “Instead of being washed out of the hair, they provide constant hydration, easily detangle hair, and protect against UV pollution.”

Tip: Apply a small amount of leave-in conditioner to damp hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. This will help keep hair soft, manageable, and less prone to breakage.

Health Shots recommends: Top 5 Leave-In Conditioners to Reduce Frizz and Dryness

6. Avoid heat styling

Styling your hair may be attractive because it makes your hair look great, but it can do more harm than good. A study published in the Annals of Dermatology says that excessive heat can cause damage, leading to dryness, split ends, and dullness. To avoid this damage and maintain your hair’s natural shine, Koreans prefer to air dry their hair or use heat-free styling methods like braiding or twisting damp hair to create natural waves. “By cutting back on heat styling, you can help maintain your hair’s natural texture and overall health,” says Dr. Jakhar.

Tip: If you absolutely must use heat, apply a heat protectant spray first and choose the lowest possible temperature.

7. Silk

Silk isn’t just for luxurious bedding, it’s also great for your hair. Koreans often use silk pillowcases and hair bands to protect their hair while they sleep. Unlike cotton, silk causes less friction, which helps reduce hair breakage and split ends. Switching to a silk pillowcase can help prevent your hair from getting tangled and can also help keep your hair smooth. Plus, using silk hair ties is gentler on your hair than traditional hair ties, reducing the risk of breakage.

Tip: Switch to a silk pillowcase and use a silk headband or scarf at night to protect and maintain the shine of your hair.

8. Hair Steaming

Hair steaming is a beneficial treatment that helps open the hair cuticle, allowing deep conditioning products to penetrate more effectively. You can use a hair steamer or even a homemade steam treatment by covering your hair with a warm, damp towel. “This process not only improves the absorption of conditioning products, but it also provides a relaxing and rejuvenating experience for your scalp and hair,” according to Dr. Jakhar.

Tip: Regular hair steaming can improve its texture and overall health.

9. Serum

Hair serum coats the surface of the hair and helps shape it. In Korean hair care, serums are often used to address issues such as frizz, dryness, or lack of shine. A study published in Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology also claims that hair serum can help keep hair smooth and shiny and manage common hair problems. In fact, it also protects against environmental stressors, such as UV rays and pollution.

Tip: Apply a few drops of serum to the ends of your hair, avoiding the roots, to prevent them from becoming greasy.

10. Rice water

When it comes to Korean beauty tips, how can we leave out rice water? It’s the most popular Korean hair care ingredient, known for its many benefits. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, it promotes hair growth, strengthens strands, and adds shine, according to a study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology. The inositol in rice water helps repair and prevent damage, improving elasticity and reducing frizz. It also balances the pH of the scalp, which can help with dandruff and dryness.

Tip: Regular use of rice water as a rinse or treatment can make your hair healthier and easier to manage.

Follow these tips and see significant changes in your hair!