A Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Hair Care Routine: Tailored Solutions for Every Hair Type and Concern
At Beyond Botanix, we believe your hair deserves more than a one-size-fits-all approach. Just as no two strands are the same, no two routines should be identical. A strong, intentional hair care regimen begins with knowledge: knowing your hair type, understanding your scalp’s needs, and choosing products with purpose. Whether your hair is fine, thick, coily, or transitioning—your crown tells a story. Founder Nikki Shan has traveled the world collecting generational knowledge and botanical wisdom to help you write yours with confidence and care.
Step 1: Know Your Hair Type & Texture
Before diving into products or treatments, start with self-awareness. Hair generally falls into four categories:
- Type 1 (Straight): Fine to coarse, often becomes oily quickly.
- Type 2 (Wavy): Loose to defined S-shapes, benefits from lightweight hydration.
- Type 3 (Curly): Soft loops to tight spirals, thrives on moisture and gentle handling.
- Type 4 (Coily/Kinky): Tight curls or zigzags, often dry and fragile, needs deep moisture.
Understanding your type guides how often to wash, how to hydrate, and how to detangle effectively.
Step 2: Cleanse with Purpose
Cleansing the scalp is the foundation of any healthy routine. Fine or straight hair may require cleansing every 2–3 days. Curly and coily hair types benefit from weekly washes using sulfate-free shampoos or herbal cleansers. We recommend alternating your wash routine with Beyond Botanix’s Herbal Rice Water Rinse, which supports a balanced, nourished scalp without stripping natural oils.
Step 3: Condition and Detangle Gently
Conditioners restore elasticity and prevents breakage. Rich, cream-based conditioners work best for Type 3 and 4 hair, while Type 1 and 2 benefit from lighter formulas. Detangle gently with fingers or a wide-tooth comb, always working from the ends up and never on dry hair. Our Slippery Elm Herbal Conditioner deeply hydrates and makes detangling effortless, especially for textured hair.
Step 4: Deep Treatments Weekly
A weekly deep treatment repairs and fortifies the strands. Fine hair thrives on protein-rich but lightweight formulas, while textured hair types need rich, oil-based nourishment. Beyond Botanix’s Batana Oil is a revered deep treatment that restores shine, reduces breakage, and repairs damage—especially effective with heat for deeper penetration.
Step 5: Moisturize and Seal
Moisture is key, especially for curly and coily textures. Use the LOC (Liquid-Oil-Cream) or LCO (Liquid-Cream-Oil) method to layer hydration. Start with Herbal Onion Rice Water as a hydrating base, follow with Batana Oil, and finish with botanical cream. This method locks in moisture and promotes lasting softness.
Step 6: Style with Care
Use styling products tailored to your texture and goals. Avoid high-tension hairstyles and heat overload. Embrace protective styles that preserve moisture and encourage growth. Our Edge Custards and Herbal Growth Balmprovide hold and healing in one step—ideal for braids, twist-outs, or sleek looks without compromising hair health.
Step 7: Protect While You Sleep
Satin or silk bonnets, pillowcases, or scarves reduce nighttime friction and preserve moisture. Protective nighttime care is vital for all hair types, but especially for those prone to dryness and frizz. Consistency here often leads to dramatic improvements in hair health.
Step 8: Listen to Your Hair and Adjust
Hair needs change. Factors like climate, stress, hormones, and diet can alter what your hair responds to. Stay attuned and don’t be afraid to adjust your routine with the seasons. In the summer, focus on hydration and protection. In colder months, increase your use of rich oils and creams.
Matching Products to Hair Concerns
For Fine Hair:
- Recommended: Herbal Rice Water Rinse (lightweight protein support)
- Focus: Volume, gentle cleansing, avoid heavy oils
For Curly/Type 3 Hair:
- Recommended: Slippery Elm Conditioner + Herbal Onion Rice Water
- Focus: Moisture retention, frizz control, curl definition
For Coily/Type 4 Hair:
- Recommended: Batana Oil + Herbal Growth Balm + Rice Water
- Focus: Deep moisture, gentle detangling, length retention
For Hair Loss or Thinning:
- Recommended: Herbal Onion Rice Water + Scalp Stimulating Serum
- Focus: Scalp health, circulation, low-tension styles
For Transitioning Hair:
- Recommended: Batana Oil + Herbal Deep Conditioner
- Focus: Strengthening both natural and relaxed textures, moisture