Okay, let's be real for a sec – most of us are just out here whipping on conditioner post-shampoo like it's fairy dust and hoping for the best. But what if we told you that there is a correct way (and yes, a wrong way) to layer your hair products?
Don't worry, this is a judgment-free zone – we've all been there, rinsing out our regrets, doing our hair wash routine on auto-pilot. But today, we're turning over a new leaf (preferably one infused with argan oil) with the expertise of Jonathan Van Ness, hairstylist and Founder of JVN Hair. So, grab your silk scrunchie and get comfy – it's time to decode the magical mystery tour that is your haircare routine.
Ready, set, lather up!
Is there a correct order to apply haircare?
Interestingly, Jonathan says that while there is a general guideline to the order in which you should apply haircare, it all depends on the individual person and their styling goals. "A general guideline is to start with a good scalp care product prior to using the shampoo, conditioner and an in-shower treatment of your choice," Jonathan says.
When you're out of the shower, "a lightweight detangler is a good next step, then the styling products for the look you want to create (curl cream, mousse, etc.)."
Finally, Jonathan says, "You’ll want to choose a finisher like a hairspray or shine oil, and you’re done!"
So, let's break it down step by step...
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Step one: Pre-wash treatment
Whether it be a mask or scalp oil, Jonathan says starting with scalp care sets your entire haircare routine up for success. The JVN Hair Complete Pre-wash Scalp Oil, for example, helps to "clarify buildup while creating balance for your scalp and reducing breakage."
If you're after a strengthening pre-shampoo mask, the Philip Kingsley Elasticizer is a formula to know. Think: Hydrated, shiny and frizz-free hair. Apply onto damp strands before shampooing out.
That said, as Jonathan previously mentioned, haircare routines depend on the individual person, their styling goals and the product – because while some products may have the same name, not all formulas work the same.
There are leave-in hair masks and oils that are intended to be used after shampooing; Just take the K18 Leave-in Molecular Repair Hair Mask as a prime example, which is often compared to the Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector but the former is a post-wash mask and the latter is for your hair pre-wash. So, always swot up on the product and how it is intended to be used, for maximum results.
Step two: Shampoo
Next, a step we're all familiar with: Shampoo! "Your styling sesh then really gets going in the shower because your shampoo and conditioner should ideally be chosen for the hair goals you're trying to achieve," Jonathan tells us.
"If you're looking for more volume, for example, a combo that targets that will help you achieve that final look much more easily." So, whether you're after a combo for fine hair to maximise volume or an SLS-free cleanser, there's a shampoo for everyone.
But why should you apply your shampoo before conditioner? Well, a shampoo's primary function is to cleanse the hair and scalp by removing dirt, oil and product build-up. This prepares for the application of conditioner, which hydrates and detangles the hair. If reversed, you would not feel maximum absorption of either, which prevents a heavy, greasy feel.
Step three: Conditioner
Next comes the conditioner, which is best applied to the mid-end lengths of hair. Do not apply it to the scalp or root – this can not only cause buildup and dandruff, which may weaken the hair roots and damage the hair, but also a greasy finish. And greasy-looking hair ain't it!
Step four: In-shower treatment
If you're feeling fancy – or you're hair is in need of some extra TLC – you can follow your conditioner with an in-shower treatment. Again, as Jonathan says, read the product description for best usage because, depending on the formula, it might be best to skip conditioner altogether and rotate in a mask. It all comes down to the product and your haircare concerns.
Step five: The LOC method
After your shower, you'll want to think about the style you're creating. "For curly hair, I like to use the LOC (Liquid/Oil/Cream) method of layering products," Jonathan says, "which has me reaching for a lightweight leave-in conditioner for moisture, an oil or hair serum that can help lock that moisture in and a cream that can supply definition like Air Dry Cream."
"If I'm styling my hair straight, I would swap out the products after the leave-in conditioner for stylers that offer heat protection and some hold, like a mousse or heat styling cream that will lock your blowout in for literal days."
As a general rule, think of it like this: The thinner the product in texture, the earlier it should come in your routine.
What happens if you apply the wrong order of your haircare?
Simply, don’t sweat it!
"The order you apply your products is a general guideline, but there are no hard or fast rules," Jonathan reassures. "Everyone's hair is different and may respond better to a different order."
Personally, Jonathan says that they "love the sandwich washing method for drier months." This is done by conditioning your hair first, then shampooing your roots and mid-lengths before conditioning again. "If your ends are extra dry, this is a great technique for keeping them conditioned during your whole wash routine."
But remember, it's just hair. If something doesn’t work, just try it a different way next time. As Jonathan so perfectly puts it: "Experiment and have fun with it!"
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Lia Mappoura (she/her) is the Beauty Writer at Cosmopolitan UK, with over four years of experience reporting across the brand's print, social, video and digital platforms. Lia covers everything from emerging trend analysis to viral celebrity hair and makeup moments, making her an expert at spotting the season’s next big beauty look (before it takes over social media feeds).
In 2025, she was named The Rising Media Star at the Love Perfume Awards with The Perfume Shop, recognised for her outstanding digital fragrance content and for building genuine authority within the space. She is passionate about challenging outdated beauty stereotypes, championing inclusive representation in beauty, and educating readers on the trends, products and conversations shaping the industry today. Follow her on Instagram or find her on LinkedIn.
