Serums

What's the difference between a hair serum and a hair oil?
A serum usually has a specific job, like treating the scalp, repairing overnight, or sealing split ends. An oil is mostly for shine, softness and taming frizz on the lengths. Some products blur the line, such as Wella SP Luxeoil Reconstructive Elixir. If shine is all you're after, browse our hair oils.

Is there a serum that makes hair grow?
Not in the medical sense. Scalp serums like Kérastase Genesis Serum, Wella Hair Fall Defense Serum and Wella Diaboost are cosmetic. They're made to reduce hair fall from breakage and make hair look thicker. If you're losing hair or have patches, see a GP or dermatologist. Our stylists' honest take is in thinning hair and hair fall.

How do night serums work?
You put them on clean, dry lengths before bed and leave them in. You wake up with softer, smoother hair and no greasy feel. Kérastase Nutritive 8H Magic Night Serum is for dry hair, Blond Absolu Cicanuit is for lightened hair, and Wella Ultimate Repair Night Serum is for damage.

Which serum is best for dry, damaged ends?
For split ends, Kérastase Nutritive Nutri-Supplement Split Ends Serum is the most targeted. If the damage comes from colour or lightening, look at Kérastase Première Sérum Filler Fondamental or Redken Acidic Bonding Concentrate Serum. Apply to damp or dry mid-lengths and ends, staying well away from the roots.

How much serum should I use?
Less than you think. For fine hair, use one pump through the ends, and for thick or long hair, two or three. Rub it between your palms first so it spreads evenly. Scalp serums are different: you apply those section by section straight onto the scalp, following the directions on the pack.