It’s hard to talk about haircare routine basics in broad strokes when theres such a variety of lengths, density, and texture that one could possibly have. “Understanding your hair’s unique needs is the first step to a healthy routine,” pro-hair stylist Isaac Davidson tells Vogue. Of course, those essentials aren’t the same hair care products and formulas for everyone—what works for straight hair won’t satisfy coils, and vice versa. What matters most is identifying which categories form the backbone of your regimen, then tailoring each to your unique texture and lifestyle.

Vogue’s Haircare Routine Basics

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While beauty aisles are brimming with endless innovation, it helps to remember that the real foundation is surprisingly simple. A truly effective hair-care lineup rests on its pillars: hydrating shampoos and co-washes, detoxing scalp serums, smoothing hair oils, heat protectants, and multipurpose styling products. Once those are in place, everything else is accessory to elevate what’s already working.

Scroll on to find expert tips and picks for the foundation of a fail-proof daily hair care routine.

Step One: Start With Moisturizing Shampoos and Conditioners

“The most important step, and one I wish more clients understood, is finding the right balance of washing for their specific hair type,” pro-hair stylist Isaac Davidson tells Vogue. “It’s easy to either under- or over-wash, and both can lead to issues with scalp health, hair texture, and overall appearance.” In other words: the right rhythm is everything. While there’s no universal prescription for how often to lather up, there are smart starting points based on texture.

“Hydrating shampoos are generally a safe bet for most textures, unless you tend to have overly oily hair,” pro hairstylist Madison Clifford tells Vogue, noting that frequency is just as important as formula. “Washing frequency depends entirely on texture and lifestyle. Fine or oily hair may need washing every 1–2 days, while curly, coily, or textured hair often thrives with less frequent washing (just once a week could do the trick).” For a nourishing duo, Clifford reaches for LolaVie’s hydrating formula, while Rōz’s duo is a Vogue-loved standby.

Davidson also advises weaving in an occasional clarifying shampoo to stave off buildup, ideally once a week. And don’t overlook co-washes—not just for curls and coils, but for anyone with bleached hair. “They work wonders for color-treated hair, helping to combat dryness and preserve vibrancy,” says Davidson. Above all, the experts always advise opting for a sulfate-free formula, which is less harsh on hair.

Step Two: Indulge in a Scalp Serum

“The foundation of healthy hair always starts with the scalp. People focus so much on masks and styling products, but if the scalp isn’t balanced and cared for, hair won’t grow strong or look its best,” says Clifford. “I always remind my clients that scalp health is skin care—it needs to be cleansed, nourished, and protected just like your face.”