Gone are the days when hair care was only about the strands themselves; now, even the tightest lineup of hair essentials is likely to include products that support scalp health as well as strategically chosen supplements.

Somewhere along the line, we've collectively embraced a philosophy that believes the key to unlocking healthy, swishy hair is a holistic approach that aims to ensure your hair thrives from every conceivable angle. Yes, you’ll still want a gentle shampoo and hydrating conditioner, but you’ll also want a scalp treatment to keep roots balanced and follicles strong, a wet brush for minimising damage when detangling wet hair, and a hair health-boosting ingestible (these can help if you’re looking to address potential nutrient deficiencies).

This curated selection of hair essentials addresses the need for a balance between care and convenience. Think of it as a springboard of basics from which you can add styling products to elevate your unique hair routine.

With everything you need and nothing you don't, it’s your pathway to an effortlessly gorgeous, resilient mane.

1. Sulphate-free shampoo

Opt for a sulphate-free formula to cleanse gently without stripping away all of your scalp’s natural oils.

Try: Virtue Labs Recovery Shampoo

2. Hydrating conditioner or treatment

A conditioner with moisturising ingredients will lock in hydration, leaving strands silky and manageable.

Try: Vegamour HYDR-8 Hydrate and Repair Conditioner_

3. Leave-in conditioner/detangler

A lightweight leave-in aids in detangling and provides moisture, reducing breakage and making styling easier.

Try: Evo Happy Campers Wearable Treatment

4. Heat protectant spray

Shield hair from heat damage with a quality protectant – this is crucial in maintaining healthy-looking hair.

Try: Ouai Heat Protection Spray

5. Nourishing hair oil or serum

A lightweight hair oil or serum helps to seal the cuticle, delivering on shine, smoothness and frizz control.

Try: K18 Molecular Repair Hair Oil

6. Scalp treatment

Ingredients like tea tree oil, salicylic acid or piroctone olamine can address issues like dandruff and dryness.

Try: The Inkey List Salicylic Acid Exfoliating Scalp Treatment

7. Wide-tooth comb or wet brush

Using a wide-tooth comb or a wet brush to gently detangle or groom damp hair helps to minimise breakage.

Try: Drybar Detangling Brush

8. Hair health supplement

Consider a hair health-boosting supplement if you’re concerned about nutritional gaps or deficiencies.

Try: Vida Glow Hairology Kit (Holiday Limited Edition)