If You Have Coarse Hair, This Is The Order You Should Apply Your Hair Products In

You shampoo before conditioning. It's just the order of life. But how important is the order of your styling products for coarse hair?

According to Healthline, naturally coarse hair has strands that are thicker and wider than average. Different hair textures and densities can still fit into the coarse category, though. If your hair strands can be mistaken for dental floss or are thicker than sewing thread, you probably have coarse hair.

Of course, what products you use for your hair and how you use them can impact its health and appearance. Just like the way our skincare routine has specific layering, so should our haircare. Despite its plethora of benefits, coarse hair is susceptible to dryness and split ends, so the best haircare methods will deliver moisture and hydration that will last until your next wash day. Knowing how to care for your coarse hair properly will keep your locks luscious, and we have the best product order to do just that.

Turns out how you layer your creams, oils, and liquids can make a substantial difference for your coarse strands. Professional stylist Ashley Jackson tells Hair she recommends the L.C.O. order. After shampooing and conditioning, you apply your liquids or leave-in conditioner, then creams, before finishing with oil. This order helps to open your hair's cuticles, soak in moisture, and lock it in.

There has been debate on whether oils should come before or after applying creams. However, Jackson supports finishing with oil as, "by applying on dry hair, oil is able to really work into the hair, not just sit on top and block out product as it might in the L.O.C. (liquid, oil, and then cream) method."

Product quality is also extremely important when it comes to coarse hair. "This hair type calls for a heavy product application, so you want to make sure you're really using the right products — ones that nourish, treat, soak, and douse strands," licensed hair stylist Samantha Denis tells Hello Glow. Denis recommends replacing regular conditioner with a hair mask once a week. She suggests it will cleanse strands of heavy products that "will block moisture from penetrating the hair shaft and eventually lead to dry hair." With hair masks and oils added to our haircare shopping list, there are a few things to look for when picking the best products.

Deep-conditioning masks are great for coarse hair. They offer extra benefits than regular wash-out conditioners as they sit in your hair longer. Hair masks don't have to be expensive, either. There are DIY masks that boost both your creative spirits and your hair's moisture intake. Some of the best at-home ingredients to lock in hydration include coconut oil, aloe vera, honey, and olive oil, and there are tons of recipes available online.

When not deep conditioning, your favorite hydrating oils are enough to improve and maintain your hair health. Try jojoba oil, Moroccan argan oil, or almond oil for moisturizing your hair and scalp. You can apply the oil directly to your scalp and hair shaft (after your liquids and creams, of course) or add a few drops to your go-to shampoo and conditioner. Remember that coarse hair might require more products, but it is natural and fantastic. The L.C.O. method will ensure your favorite products are applied in the best order for your head of hair.