10 Hair Care Products I Actually Use and Recommend to Every Client

By Janelle Alexis | Hair Product Reviews

I get asked constantly what products I use. Not “what products do you sell” — what do I actually use on my own hair and on the chairs at my salon. Today I am giving you an honest, no-affiliate-deal list of my genuine go-tos. Your hair will thank me.

1. Olaplex No. 3 — Bond Building Treatment

Olaplex is not a conditioner. It is a bond builder, and for anyone who uses heat, color, or extensions, it should be a monthly ritual minimum. I keep a bottle at my station and send clients home with one after any chemical service. It works.

2. A Sulfate-Free Shampoo (Always)

Sulfate-free shampoo is non-negotiable if you have extensions, color-treated hair, or keratin treatments. Sulfates strip the hair shaft and break down adhesives and color molecules faster than anything. My current favorite formulas are from Kenra and Unite. Both gentle, both effective.

3. A Detangling Brush (Wet or Dry)

Not technically a product, but essential. The Tangle Teezer or a wide-tooth comb used correctly prevents more breakage than half the treatments on this list. Detangle from the ends up, always. Do not rip from the root down.

4. Argan Oil (Mid-Shaft to Ends Only)

A few drops of pure argan oil on damp hair before blow-drying gives incredible shine and frizz control without making hair greasy. Key word: mid-shaft to ends. Never apply oil to your roots or near extension adhesive.

5. Heat Protectant Spray

If you use heat tools without this, please stop reading and go get some. Any heat over 350F without protectant is causing micro damage that accumulates into visible breakage over time. It takes three seconds to apply. No excuse not to.

6. A Deep Conditioning Treatment

Weekly to bi-weekly, depending on your hair’s needs. Look for formulas with ingredients like shea butter, avocado oil, keratin protein, or hyaluronic acid. Leave it on for at least 10-15 minutes under heat if you can — the difference in result is significant.

7. Silk or Satin Pillowcase

Again, not a product in the traditional sense, but it is a game-changer. Cotton pillowcases create friction against your hair shaft all night. Silk and satin reduce that friction dramatically, meaning less tangles, less frizz, and less breakage every single night.

8. Scalp Serum or Treatment

Healthy hair grows from a healthy scalp. I love scalp serums with ingredients like peptides, caffeine, or rosemary oil — all of which have research backing for promoting hair follicle health. Apply to a clean, dry scalp and massage in with your fingertips.

9. Extension-Safe Dry Shampoo

For my extension clients: not all dry shampoos are created equal. Look for formulas that are lightweight and do not leave heavy residue near your roots or tape bonds. Batiste and Living Proof have solid options that work well with extensions.

10. A Good Hair Towel or Microfiber Wrap

Your regular bath towel is too rough for wet hair. Microfiber towels absorb more water with less friction. Squeeze and blot — never rub your hair dry. This change alone can reduce frizz noticeably, especially for wavy or curly hair types.

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— Janelle Alexis