How to Use Hair Serum (in 4 Simple Steps)

In a world where most of your buying decisions are driven by influencer content - hair serum has emerged as a standout purchase. 

But what exactly is hair serum, why is it becoming a non-negotiable in your favourite content creator’s haircare routine - and how do you use it to ensure maximum results?

Below, we’ll unpack all the tips, tricks, and explanations related to hair serum that you need to know - guided by clinical insight from an experienced dermatologist - rhute’s very own Dr Aamna Adel. Check out our smart application tips, as well as answers to commonly asked questions about this type of product…

What is Hair Serum? (And What’s It For?)

A lightweight, leave-in treatment, hair serum is curated with hair and scalp health in mind. It’s designed to smooth the hair’s surface and add shine, all whilst protecting against everyday stressors like humidity, friction and heat. 

How it Works

Hair serums work by applying a protective layer to the scalp, which also helps to condition and encourage hair growth. Typically, these serums include:

• Silicones

• Proteins

• Vitamins

• Botanicals

These work in conjunction with each other to smooth frizz, add shine, and combat damage from everyday stressors. 

How to Use Hair Serum: rhute’s 4 by 4 Method

Maximise just how effective your hair serum is by using the right method when applying it. At rhute, we advise everyone using our Density and Repair Serum to follow the 4 by 4 method. This involves:

Step 1: Divide the Hair into 4 Equal Parts

Begin by dividing your hair into four equal sections. Ideally, two sections on each side of the bottom of the head and two sections on each side of the top of the head. Use bobbles or hair grips to keep the sections separated and in place whilst applying the serum. 

Step 2: For the Best Results, Use a Pipette

To get the best results and ensure even application, it’s important to use a pipette. These can be purchased from Amazon for a few pounds - if your serum doesn’t come with one. Use a pipette full for the entire scalp, and dispense the drops evenly along the sections. 

Step 3: Gently Massage the Serum into the Scalp

Use your fingertips and softly massage the serum into your scalp in circular motions for 1-2 minutes. For extra stimulation - do this for five minutes instead. 

Step 4: No Rinse Needed

For most hair serums, no rinse is needed after you apply it. For the best results, leave the serum in for at least four hours to ensure full absorption - and only wash after this amount of time has passed if your hair is dirty. 

Please bear in mind that these steps will vary, so check the guidance on your serum’s label. 

Applying Hair Serum: Do’s & Don’t’s From Dr Aamna Adel

Check out the best tips and tricks for applying hair serum from Dr Aamna Adel:

Do: Apply to Washed Hair

It’s best to apply hair serum on clean or towel-damp hair after conditioner. If your hair is already dirty, it might have existing product build-up in it and therefore, be more difficult for it to absorb the serum. 

Dr Aamna says: “Serum performs best on freshly cleansed hair. Damp strands help distribute a small dose evenly, so you get smoothness and shine without weight.”

Don’t: Use Too Much Product 

It can be tempting to use as much product as possible - especially if your hair feels dry already. But doing so can do more damage than good, leading to limp lengths and greasy-looking roots. 

Dr Aamna says: “You can always add a touch more - but you can’t take it away. Aim for a touch of the product at first; the goal is slip and polish, not a coating.”

Do: Apply Evenly 

Even if some parts of your hair require more love (and therefore more serum) don’t neglect others in favour of these sections. If you think your hairline or parting might need a little more help, you can always add a drop more there - just don’t take it away from other sections. 

Dr Aamna says: “Think of a topcoat of paint - it’s thin and even. Sectioning prevents heavy patches and ensures every strand gets the same smoothing benefits.”

Don’t: Use Infrequently

For hair serums, consistency is key - so don’t forget to use them as often as the label advises. And remember to be patient! Rome wasn’t built in a day - and neither is a healthy head of hair. 

Dr Aamna says: “Regular, small doses build a noticeable difference in frizz control, shine and breakage reduction over time.”

Make the Switch - Join the rhute Community Today

So - there you have it. Hair serum shouldn’t feel like a chore in your routine - but rather a way to support health and strength from rhute to tip. And to ensure tangible results that you can see, be patient and consistent with your application.

Interested in branching out your haircare routine? Purchase rhute’s very own Density and Repair Hair Serum today, or for more information, check out our blog. We’ve got the rundown on a bunch of topics related to haircare, all backed by medical expertise and insight. 

Hair Serum: FAQs

How Often Should I Use Hair Serum?

How often you should use hair serum depends on the product you purchase and the guidance it provides. For example, if using rhute’s Density & Repair Serum, we advise customers to apply the product daily for the best results. 

But, you might find the most suitable application for your hair based on the type you have. So follow the below advice according to yours: 

• Fine/easily-weighed down hair: Use only 1-2 drops after washes only. 

• Medium/straight or wavy: Use 2-3 drops after each wash - with light top ups on dry hair when it’s humid.

• Thick/coarse/curly/coily/frizzy: Use 3-4 drops after each wash, you can even use it as a way to add smooth and shininess to dry hair. 

What Should I Include in My Hair Care Routine?

Your hair care routine doesn’t need to be extensive or complicated to be effective. All it should boil down to is the following steps:

• Cleansing: Washing your hair removes excess oil and build up that's accumulated since the last time you did so. Ensure you use a shampoo that works for your hair type - volumizing if it’s fine, clarifying if it tends to get greasy. Aim to wash your hair a couple of times a week, but adjust to your specific needs. 

• Exfoliating: Your hair needs a routine - but so does your scalp. Exfoliating it at least once a week can prevent it from becoming dry or flaky and ultimately achieve a better environment for hair growth. And remember to use exfoliating products especially formulated for your scalp - not your face!

• Conditioning: Shampooing your hair can remove the moisture from your hair strands and scalp, which is why you need to condition afterwards to replenish it. Conditioner also smooths the hair cuticle and strengthens the hair to prevent breakage. Ultimately, it creates a healthier barrier that shields the hair from everyday damage. 

• Protecting: Using heat on your hair on a daily basis can cause damage - so make sure you’re using a heat protectant every time you pick up your straighteners or curling tools!

• Treating: Encourage hair growth and thickness by treating your hair to a hair serum such as rhute’s Density and Repair Serum. Our product is jam packed with ingredients for hair growth, that also strengthens and protects your strands so you can get the luscious locks you’ve always dreamed of. 

When Will I See Results From Using a Hair Serum?

Every hair serum is different - so results will naturally vary. But typically, you can expect short-term results after a few weeks. This might include less itching and flaking in your scalp.