Fine hair, and a lot of it.
Reach the layers you can’t see.

Fine strands can still make a thick ponytail

Fine describes the width of each strand. Density describes how many strands grow on your scalp. You can have both fine strands and high density, so you may need smaller sections for washing without needing a richer conditioner.

Separate a section you can reach through

Start with a section you can hold comfortably in one hand. If you can’t reach the hair inside it, divide it again. Use clips to keep the rest aside, or your fingers for hair too short to clip.

Rinse the inner layers as well as the surface

• Lift each section so water reaches the scalp and the hair underneath.
• Rinse it before moving on.
• Remove all clips for the final rinse.
• Divide your usual shampoo amount across the sections rather than adding a full dose to each one.

Detangle one section from the ends

• For straight hair, let it partly dry first.
• For curls or coils, work damp with conditioner for slip.
• Hold above the tangle and comb down through the tips.
• Start each pass a little higher as the ends clear.
• Stop and loosen snags with your fingers.

Check underneath before tying it up

• After gently blotting, release the sections to dry.
• Feel the roots at the crown and nape, then the inner lengths.
• If they’re still damp, leave the hair loose longer or finish with your usual dryer on a low heat setting.

Get styler into the inner layers

Divide your usual amount between sections, including the hair underneath. Let it dry before deciding whether you need more. If the surface feels coated but the inner layers have little hold, change where you apply it first.

Browse styling products. For styling recommendations, share the finish you want, how you dry your hair and your budget.

Put conditioner where the hair catches

Smooth conditioner through the inner lengths as well as the outside, then rinse thoroughly. If your hair still feels coated or falls flat once dry, try less next time or a lighter formula.

Browse rinse-out conditioners. Your tangles, past treatments and preferred finish help guide a personal conditioner recommendation.

1. Separate the hair you’re working on

Bring one section forward and keep the rest loosely clipped aside. Open each clip fully before removing it so it doesn’t drag through the hair.

2. Wash and rinse each section

Open one section at a time to get water and shampoo to the scalp. Spread your usual shampoo amount across the sections, then rinse each one thoroughly.

3. Comb down, starting at the tips

Hold the section above the tangle. Comb toward the ends, starting each new pass a little higher only when the hair below it is clear. Never pull the comb upward toward your scalp.

4. Let the inner layers dry

Leave the hair loose while it dries. Check the crown, nape and underneath before putting it up. The surface feeling dry is only the first check.