10 steps to looking after thick hair!
Here’s our guide to making thick hair work for you:
1. Get the Right Cut for Your Hair Type
A well-structured haircut is essential for thick hair. Without the right shape, it can feel heavy and difficult to manage. Layers can help remove weight and create movement, while shorter cuts can prevent bulk at the ends.
💡 Ask your Arena stylist about the best cut to shape your thick hair — whether it's long layers, a bob, or something in between.
2. Use a Moisturising Shampoo & Conditioner
Thick hair often tends to feel dry or coarse, especially if it's naturally textured. Look for moisturising shampoos and conditioners to hydrate your hair without weighing it down.
💡 Try: Kevin Murphy Smooth.Again Wash and Smooth.Again Rinse – these products provide hydration and smoothness without heaviness, perfect for thick hair.
3. Don’t Overload on Styling Products
Thick hair often requires more styling products to tame it, but be careful not to overdo it. Too much product can leave hair feeling greasy or weighed down. Instead, focus on a lightweight styling routine that keeps hair smooth without the excess.
💡 Try: Kevin Murphy Anti.Gravity – a lightweight volumising spray that adds body without leaving a sticky residue. Its a salon Favourite.
4. Invest in a Wide-Tooth Comb or Detangler
Thick hair is more prone to tangling, especially when wet. Avoid breakage by using a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush to gently remove knots.
💡 A detangler spray, like Kevin Murphy Ever.Smooth, can help with the process while also smoothing and protecting hair.
5. Use Heat Protectant When Styling
Thick hair is often resistant to heat styling, and if you're using hot tools, it’s crucial to protect your strands from damage. A good heat protectant spray or cream will ensure your hair stays healthy while achieving smooth, styled results.
💡 Try: Kevin Murphy Defense. – a lightweight, non-greasy heat protectant that works well for thick hair and prevents frizz.
6. Dry in Sections
Thick hair can take a while to dry, and trying to dry it all at once can cause unnecessary frizz or leave parts still damp. Dry your hair in sections for quicker, more efficient drying, and better results.
💡 Use a blow-dryer with a nozzle attachment, or better yet, book a blow-dry at Arena for a professional finish.
7. Consider a Keratin Smoothing Treatment
If frizz is a constant battle, a keratin smoothing treatment can help reduce frizz, smooth out the hair, and make it more manageable. This treatment doesn’t alter your natural texture but can drastically cut down styling time.
Read our Keratin smoothing treatment blog.
8. Avoid Over-Brushing
Thick hair can frizz up easily when over-brushed, especially if it’s curly or wavy. Instead of brushing frequently, use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to smooth through any tangles.
💡 If you need to smooth hair, try the Kevin Murphy Smooth.Again range or Shimmer.Shine for a light, de-frizzing finish.
9. Use a Deep Conditioning Treatment
Thick hair can get dry, so incorporating a deep conditioning treatment into your routine once a week is essential. This will help restore moisture and keep your hair feeling soft and nourished.
💡 Try: Kevin Murphy Hydrate.Me Masque – an intense moisture treatment that will leave your thick hair soft and manageable.
10. Embrace Your Hair’s Natural Texture
Thick hair is often textured, whether it's wavy, curly, or frizzy. Instead of fighting against your hair’s natural texture, learn to enhance it. Curly and wavy thick hair can benefit from layering, diffusing, and using the right curl-enhancing products. read our other blogs on how to make the most of wavy curly hair.
💬 Final Thoughts from the Arena Team
Thick hair can feel heavy, but it also offers so many styling possibilities. By using the right products, techniques, and regular trims, you can ensure your thick hair stays beautiful and manageable.
Whether you need a custom cut, expert styling advice, or product recommendations, we’re here to help you make the most of your thick hair.
Need help with your thick hair routine?
Book an appointment with one of our expert stylists today!