The big hair care ABC of ESTEL

Good hair doesn't start in the bathroom – but with the right knowledge.
In our comprehensive hair care glossary from A to Z, you'll learn what really lies behind terms like porosity, leave-in, deep conditioning, or UV protection.

Whether frizz, colored hair, sensitive scalp, or fine lengths: We explain the most important care principles clearly and practically – including specific recommendations from the ESTEL range that suit your hair needs.

A reference work, a learning article – and perhaps the beginning of a better relationship with your hair.

Frizz is more than just a styling problem – it is often a sign of stressed, dehydrated hair. Especially with chemically treated, colored, or naturally wavy hair, the outer cuticle layer of the hair fiber is open. The hair absorbs moisture from the environment, swells uncontrollably, and appears frizzy. The key is a care routine that specifically focuses on smoothing the structure and binding moisture. A combination of nourishing basic care, sealing leave-in products, and consistent heat protection ensures permanently smooth, shiny hair with a controlled surface.

Heavily stressed hair – for example after bleaching, frequent heat exposure, or chemical treatments – requires targeted regeneration. This is where structure-strengthening ingredients such as keratin, silk proteins, or plant-based lipids come into play. They fill in the gaps formed in the outer and inner hair structure and ensure that the hair gains elasticity and strength. Reconstructive care should be used regularly, ideally once or twice a week, as a treatment or intensive mask to prevent hair breakage and restore natural resilience.

Choosing the right brush is an often underestimated factor in hair care. Depending on hair type and condition, different brush structures can be beneficial. Natural bristles are suitable for normal to strong hair, while paddle brushes with rounded plastic bristles are especially gentle on long or fine hair. For wet hair or detangling, wide-tooth combs or detangling tools are indispensable, as they significantly reduce hair breakage. It is important to always start at the ends and work slowly upwards to avoid mechanical stress.

Hair that breaks off is often a sign of structural damage – either due to protein loss, insufficient moisture, or excessive external influences. Breakage points or thinning in the lengths can only be prevented in the long term through a consistent combination of nourishing oils, strengthening masks, and heat protection. It is especially important to regularly trim split ends and avoid styling methods that unnecessarily strain the hair, such as tight braids or hot straighteners without protection.

Anyone who dyes their hair knows: the shine and brilliance of freshly colored hair quickly fade – if not properly cared for. The right color protection care ensures that color pigments stay in the hair longer, do not wash out or fade, and the structure remains intact. Color protection starts with the shampoo – gentle, sulfate-free, and color-neutral. This is complemented by suitable conditioners and masks with UV protection and antioxidant effects. Those who want to maintain their color in the long term should avoid washing with water that is too hot.

Perms, bleaching, straightening – all of these permanently change the hair structure. The result: the hair is often more porous, sensitive, and loses its elasticity. Chemically treated hair requires specially tailored care that simultaneously rebuilds, protects, and nourishes. Ideal are treatments with keratin or amino acids, combined with moisturizing ingredients. It is important to regularly give the hair a break after chemical treatments – and to switch to particularly gentle everyday products.

While a regular conditioner provides surface care, deep conditioning targets the deeper layers of the hair fiber. It uses intensely nourishing formulations that contain proteins, lipids, and conditioning oils – ideal for dry, damaged, or chemically treated hair. Deep conditioning products are usually available in the form of hair masks and require a longer application time to fully develop their effect. The result: noticeably smoother, stronger hair with improved elasticity.

A good time for deep conditioning is after washing your hair, when it is towel-dried. The treatment can then be applied specifically to the lengths. The treatment is especially effective when used with heat, for example wrapped in a warm towel.

The classic perm is making a comeback in a modern, gentle form – but with clear requirements for care. Permanently waved hair is more sensitive due to the chemical restructuring, tends to be dry, and requires especially much moisture as well as structure-stabilizing care. Ideal are products with keratin or elasticity-enhancing active ingredients that keep the hair smooth and support the bounce of the waves.

A healthy hair is recognized by its elasticity – that is, the ability to stretch and return to its original shape. If the hair is too dry or damaged, it breaks more easily and loses its tension. The cause is usually a lack of protein or moisture. Elasticity-promoting care products therefore rely on a balanced combination of amino acids, keratin, and hydrating active ingredients. Regular deep conditioning helps to strengthen the inner structure and make the hair more resilient.

Hair extensions require special care. In particular, bonding or tape systems are sensitive to products containing oils or silicones, which can loosen the bonds. The lengths, on the other hand, need intensive moisture as they are often chemically treated and do not receive nourishment from the scalp. A light, silicone-free care product combined with moisturizing masks that smooth the hair structure without stressing the bond points is recommended here. Important: Use brushes with soft bristles, avoid pulling or tugging, and ideally air dry.

Colored hair loses part of its color intensity with each wash – fading is especially noticeable with red and blonde tones. The right color protection starts with the shampoo: products with color-friendly surfactants, antioxidant ingredients, and UV filters help maintain brilliance. They are complemented by conditioners and masks that strengthen the hair and bind the color pigments longer in the hair. Heat protection also plays an important role, as high temperatures break down the color molecules faster. Those who want to preserve their color as long as possible should also avoid hot water when washing.

Our recommendation for colored hair: The Otium Color Life Care Products They seal the color, strengthen the hair, and give a radiant shine. 

Proper blow-drying can make hair appear smoother, shinier, and more voluminous – whereas incorrect blow-drying leads to dryness, frizz, and hair breakage. The key is to keep the heat as low as possible and direct the airflow in the direction of hair growth. Hair should be towel-dried before blow-drying, never dripping wet. A good heat protectant is essential, as is maintaining a sufficient distance between the hairdryer and the hair. Those who also use a round brush can specifically build volume and smooth the hair structure.

Shiny hair is considered a sign of health – in fact, it is a physical effect that occurs when the outer cuticle layer of the hair is closed and smooth. In this state, light can be reflected, which creates the desired shine. Shine is therefore not just a matter of color, but above all of hair structure. Care products that seal the cuticle layer and have a smoothing effect are essential. These include conditioners with emollients, silicone-free shine sprays, as well as treatments with silk proteins or oils that make the hair supple without weighing it down.

A clear sign of damaged hair is a lack of elasticity, split ends, and hair breakage. Common causes include chemical treatments such as coloring or bleaching, excessive heat exposure, or mechanical friction. The right care aims to rebuild the hair structure – through proteins like keratin, nourishing lipids, and a constant supply of moisture. A gentle daily routine is also crucial: no hot water, no rough towel drying, no heat styling without protection.

Hair loss can have many causes – from hormonal changes and nutrient deficiencies to mechanical stress from tight hairstyles or aggressive care. A healthy scalp is the prerequisite for strong hair growth. Care routines that promote microcirculation (e.g., through massages or special tonics), combined with mild, balancing shampoos, can positively support the hair cycle. However, in cases of persistent hair loss, medical evaluation is advisable.

Hair growth cannot be accelerated indefinitely, but it can certainly be optimized. A balanced scalp, supply of nutrients such as biotin, zinc, or B vitamins, and gentle hair care form the foundation. Hair lotions or tonics with circulation-promoting ingredients additionally stimulate the hair follicles. Especially important: avoiding stress factors such as excessive heat, frequent coloring, or tight updos.

Intensive care differs from daily basic care by its high concentration of active ingredients and its long-lasting effect. Whether in the form of masks, oils, or treatments – it works deep within the hair structure, strengthens porous areas, and improves the hair's resilience. It is especially suitable for phases after chemical treatments, seasonal stresses (sun, heating air), or targeted regeneration. For noticeable results, regular use once or twice a week is recommended.

Anyone who wants to care for their hair specifically should know what is in their products. Nourishing oils like argan or jojoba oil have a smoothing and protective effect. Keratin and silk proteins strengthen the hair structure, while panthenol and aloe vera soothe and provide moisture. On the other hand, aggressive sulfates or drying alcohols can irritate sensitive scalp or cause colored hair to fade faster. The choice of high-quality ingredients is crucial to the success of any hair care routine.

At ESTEL, we rely exclusively on high-quality hair care with natural ingredients that truly help your hair. This way, we can ensure quality and offer premium products. If you want to learn more about ingredients, check out our related article.

Many modern hair dryers or straighteners use ion technology. Negatively charged ions are released, which neutralize the positively charged water particles in the hair. The result: drying time is shortened, the hair loses less moisture, and becomes visibly smoother. Especially with frizz or structurally damaged hair, the use of such devices is a useful complement to proper care.

Jojoba oil is actually a liquid wax and is particularly well absorbed by the hair without leaving any residue or weighing it down. It contains vitamin E, acts as an antioxidant, and helps to lock in moisture in the hair. It is ideal for dry ends, as a finishing touch after blow-drying, or as an additive in treatments. Sensitive scalp also benefits from its soothing effect.

It is applied either pure, distributed dropwise on lengths and ends, or as a component of high-quality care formulas in shampoos and leave-ins.

Hair, just like skin, adapts to changing conditions. In winter, it needs protection from heating air, cold, and friction (e.g., from scarves and hats). In summer, the focus is on UV protection, along with chlorine and salt residues. The ideal care routine therefore changes with the seasons. A good guideline: use richer products in winter, and rely on UV filters and lightweight moisturizers in summer.

Keratin is a fibrous protein and the main component of hair. It is primarily responsible for elasticity, resilience, and shine. When hair is damaged by heat, coloring, or environmental influences, it loses keratin – the result: brittle, lifeless lengths. Care lines with hydrolyzed keratin help to compensate for these deficits by specifically depositing the protein in porous areas. The hair structure is smoothed and stabilized. The use of keratin care is especially beneficial after bleaching or for naturally very fine, stressed hair.

Combing is more than just styling – it is part of hair care. With the right technique, it can detangle the hair, distribute sebum from the scalp to the lengths, and gently massage the scalp. It is important never to brush the hair roughly when it is wet, as it is particularly stretchable and sensitive then. Instead, a wide-toothed comb or a flexible detangling brush is suitable. Start at the ends and work your way up slowly – this way you avoid mechanical stress and hair breakage.

A healthy scalp is the foundation for healthy hair growth. Excess sebum, product buildup, or dry, flaky skin can disrupt the balance. Gentle exfoliations, circulation-promoting scalp massages, or regulating tonics help to clarify the skin's appearance and relieve the hair follicles. For oily scalp, a combination of clarifying cleansing and light moisturizing care can be beneficial. The same applies here: less is often more – washing too frequently can disturb the natural protective film.

Natural curls or permed hair require special care because they are drier and more textured than straight hair. Curls benefit from rich moisturizing care, styling creams with defining effects, and air-drying products that emphasize the natural wave structure. Finger styling instead of brushing, microfiber towels, and avoiding heat sources help maintain bounce and reduce frizz.

Air drying is the gentlest method to dry hair – provided it is done correctly. After washing, the hair should only be gently squeezed with a towel to avoid rubbing out the moisture. Leave-in products or defining creams help to shape the hair. Important: Even when air drying, some protection is necessary – from drafts, UV radiation, or friction from clothing. Ideally, the hair should not be combed while drying but gently shaped and styled only after it is completely dry.

Often underestimated but widespread: mechanically induced hair breakage. Causes include tying hair ties too tightly, combing with unsuitable tools, sleeping with open, wet hair, or rubbing hair against rough fabrics. Those who want to protect their hair should opt for soft materials, loosely tied hairstyles, and regular haircuts. Care products that smooth the hair surface also reduce friction and thus susceptibility to breakage.

Hair care begins not only externally but also internally. Nutrients such as biotin, zinc, iron, and vitamins A, B, C, and E are essential for strong, growth-friendly hair. A deficiency can manifest as hair loss, brittleness, or slowed growth. In addition to a balanced diet, dietary supplements or toning care products with plant extracts can provide support. Scalp massages also promote blood circulation and improve nutrient supply to the root.

Curly hair is individual – ranging from loose waves to tightly coiled spirals. What all curl types have in common is a special need for care. Natural curls tend to be dry because the sebum from the scalp does not easily reach the ends. Therefore, they need more moisture and defining care products. The right combination of leave-in conditioner, curl cream, and a gentle, finger-friendly styling routine brings out the natural movement optimally.

After coloring, the hair is especially receptive – but also sensitive. To keep the color pigments in the hair for a long time and protect the structure, care should be adjusted immediately after coloring. Color-protecting shampoos, pH-neutral conditioners, and nourishing masks ensure that the color shines longer and the hair stays healthy. Ideally, avoid heat styling in the first few days after coloring and wash with cooler water.

Plant-based oils are a classic in hair care – and for good reason. Whether argan, jojoba, coconut, or grapeseed oil: they provide the hair with essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants, smooth the texture, and protect against moisture loss. Oils can be applied pure, mixed into masks, or distributed as a finish on lengths and ends. It is important to choose the right oil for the hair type: fine hair needs lighter textures, while strong hair can tolerate richer oils.

Overnight care uses the body's resting phase to allow active ingredients to penetrate particularly deeply. The hair is treated with a nourishing treatment or a light oil, wrapped in a towel or a silk cloth, and left to work overnight. In the morning, the product is rinsed out – the result is visibly regenerated, soft hair. It is important to choose products that are not too greasy and can be rinsed out completely without residue.

A hair care serum is highly concentrated, lightweight in texture, and specially designed to target issues such as dryness, frizz, or loss of structure. Unlike traditional leave-ins or oils, it absorbs quickly, leaves hardly any residue, and is ideal as a complement to other care products. Especially for fine hair or when targeted rebuilding is needed, a serum offers an effective yet lightweight care option.

Porosity describes how permeable the hair structure is – in other words, how well the hair absorbs and retains moisture. Highly porous hair (e.g., after bleaching) loses moisture quickly, feels rough, and tends to frizz. Low-porosity hair absorbs care products less easily but retains them well. Knowing your own porosity is important for choosing suitable products: highly porous hair benefits from rich care and protein rebuilding, while low-porosity hair benefits more from light moisturizing care and heat application for better product absorption.

The pH value affects the cuticle layer of the hair. A slightly acidic pH (between 4.5 and 5.5) helps to close the hair structure and preserve the natural acid mantle of the scalp. Shampoos with a too high pH can have a drying effect, while acidic care products (e.g., conditioners or pH-balancing rinses) smooth the hair surface and promote shine.

Sometimes things need to be done quickly – and that's exactly what quick-fix products are for. These can be shine sprays, anti-frizz serums, or leave-in sprays that deliver instantly visible results. They do not replace intensive care but are ideal for refreshing hair between washes or solving small styling problems in everyday life. They are also handy helpers for a polished finish on the go – at the office, while traveling, or before events.

Quinoa is not only a valuable nutrient source in nutrition – the plant protein also convinces in hair care. It improves hair elasticity, protects color, and rebuilds hair structure. Especially color-treated hair benefits from care products with quinoa protein, as it helps to bind color pigments longer and makes the hair more resilient.

Structural damage to hair cannot be completely undone, but it can be significantly compensated for through targeted care. Repairing products usually contain proteins, lipids, or amino acids that deposit in the damaged areas, making the hair more resilient and smoother. Regular use and combining with protective elements such as heat protection and UV filters are important.

Styling products, silicones, lime, or environmental pollution can leave residues on hair and scalp. These lead to loss of shine, weighed-down texture, or even itching. Occasional deep cleansing with a detox or peeling shampoo helps to remove these residues and improve the hair's absorption capacity for care products.

Friction – caused by hats, pillowcases, or tight hairstyles – can roughen the cuticle layer and lead to hair breakage. Especially fine or damaged hair is sensitive to constant mechanical stress. Silk pillowcases, loosely braided braids, or avoiding rough materials can already make a big difference here.

Silver shampoos contain violet pigments that neutralize yellow tones in blonde, gray, or silver-colored hair. They should be used selectively and not daily, as frequent use can dry out the hair. It is important to combine them with moisturizing care to achieve a cool color result without loss of texture.

Suitable product:
ESTEL Prima Blonde Silver Shampoo – for cool, radiant blonde with rich care. Perfect in combination with the Prima Blonde Care Balm and thePrima Blonde Silver Shine Mask.

Split ends occur when the hair tips split – usually due to mechanical stress, heat, or lack of care. Regular trimming, the use of hair oil on the ends, and avoiding aggressive styling help prevent split ends. Once the ends are split, they cannot be repaired, but they can be visually sealed with silicone-based products or care creams.

UV radiation can damage the hair structure, fade pigments, and dry out the hair. Special hair care products with UV filters or antioxidants protect against these effects and are especially important in summer or during outdoor activities. Ideal are leave-ins or heat protection sprays with integrated sun protection.

Deep conditioning is the key to permanently healthy hair – especially for chemically treated, dry, or brittle hair. It penetrates deep into the inner structures of the hair fiber and regenerates it from within. High-quality deep conditioning products usually contain keratin, plant oils, panthenol, or hyaluronic acid. Using them once or twice a week delivers visible results – the hair becomes smoother, stronger, and shinier.

Dry shampoo is a convenient solution when you need to be quick or want freshness between two hair washes. It absorbs excess oil on the scalp and additionally gives the hair extra volume. Important: It does not replace regular hair washing and should not be used permanently as the sole cleansing method, as it can leave residues on the scalp.

Even without intensive treatments, hair needs daily care. This includes gentle brushing, a protective leave-in, the right styling product, and depending on the weather, additional protection against heat or UV radiation. A consistent care routine tailored to the hair type makes a long-term difference between well-groomed and overstrained hair.

The UV radiation from the sun can damage not only the skin but also the hair. Color pigments are particularly sensitive to sunlight – blonde or red-colored hair quickly loses its brilliance. The protein structure also suffers from prolonged exposure, which can lead to dryness and hair breakage. Hair care products with integrated UV protection are therefore a sensible addition in summer – but also in everyday life. Hats or scarves can additionally enhance mechanical protection.

Sealing care products close the cuticle layer and thus protect the hair from the penetration of harmful substances or the loss of moisture. Especially after washing or chemical treatments, targeted sealing helps to preserve the care effects. Leave-in products with silicones or smoothing polymers fulfill this task without weighing the hair down – provided they are used sparingly and purposefully.

Fine or flat hair needs targeted volume care. It starts with washing: volume shampoos usually contain fewer nourishing oils and provide more lift at the roots. For styling, mousse helps to loosen the structure. Blow-drying upside down, using a round brush, or working specifically with texturizing sprays are additional tricks for more fullness – without stressing the hair.

Whether natural beach waves or styled curls – waves bring movement to the hair. To keep them beautifully intact for a long time, it is important to strengthen the hair structure while keeping it flexible. Care products for wavy hair should be moisturizing but not too heavy. Sprays can also help to keep the waves in shape and prevent frizz.

Styling tools such as straighteners, curling irons, or hair dryers work through high temperatures – which makes the hair malleable but also vulnerable. Therefore, the rule is: never style without heat protection. Choosing the right temperature, maintaining sufficient distance when blow-drying, and using heat-resistant care products are the foundation for healthy styling.

Xerosis describes a severely dry, often flaky scalp. The causes can be varied: weather, improper care, washing too frequently, or sensitive skin. Relief is provided by mild, moisturizing shampoos and balancing scalp care products that soothe the skin, strengthen the acid mantle, and alleviate irritation. Avoiding water that is too hot or alcohol-containing products is also important.

Some letters just (still) don't have a big role in hair care. But hey – who knows what the next trends will bring!

Braided hairstyles are practical but not without risk. Hairstyles tied too tightly can strain the hair roots and lead to hair breakage. Gentle, loose braids starting from the nape, wide hair ties without metal parts, and regular breaks for the scalp help prevent damage. Braids are also excellent protective hairstyles – for example, overnight to avoid friction.

Good hair care takes time – not only for application but also for the effect. The regeneration of the hair structure often takes several weeks. Patience and consistency pay off. Those who invest in high-quality care in the long term and use it regularly will be rewarded with stronger, shinier, and healthier hair.

Hair care is more than just shampoo and conditioner – it is a combination of understanding, mindfulness, and the right products at the right time. With this ABC, you have gained a comprehensive overview of the most important terms, connections, and care approaches that will benefit your hair in the long run.

Whether you're specifically looking for solutions or just want to better understand your routine: the combination of knowledge and high-quality care makes the difference.

Discover the right ESTEL products for your hair type now and start a care routine that really works – from A to Z.

Other items you might be interested in: