So you want better hair in 2026? Here's 5 things you can do right now!
- Danielle Bone
- Jan 18
- 3 min read
If you want healthier, stronger hair in 2026, the best time to start is now. Simple daily habits can make a huge difference. By paying attention to what you use on your hair and how you care for it, you can support your hair’s natural growth and shine. Here are five practical tips to help you achieve healthy, long hair starting today.
Check Ingredients on Your Shampoo and Conditioner
The first step to healthier hair is knowing what you put on it. Many shampoos and conditioners contain cheap surfactants, heavy silicones, and harsh artificial scents that can weigh hair down or irritate your scalp. These ingredients may make hair look shiny temporarily but can cause buildup and dryness over time.
Look for products with natural ingredients:
Avocado oil, adds shine and smooths frizz
Pea protein, strengthens hair
Rosemary extract, soothes and nourishes
Shea butter, softens and moisturizes
Plant-derived fragrances, using scents from nature and not a lab
Switching to natural products not only protects your hair but also supports scalp health. A healthy scalp creates the perfect environment for hair to grow strong and long. I personally use Back of Bottle for my shampoo and conditioners.
Always Use Heat Protectors and Lower Your Hot Tool Temperature
Heat styling tools like curling irons and straighteners can cause serious damage if used incorrectly. Many people think they need to crank the temperature up to 400 degrees to get the desired style, but this is unnecessary and actually causes your look to not last as long.
Before using any hot tool, apply a heat protector like Back of Bottle Shining Armor. This creates a barrier that reduces heat damage. Also, set your tools to a lower temperature—usually between 300 and 350 degrees is enough for most hair types.
Using heat protectors and turning down the heat helps keep your hair cuticles intact, preventing breakage and split ends. This simple habit supports healthy hair growth and maintains your hair’s natural shine.
Blow Dry When Possible and Avoid Going to Bed With Wet Hair
Hair is weakest when wet, and sleeping on damp strands increases friction and breakage. It can also lead to scalp issues like fungal over growth or dandruff.
Blow drying your hair is actually healthier than leaving it wet. Use a leave in conditioner on towel dried hair like Back of Bottles Stay and Play, then blow dry excess moisture out of the hair, keep it moving to avoid overheating any spot, incorporating a round brush if you want a more polished look.
If you prefer air drying, try to let your hair dry at least 80% before going to bed. This reduces the chance of breakage and scalp problems, supporting overall hair health.
Switch to a Satin or Silk Pillowcase
Cotton pillowcases can cause friction that leads to hair breakage and frizz. Switching to a satin or silk pillowcase reduces this friction because these fabrics have a smooth surface.
Sleeping on satin or silk helps your hair retain moisture and prevents tangles. This is especially helpful if you want to keep your hair long and healthy. Over time, this small change can reduce split ends and keep your hair looking smooth.
Listen to Your Hairstylist and Get Regular Haircuts
Many people avoid haircuts because they want to keep their hair long. But holding on to dead ends actually harms your hair. Split ends travel up the hair strand, causing more breakage and making your hair look unhealthy.
Getting regular trims every 12-14 weeks removes damaged ends and helps your hair grow stronger. Your hairstylist can also recommend treatments or products tailored to your hair type and what it needs.
Regular haircuts keep your hair looking fresh and prevent breakage, which supports your goal of healthy, long hair.
By focusing on these five simple habits, you can improve your hair’s health and appearance in 2026. Start by choosing natural products and reading the ingredients carefully. Protect your hair from heat damage, avoid sleeping with wet hair, switch to a satin pillowcase, and keep up with regular trims. These steps work together to support your hair’s natural strength and shine.