12 Must-Have Hair Care Products for Dark, Thick Hair
If your hair is thick, dark, and sometimes a little unruly, then you know the right products can make all the difference. These are the items from my curated collection on Benable that help me hydrate, style, protect, and tame my mane.
Interested in testing any of the recommended products? Browse the products here.
1. OLAPLEX Nº.7 Bonding Oil
Use this at the end of your routine to lock in shine and nutrition. Because it’s lightweight, it won’t weigh thick hair down — I apply it mostly on the tips and avoid the scalp to prevent greasiness.
2. Best Shampoo for Thick Hair
A shampoo that foams well and has a rich texture is essential for deep cleansing. I prefer one with a floral scent and hydrating consistency so it doesn’t strip moisture (especially for long, dense hair).
3. Best Detox Shampoo for Oily, Dirty & Sweaty Hair
Once a week, I use a detox shampoo (with vinegar or clarifying properties) to reset buildup, neutralize pH, and refresh my scalp. Perfect after workouts or humid days.
4. Dream Coat Supernatural Spray (Anti-Frizz Treatment)
This light spray helps tame flyaways and smooth frizz without making hair stiff. A travel-friendly essential for keeping your style intact on the go.
5. Nº.6 BOND SMOOTHER® (Leave-In Treatment)
A lightweight gel/cream hybrid that delivers moisture and smoothness. Great for thick, frizzy hair — I use it before heat styling, applying from mid-length to ends.
6. Infra Silk Infusion Styling Gel
More on the intensive side — this gel is thick and sticky, so a little goes a long way. Ideal as a heat styling aid. Again, avoid applying to the scalp to skip that greasy feel.
7. Flexing Molding Paste
For taming flyaways at the hairline or adding definition, this molding paste is a go-to. I often apply it with a wet toothbrush so it’s precise and subtle.
8. Hydrating & Plumping Leave-In Cream
This one smells delightful (clean, fruity) and gives that extra boost of moisture to towel-dried hair. Use it before further styling to help with manageability and softness.
9. Anti-Frizz Hair Lotion
A light lotion with a gel-like texture — it’s great to use prior to heat styling to smooth coarse strands and reduce resistance against your tools.
10. Thick Hair Styling Oil
This styling oil is a cross between oil and gel. It gives hair shine without being oily. I apply on the mid-lengths toward the ends to revive dry areas and lock in moisture.
11. Hair Bond Protein Repair Light Spray
A newer addition in my collection — I mist this on dry hair before heat styling to reinforce bonds and protect against damage. A great companion to your thermal tools.
12. Hair Styling Primer
My classic staple: citrusy, light, and watery. I use it before curling or straightening to prep the hair, reduce damage, and maintain style longevity.
How To Use These Together (Suggested Routine)
| Time | Step | What to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Wash day | Cleanse | Use Best Shampoo for Thick Hair; once weekly, swap in Detox Shampoo |
| Condition / Treat | Follow up with your usual conditioner or mask (if applicable) | |
| Leave-in / Prep | Use Nº.6 BOND SMOOTHER®, Hydrating Leave-In Cream, or Anti-Frizz Lotion depending on your hair’s needs | |
| Style | Use Infra Silk Infusion Gel or Hair Bond Repair Spray, then heat style if desired | |
| Define / Tame | Use Flexing Molding Paste for edges or flyaways | |
| Finish / Seal | Apply OLAPLEX Nº.7 or Styling Oil to ends for shine and minimal frizz |
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