How to Build a Haircare Routine in 2026 That’s Worth Your Money
If you've ever stood in the haircare aisle at Target or scrolled Amazon wondering which product is actually is going to make you love styling your hair- you're not alone. I am Meg Ann Lee and I have this conversation with my clients all the time because we build haircare routines together!
I recently put up a poll on my Instagram asking what you want more of this year: makeup content, salon BTS or haircare product recommendations. Haircare won by a landslide. So consider this post the official start of that conversation!
As a hairstylist at Moss Salon here in Eau Claire, I want to be really clear about something upfront: you don't need the most expensive products, the trendiest brand, or a shelf full of bottles to have great hair. What you do need is the right routine for your hair type and your specific lifestyle. That's exactly what this haircare series is going to break down.
Why Haircare Matters More Than Most People Think
A great haircut or color is important - but what happens after your appointment is what determines how your hair looks weeks later.
Your haircare affects how long your color lasts, how your hair feels between appointments, how much breakage or dryness you see over time and how often you feel like you "need" a hair appointment. When hair isn't supported at home, even the best salon work won't wear the way you want it to. That's why I'm such a big believer in realistic, manageable routines instead of trend-based recommendations. If you're not going to do the routine at home why are you buying a 6 product regimen?? A waste of money IMO.
Not All Haircare Is Created Equal
I'll never shame someone for choosing drugstore products but there is a reason some products are $5 and some are $40. It's great to get recommendations from friends but ONLY if they have the same hair texture and hair history as you. What worked for a friend with totally different hair might not work for you.
Fine hair, thick hair, color-treated hair, extensions, dry hair - they all need different things. A product that's amazing for one person can be completely wrong for someone else.
That's why "one-size-fits-all" routines usually lead to frustration, wasted money, and hair that still doesn't feel right. Over the next few weeks, I'm breaking this down into haircare routines by hair type, using products you can buy and realistically use.
Every routine will be simple, intentional, and focused on products that do the job, not just look good on a shelf. I'll also be linking products I genuinely recommend and would suggest to my own clients.
The Basics That Matter Most
The best place to start are your basics! No matter your hair type, everyone benefits from:
- A shampoo and conditioner made for your hair needs
- A leave-in product for moisture and protection
- Heat protection if you style with hot tools
You don't need ten steps. You need the right few steps, used consistently. If you've ever felt like your hair looks good for a week and then slowly falls apart, this series is for you.
Next week, we'll start with the first hair type breakdown - and I'll show you how to build a routine that actually works for your real life <3