How To Get Smooth Hair: 7 Stylist-Approved Tips

Discover stylist-approved tips for achieving smooth, soft hair. From shine to frizz control, unlock the secrets to luxurious locks with our expert advice.

By Margaret Fisher & Powered By L’Oreal Professional Products Division

Update Date: 18 Jun 2026

TL;DR: Smooth hair isn’t about a single miracle product. It’s about smart, consistent habits. Focus on moisture, gentle heat, and protecting your cuticle with simple, intentional tweaks to your routine. From washing with lukewarm water to using smoothing products and protective bedtime rituals, these stylist-backed tips help you achieve shiny, frizz-free hair that lasts.

Key Takeaways:

• Upgrade Your Routine for Smoothness: Swap hot showers for lukewarm rinses, use a smoothing shampoo and conditioner, and don’t skip leave-in treatments—these foundational steps are designed to support moisture retention and address frizz from the start.
• Protect & Style Intentionally: Always prep with heat protectant before using hot tools, limit heat styling when possible, and finish with hair oil to manage flyaways and enhance shine without contributing to a heavy feel.
• Overnight & Professional Care Matter: Minimize sleep-related breakage by using silk pillowcases or protective styles at night and consider occasional professional smoothing treatments (like keratin) for long-lasting sleekness if at-home care isn’t enough.

Tip #1: Wash With Lukewarm Water

When washing your hair, adjust the dial to a lukewarm setting. Although a steaming hot shower can provide a relaxing experience, this habit may contribute to long-term dryness for hair. Washing with scorching water can dry out your hair, and drier hair may exhibit a less smooth texture. By lowering the temperature, you can help your hair retain more moisture.

Tip #2: Use a Smoothing Shampoo and Conditioner

One common mistake when learning how to achieve a softer, smoother feel for coarse hair is relying only on finishing products. Completing your routine with a smoothing hair cream can be beneficial, but for a sustained smooth hair, it’s important to curate your entire routine with this goal in mind. We’re partial to Pureology’s Smooth Perfection Shampoo and Smooth Perfection Conditioner are excellent options.

Tip #3: Don’t Skip Leave-In Treatments

Leave-in products can be highly beneficial when aiming for a softer feel and smoother-looking hair. Compared to rinse-out conditioners, they stay on your locks to continue to support hydration. Look for lightweight moisturizing formulas that provide nourishment without contributing to a heavy feel. The Biolage Hydra Source Leave-In Cream is a great option, especially for very dry hair.

Tip #4: Be Smart About Heat Styling

Heat styling can be something of a double-edged sword: On the one hand, hot tools like your blow-dryer and hair straightener can assist in smoothing and shaping your hair into desired styles. On the other hand, heat damage can contribute to a rougher and drier hair texture. Always prep your mane with a heat protectant, such as Redken Frizz Dismiss Rebel Tame Leave-In Cream.

Tip #5: Tame Frizz With a Hair Oil

When it comes to how to get smooth hair, a little hair oil can go a long way. Applying just a few drops as a finishing touch can help minimize flyaways and address frizz. Try Kérastase Gloss Absolu Glaze Drops Anti-Frizz Hair Oil.

Tip #6: Protect Your Hair While You Sleep

Securing your hair in a protective hairstyle, like a braid, can help, as can wrapping your hair with a silk scarf or bonnet. You can also swap your pillowcase for a silk or satin one, which will allow your hair to glide (rather than snag) over the fabric.

Tip #7: Consider a Professional Hair Smoothing Treatment

If an at-home routine isn’t delivering the results you want, you may want to try an in-salon smoothing hair treatment. Services like a keratin treatment may help maintain a smoother hair appearance for an extended period. Consulting with your stylist is recommended to determine if a professional service is right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes your hair soft?

Soft hair is the result of proper hydration and gentle care. Using moisturizing shampoos and conditioners, avoiding excessive heat, and incorporating leave-in treatments can all help maintain softness.

How to make coarse hair soft and silky

Focusing on moisture can help you transform coarse hair into soft, silky locks. Start with a smoothing shampoo and conditioner formulated to hydrate and make hair more manageable.

How to make your hair shiny

Achieving your shiny hair goals starts with a haircare routine that locks in moisture. Fill your regimen with hydrating products that enhance shine, including a nourishing shampoo and conditioner and a radiance-boosting hair mask.

How to smooth frizzy hair

Smoothing frizzy hair involves hydration, cuticle care, and protection from environmental stressors. Make sure to use products specifically designed to reduce frizz, like a smoothing shampoo and conditioner duo.