Albert Einstein was once quoted as saying, “Make things as simple as possible, but no simpler.” This motto is applicable to nearly any aspect of life, and in the spirit of a fresh start with the new year, I encourage you to apply it. This being said, there are some of us (@me) who should probably simplify your hair routine, and perhaps there are even some of us who’ve kept it “simpler” than they should’ve, and are looking to up their hair game.

It’s not always easy to know which products are necessary for everyday use and which are frivolous, so I’ve compiled a list of the three compulsory products that every person should have on hand to keep their routine as simple as possible, but not simpler.

This is an obvious necessity, but cannot be overlooked. The foundation of having healthy hair is choosing a shampoo and conditioner that suit your hair type. Your stylist can help recommend you one.

​I always recommend that my clients use a leave-in product that contains ingredients to protect from heat damage and UV damage, whether they heat-style regularly or not. This can prevent split ends, breakage, and fading of color. My go-to for all-in-one heat protection is, of course, Bumble and Bumble’s Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Primer.

I am always genuinely shocked when a client tells me they don’t regularly use dry shampoo. It is, in my opinion, the only way to transition into washing your hair less often, and seeing as washing more than 2-3 times a week can cause hair to be brittle, dry, and fade color, dry shampoo is a must. My fave is Living Proof’s Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo.

If you’re trying to minimize your life in 2019, consider cutting back to just these products, and perhaps ask your stylist what products they think are necessary to keep you looking fabulous all year long.