My Simple Hair Care Routine after Hair Loss

Healthy Hair for a Natural Lifestyle

Hair loss is a journey many of us face, and it can feel especially daunting when tied to major life events. After my first major surgery in 2015, I first noticed losing my hair when it was coming out in clumps in the shower. While I then began my search to do what I could to make my hair look and feel better, it wasn’t until 2017 that I found and began using Monat, and these products have been part of my life ever since. I’m grateful for this, because I’ve had 2 major surgeries and several procedures since. 

I’m no expert, but my hair feels fuller using the Intense Repair thickening line compared to when I’ve used volume-specific shampoos and conditioners. Maybe those only focus on the roots? I’m not entirely sure—I’m just glad I’ve found products that actually work for me.

Honestly, I never imagined I’d be sharing “beauty tips,” but through conversations, I’ve realized there are others like me out there—people searching for simple, effective solutions over the years. If you’re someone who doesn’t blow-dry or style your hair often and keeps makeup minimal, you’re in the right place. Let’s keep it simple and real together!

Instagram: 2023 surgery & recovery journey highlights

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As someone who prefers natural products, rarely wears makeup, and keeps things casual (think flannel shirts and beach days), I’ve fallen in love with Monat’s thickening hair care line. My routine is simple and effective—perfect for my lower-maintenance lifestyle. Here’s how I use their Thickening Shampoo, Thickening Conditioner, Leave-In Conditioner, Thickening Serum, and Dry Shampoo to keep my hair looking and feeling its best.

My Hair Care Routine

I wash my hair twice a week—Mondays and Thursdays—and rely on dry shampoo and leave-in conditioner to carry me through the other days. This gives my hair body and hydration without feeling like I’ve overloaded it with products. 

Here’s a breakdown of the products I use and how:

1. Monat Thickening Shampoo (Wash Days)

Why I Love It:

This shampoo gently cleanses while adding volume and density to my hair. After years of dealing with hair loss, I can honestly say this product has made a huge difference. It also helps create a healthy scalp environment, which is key to regrowth and overall hair health.

How I Use It:

• Massage into my scalp on wash days (Monday and Thursday).
• Let it sit for a couple of minutes before rinsing.
• Wash twice.

Key Benefits:

• Cleans without stripping natural oils.
• Adds noticeable volume and thickness.

2. Monat Thickening Conditioner (Wash Days)

Why I Love It:

This lightweight conditioner deeply hydrates and strengthens my hair without adding any heaviness. It’s perfect for nourishing my ends, which often feel dry after long days exposed to coastal elements like salty air, hard water, constant breezes, and plenty of sun.

How I Use It:

• Focus on the mid-lengths and ends of my hair after shampooing.
• Leave it on for 2-3 minutes before rinsing.

Key Benefits:

• Prevents breakage.
• Leaves my hair soft and easy to manage.

3. Monat Thickening Serum (Wash Days)

Why I Love It:

This serum has been a standout in my routine. It’s lightweight, absorbs quickly, and supports the appearance of fuller, thicker hair.

How I Use It:

• After washing, apply directly to my scalp.
  • 1 dropper full, spreading drops near my part on the top of my head.
• Massage in to stimulate circulation and ensure even coverage.

Key Benefits:

• Boosts the look of hair density.
• Encourages a healthy scalp environment.

4. Monat Leave-In Conditioner (Everyday Essential)

Why I Love It:

The leave-in conditioner is my go-to for hydration and detangling, even on non-wash days. I apply it sparingly to dry hair (mid-length to the ends), which keeps my hair soft and gives it a bit of body without feeling like there’s anything in it.

How I Use It:

• Apply a small amount to the ends (any hair below the shoulder) every day, especially on non-wash days.
• Wait 5-10 mins (or as long as I can if I’m in a rush)
• Brush through to distribute evenly.

Key Benefits:

• Provides lightweight hydration.
• Keeps my hair soft and natural-looking.

This leave-in conditioner refreshes my hair in such an amazing way and you’d never know it was there–it’s that lightweight.

5. Monat Dry Shampoo (Non-Wash Days)

Why I Love It:

Since I don’t wash my hair daily, dry shampoo is a lifesaver. It absorbs oil, adds texture, and keeps my scalp feeling clean between washes. It’s a simple way to refresh my hair without interrupting my low-maintenance routine.

I’ve tried so many dry shampoos, but I keep coming back to this one.

How I Use It:

• Spray onto my roots on non-wash days.
• Leave on for a few minutes to let it absorb–the longer the better in my opinion
• Massage it in with my fingertips to distribute and add volume.
• Brush through.

Key Benefits:

• Absorb oils from your scalp.
• Extends time between washes.
• Adds volume and a light, natural texture.

My Lifestyle and Why Monat Works for Me

As a photographer who spends most of my time outdoors, often by the water, I gravitate toward simplicity. I rarely use heat styling tools, skip the hairspray, and prefer organic and natural products whenever possible. Monat fits seamlessly into this approach:

• Natural Ingredients: I love that Monat focuses on naturally based formulas without sulfates or parabens.
• Low Maintenance: The products work without the need for styling.
• Visible Results: My hair feels thicker, looks healthier, and maintains a natural shine.

I haven’t had to think much about this routine for a couple years now, and that is beyond ideal for me!

Why I Stick to This Routine

1. Balance: Washing twice a week keeps my hair clean and healthy without stripping it of its natural oils.
2. Hydration: The leave-in conditioner is a daily must-have for soft, hydrated ends.
3. Volume: The dry shampoo adds life to my hair on non-wash days, making it look fresh without effort.

Monat has been a game-changer in my journey to healthier hair. 

Since starting their products in 2017, and then finding this specific regimen in 2022 when the IR clinical products launched, I’ve noticed a real difference in thickness, strength, and overall hair health. For anyone looking for a simple, effective, and natural approach to hair care—especially those dealing with hair thinning and/or hair loss—Monat is worth exploring.