When you look good, you feel good—and one of the most important aspects of looking your best is maintaining a well-groomed head of hair. The key to achieving great hair is understanding your unique hair type—whether it’s straight, curly, coiled or wavy; thin or thick; oily or dry. Once you know your hair type, follow these five essential tips to keep your hair looking sharp and healthy.

1. Keep Your Hair Styled with Regular Haircuts

Regular haircuts every four to six weeks are essential for maintaining a sharp, polished look. Not only will this help you keep your hairstyle fresh, but it’ll also allow you to tidy up areas like the back of your neck and around your ears. Choose a skilled stylist or barber who understands how to texture your hair, so it looks good as it grows out and remains easy to manage at home.

2. Wash Your Hair Correctly

Avoid shampooing your hair every day, as over-washing can strip your scalp of essential oils. Instead, wash your hair every other day to preserve your hair’s natural balance. Always choose a sulfate-free shampoo formulated for your hair type, and follow up with a conditioner—especially if you have longer hair, which requires extra moisture. “For anything longer than three inches, you should condition your hair every day, whether you shampoo or not,” says hairstylist Jen Bennett. Remember to massage your scalp thoroughly while washing to promote better blood circulation and exfoliate the scalp.

3. Dry Your Hair the Right Way

When towel-drying your hair, avoid being too rough, as this can lead to frizz or breakage, particularly for thin hair. Instead, gently blot your hair with a towel and use your fingers or a comb to style it as it dries. For hair longer than two inches, consider using a blow dryer with a low heat setting, directing the airflow in the direction you want your hair to go.

4. Use the Right Haircare Products for Your Type

Tailor your product choices to your hair type. Fine hair may benefit from a leave-in conditioner or a salt spray to add texture and volume, while coarse or curly hair can thrive with a co-wash (cleansing conditioner) that hydrates without stripping oils. Lightweight hair oils like argan or sweet almond can help lock in moisture for thicker, coarser hair. Additionally, use a natural-bristle hairbrush to help distribute natural oils and stimulate your scalp. And don’t forget sunscreen if your hair is thin or balding in spots; Bennett recommends spray sunscreens to avoid clogging the hair follicles.

5. Treat Your Hair as You Age

As you age, your hair may change. If you're going gray, consider using a deep-conditioning mask once or twice a week to counteract dryness and brittleness. If your hair is thinning, ask your stylist for advice on the best style to make the most of your hair’s volume. (You may even want to shave it all off and simply rock the bald look!) There are also treatments for hair loss, both surgical and non-surgical, but lifestyle changes—like eating a balanced diet rich in healthy fats, lean protein and fresh produce—can also promote healthier hair.

By understanding your hair type and following these grooming tips, you’ll keep your hair healthy, stylish and looking great at any age!