How Women Took Care of Their Hair in 2010
Sweety Karlak
In 2010, women’s hair care was dominated by styling, shine, and experimentation with chemical treatments. Natural hair and protective routines were not yet mainstream, and many habits focused on frequent washing, heat styling, and salon treatments.
This blog explores the most popular hair care routines, treatments, and trends women followed in 2010.
1. Shampooing & Washing Frequency
Hair washing was more frequent compared to later years:
50–60% washed hair daily or every other day
20% washed every 2–3 days
Dry shampoo was rarely used
Shampoos were mostly traditional formulas, and sulfate-free options were not yet mainstream.
2. Conditioners & Hair Masks
Conditioners were widely used, but deep treatments were less common:
50–55% used conditioner regularly
10–15% applied hair masks weekly
The focus was on smoothness and shine rather than repair or hydration.
3. Oils & Serums
Hair oils were not yet widely popular:
15–25% used oils occasionally (mainly coconut or argan)
Serums were mostly used for frizz control
Styling products dominated hair routines over natural nourishment.
4. Heat Styling — Frequent and Bold
Heat styling was extremely common:
70% used blow dryers regularly
60% used flat irons or curling irons
Heat protectants were not universally used
Straightening and curling were major trends, often causing heat damage.
5. Haircuts & Trims
Haircuts focused on styling and trends:
50–60% got trims every 8–12 weeks
Layered cuts, long straight styles, and sleek bobs were popular
Bangs and fringe were frequently experimented with
6. Natural Hair & Protective Styles
Protective and natural styling were minimal:
10–15% used braids or buns for protection
Curly hair routines were basic, focusing on brushing and smoothing
Protective styling was mostly niche
7. Scalp Care
Scalp treatments were rare:
Less than 20% used scalp oils or scrubs
Most women focused on cleanliness rather than scalp health
8. DIY Hair Treatments
DIY treatments existed but were less mainstream:
10–15% tried egg masks, yogurt, or honey treatments
Salon and chemical solutions were preferred for repair
9. Color Care
Hair coloring was a major trend in 2010:
45–50% colored their hair at home or in salons
Highlights, lowlights, and all-over color were common
Color-protecting shampoos were not widely used
10. Nighttime Hair Routines
Nighttime routines were minimal:
Only about 20% tied hair in braids or buns
Few women used silk or satin pillowcases
Frizz and breakage from sleep were common issues
11. Product Trends
2010 was a “more is more” era:
Multiple styling products were used daily (mousse, gel, hairspray)
Focus was on style rather than hair health
Natural and minimal products were rare
In 2010, women’s hair care emphasized:
Frequent washing
Heavy heat styling
Salon-based treatments and coloring
Styling-focused routines rather than health-focused
Minimal natural or protective practices
Healthy hair, shine, and bold styles were the main priorities, while simplicity and natural care had not yet become mainstream.
Estimated Hair Care Habits Percentages (2010)
50–60% washed hair daily or every other day
50–55% used conditioner regularly
10–15% applied hair masks weekly
15–25% used oils/serums
70% used heat styling regularly
50–60% got trims every 8–12 weeks
10–15% wore protective hairstyles
<20% cared for scalp actively
10–15% used DIY treatments
45–50% colored hair at home or salon
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How often did women wash their hair in 2010?
Most women washed their hair daily or every other day. Washing every 2–3 days was less common, and dry shampoo use was rare.
2. Were hair masks commonly used in 2010?
No, hair masks were not widely used. Only about 10–15% of women applied them weekly, with conditioners being the primary focus.
3. What oils and serums were popular in 2010?
Hair oils and serums were limited in use. Coconut and argan oils were occasionally applied, mainly for shine or frizz control.
4. How frequent was heat styling in 2010?
Heat styling was very common. About 70% used blow dryers, and 60% used flat or curling irons. Heat protectants were not universally applied.
5. What haircuts were trendy in 2010?
Layered cuts, long straight styles, sleek bobs, and bangs were popular. Trims were typically every 8–12 weeks.
6. Did women embrace natural hair and protective styles in 2010?
Protective styles were minimal, with only 10–15% wearing braids or buns for protection. Most women focused on straight or styled looks.
7. How important was scalp care in 2010?
Scalp care was rarely prioritized. Less than 20% used scalp oils or scrubs, and attention was mainly on cleanliness.
8. Were DIY hair treatments common in 2010?
DIY treatments were niche. About 10–15% used egg, yogurt, or honey masks, while most relied on salon or chemical solutions.
9. What hair color trends were popular in 2010?
Highlights, lowlights, and full hair color were widely popular. Around 45–50% of women colored their hair at home or in salons.
10. Did women follow nighttime hair routines in 2010?
Nighttime routines were minimal. Only about 20% tied their hair in braids or buns, and silk pillowcases were rarely used, leading to frizz and breakage.
