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Best Hair Styling Serums of 2026

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Lisa Bechard

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Hair styling serums are a popular and effective way to tame frizz, add shine, and protect hair from heat damage. These lightweight products are designed to be applied to damp or dry hair and can be used on all hair types. They work by coating the hair shaft, providing a protective barrier that helps to seal in moisture and prevent breakage. Some serums also contain ingredients that help to strengthen and repair damaged hair. Whether you're looking to create a sleek, straight style or add some extra volume and texture, a hair styling serum can help you achieve the look you want while keeping your hair healthy and hydrated.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Top 10 Hair Styling Serums

#TOP 1

ORS Olive Oil Heat Protection Hair Serum with Coconut Oil

  • ORS
  • 111633
  • B003GQQDQK
ORS Olive Oil Heat Protection Hair Serum with Coconut Oil Cover

ORS Olive Oil Heat Protection Hair Serum infused with Coconut Oil for Restorative Shine 6 Ounces

The ORS Olive Oil Hair Serum combines the nourishing benefits of coconut oil and olive oil essence to give your hair a natural shine and deep hydration. This serum helps you achieve silky, smooth hair, making it easier to manage and style. You can use your heat tools as usual without worrying about damage, as the serum protects your hair from heat exposure. Additionally, it keeps your hair looking glossy and moisturized throughout the day, enhancing your overall hair health and appearance.

9.9
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Heat protection
  • Softness and shine
  • Lightweight formula
  • Reduces frizz and breakage
  • Pleasant subtle scent

What We Don't Like

  • Can feel greasy if overused
  • Occasional messy packaging

What Customers Say

"I've been using this heat protector for a few weeks, and my hair feels so much softer and looks healthier. I love that it's lightweight and doesn't make my roots greasy, plus the olive oil in it gives amazing shine and moisture. I’m also seeing far fewer split ends. The scent is clean and subtle, which I appreciate."

"I use this on both my daughter's hair and mine. When applied to damp hair before styling, it leaves our hair shiny, soft, and manageable. I only need a small amount because a little goes a long way. The scent is wonderful, and it works well for protecting from heat and taming frizz."

"My daughter’s hair used to be frizzy, but after trying this product, her hair is now smooth, soft, and frizz-free. It also makes styling quicker and easier, even without blow drying. We both love the results!"

#TOP 2

Dove Intensive Repair Hair Serum

  • Dove
  • DVE51975
  • Cranberry
Dove Intensive Repair Hair Serum Cover

Dove Intensive Repair Amino Serum for Damaged Hair with Bio-Protein Care Technology 3.3 oz

Dove Repair Serum is designed to rejuvenate your hair and protect it from damage. With each use, it creates a protective barrier that lasts for up to 72 hours, ensuring your hair stays shiny and healthy. Infused with Amino Serum, this serum enhances gloss for 48 hours and smooths your hair for 72 hours, making it easier to manage. The unique Bio-Protein Care technology replenishes your hair with essential proteins, strengthening it with every application. For best results, apply this serum to damp or dry hair and consider using the Intensive Repair Hair Mask weekly for extra care.

9.8
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Repairs split ends
  • Lightweight, non-greasy formula
  • Long-lasting fresh scent
  • Controls frizz and adds shine
  • Works on all hair types

What We Don't Like

  • Packaging leakage issues
  • Small bottle size

What Customers Say

"I've struggled with frizz and split ends for ages, but this serum completely changed my hair game. I love how it instantly makes my hair look healthier and smoother, adds a gorgeous shine, and never feels greasy or heavy. The scent is absolutely amazing and lasts all day, making every day feel like a good hair day."

"After doing a ton of research because of my seborrheic dermatitis, I found that this is one of the only hair oils I can use safely. The formula is lightweight, smells wonderful, and gives me the shiny, frizz-free hair I've always wanted—plus, it doesn't trigger my scalp issues. I use it both on wet and dry hair, and the results are seriously impressive. This serum is now essential in my hair routine."

"My hair has endured a lot of heat styling and frequent washing, leaving it dull and brittle. After using this serum for a few weeks, I've noticed my hair feels stronger, smoother, and more hydrated. It absorbs beautifully, leaves a light fresh scent, and doesn't weigh my fine hair down. The only downside is the bottle is a bit small, but the results are so good that I'll definitely keep buying it."

#TOP 3

Olaplex No. 9 Nourishing Hair Serum

  • Olaplex
  • 20142284
  • White
  • 3 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Olaplex No. 9 Nourishing Hair Serum Cover

Olaplex Nº. 9 Bond Protector: Nourishing Hair Serum & Heat Protectant | Softens, Nourishes & Reduces Tangle & Static | For Coily, Curly, Straight, and Wavy, 90 mL / 3.0 Fl Oz

The Olaplex No. 9 Serum is designed to make your hair care routine easier and more effective. It helps to untangle your hair, making it easier to manage, while also preventing static, so you can say goodbye to flyaways. This serum controls frizz, leaving your hair smooth and polished. Additionally, it offers pollution protection for up to 48 hours, shielding your hair from environmental stressors. With heat protection up to 450°F, you can style your hair confidently without worrying about damage.

9.6
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Frizz control
  • Heat protection
  • Lightweight and non-greasy
  • Improves manageability
  • Adds shine

What We Don't Like

  • High price

What Customers Say

"I've made this product a must-have in my hair care routine. Whether I wear my curls or straighten my hair, it delivers smoothness, frizz reduction, and a polished finish every time. It's versatile and consistently leaves my hair looking healthy and defined—I often get compliments on my curls. This is truly a game-changer for my hair."

"As someone with thin, dry, color-damaged hair, I've tried countless products, but nothing worked until this. After just a few uses, my hair became soft, manageable, and frizz-free—even in humidity. I'm so impressed that I plan to toss all my other hair products, because this is the only one that has ever delivered such visible results."

"I frequently use heat tools, and this serum has become my go-to for protection and shine. It tames frizz, doesn't weigh my hair down, and leaves a pleasant scent. The only drawback is the price, but I genuinely feel the quality justifies the cost."

#TOP 4

It's a 10 Miracle Styling Serum 3 oz

It's a 10 Miracle Styling Serum 3 oz Cover

Miracle Styling Serum by Its A 10 for Unisex - 3 oz Serum

The It's a 10 Styling Serum helps you achieve shiny hair that looks healthy and vibrant, making your hair stand out with a natural glow. Its lightweight formula ensures you won't feel any heaviness or greasiness, so your hair stays fresh and comfortable all day. If you struggle with frizz, this serum smooths down flyaways, giving you a sleek and polished look. It also improves your hair's smoothness, making it easier to manage and style. This serum is a simple way to enhance your hair’s appearance and texture without any hassle.

9.4
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Reduces frizz
  • Adds shine
  • Smooths and softens hair
  • Light, non-greasy formula
  • Long-lasting effectiveness

What We Don't Like

  • Overuse may weigh hair down

What Customers Say

"I've been using this styling serum for years, and I love how it makes my hair feel silky and keeps frizz under control. The light scent is great for my allergies, and it doesn't leave my hair greasy."

"This product is perfect for my wirey gray hair, especially in humid weather. It adds a noticeable shine and shields my hair from humidity—couldn’t ask for more."

"A little of this serum goes a long way. It transforms my thick hair, making it smooth and manageable with the flat iron. My wife and I both agree: it's an incredible value!"

#TOP 5

Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-Frizz Serum

Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-Frizz Serum Cover

Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-Frizz Serum for Frizzy, Dry Hair, Argan Oil, 5.1 Fl Oz, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)

Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-Frizz Serum fights frizz with the power of Moroccan argan oil that penetrates dry and unmanageable hair, giving it lasting smoothness and shine. This serum is just one of many hair products that Garnier offers, including shampoos, conditioners, hair masks, and texturizing sprays. With over 100 years of experience in hair care, Garnier has blended naturally inspired ingredients into breakthrough formulas. It carries an array of products for all your hair and skincare needs.

9.3
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Long-lasting frizz control
  • Lightweight, non-greasy formula
  • Softness and shine
  • Pleasant fresh scent
  • Affordable price

What We Don't Like

  • Humidity resistance not perfect
  • Some overpromising in advertising

What Customers Say

"As a parent of a child with thick, curly hair, I've struggled to find products that work without heaviness, but this leave-in cream is a game-changer. It keeps frizz at bay, hydrates, and leaves curls soft and vibrant. The lightweight texture and fruity scent are a huge plus, and the shine lasts all day."

"My hair gets dry and frizzy, especially in humid weather, but this serum makes a real difference. It smooths my hair, adds a healthy shine, and feels light—never greasy. For what it costs, it’s become a trusted staple in my routine."

"I picked this up because of the great price and positive reviews, but while I like the soft, shiny results and pleasant scent, I did notice it doesn't completely block out humidity. It works well for sleek hair and dry ends, but the frizz comes back in hot, windy weather. Still, I use it for everyday styling because of the lightweight feel and lasting softness."

#TOP 6

TRESemmé Lamellar Gloss Cream Serum

  • TRESemmé
  • 022400013930
  • White
TRESemmé Lamellar Gloss Cream Serum Cover

TRESemmé Hydrating & Detangling Cream Serum Lamellar Gloss Ultra Shine Up to 72H 5.7 Fl Oz

The TRESemmé Gloss Cream Serum is designed to hydrate and smooth your hair while giving it a stunning shine that lasts up to 72 hours. Thanks to its advanced Lamellar Lamination technology, it helps create a sleek, glossy finish that looks professionally styled. You can use this versatile serum in three different ways: as a leave-in treatment, a rinse-off conditioner, or a pre-shampoo treatment, making it easy to fit into your hair care routine. Plus, it’s free from harmful ingredients like parabens, mineral oil, and DMDM hydantoin, and is cruelty-free, so you can feel good about using it every day.

9.3
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Lovely scent
  • Softens and adds shine
  • Effective detangling
  • Anti-frizz benefits
  • Keeps color from fading

What We Don't Like

  • May feel heavier on second day

What Customers Say

"I love how this product makes my hair shine and feel so soft without any greasiness. The scent is wonderful, and it really helps preserve my color between salon visits. I’ll definitely keep buying it!"

"For me, this is the best solution for dry ends and oily scalp. I use it only from the middle of my hair to the ends and it’s been a total life saver. I even got one for my sister!"

"After using this, my hair was noticeably soft and glossy, especially post-coloring. It’s easy to apply and gives great results, leaving my hair looking and feeling healthy."

#TOP 7

Marc Anthony Grow Long Scalp & Hair Serum

Marc Anthony Grow Long Scalp & Hair Serum Cover

Marc Anthony Grow Long Scalp & Hair Serum - Anti-Breakage Formula Nourish, Strengthen & Hydrate Scalp & Hair Follicles - Natural Shine & Fuller-Looking Hair Strands from Root to Tip, 2 fl oz

The Marc Anthony Grow Long Serum is designed to help you strengthen your hair from the roots, supporting longer and healthier strands. This serum focuses on reducing breakage, so your hair can grow stronger without snapping. It contains a blend of caffeine and ginseng, which work together to keep your hair moisturized and protected. Rosemary oil is included to improve scalp health and reinforce hair follicles. You can apply it easily on damp or dry hair by massaging it into your scalp, then comb and style as usual. It works well for all hair types and is most effective when used with the full Grow Long collection.

9.3
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Lightweight, non-greasy formula
  • Improves shine and softness
  • Reduces breakage and frizz
  • Supports scalp and hair health
  • Affordable compared to salon brands

What We Don't Like

  • Watery consistency
  • Results may take time

What Customers Say

"After trying this serum from a sample, I was genuinely impressed by how lightweight and non-greasy it is, especially for my fine, thin hair. It's hard to find products that don't weigh my hair down, but this one delivers beautiful shine and a divine scent while leaving my hair soft and healthy. I've noticed new growth around my hairline and improved overall hair condition. Absolutely planning to repurchase!"

"This serum has become an absolute staple in my daily routine. My fine hair never looks greasy, and instead feels soft, shiny, and full of life. Since using it, my hair is noticeably stronger and healthier with less breakage. It's easy to apply and a little lasts a long time. If you want a product that nourishes and strengthens without the weight, I highly recommend it!"

"Living in humid Florida, I've tried countless products, but this serum stands out for its exceptional value and strong performance. It gives my color-treated hair a fuller, smoother look and helps control frizz, even in tough weather. Shine without greasiness is a big win for me, and while it's not a miracle, the results are seriously impressive for the price. Big impact in a small bottle!"

#TOP 8

Nexxus Ultralight Smooth Hair Serum

Nexxus Ultralight Smooth Hair Serum Cover

Nexxus Ultralight Smooth Frizz Defy Cream Serum for Frizzy and Dry Hair 4 fl oz

Nexxus Smooth Serum is a weightless hair treatment designed to combat frizz and protect hair from humidity. Formulated with Almond Protein and Jasmine Flower, this cream serum not only smooths frizz and tames flyaways but also provides heat protection for your hair. The serum forms an invisible shield around each strand, offering long-lasting frizz protection and keeping your hair smooth for up to 72 hours. When used as part of the Ultralight Smooth System, this serum can block out frizz in up to 98 percent humidity. With Nexxus, you can trust that our hair care experts have created a salon-quality product that delivers the best results.

9.1
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Lightweight formula
  • Anti-frizz effectiveness
  • Pleasant fragrance
  • Works on curly and straight hair
  • Leaves hair shiny

What We Don't Like

  • May feel heavy for some
  • Possible greasiness with other products

What Customers Say

"As someone with very long, naturally curly gray hair, I've tried countless products. This cream is lightweight, non-oily, and keeps my curls from getting weighed down. I love that I can use a tiny amount on dry hair to fix frizz instantly. The scent is lovely, and I've had no scalp or skin issues."

"Living in the humid South with natural curls, frizz is a constant battle. After a friend recommended this, I gave it a try and now my hair stays much less frizzy, and the product never feels heavy. Plus, the fragrance is fantastic. I’ll definitely keep using it."

"My coarse, thick, and dry hair has always been a challenge, but after using this, my hair became completely frizz-free and incredibly shiny. It’s honestly the best product I’ve found for my hair type."

#TOP 9

Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum

Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum Cover

Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum Blowout Primer, Speeds Up Drying Time, Humidity Resistant, For All Hair Types, 0.85 fl. oz

Paul Mitchell Serum is designed to help you achieve smooth, frizz-free hair while significantly reducing drying time. This blowout primer prepares your hair for styling, allowing you to enjoy silky results in less time. Its humidity-resistant formula features lightweight silicones that not only condition your hair but also seal the cuticle, keeping your locks looking great in any weather. If you struggle with frizzy hair, this product is perfect for you, as it effectively combats frizz and leaves you with a polished finish.

9.0
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Lightweight texture
  • Controls frizz
  • Pleasant scent
  • Softens and smooths hair
  • Long-lasting formula

What We Don't Like

  • Can feel heavy on some hair
  • Pricey for some users

What Customers Say

"Since moving to my current apartment, I've struggled with hard water making my waist-length straight hair feel tacky and unmanageable. After trying this product, I'm amazed at the transformation—my hair is soft, sleek, and tangle-free again. The scent is lovely, reminding me of cucumber melon, and even the travel size worked wonders. I’m definitely buying a bigger bottle next time!"

"I have naturally thin, greasy hair, and most serums leave it oily or weighed down. This one is different—a single pump makes my hair shiny, frizz-free, and dries more quickly without feeling greasy at all. Plus, it works wonders on my kids' dry, curly hair, making their curls pop. It’s better than any other serum I've tried!"

"After complaining to my stylist about my frizzy gray hair, she recommended this product from Amazon instead of a pricey salon brand. Now my hair is soft, smooth, and completely frizz-free. You only need a little, and it works like magic. I absolutely love it!"

#TOP 10

L'Oreal Paris Elvive Hyaluron Plump Moisture Plump Hair Serum

L'Oreal Paris Elvive Hyaluron Plump Moisture Plump Hair Serum Cover

L'Oreal Paris Elvive Hyaluron Plump Moisture Plump Hair Serum for Dehydrated, Dry Hair with Hyaluronic Acid Care Complex, Paraben-Free, 4.4 Fl Oz

L'Oreal Hyaluron Plump Hair Serum is a daily leave-in hair treatment that replenishes moisture and reshapes dry, dehydrated hair. With the Hyaluronic Care Complex, this serum provides up to 72 hours of hydration without weighing down your hair. The 2 percent Hyaluronic Care Complex ensures 2x hydration, making your hair look and feel full and bouncy. This serum is part of the Hyaluron Plump Hair Care system, which includes a shampoo, Wonder Water, and conditioner for a complete hydrating routine. Inspired by skincare, this serum is freshly scented with berries, cherry blossom, vanilla, and sandalwood. L'Oreal Hyaluron Plump Hair Serum is the perfect solution for those with dry and dehydrated hair, providing the ultimate hydration and revitalization.

8.8
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Softness and hydration
  • Lightweight, non-greasy formula
  • Frizz and static control
  • Pleasant, addictive scent
  • Good value for money

What We Don't Like

  • Scent not for everyone
  • Minor packaging issues

What Customers Say

"After searching everywhere for something to help my long, thick, slightly damaged hair, I gave this a try and was genuinely impressed. It's super lightweight, doesn't leave any greasy residue, and makes my hair feel softer and less straw-like. Even when I use it on dry, unwashed hair, it brings life back to my ends. The price was a bonus, and although the scent is noticeable, I don't find it off-putting. I love how weightless it feels and the way it improves my hair's texture."

"I have very fine, thin hair, and this spray is a game changer for me. It makes my hair feel incredibly soft and healthy without weighing it down. The scent is absolutely heavenly—I'm hooked! I use it in the morning and sometimes spritz a bit more throughout the day just to refresh the fragrance. The softness, hydration, and light body it gives my hair are wonderful, but it's the scent that keeps me coming back."

"My main struggle is with static and flyaways during winter because of my fine hair. I've tried everything, but this product is the first to actually provide lasting moisture and keep static under control. It's light, doesn't feel greasy, and adds a touch of fullness. For the price, it's a fantastic value, and it’s become a staple in my routine."

Hair Styling Serums Comparison Table

#TOP 1 ORS Olive Oil Heat Protection Hair Serum with Coconut Oil Cover

ORS Olive Oil Heat Protection Hair Serum with Coconut Oil

#TOP 2 Dove Intensive Repair Hair Serum Cover

Dove Intensive Repair Hair Serum

#TOP 3 Olaplex No. 9 Nourishing Hair Serum Cover

Olaplex No. 9 Nourishing Hair Serum

#TOP 4 It's a 10 Miracle Styling Serum 3 oz Cover

It's a 10 Miracle Styling Serum 3 oz

#TOP 5 Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-Frizz Serum Cover

Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-Frizz Serum

#TOP 6 TRESemmé Lamellar Gloss Cream Serum Cover

TRESemmé Lamellar Gloss Cream Serum

#TOP 7 Marc Anthony Grow Long Scalp & Hair Serum Cover

Marc Anthony Grow Long Scalp & Hair Serum

#TOP 8 Nexxus Ultralight Smooth Hair Serum Cover

Nexxus Ultralight Smooth Hair Serum

#TOP 9 Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum Cover

Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum

#TOP 10 L'Oreal Paris Elvive Hyaluron Plump Moisture Plump Hair Serum Cover

L'Oreal Paris Elvive Hyaluron Plump Moisture Plump Hair Serum

Brand ORS Dove Olaplex It's a 10 Haircare Garnier TRESemmé Marc Anthony Nexxus Paul Mitchell L'Oreal Paris
Scent Coconut Fragranced - - Natural Fragranced Rosemary Unscented Vibrant, juicy scent with notes of apple, berries, and sweet florals Cherry, Sandalwood, Vanilla
Product Benefits Heat Protection Repairing - - Frizz control, Humidity Protection, Shine, Smoothens Detangling, High Gloss, Hydrating, Nourishing, Shine - Moisturizing Color Safe. Vegan. Paraben Free. Made Without Gluten. Moisture Boost, Hydrating, Replumping, Reshaping
Hair Type All Damaged - - Frizzy, Dry All - Normal Frizzy Dry, Dehydrated
Material Type Free Paraben Free, Cruelty Free, Sulphate Free Paraben Free - - Dye Free Paraben Free - 'material_type_free.value': [{'value': 'Silicone Free'}, {'value': 'Sulfate free'}]} Paraben Free. Made without Gluten. Paraben Free
Liquid Volume 177 Milliliters 3.3 Fluid Ounces - - 5.1 Fluid Ounces 5.7 Fluid Ounces - 3.9 Fluid Ounces 0.85 Fluid Ounces 130 Milliliters
FTB Score
9.9
9.8
9.6
9.4
9.3
9.3
9.3
9.1
9.0
8.8
Where to Buy

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can hair serum be used for styling?

Yes, hair serum can be used for styling. It can be applied to both wet and dry hair, serving as a pre-styling treatment or a finishing product. Hair serum adds shine and can be used on wash days, in between washes, and on-the-go to enhance your hairstyle.

2. Do you put serum before or after styling?

Hair serums are typically applied before styling to provide protection against damage. The serum forms a protective coating on the hair, shielding it from pollutants, dust, photodamage, and heat damage caused by styling tools. Applying the serum before styling helps to maintain the hair's health and prevent damage.

3. Do you use serum before or after heat styling?

It is recommended to use hair serum before heat styling. Applying serum before heat styling helps to protect the hair from the high temperatures and minimize damage. You can also mix a few drops of serum into your heat protectant or use it alone before using heat styling tools.

4. What are the disadvantages of hair serum?

Using hair serums excessively or for a prolonged period may have negative side effects. Some hair serums contain chemicals like silicone, which can lead to hair loss and breakage. Additionally, certain serums may cause irritation, inflammation, redness, or itchiness on the scalp.

5. What are the pros and cons of hair serum?

Hair serums have several benefits, including locking in moisture, moisturizing the hair, and making it appear healthier, smoother, and less brittle. However, using too much serum can make the hair look oily and may contribute to hair fall. It's important to use hair serums in moderation to avoid these potential drawbacks.

Editor's Notes

During our hair styling serum research, we found 48 hair styling serum products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 324,008 customer reviews through our big data system to write the hair styling serums list. We found that most customers choose hair styling serums with an average price of $14.51.

The hair styling serums are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of hair styling serums, including ORS, Dove, Olaplex, It's a 10 Haircare, Garnier. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 574 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by

Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.