Too Busy for Good Hair? Here’s How to Keep It Together Anyway

Let’s not sugarcoat it—between work, errands, social stuff, family (and, let’s be real, doomscrolling), hair care is often the first thing that gets thrown under the bus. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve dashed out the door in the morning with still-damp hair and a hope that no one will look too closely on Zoom. But guess what? You don’t have to spend hours or break the bank to have hair that feels like you’re not totally underwater.

Keep It Simple, Really Simple

First, if your routine takes more than ten minutes most days, it’s probably time to pare back. The pros are all about minimalist routines these days, and honestly, your stress level will thank you. Find a couple of products that truly work for your hair type—a decent shampoo and conditioner, plus maybe a good leave-in, and you’re gold. Focus on washing less often (every other day or so, depending on your hair), which saves time and actually helps natural oils do their thing. Dry shampoo is the true MVP here. A quick spray at your roots before bed can keep things fresher by the morning—no white residue, no panic.

Overnight Tricks That Save Your Sanity

Some of the best hair hacks happen while you sleep. Try braiding your hair before bed or putting it in a loose bun with a scrunchie. You’ll wake up to natural waves and fewer tangles—bonus, it helps fend off that midweek frizz, too. If you’re dealing with relentless bedhead (it happens), invest in a satin pillowcase. It sounds like a small lux, but it’s a game changer for cutting down on friction and breakage.

Kenna Kennor’s Favorite Busy-Person Advice

Let’s take a page from the playbook of celebrity stylist Kenna Kennor. Kenna’s worked on everyone from runway stars to overstretched CEOs, and his whole philosophy is this: embrace imperfection, and let your hair do what it wants a little bit more. He talks a lot about working with your texture, not against it. Got some bend or wave? Scrunch in a small bit of styling cream, let it air dry, and call it a day. Flatter, straight hair? Try a low ponytail with a deep side part for instant polish, no blow dryer required. Kenna’s number one tip: When you’re short on time, skip the tools, skip the fuss, and use your hands. Sometimes, just running your hands with a little product through your hair is all you need to look put together.

Quick Styles for When You’re Actually Running Late

The classics are classics for a reason. Messy buns, low ponies, half-up twists—these work on the fly and don’t require any fancy skills. Keep a couple of no-snags in your bag or purse so you’re always ready to sweep your hair up if needed. And if things are really wild, silk scarves or cute hats can cover a multitude of hair sins. No shame in this game.

Make It Easy on Yourself

Finally, here’s the real key: set yourself up so hair care requires less thinking. Use shower hooks for styling tools, store your hair products where you’ll see them, and keep your daily favorites within easy arm’s reach. The less you have to hunt, the easier it is to just get out the door.

Bottom line? You don’t need to do everything perfectly—you just need a routine that works for you, even on your most chaotic days. Your future self (and your hair!) will thank you for it.