A conversation with Sarah Åsard – Expert on Textured Hair

What does it really mean to take care of textured hair?

How do role models influence perceptions of self-image? 

And what are the most common myths about hair care?

We sat down with Sarah Åsard, a hairstylist and founder of Urban Hair in Stockholm, to dive into the world of curls, knowledge and the importance of finding the right routine – both for yourself and your children. 

"It took time to get to know my hair"

Sarah describes her own hair journey as a complex experience. For many years, she avoided her curls, but when she became pregnant with her daughter, who is now 14 years old, she began to explore and embrace her curls fully. Previously, she often straightened her hair and used hair extensions, but accepting and taking care of her natural hair was an important and rewarding process.

The perception of curly hair has changed

Much has changed since Sarah grew up. She remembers a time when curly hair was seen as “weird,” and many hid their natural curls. There were few role models to look up to, but today we see a change. With knowledge, a larger selection of products, and more role models with curly hair in the media, more children and young people can relate to their curls – representation is truly important!

How to take care of tangled hair

Finding a good hair care routine can feel overwhelming, especially for parents. Sarah shares her best tips for taking care of your own or your child's hair:

•  Get to know the hair. Understand how it reacts in different weather and environments.

• Adjust products according to needs. One product is rarely universal – think of situations like swimming pools, winter cold, or high humidity.

• Work with moisture. Apply conditioner before shampooing to protect the hair, shampoo, and finish with more conditioner.

• Brush with care. Do you have porous or dry hair? Try detangling with your fingers and conditioner instead of brushing. If you brush, start with a wide-toothed comb and work your way down.

Common mistakes – and how to avoid them

Many parents feel unsure about how to care for their children's curls. Sarah often sees that they wait too long between hair care sessions, which makes it harder to detangle knots. A common mistake is saving everything for the weekend. By then, the hair has already tangled! A better approach is to have a simple daily routine – just like with skin care.

How to make everyday life easier

Sarah's best tips!

•  Check through the hair every evening to prevent tangles.

• Lightly dampen the hair and spray with conditioner spray when the child comes home from school or before bedtime (soft and moisturized hair tangles less).

• Braid the hair to reduce knots.

• Quick refresh in the morning – dampen your hands, run them through the hair, and apply a bit of leave-in cream.

Is hair type the most important factor when choosing products?

No, Sarah believes. She would never recommend a product based solely on hair type; it involves multiple factors such as the thickness of the hair strands, porosity, how dry or oily the hair is, and whether it shrinks or falls freely. Therefore, it is important to test and adapt your routine.

How does Rufs work for your children?

Sarah has tested Rufs on her three children, all with different hair types. Her son has normally thick hair strands and uses shampoo, conditioner, and then leave-in. Her daughter has drier hair, which she braids with leave-in and moisturizes with conditioner spray before sleeping with a bonnet. Sarah feels that Rufs products fulfill an important need – to detangle and moisturize, which Rufs does really well!

Urban Hair – For Everyone with Textured Hair

Sarah's salon, Urban Hair, has been a well-established destination for 17 years for anyone seeking expertise in textured hair. You find the salon at Magnus Ladulåsgatan 32D in Stockholm.

#urbanhair