what does a hair primer do?

let us guess: you already use a makeup primer, helping set the stage for the products and techniques that come next in your makeup routine, right? the wizard detangling primer captures that same idea—it’s your do-it-all magic primer that detangles, smooths, and protects from heat in one easy prep step. want to dig into this multipurpose product more? read on and let’s detangle the details.
in this article:
- what is a hair primer?
- who should use a hair primer?
- when should you use a hair primer?
- what's the difference between the wizard + the wizard silicone-free?
what is a hair primer?
a hair primer is a multitasking hair product applied to hair before it’s styled. different hair primers offer different benefits; the wizard is our best-selling hair primer, and one of our stylist-trusted treatments that delivers real results.
as the name suggests, the wizard detangling primer is an amazing hair detangler. Amanda Killen, an amika pro-educator, says the wizard is key for “sealing hydration into damp hair while acting as a lubricant with avocado oil to help move tangles through and out of the hair when detangling.” avocado oil, one of the wizard’s standout ingredients, is full of protein, vitamin A, D, E, B6, amino acids, folic acid and minerals that promote smooth and moisturized hair. although most of the time stylists choose to use the wizard on wet hair, you can also use it on dry hair. it’s also super lightweight, doesn’t leave any residue or stiff feel, and makes hair look shiny and silky smooth.
another standout benefit of the wizard detangling primer is its ability to protect hair against heat damage and hot styling tools (up to 450°F). if you use heat styling tools frequently, you know a thermal protectant is essential for saving the integrity and health of your hair—especially if you have color- or chemically-treated hair or struggle with frizz control. the wizard acts as a barrier between the heat and the strand of hair.
who should use a hair primer?
this product can be used by just about everyone. "it truly never leaves my tray because I can use it on any client, with any hair type,” says amika lead pro educator Rashuna Durham. still, depending on the thickness and length of your hair, you may want to use less or more product. we encourage experimenting with the amount applied to find the best amount for you and your hair type!
even better: the wizard is also free of sulfates, parabens, phthalates, preservatives, gluten, mineral oil, sodium chloride, petrolatum and artificial colors. it’s also vegan, cruelty-free, and safe for color-treated, Brazilian-treated and keratin-treated hair.
when should you use a hair primer?
it's best applied after you’ve washed and towel-dried hair, before you apply other styling products. here's how to use it:
- evenly mist throughout damp hair from mid-lengths to ends.
- lightly detangle with fingers or wide-toothed comb.
- air dry for natural texture, or blow dry for a smooth finish.
what's the difference between the wizard + the wizard silicone-free?
while silicones add shine and lock in moisture, we know they're not in everyone's hair routine. so, the wizard detangling primer is also available in a silicone-free formula so everyone can get silky smooth hair in one easy prep step. choose your wizard accordingly!


