Your crowning glory, your mane event, your tresses…However you describe your hair, we all want to have that head-turning, luxurious and beautiful silhouette. But how to achieve it? Here are some quick tips to give you salon ready hair everyday.
Lather. Rince. Repeat.
Make sure to wash your hair thoroughly, there is a reason why the lovely girl or guy at the salon shampoos your hair twice. The first time is to get rid of all the grit, dust and build-up from everyday life and the second shampoo is to get right in there and cleanse your hair to make it super clean and shiny. Give this routine a go at home for gorgeous, salon looking locks.
Condition, Condition, Condition
Use conditioner every time you wash your hair – it will work like the ultimate moisturiser and keep your hair nourished and hydrated. Conditioner is essential no matter your hair type, but especially needed if you have curly or dry, frizzy hair. Once you start to condition your hair you will notice the positive effects almost immediately and you’ll never look back….well, maybe only to do a serious hair flick!
Brush Hair The Right Way
Make this your hair care mantra. Repeat after us: Do NOT brush your hair when it is wet. When hair is damp, the hair shafts are at their most weakest and are prone to breaking off easily. Pulling a brush through wet hair can cause serious damage to your luscious locks. Wait until it is dry to style if you have the time, if in a rush, pull it back into a low pony using one of those plastic clips which will be kinder to wet hair than regular hair ties.
Make Smart Investments
You consider your hair one of your top features? Invest in it, starting with high quality hair care products that are right for your hair type and, of course in your hair tools. Treat yourself to high end brushes, styling tools and products and your hair will thank you for it. Feeling anxious about spending extra $$? Don’t! Keep in mind that good quality products will last longer, so really, you are saving money AND saving your hair!
Colour Wisely
If you, like the majority of us (I might add), dye your hair, then you know what a minefield it can be in terms of errors of judgment. Make sure your new chosen shade matches your skin tone. Basic rule of thumb is: sallow skin works best with warm reds and berry tones, whilst cool shades are matched with skin that has a pink hue. If you are doing a home dye job, place petroleum jelly around your hairline to avoid that dreaded seepage, that can stay on your skin for a few days afterwards!
If you decide on treating yourself and getting your hair coloured in a salon, bring a photo with you of what you what to achieve and have a chat with the colourist before you begin.
No matter whether you go for salon or a bit of DIY, apply a mask to your hair the day before to prepare your tresses for the serious work ahead.
Wear Sunscreen
The sun – glorious and dangerous at the same time… especially for hair. Wear a sun protection oil or serum WHENEVER your hair is exposed to the sun. Even if the sun is hiding behind the clouds, it can still send its rays out and damage and dry out hair. Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise!
Be Smart About Updos
A simple ponytail or messy bun are the quickest solution to an unexpected bad hair day, or you may use them simply in rotation with other hair styles to vary your look. Either way, keep two things in mind: steer clear of rubber elastics or harsh metal hair-clips (opt for soft hair elastics and smooth hair grips instead) and avoid tying your hair too tightly, as both of these things can cause serious hair damage in the long run.
Give Your Hair Its Beauty Sleep
There are countless skin products specifically designed for night care, so why don’t we pay enough attention to our hair’s resting time? Ideally, try to sleep on a silk pillowcase to prevent friction that can lead to frizz and tangles. Alternatively, tie or braid your hair loosely to keep you from pulling at your hair and breaking it as you toss and turn during the night.
Keep Your Locks In Check
No need to keep your hairdresser on speed dial, but settling on a monthly or bi-monthly appointments will give your hair the extra love and attention it needs to thrive. It will also add to all your other efforts in keeping the condition of your hair in top shape.
Maintain Healthy Nutrition
Finally, a good diet and keeping hydrated will help your hair to stay healthy and nourished. Lots of water, fresh fruit and all that other good stuff will translate to beautiful hair. What you put in to your body really does make a difference. Even a slight change in your diet like upping your water intake will have an immediate effect.