Hair Tips 101.

                                         
As a hairstylist, I'm frequently asked if there is anything specific I do to make my hair long, shiny, smooth, texturized, healthy, etc. I can honestly say there are a number of things that I do that PERSONALLY work for me. Also, I'll list some facts I know that need to be shared so everyone can be more educated on hair. I hope you benefit from this post and find some helpful tips that will change the way you treat your hair. 

HAIR TIPS

• DO NOT wash your hair with scolding hot water! I know that there is nothing better than a nice, relaxing, steamy, warm shower but when it comes to shampooing and conditioning, turn the water level down to a more cool temperature when rinsing the product out. Hot water can dry out your hair, making it feel almost brittle and weak. With dryness comes dulness, making your hair not as shiny. Also, a dry scalp will cause dandruff and we all know how attractive white flakes are... not!!  
• Shampoo is not meant for your whole head of hair. You only need a little amount to get in the roots and mid shaft (middle of your hair strand.) When you rinse the shampoo out, the water will make the product slide through your ends and out. Placing shampoo on your ends will only dry your hair out more. 
• Conditioner was made for the ends of your hair!! If you have dry hair, than a hydrating conditioner will be your BFF. You can also give your hair a nice little treatment while your at it by LEAVING the conditioner in your hair for about 5-15 mins. If you have enough time then leave it in for 30-60 minutes. Go big or go home! Conditioner is what will help you with that shine and smoothness that you're looking for. 
• If you suffer with oily hair, then conditioning your hair can be tricky. Don't have the product touch your roots because if you do, it's pretty much game over right there ha. Make sure your shampoo is COMPLETELY rinsed out. Stay away from products that are creamy or oily. 
• If you suffer from dry hair, oils are great! Hydrating shampoos and conditioners are my most favorite things to use for my dry hair clients. 
• INVEST in good products! I know we all wish that money grew on trees and I understand that expensive products can be so frustrating, but the reason why some products are so pricey are from the ingredients in the products. Quality is everything! I'm not saying that all store bought products suck because they definitely don't, but if you can splurge on that conditioner, or texture spray, or heat protectant, your hair will thank you for it! 
• BLONDES: Educate yourself with your hair! Keep up on your toners. Typically toners last for about 4 weeks if using good products. When you notice your hair turning a little yellow and brassy, it's time to make an appointment. ASK YOUR STYLIST what you can do to help make your tones last longer. There are some great at home products out there that will help you keep your color fresh and looking great. 
• Stay up to date on your trims. Hair grows about 1/2 inch per month. So keep in mind that your ends need to be freshened up every 8 weeks. If your ends are transparent, then you're way overdue. 
• DO NOT over curl or straighten your hair. Think about it, your straightener is set for 350 degrees and going over your already straightened hair 3+ times is just giving your hair more damage and heat that it does not need. Also, USE a heat protectant! 
• DO NOT brush your hair when it's wet unless you have the right brush for it. Your hair is at its most vulnerable stage when wet so when you brush it, it can stretch causing it to break. If you need to brush your hair then look into the WetBrush. It's amazing and your hair will love you for it! 
• Diet can play a HUGE part in your hair. Well... lets be real, diet basically plays a huge part in everything! With hair, it can help with growth, shine, and many other beneficial things. Study certain foods and the nutrients they provide. It will reveal a whole new world to you and answer a lot of questions you might have. 
• Don't be afraid to ask your stylist questions about your hair! It's their job to keep you updated on what you need, what you're doing wrong, and what will be best for you personally. Educating yourself will only help you more so that you're completely aware of how your hair works.    

So those are just a few of my tips for now (I have plenty more :).) If you have any more specific questions, whether it be with hair styling, cutting, color, or health, I'm here to help! Just leave a comment below! 

xoxo