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What is hard water?

When we talk about hard water versus soft water, were not describing the waters density or feel. Waters hardness refers to its concentration of minerals. Pure water, like distilled water, is just H2Otheres nothing else in it, says Schwarcz. In contrast, water thats been in contact with the ground, such as water that comes out of our taps and showers, contains dissolved calcium and magnesium compounds.

Is that bad?

It could beat least when it evaporates: Hard water leaves behind some minerals that react with soap (specifically, glycerin and fatty acids that’s in all soap) and forms a precipitate, says Schwarcz. Precipitates are better known as soap scumthat gross white film that develops in tubs, sinks and showers.Soap scum is actually why detergents were invented. Detergents (an umbrella term that includes shampoo and laundry detergent), are specifically made with surfactants instead of glycerin and fatty acids because those ingredients dont react with the minerals in water and therefore dont leave behind soap scum.

Okay, does that mean hard water is bad for my hair?

No, especially if you wash your hair with shampoo. Shampoos were developed to counteract the reaction between minerals in the water, says Schwarcz. And, even if you wash your hair with hard water without shampoo, you will get a precipitate thats going to stay behind on your hair, but it’s not going to have any effect on the growth of your hair, he says. However, its possible hard water will make hair less shiny and maybe a bit weighed down because of the minerals left behind.

Are products that claim to counter the effects of hard water useful?

Some products, like clarifying shampoos and water softeners, claim to help tackle the effects of soap scum. But Schwarcz says, its just a marketing technique. As long as you use shampoo, there’s no need for special products.Next: Why You Should Tell Your Derm About Hair Loss

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How do you know if you need clarifying shampoo?

There are a few tell-tale signs that your hair is in need of it.Youll notice that your hair is a little bit sticky, says Lee. Or you might notice that your ends are really slippery when theyre wet, but hard to comb out. The stickiness is from stubborn hair products staying in your hair, even after shampooing.You might also notice that your hair colour is a little different, he says. For example, youre blonde and your colour is now darker or almost dirty-looking. A clarifying shampoo can help it feel soft and smooth again and may even get its brightness back. But, Lee says, if you notice the tone of your blonde is more yellow or brassy, youll need a purple shampoo to restore its colour.

Should clarifying shampoo replace your everyday shampoo?

Clarifying shampoo is more of a treatment than an everyday product, so Lee says you should use it just once or twice a week. Use it until you feel youre happy with the results, and then immediately cut back to your regular shampoo, he says. Then, you can use it just once a month or so to prevent build-up in the first place.

Can you overuse it?

While clarifying shampoo has many benefits, it can strip your hair of its natural oils and make it dry, and it can strip dyed hair of its colour or change its hue.Lee recommends only using clarifying shampoo if you notice those signs of build-up (to review: stickiness, slipperiness, darker blonde hue, if youre fair-haired), and as a monthly treatment to help prevent it.

How do you use it?

Its used just like a normal shampoo. Wet your hair, apply the product, lather it up, scrub it in and rinse it out. And dont forget to use conditioner (whichever one youre currently using) afterward, to keep hair moisturized.

Is there anyone who shouldnt use it?

Lee says people with dry or fine hair and those with naturally coily hair shouldnt use clarifying shampoo often, as those hair types tend to be drier and more fragile. I would use it once a week at most and stop as soon as you reach your desired results. Have medium to thick hair? You can use clarifying shampoo until you dont have that sticky feeling anymore, he says.But people with dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis or eczema should be more careful. Clarifying shampoo can exacerbate those conditions, since it can dry out your scalp, so Lee recommends seeing a doctor for recommendations on detoxing shampoos instead.Next: Whats a Scalp Serum and Do I Need One?

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1. Avoid chemicals

Many of the unpronounceable ingredients on shampoo and conditioner labels come with safety concerns. Possible carcinogen and hormone disrupter diethyl phthalate (DEP) helps hair products hold fragrance. Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) makes shampoo foam up, but it irritates skin and could be cancer-causing. Parabens work as a preservative, but they’ve been found in breast cancer tumour tissue, says Rick Smith, executive director of Environmental Defence, and coauthor of Slow Death By Rubber Duck. He suggests washing less often or buying products without these ingredients.

2. Use less water

When you’re not washing your hair every day, you reduce your water consumption, which has environmental benefits. (I’ve found, on non-hair-wash days, a quick splash on my body from the tub faucet is all I need.) But also, reducing how much water your hair is exposed to is good for your locks, especially if you colour as the heat and minerals in your shower water strips colour from your strands. “Water alone can be responsible for 80 percent of colour fade,” says Jeni Thomas, principal scientist for P&G Beauty and Grooming in Cincinnati, OH. She recommends that when you do wash your hair, you expose it to as little water as possible.(Also, learn how bad it is to go straight to bed with wet hair.)

3. Save time

Washing, conditioning and styling takes up a heck of a lot of time in the morning. When you wash your hair less often, you gain time to do other healthful things like taking a morning jog or sleeping in. Having some tricks to extend the time between hair washings lets you be more flexible. For instance, hold off on washing before a midday swim (a favourite trick of mine) or take a full shower after an evening tennis game.

4. Get healthier hair

The folks who don’t wash their hair for months on end claim that when they stop washing, their hair eventually produces less scalp oil, which is called sebum. The result: hair that’s shiny, moist and healthy ‘ never greasy. Thomas agrees that sebum is good for your hair: “Scalp oils have a naturally protective quality they’re nature’s conditioner.”However, Thomas says there are no published studies showing sebum works on a supply and demand model. “What you do when you remove oils is more of an external effect,” she says. “I don’t know of any proof that this can impact the underlying biological process.”(See what happened when we tried Everists Waterless Shampoo.)

5. Get to know your locks

In the end, I was able to go just two weeks without washing my hair. But brushing and talc was enough to keep grease at bay for about a week at a time. After a summer of infrequent washing, I improved my scalp health (all that brushing removed traces of dandruff), but I mainly learned a whole lot about my hair and let go of my own rigid rules about when it needed to be washed. I found my locks had more body when dirty than clean, and I could easily go three days without washing. But as a regular lap swimmer with thin hair, I also found that shampoo was something I did need, at least a few times a week.

How you can stretch the time between washes

• When you do wash, Toronto hairstylist Harry Josh says to really clean your scalp to rid it of oils.
• Brush your hair nightly with a boar bristle brush. This redistributes the sebum in your hair, moving it from your oily scalp down to the dry ends.
• Use dry shampoo on bangs to tame oil. Find a coloured talc so you don’t get a funny white residue at your roots.
• When things get nasty, “wash” your hair with a baking soda and water paste and rinse it out with diluted vinegar.

Next: How to Do a 90s Blowout at Home

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This Company Is Bringing Ethiopian-Grown Teff to Canada

This Soap Brand Is Sharing the Healing Power of Inuit Tradition

This Canadian Soap Brand is Rooted in Korean Bathhouse Culture

Meet Sisters Sage, an Indigenous Wellness Brand Reclaiming Smudging

Get more great stories delivered straight to your inbox by signing up for the Best Health Must-Reads newsletter.Subscribe here.

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The Inkey List Salicylic Acid Exfoliating Scalp Treatment

This lightweight, fragrance-free serum helps get rid of flakes and itchiness with salicylic acid, which gently exfoliates the scalp and balances out oi levels, while a mix of hydrating ingredients moisturizes it at the same time. But just like with your face, Abdulla warns that when it comes to exfoliating, less is moreover-exfoliating can make things worse. There will always be exceptions, particularly if were dealing with diagnoses that are more advanced, she says. But typically, once to twice a week is the sweet spot.$19, ca.theinkeylist.com

Krastase Specifique Serum Potentialiste

The hydrating serum is loaded with a healthy prebiotic and a vitamin C derivative to protect the scalps microbiome from the damaging effects of pollution and help hair adhere more strongly at the roots.$80, kerastase.ca

Aveda Invati Advanced Scalp Revitalizer

Heres something I learned from Abdulla that I never wanted to know: With every decade your hair follicles get a little sadder smaller, leading to ever-thinner hair. This formula tries to stave off the inevitable by using tangerine peel, Japanese knotweed, ginseng and turmeric to support hairs natural keratin and amla leaves to make hair look more pumped up at the roots. Its a leave-on formula that youre meant to massage in daily, but its not greasy and can be used on wet or dry hair.$90, aveda.ca

Moroccanoil Dry Scalp Treatment

This delicious-smelling rinse-out formulageranium and lavender blend for the win!is also formulated with salicylic acid to gently exfoliate the scalp. Vitamin E and argan oil are added to the mix for a moisturizing punch.$48, sephora.com

JVN Complete Pre-Wash Scalp Oil

This nutrient-packed pre-wash oil from my personal bestie Queer Eyes Jonathan Van Ness’s line uses sugarcane-derived hemi-squalane to strengthen hair, basil root extract to minimize breakage and neem extract and bisabolol to soothe itchy scalps. A yummy scent blend of amber and cashmere musk with lemon and mandarin doesnt hurt either.$38, sephora.com

Hair Rituel by Sisley Paris

Ok, this baby isnt cheap, but at least its a time-limited programkind of like a luxurious visit to French hair rehab. You use a few pipettes every other day for a month and then twice-a-week for maintenance to juice up your follicles with this super-light mix. The formula includes vitamins and minerals like vitamin H, known for treating hair loss, arginine (an amino acid that is part of the proteins found in hair keratin), and soothing alpha-bisabolol (a component of chamomile) to calm irritated scalps.$265, sisley-paris.comNext: The Root Cause of Thinning Hair and Hair Loss for Women

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Keep this in mind the next time you go to pull out grey hairs

The hair will generally grow back, but it will still be grey, says Toronto dermatologist Dr. Martie Gidon. Grey hair already has a coarser texture than naturally pigmented hair, and it will grow back as coarse as before it was pulled.Hairdresser Marc Anthony, whose eponymous line of hair care products is sold in drugstores worldwide, says if you see a white bulb at the plucked hairs root, thats normal. However, if you pull a hair out and its root tip is red, youve probably pulled out a hair from the blood supply, in which case it will most likely not grow back.Gidon says its also possible a new replacement hair can become ingrown before it grows out, which could lead to the possibility of infection, then scarring.

If I pull out grey hairs, will more grow in their place?

That wont happen, but it is better to leave it be, says Anthony. There are so many options for grey hair these daysincluding just leaving it grey.

Why not leave your grey strands alone?

If you do that, focus on giving hair shine, and consider a clear gloss salon treatment, suggests Anthony.Also, a shampoo thats blue-based (for grey hair) or violet-based (for blonde, white or grey) will help keep your hair looking brilliant versus dull and yellowish, he says.Tobacco smoke, sunlight and wax-based hair products can give grey hair a yellow tinge, so try to avoid them. If you want to cover the first signs of grey, he suggests a semi-permanent rinse, or highlights: A few highlights that complement your natural colour can work to camouflage grey.

Don’t want to embrace the grey hair? Load on some colour

Book your colour service on a regular interval that you are able to live with, says Larive, who owns the CAJH Matres Coiffeurs salon in Montreal. I usually say every four to six weeks.For those who colour their hair at home, Larive recommends permanent dye John Frieda Precision Foam Colour. Its easy to use and covers pesky grey hairs. The non-drip foam formula gives full coverage and helps avoid a mess.Next: 38 Secrets Your Hair Stylist Wont Tell You

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The clients I dread the most are those who say things like Do whatever you want

Or: “Im pretty easy to work with.” Nine times out of ten, its not true.Sign up for our Must Reads newsletter for feel-good tips, beauty product recommendations and delicious recipes!

We know you hate the word bleach

So we use words like lightener and decolourizer. But no matter how we prettify the language, if were lifting a dark colour out of your hair, were using bleach.(Related: 9 Things Youre Doing to Your Hair That a Stylist Wouldnt)

Yes, I keep notes about you on your client card, and they can get pretty personal

I may note that you dont tip well or that you talked loudly about how drunk you were last night. I may also write down that youre going through a divorce or that youre into tennis so I can remember to ask you about those things next time.

After youve been late a few times, I ask our receptionist to say your appointment is at 2

But really it’s 2:30.(Here’s why you may want to stop washing your hair.)

If theres one rule to live by, its this:

Dont make your first appointment with me on a Saturday. Thats our busiest day, and I wont be able to give you the time and attention you want and deserve.

Find out whether your salon offers a discount if you get a cut and a colour together

Ask for one if it doesnt. Doing a cut and colour together eliminates some steps and should save you about 20 percent.

Its fine to use Groupon or another social media site to save money on your hairstyling

But be wary of salons that offer deals all the time. Thats not a good sign.

Thin hair doesnt have to be worn short

I had a client who wore her super-thin hair short for years because she thought she had to. I finally talked her into growing it out into a stacked bob, and everyone now says she looks incredible.(Here’s what you need to know about thinning hair.)

Always dry your hair completely before using a hot tool like a curling iron or a flat iron

If your hair still contains moisture, the iron will damage your hair and prevent hair growth.

Sometimes when I dont have a clients coloureither because were out of it or because I forgot to write it down last timeI dont say anything and just mix something new.

If you think Im applying what you had before, youre much less likely to complain.(Ready to go back to your roots? Get your virgin hair back withthese hairstylist-approved tips.)

I know youve heard you shouldnt wash your hair before getting an updo, because a little grit can help maintain the style

But please dont show up with hair thats greasy, tangled, or smelly. Wash it the night before, and dont put any styling products in it. That way, we can start fresh and create our own texture.

Every year after school starts, at least one mom brings in her daughter with hair down to her waist and tells us to give her a pixie cut.

We know whats going on: a lice infestation. But when we point out the nits and tell the mom we cant do the cut, she always acts surprised and says, I didnt know. Were thinking, Yeah, right. To save the embarrassment for all involved, get the situation under control before your appointment.(Here’s why you may want to start caring for your scalp.

We dont wash your hairwe shampoo it

When were trying to make you feel pampered, we tell you we are going to shampoo your hair. We just cant use the same word you use for doing dishes.

Im a beautician, not a magician

I can give you Gisele Bndchens haircut, but I cant give you her face.

Come at least five minutes early

If youre running late, please call ahead. Show me some basic respect. This is a business, not fun and games.

Dont ask me to squeeze you in

My work takes time. When a client says she’s in a rush, I tell her she needs to schedule her time better. If Im already booked, Id be taking time and effort away from other clients. You wouldnt like being treated that way.(Also, here’s why you should tell not your hairstylist but your dermatologist about hair loss.)

Im not a psychologist

Hairdresser school does not teach about counter transference, projection, negative reinforcement, or personality disorders. If youre looking for a therapist, all I have is a tail comb and an opinion.

Layers are the magic remedy

Some women think that if they keep their hair all one length the way it was in high school, everyone will think theyre still in high school. Guess what? Youre not.

Bodies and hair change as hormones change

If your hair is dry, listless, or brittle, or if its not holding your colour or style the way it used to, see a doctor. If your hair isnt over-processed, you could be pregnant (surprise!) or menopausal (yes, I can tell).(Considering a hairline tattoo? Here’s what you need to know.)

A trim is not “just a trim”

It requires my expertise, skill, knowledge, and time. Would you say to your dentist, Its just a tooth, or to your doctor, “Its just a leg”?

A dollar doesnt buy anything anymore

That loonie you stuff into the shampoo persons hands isnt doing her any favours. You should tip them more(more if your hair is long).

Let me do my job

If you want to buy a bottle of colour and do your own hair to save a buck, you can live with the consequences.(Ready to let your greys shine? Here’s how to care for grey hair.)

Take a picture

Some clients will say, “Cut my hair just like you did last time.” That always baffles me. The average time between appointments is six to eight weeks. I have hundreds of clients. How am I supposed to remember exactly how I did your hair the last time? If you want a carbon copy of a cut and style you loved, take a picture and show me.

Kids’ haircuts aren’t child’s play

Why do you think a childs haircut should cost less than yours? Kids dont sit still. Kids kick. Its an intense experience.

Standing all day and using scissors and a blow-dryer takes its toll

I have arthritis in my fingers, calcium deposits in my wrist, and 10 percent less hearing than I used to. I am a physical wreck.

We see women at their worst

Their hair is wet, they have foils on their hair, they have no makeup on. Theres nothing for them to hide behind. So they tell us everything. The truth is, I really dont care about their personal lives. Im only interested in their hair.

I’ll work hard to make you happy and I’ll want you to like it

After you leave my salon, I’ll worry about what you think. (I work on people, not on cars on an assembly line.) And if you feel like calling to tell me how happy you are with my work, you will make me smile.

For stylists, tips should be 15 to 20 percent of the total cost of your bill.

They are a significant portion of my pay. If you tip me, I’ll remember. And yes, salon owners who style hairdo appreciate tips and want them.(Want salon results at home? Here’s how to DIY a 90s blowout.)

Sure, you can bring your child or your dog in

As long as you control them. One of my clients used to bring her Great Dane to all her appointments. He would curl up in the corner and sleep the entire time, so I don’t mind. But if your baby or your dog starts bothering me or the other people in the salon, I won’t be so easygoing.

I need to charge you for my time

No matter what you’re having done. I am a trained professional. I’m in the business of making you look good.

Your hair showcases my work

So it’s in my best interest for you to look good.(Related: Here’s an ingredient that can fix all your hair woes.)

I am not all things to all people

I don’t have manicurists or masseuses in my salon because I’m a hairstylist.(Also, you may want to learn about the styling mistakes that are giving you split ends.)

I’m not in this business to make hundreds of thousands of dollars

I just want to make a decent, comfortable living, and at the end of the day, go home.

Men will tell you things they won’t tell their wives

“My throat hurts.” “My back aches.” They want a little sympathy, which maybe they can’t get at home because their wives have heard it all before, or they’re not listening. So they tell us. It’s the only place they can unload.

Spend a little money on the right products

Hot water removes colour. The sun can dry your hair. So protect it as you would your skin. Cover it when you’re outside in the sun. Wash and condition it properly.(These ingestible beauty products can improve your hair, too.)

If you cancel at the very last minute

That’s lost money to me. I can’t fill that appointment with little or no notice. Please manage your time appropriately.

Putting too much junk in your hair will almost always kill a look

The market is saturated with every possible product to make thin hair thick, dull hair shiny, and curly hair straight. But more is not more. Your hair wants to be healthy. That doesnt mean trying to totally recreate it every day. Just help it a little. Let it do its thing.

Do not attempt hairstylist-speak

Do you really know what “thinning” or “graduation” mean? Leave the terminology to the professionals.Sources: Hairstylists Dawn Trudden in Wellington, Florida; Ericka Sandstrom in Aurora, Illinois; Megan Moore in Salt Lake City, Utah, who blogs at thebeautysnoop.com; and Jenny Strebe in Scottsdale, Arizona, who blogs at theconfessionsofahairstylist.com.Next, learn the secrets nutritionists won’t tell you for free.

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What are waterless shampoos?

Traditional shampoos are about 70 to 95 percent water, so youre usually slathering mostly water onto your already wet scalp whenever youre washing your hair. In contrast, waterless shampoos contain just the active ingredients and cut out the water content, making the packaging lighter and, since the formula is concentrated, the product is also meant to last longer (Everist says that each 100mL tube is meant to last about three months).Everists product contains plant-based ingredients like aloe vera, vegetable glycerine and coconut-derived cleansersthere are no harmful chemicals like parabens, sulfates, silicones or dyes. Another huge plus for Everists shampoo formula is that its pH balanced. A lot of products on the market are detergent or soap-based, which tend to have a higher pH (usually around 9 or 10) which can be good for adding volume but is way too alkaline for hair and leads to dryness, breakage and frizziness. Shampoos that pH balanced are naturally acidic, like our hair, to avoid making the scalp too alkaline.And, as an added bonus, waterless shampoos are travel friendly. Since theres no liquid content, they can be packed in a carry-on for flights (remember those?!). Plus, it minimizes the fear of shampoo spilling in your luggage(RIP my makeup brushes that were rendered useless after a shampoo bottle opened in my overnight bag).(Related:7 Dry Hair Tips to Keep Your Locks Happy)

How do you use waterless shampoos?

Once your hair is wet just squeeze the shampoo into your hands. According to Everists website, you should use half an inch for short hair, one inch for medium-length hair and an inch and a half for long, very thick hair. Once you have the appropriate amount dispensed, rub your hands together to activate the formula. From there, you use waterless shampoos just like normal shampoo: work the product through your hair to build a lather and rinse.

Is there anything I should beware of when using waterless shampoos?

Any skin or self-care product can be overused, says Dr. Monica Li, a Vancouver-based dermatologist and clinical instructor at the department of dermatology and skin science at the University of British Columbia.Using too much product can cause the scalp skin to become dry, flaky and itchy, says Li. If the scalp becomes further irritated, itll lead to inflammation, slowing of hair growth and even hair loss. Li notes that dandruff might be a sign that your scalp is overly washed. To avoid irritation, follow the product’s instructions carefully to ensure youre using the right amount.Aside from overuse, waterless shampoos generally work as effectively as traditional shampoos in cleaning the scalp and removing excess oil and debris from your hair.(Related:Is the Manta Hair Brush Worth The Hype?)

So, are waterless shampoos effective?

In short, yes! I was super excited to try a waterless shampoo, since Im always looking for ways to cut down on plastics and Ive been a long-time shampoo bar convert. While it took me a couple tries to get the right amount (I couldnt figure out if my hair was medium-length or long, especially since its so thick), once I had mastered squeezing the perfect amount of product for my hair, it was smooth sailing.I have pretty greasy hair so Im always on the lookout for a shampoo thatll soak up all that oil without stripping away moisture. I was pleasantly surprised with how the shampoo left my hair feeling fresh and clean, natural moisture still intact. Plus, I absolutely loved the experience of using the product: it smelled lovely (like rosemary, sage and orange), I got a good amount of lather, it spread well and felt super creamy in my hands. In fact, Ive been using Everists shampoo for a little over a month now, and I havent had any problems with greasiness, which is usually an issue for me in the warmer months as Im sweating more.Overall, I really enjoyed using Everists waterless shampoo and I plan to continue using itespecially when you factor in the environmental win.Everist Waterless Shampoo Concentrate, $28, helloeverist.comNext, this is what you need to know about scalp care.

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Best Hair Products for Frizzy Hair

Researchers say that acceptance starts with acknowledgement, so here we go: Frizz is a fact of life, and it begins the moment you step out of the shower. Frizzy hair is truly the great equalizer of humankind because everyone’s bound to wind up with a humidity-provoked pouf once in a while, regardless of hair texture or length.The main reason for this problem, to put it simply, is a moisture imbalance, which causes the moisture particles to reshuffle in an attempt to create balance, and that can lead to dry hair in the winter and frizz in the summer. Luckily, the best frizzy hair products can change everything.”Frizzy hair does not have to be permanent,” reassures Taliah Waajid, a natural hair entrepreneur. “Keep your hair and scalp clean, reduce the amount of heat that you use on your hair, and use products that contain ingredients to help reduce frizz.And there are tons of products to choose fromwhich is great but also a little overwhelming. Thats why we talked to pro stylists to get the scoop on exactly what you need, for every type of hair, styling preference, and budget. From the best shampoos for curly hair and conditioners that smooth strands to miracle serums and rich oils, these expert-recommended options will tame frizzy hair.(Related: Do Shampoo Bars Work?)

Ouai Air Dry Foam

$37,sephora.comFor not-quite-straight but not-quite-curly type 2 hair, celebrity hairstylist Andrew Fitzsimons’ go-to style is the model-off-duty vibe of effortless beach waves. And to make the styling actually effortless, he suggests scrunching Ouai’s wave-activating, anti-frizz foam to damp strands. Just make sure to avoid the root, he says, because although this hair texture isn’t as prone to oiliness as super straight hair, it’s not completely free of the easy-to-grease struggle. This deliciously scented formula filled with kale extract allows damp hair to air-dry into waves of perfection with no frizz in sight.(Related:Everything You Need to Know About Scalp Care, the Latest Trend in Skin Care)

R+Co Motorcycle Flexible Gel

$31, beautysense.ca

“I’m a big fan of gel, even though a lot of people’s lasting impression with gels is how they were in the ’90scrunchy, flaky, too hard in the hair,” explains Brown. “But a lot of gels can do a great job of protecting our hair, especially in the warmer climate, to stop it from getting too frizzy.” Today’s flexible-hold gels are actually capable of bouncy movement, like R+Co’s Motorcycle Flexible Gel. This must-have frizzy hair product is packed with an impressive number of nourishing ingredients, like coconut oil, sunflower seed extract, keratin, and argan oil, which all work together to keep frizz in check without sacrificing hair’s structure or form.

(Related:How to Do a 90s Blowout at Home)

Flawless by Gabrielle Union Hydrating Curl Refresher Spray

$14.50, sallybeauty.caIf you think humidity has thwarted your good hair day, think again. “When you have frizzy hair and you want to get that smooth texture, definition, and moisture back, Flawless has an amazing refresher spray that will bounce your hair back from that frizzy texture to a more patterned, consistent, and defined texture with great moisture,” raves Larry Sims, the hairstylist Gabrielle Union-Wade and Zendaya have on speed dial. He suggests spritzing strands and blending into the root close to the face, and then moving on to his favourite styling technique: the scrunch-and-go. Do this toward the middle and the back of the hair, starting at the bottom and working your way up to sculpt curls back into line.But one word of caution: “The more you touch your hair, the frizzier it becomes and the more disrupted the definition,” he says. So refresh, then hands off!(Related:38 Secrets Your Hair Stylist Wont Tell You)

Leonor Greyl Paris clat Naturel

$60, ssense.com“I like a lightweight cream, such as clat Naturel by Leonor Greyl, to tame frizz and flyaways,” says Alex Brown, a Chicago-based celebrity hairstylist,of this super versatile cream that’s one of the best products for frizzy hair. “It doesn’t weigh hair down, but keeps frizz in check without ever feeling hard or sticky.”Comb a pea-sized amount of this jojoba-oil-filled styling cream into damp hair before blow-drying for a high-gloss finish. To flatten rogue flyaways on dry hair, warm up an even smaller amount in your palms and nudge the errant strands into place.(Related:The Trendy Hair Product Ingredient That Fixes All Your Hair Woes)

Briogeo Farewell Frizz Blow Dry Perfection Heat Protectant Cream

$30, sephora.com

Before heat-stylingwhether you’re using a blow-dryer, diffuser, curler, or straightenerNew York City salon owner Nunzio Saviano stresses the need for frizzy-hair types to prep their hair before even thinking about touching a heat-styling product. Depending on hair thickness, squeeze one to two quarter-size dollops into your palms before “coating the hair shaft, starting mid-shaft and working your way down,” explains Saviano, adding that you should steer clear of the root, especially if you have fine or thin hair.

(Related:This Is How Bad It Is to Sleep with Wet Hair)

Oribe Curl Control Silkening Crme

$52, sephora.com

Perk up dry, lackluster curls with Oribe’s richly moisturizing blend of avocado, apricot, and coconut oils. Don’t be fooled by the airiness of this frizzy hair productit’s a total powerhouse that encourages curls to snap into their natural, defined shape. “Curl creams really add an impactful amount of moisture to your hair,” says Sims. “It definitely locks into the texture so it won’t frizz as fast, even with high levels of humidity.” These buttery textures, although they don’t feel thick, provide a heavy-duty coating, which is exactly what you want to minimize frizz, retain moisture, and hold your curl definition. And no complaints here about the jolt of glossy shine.

(Related:These Hair Mistakes Are Giving You Split Ends)

Pattern Leave-In Conditioner

USD$25, patternbeauty.comNaturally frizzy hair needs extra protection against humidity to keep curls intact. When hair is damp, smooth in this leave-in conditioner from Pattern that’s perfect for curls, coils, and tight natural textures. This humectant-enriched formula balances moisture levels and tames unruly tresses. If you need a touch-up, glide a little over dry hair to tame flyaways and add a bit of hold to maintain frizz-free style from morning till night.(Related: How to Properly Wash Your Hair)

K18 Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair Mask

$89, k18hair.caExtremely effective for all hair types and textures, this leave-in hair mask has been clinically proven to reverse hair damage by diving into hair at the cellular level to reconnect broken keratin chains and fortify hair structure. “While the frizz-controlling stylers I recommend depend on specific hair types, the K18 mask is one product that I recommend to every client, regardless of texture,” says Anabel Santos, a stylist at Sally Hershberger Nomad. “It significantly minimizes frizz with both immediate and continued use.”(Related:12 Beauty Essentials for Healthy Summer Skin and Hair)

Taliah Waajid Repair & Restore Hair Strengthening Masque

USD$11, naturalhair.org“All hair is different, but even if your hair type is 1, never skip a biweekly deep conditioning,” says Mane Addicts’ Sabrina Porsche, who has a client list that reads like a Who’s Who of Hollywood (think Beyonc, Jennifer Lopez, and Solange). That said, thick hair requires mega moisture. Annagjid “Kee” Taylor, owner of the Philadelphia salon Deeper Than Hair, suggests weekly deep-conditioning treatments for hair type 3 and above, as they “need a bit more oomph in their products,” she says. “Look for creams, and be consistent with masking and treatments to maintain your hair’s moisture and elasticity.”Taliah Waajid’s Repair & Restore Hair Strengthening Masque nourishes strands and smooths the cuticle with shea butter, honey, and banana to bring dull, dehydrated hair back to life.(Related:Its Time to Try the No Poo Method of Hair Care)

Krastase 8H Magic Night Hair Serum

$68, sephora.comThink of this magical overnight hydrating serum as a superhero on a mission to moisturize dried-out locks. Jam-packed with a five-vitamin blend, along with proteins, this frizzy hair product’s nutrients soak deep into each strand for a full, restorative eight hours. “It softens and detangles the hair, so you wake up with smoother, healthier, frizz-free hair,” says Saviano. Not to mention, silky-soft, protected, and richly aromatic hair.(Related: How to Trim Your Hair at Home)

MoroccanOil Treatment

$50, sephora.com

For coarse strands, hairstylist and founder of Fatboy Tyson Kennedy recommends mixing a putty or pomade with a couple of drops of MoroccanOil pure argan oil and applying it from roots to ends. “Comb through the hair, and then run your hands through to add separation. If you have longer hair, you can twist it to create beachy waves in the front.”

(Related:A Good Hair Day is Historically Proven to Boost Your Mood)

Olaplex No. 6 Bond Smoother Reparative Styling Creme

$38, sephora.com

“This leave-in reparative bond smoother is incredible for frizzit’s honestly one of the best things,” says Christin Brown. “I can use it in conjunction with other product lines, and it just does an incredible job of being that moisturizing baseline. Whatever you cocktail with it, or if you’ve decided to use it by itself, it combats frizz, whether it’s in a winter, spring, or summer.”

(Related:How a Celebrity Hairstylist Gets Her Clients Hair So Good)

Sally Hershberger 24K Golden Touch Nourishing Dry Oil

$28.30, tsc.ca

“This is my all-time favourite oil to fight frizz,” says Santos, especially if you’re looking to sport a pin-straight look in the summer heat. Work one to two pumps into damp hair, mid-shaft to ends, to keep your style straight and smooth, and follow with a blowout, if that’s your vibe. “This formulation is perfect for all textures to not only smooth frizz but also provide protection against UV rays, heat styling, and colour fade,” Santos adds. And for the real clincher: Your hair will look super smooth and shiny after you use it!

(Related:7 Sneaky Reasons Your Hair May Be Turning Grey)

Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer

$500, sephora.comPowerful, hushed, and armed with the ability to decrease frizzy flyaways by up to 61 percent, Dyson’s OG Supersonic Hair Dryer changed the game completely. With its Tesla-style high-tech featuresour favourite is the intelligent heat control, which measures air temperature more than 40 times per second to prevent heat-styling damagethis tool not only dries hair faster than your average dryer, but it also increases smoothness by 75 percent and boosts shine by up to 132 percent for a total root-to-strand makeover. Plus, it works for all four hair types to show your frizz who’s the boss.(Related: 7 Steps for Growing Out Your Hair, According to a Pro Stylist) 

Aquis Waffle Luxe Hair Turban

$53, sephora.com

Excessive towel-drying can disrupt hair’s natural texture and rough up the cuticle. In fact, Christin Brown recommends forgoing any kind of drying towel for at least the first five minutes post-shower. “You want your hair to have time to absorb the water that it needs to make a hydrated curl or strand,” she explains. “If you do it right away, you’re removing too much moisture quickly, and your hair could be way thirstier than you think.”

Instead, try a high-tech microfiber towel woven with moisture-wicking strands that are finer than silk to sop up dripping, just-hopped-out-of-the-shower-five-minutes-ago hair. You’ll go from drenched to damp in half the time, and prevent friction and frizz in the process.

(Related:Your Mane Course: Were Dishing Out the Right Way to Care for Your Locks)

Olaplex No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo

$38, sephora.com“A big favourite is the Olaplex No. 4,” says Christin Brown of this cult-favourite frizzy hair product. “When I cleanse my client’s hair with the No. 4, I get a really good detangling with it, which is kind of rare for a shampoo, but the perk of that, especially with super curly and tightly coiled hair, is that it helps break apart tangles a little bit easier so you can navigate hair quicker, your arm won’t get tired, and you’re more apt to follow through with your wash-day regimen instead of giving up and ending up with a puffy root and defined end.”(Related:How to Repair Damaged Hair with Items You Already Have at Home)

African Pride Moisture Miracle Pre-Shampoo

$9.50, houseofbeautyworld.com

There’s a new pre-wash hair category called “pre-poo,” and it’s actually a really clever addition to any anti-frizz regiment. “Pre-treating the hair with an amazing detangling product called a ‘pre-poo’ will soften, hydrate, and smooth the hair for maximum control before shampooing,” says Robin Groover, brand educator for African Pride and owner of Too Groovy Salon in Atlanta. Frizz often turns hair into a wiry, knotty mess in mere minutes, and diving straight into a wash would make it worse before better. If you can spare a few extra minutes on wash day, a moisturizing pre-poo will make the entire process feel easier. Trust us.

(Related:3 Essential Ways to Care for Your Hair This Summer)

Living Proof No Frizz Conditioner

$38, sephora.com“Hydrating conditioners are a must to prevent frizz,” says Porsche. “A good anti-frizz conditioner will contain proteins, like keratin, wheat, oak, and silk, as well as ingredients that seal the moisture into your hair via oils like argan, coconut, shea butter, olive, jojoba, or grapeseed.” Specifically developed to fight frizz in all hair types, this feather-light conditioner is clinically proven to smooth strands and block humidity, thanks to the brand’s patented, MIT-approved Healthy Hair Molecule. It’s hydrating, yet weightless enough for even the thinnest and finest frizz-prone hair textures to use on the reg.Next: Is the Manta Hair Brush Worth The Hype?

The post 18 Products to Tame Frizzy Hair appeared first on Best Health.

How much to tip your hairdresser for a haircut

Hopping in the salon chair for a cut? If so, you may be wondering how much to tip your hairdresser. Davis says any tip is highly appreciated, but the best way to tip is to leave an extra 18-20 percent if you enjoyed the service.

How much to tip your hairdresser for colour and highlights

Alright, let’s say you really want to change things up and get some new colour in your locks. How much should you tip your hairdresser for this service? According to Toth, most clients tip 20 percent for colour services. Toth also says you can ask the front desk to calculate 20 percent of the service, but if you buy haircare products at the salon, make sure their cost is not included in the tip’s calculation. If your hairdresser really blew you away with their service, feel free to tip more.(Related: 9 Things Youre Doing to Your Hair That a Stylist Wouldnt)

Should you tip your hairdresser if you use a gift certificate?

Let’s say a loved one gets you a gift certificate to your salon. Technically, the service is prepaid for, so should you still tip your hairdresser? Toth says it’s still nice to tip if you’re using a gift certificate. Some salons may let you leave a tip with the money on the gift certificate, but if you aren’t sure if that’s allowed, call the salon ahead of time and ask. That way, you aren’t left accidentally stiffing your hairdresser.

How much should you tip your hairdresser during the holidays?

Ah, the holidays. A time of cheer, gratitude, and lots of social events you want to look your best at. If you stop by the salon during the holidays, should you tip your hairdresser more? “The standard 18-20 percent tip will be more than ok, but you can also show extra appreciation by adding 10-15 percent more,” Davis says.Toth says that additional tipping around the holidays is completely up to the client. “Some people dont tip any differently during the holiday season,” Toth explains. “Others tip double what they normally would. Some round up by 50 or by the hundred. Some people tip the value of the entire service and even a lot more.”At the end of the day, there’s no standard rule for tipping your hairdresser during the holidays. However, if you want to show your gratitude and spread some holiday cheer to your stylist, tipping more can do the trick.(Related: How a Celebrity Hairstylist Gets Her Clients Hair So Good)

Should you tip your hairdresser if you don’t like their work?

You’re in the salon chair looking at your hair in the mirror, and you immediately know you aren’t happy with the results. To tip, or not to tip? Davis says no because you shouldn’t reward a bad job, but you should explain what you don’t like. “Helping a hairdresser understand where they lack proficiency is the best way to tip if you dont like the result,” Davis explains. “Be polite, though. Everyone does mistakes.”People may still tip even if they don’t like their results, though. “Most clients tip even on the rare occasion that they dont like their results,” Toth explains. “They still want to show gratitude for the hairdressers time and effort. They also know that sometimes theres a little bit of trial and error with hair, especially with colour services, and its usually understood that through communication their results will only get better and better over time while working with the same hairdresser.”There are arguments to be made for tipping and not tipping if you don’t like a hairstylist’s work, but the bottom line is that it’s up to you. Just make sure you’re polite about the situation and be completely honest with your hairdresser to get the results you want during your next appointment.(Related: 7 Dry Hair Tips for Healthy Locks)

Is it ever ok to not tip your hairdresser?

Davis says you’re not expected to tip for this kind of service, so tipping is always optional. However, it’s a generous way of showing gratitude to your hairdresser and can help you build a good relationship with them.

Bonus tips for tipping your hairdresser

Want to make your tips extra special? Toth provides these bonus tips for tipping your hairstylist:

• Theres no wrong way to give a tip. You can leave cash, write a personal check, utilize apps like Venmo and PayPal, give the tip in person or in an envelope, a holiday card or a handwritten card, or simply leave it at the front desk for the hairdresser to pick up.
• Some of the best tips include referring your hairdresser to new clients, giving them social media shout-outs, writing them excellent Google and Yelp reviews, and continuing to come back as a loyal client.

When it comes to tipping your hairdresser, you’re not expected to leave a tip. However, it’s a great way to show the stylist you appreciate their work and admire their craft.Next, read Victoria Beckhams Hairstylist Reveals the One Mistake Women Over 40 Always Make.

The post How Much Should You Tip Your Hairdresser? appeared first on Best Health.

What is scalp psoriasis?

Scalp psoriasis occurs when your body’s immune system goes into overdrive and revs up the production of skin cells. Instead of shedding, these cells build up on your skin, forming raised, reddened plaques that itch and burn. These plaques may be covered with silvery scales that can flake off.Psoriasis can strike any part of your body, including your scalp. More than half of people who live with psoriasis have plaques on their scalp, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation.

Scalp psoriasis symptoms

With scalp psoriasis, you may notice thick, crusted plaques that cover your scalp. It may extend beyond the hairline and onto the forehead, the back of the neck, and around your ears. Psoriasis flakes are thicker than dandruff. “The flakes are broader and more adherent to the scalp,” Dr. Friedman says. They also tend to be powdery with a silvery sheen. Scalp psoriasis runs the gamut from mild to severe and may cause hair loss.”Scalp psoriasis can be more disabling than full-body psoriasis due to the visibility of your scalp, hair loss, and visible flaking that may occur,” Dr. Friedman says. With those symptoms, it can take a toll on your self-confidence and mental health.(Related:10 Things Dermatologists Wish You Knew About Scalp Psoriasis)

Dandruff symptoms

By contrast, dandruff has many causes, including overly dry skin that flakes, irritated and oily skin, not shampooing frequently enough, and infection with a fungus that tends to feed off oil on the scalp (Malassezia). It may also occur if you develop contact, or allergic, dermatitis from hair care products.Dandruff may cause your scalp to itch, according to Dr. Friedman. “It affects areas with lots of oil glands, and the flaking is very fine,” he says. These flakes are made up of dead skin and often look yellowish and greasy. Keep in mind that if your head is very itchy and you don’t have obvious flakes that could be scalp psoriasis or dandruff, you could be dealing with another problem, such as head lice. Sometimes the lice nits or eggs can be mistaken for dandruff, but unlike dandruff, the white specks are attached to the hair shaft and can’t easily be brushed away.

Is it scalp psoriasis or dandruff?

You’ve spotted flaking. You’re definitely itchy. And you’re ready to know what you’re dealing with. But how can you tell if it’s scalp psoriasis vs. dandruff?You may not be able to determine this on your own. To be fair, even the pros have a hard time telling the difference, Dr. Friedman says. Your dermatologist may examine the rest of your body to see if there is evidence of psoriasis anywhere else to make the call, he explains. “I will also look at fingernails to see if there is any pitting or separation of the plate from the nail bed,” he says. Nail psoriasis symptoms include white, brown, or yellow nails and crumbling.(Related:How to Patch Test Skin Products to See If Youre Allergic)

How to treat scalp psoriasis

Scalp psoriasis is one scalp condition you should never ignore. Compared to people with psoriasis who don’t have scalp symptoms, people who have scalp psoriasis tend to be at higher risk of psoriatic arthritis, which is marked by joint pain and inflammation. So if you think you have scalp psoriasis, it’s a good idea to see a healthcare providerpsoriasis can affect many parts of the body.”This is one of the reasons that it is so important to recognize scalp psoriasis and treat it aggressively,” says Dr. Friedman.You can treat scalp psoriasis with some of the same shampoo ingredients used for dandruff.

Prescription and OTC shampoos

There is a host of prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) shampoos to treat scalp psoriasis. Using a tar, zinc, or salicylic acid-based shampoo can help slow skin growth and reduce inflammation, itching, and scaling, Dr. Friedman says.

Topical steroids

Treating the scalp with a topical steroid is not always easy since your hair can get in the way. “Finding a vehicle, such as a solution or an ointment, that plays nicely on your scalp can be difficult,” Dr. Friedman says. “You want a topical for your scalp that is cosmetically appropriate and won’t cause more problems.” He suggests telling your doctor what you would prefer, whether that’s a mousse, an alcohol-based solution, or an ointment.

Light therapy

Light therapy, which uses ultraviolet B (UVB) light to slow skin cell growth, may also help treat scalp psoriasis. You’ll generally use this under the supervision of a doctor to ensure safety.

Systemic therapy

When other treatments don’t work, you may need to try systemic medications. “I may step it up and give systemic therapy because of how disabling the scalp psoriasis is and because it’s a sign that this patient is at higher risk for psoriatic arthritis and other comorbidities that travel with psoriasis,” Dr. Friedman saysSystemic drugs such as biologics block certain proteins involved in the inflammation process. Cosentyx, a biologic drug that blocks interleukin-17A inhibitor, is approved to treat scalp psoriasis. “The hope is that by treating the underlying inflammation, we will reduce the chances of psoriatic arthritis and other diseases that may occur with psoriasis, including heart disease and diabetes,” he says.(Related:Does Dry Brushing Really Make Your Skin Healthier?)

How to treat dandruff

Treating dandruff typically involves using a special shampoo and/or scalp treatment.

Dandruff shampoos

Some dandruff shampoos are available over the counter, and they’re a good place to start. Use one for a few weeks to see if you notice an improvement. If an OTC shampoo doesn’t do the trick, see your dermatologist about stepping up your therapy with a prescription shampoo or a steroid lotion, Dr. Friedman says. There are a lot of dandruff shampoos to choose from. They mostly differ based on their active ingredients.

Pyrithione zinc shampoos

These contain the antibacterial and antifungal agent zinc pyrithione.

Tar-based shampoos

These dandruff shampoos contain coal tar, which slows skin cell growth and reduces inflammation, itching, and scaling.

Salicylic acid-based shampoos

These can help eliminate dead skin cells from your scalp.

Selenium sulfide shampoos

These shampoos contain antifungal agents.

Ketoconazole-based shampoos

These kill the dandruff-causing fungi that live on your scalp.

Natural products

There are also natural treatments for dandruff, which may help. These include tea tree and lemongrass oils. In a study published in 2015 in Complementary Medicine Research, researchers found that people who use a lemongrass oil hair tonic twice a day for a week saw an improvement in dandruff.What’s more, their dandruff continued to improve as time went on.(Related: Do Shampoo Bars Work?)

Lifestyle tips to avoid scalp psoriasis and dandruff

Preventing scalp psoriasis

Taking steps to minimize or prevent psoriasis flares can help keep scalp psoriasis at bay. This involves avoiding triggers, such as stress or illness, when and where you can. Don’t pick at the scales, cautions Gary Goldenberg, MD, an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City. “For every one flake you pick, a hundred will come back,” he says.Some foods, such as white flour, white sugar, and dairy. are pro-inflammatory and may exacerbate scalp psoriasis, says Dr. Goldenberg. To lower your risk of scalp psoriasis flares, eat a healthy, anti-inflammatory diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and seeds.

Preventing dandruff

If your scalp is oily, shampooing every day may help prevent dandruff. Always shampoo gently and make sure you’re washing your hair properly.There are other causes of dandruff, such as stress and diet. Finding a healthy way to cope with stresslike meditation, yoga, or even just taking a walkmakes most things better, including dandruff symptoms.Full-fat dairy foods, including cheese and cream, may lead to dandruff in some people. But foods rich in zinc, such as oysters, red meat, poultry, legumes, nuts, and seafood, may help control oil production and limit dandruff.Next, this is what you need to know about scalp care.

The post Is It Scalp Psoriasis or Dandruff? Here’s How to Tell the Difference appeared first on Best Health.

Heads up! While summer sun can do wonders for your mood, it can also do a number on your hair. Now for the good news: Getting the jump on colour fading, dryness, frizz and greasy roots is as easy as having the proper products on hand.

Use protection

When youre in a steady relationship with your colourist, using a shampoo and conditioner formulated for colour-treated hair is the first line of defence against fading. Using a sun protection spray regularly and wearing a hat for extended exposure will further protect your investment, says salon owner and Alterna Haircare brand ambassador Salvatore Leonetti. When used together, theyll help maintain vibrancy and extend results between services, but a shade shift is inevitable. In fact, the pros expect it. Im never too concerned with a small level of fading, says Leonetti. Thats a normal process.

Nourish

Sunlit activities interspersed with watery cool-downs are the ultimate summer goal. Unfortunately, that cycle can quickly alter hairs moisture levels. Sun and water are drying, so allowing hair to air-dry with nothing to protect it will start to strip away moisture, says Ashley Readings, a Toronto-based hair and makeup artist and TRESquad stylist.

Treat hair with a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner and have a leave-in treatment on standby. For maximum nourishment, Leonetti recommends using a hair maska beauty trick inspired by his Brazilian wife. Women in Brazil will sit on the beach with a tub of hair mask, he says. They run in the water, come out, douse their hair in it and brush it through.

If you have fine or brittle hair, choose a protein- or keratin-enriched mask designed to rebuild strands. Keep it on the mid-shaft and ends because thats usually where fine hair takes more of a beating, says Leonetti. Coarse textures will benefit from hydrating masks with rich oils, such as argan, shea and coconut oils. Conditioning products are also the secret to overcoming frizz. A hydrated curl is a healthy-looking curl, he says. Use leave-in conditioner and styling products, and be generous with them.

Spritz after sweating

If, like Readings, your version of summer lovin involves two wheels, youll appreciate her quick fix for helmet head. Dry shampoo is my go-to and always in my bag because I have very oily roots and my bangs get sweaty, she says. When I take off my helmet, its a hero product that gives some volume back and absorbs oil.

It can also be used to manage greasy roots by reducing over-cleansing. Im a big believer in dry shampoo because you cant wash your hair every day, says Leonetti. Daily cleansing can send hair follicles into overdrive, producing more oil and worsening the issue. Its smarter to use a dry shampoo and extend longevity from one wash to another, he says. If that requires using a healthy amount of dry shampoo every second day and then washing hair on the third day, thats fine.

Shop our picks below!

Alterna Caviar Anti-Aging Infinite Color Hold Shampoo $45; sephora.comSheamoisture Silicone-Free Miracle Styler Leave-In Treatment, $17; sheamoisture.comHair Rituel by Sisley-Paris Protective Hair Fluid, $120; holtrenfrew.comTresemm Between Washes Dry Shampoo Volumizing, $3; walmart.caNext: 9 of the Best Summer Hats Thatll Keep You Cool and Protected

The post 3 Essential Ways to Care for Your Hair This Summer appeared first on Best Health.

Layer up

This style is for people who have layers in their hair so you really get that bounce, says Lee. When you can get to a salon post-lockdown, Lee suggests asking your hairstylist for face-framing layers as well as layers throughout the rest of the hair. Even if you have really, really straight hair, this style can work for you if you have layers, says Lee, but youll need the right tools and products to achieve the look.

Update your tools

The 90s blowout requires a round brush (preferably one with a metal base, so it holds the heat) and a blow-dyer with the narrow nozzle attachment, to lift, shape, and curl hair. Looking for an easier way to create the look? People are really gravitating to dryer-brushes, like Revlons, because they’re easy to work with, says Lee. Such dryers are basically a round brush and hairdryer in one, making it easier to replicate the expert blowout. Youll also need velcro rollers to create and secure the look.(Related: 7 Dry Hair Tips to Keep Your Locks Happy)

Use volumizing and long-hold products

Youll want to start with a mousse and finish with a holding spray. Mousse will help give a lift to the roots and help hair hold the volume created with the round brush and hairdryer, says Lee. His favourite mousses are Bumble and Bumble Thickening Form Soft Mousse, Krastase Densifique Bodifying Mousse, and Oribe Grandiose Hair Plumping Mousse. If you have dry hair, Lee suggests using a heat-protecting cream on the ends, like Oribe Imperial Blowout Styling Cream. Youll also want to finish with a strong-hold hairspray, or even a texturizing spray, which, Lee says, is something that didnt exist in the 90s but is great now for helping the style to last longer.

How-to

Start by applying the mousse to wet hair and, if needed, a blowout cream to ends, and rough-dry hair until its about 80 percent dry, says Lee. Working section by section, pull the round brush through the hair, setting it with heat from the blowdryer (or using a blow-dry brush), lifting and curling hair as you go, then add a velcro roller. For the front sectionthe one above your forehead that includes your face-framing layerssecure the velcro roller by rolling hair away from your face, says Lee. All other velcro rollers should be rolled under. Secure each roller at the roots with a clip or bobby pin.Let them sit for as long as you can, says Lee. Even for just 20 minuteswalk around, and do your makeup. Once hair cools down, take out the rollers, and brush hair from the roots to the ends. Dont be afraid to do thisonce its cool, the volume and curls are going to stay, says Lee. You need to do this to break up the sections of the hair so you dont see the separation lines from the rollers, says Lee. Finish with hairspray or texturizing spray.Next: How to Give Yourself a Spa-Worthy At-Home Facial

The post How to Do a 90s Blowout at Home appeared first on Best Health.

With fewer opportunities to visit the salon for hair maintenance, its never been more important to nourish and protect your mane from home. But if youre busy juggling work, kids, pets or the worries that come along with a global pandemic, it may feel easy to let self-care slide and split ends take over.Thats where baobab comes in.

What is baobab?

You may have heard of argan and marula oilsboth native to Africabut baobab is probably a little less familiar. A type of deciduous tree that grows primarily in Eastern Africa (including Tanzania), the baobab tree is locally known as the tree of life because it flourishes in dry climates. How? By storing huge amounts of water in its trunk. This unusual ability means it can survive decades without rain and continue to produce edible leaves and fruit that are used in local herbal remedies.

Why is baobab great for dry hair?

Its not just the tree itself that has the amazing ability to withstand harsh, dry climates. Baobab seeds are rich in vitamin E, which may help to soothe and hydrate dry skin and hair.Cold press the seeds to distill their vitamin Erich essence, blend it with antioxidants, strengthening lipids and pro-vitamin B5 (a Pantene signature) and youve got Pantenes latest Nutrient Blends collection: Hydrating Glow with Baobob Essence. Thanks to the addition of baobab, the lines hero ingredient, the shampoo, conditioner and serum provide intense, long-lasting hydration for even the most parched hair. Plus, the collection is entirely free of sulfates, parabens, dyes and mineral oil.

How can I use baobab at home?

If you want to combat the effects of indoor heating and infrequent trims, set aside a little me time to reinvigorate your tired, dry locks and transform them with softness and shine.

• Step 1: Gently cleanse your dry hair with Pantenes Sulfate-Free Hydrating Glow Shampoothe perfect shampoo for dry hair. It will remove oil and grime without stripping your strands of moisture.
• Step 2: Coat your mane with the Sulfate-Free Hydrating Glow Conditioner to infuse your locks with weightless hydration and promote shine. Allow it to sit, then rinse after a couple of minutes.
• Step 3: Towel off your hair and apply the Sulfate-Free Hydrating Glow Milk to Water Serum. The formula wont weigh the hair down and transforms into a light treatment that absorbs deeply for lasting hydration, all while helping to prevent dry ends from becoming split ends. You can also reapply it in between washes for a little hydrating boost!

And if dryness and split ends arent your mane concerns, the Pantene Nutrient Blend line has even more collections for every hair type and need! Use your preferred range to treat your hair even when you cant visit the salon.

• Gently cleanse strands and get rid of build-up with the Sulfate-Free Conditioner from the Pure Clean and Clarify Fragrance-Free collection.
• Add moisture and tame frizz with the Miracle Moisture Boost with Rose Water collectionespecially the Soft Hair Treatment.
• Add major volume with the Leave-In Treatment from the Hair Thickness Multiplier with Bamboo collection.
• Repair damage with the Overnight Restoring Serum from the Fortifying Damage Repair with Castor Oil collection.
• Care for your curls with the Moisture Lock Curl Mist from the Complete Curl Care with Jojoba Oil collection.
• Protect a dye job with the Sulfate-Free Conditioner from the Illuminating Color Care with Biotin collection.
• And finally, to deep clean, try the Silicone-Free Conditioner from the Deep Detox & Renew with Charcoal collection.

The post Baobab: How One Trendy New Ingredient Fights Dry Hair appeared first on Best Health.

Cold weather brings dry hair

Even if you typically have fuss-free hair, you may be finding its leaning more dry and frizzy these days.In the winter, theres less humidity in the air, so our locks dry out easily, says Whitney Eaddy, the celebrity hair stylist known as the Growth Guru. The harsher the temperatures, the drier it gets. And staying indoors with the heat cranked (like so many of us are stuck doing this winter) isnt a salve. Artificial heat automatically sucks out moisture, [because] the airs not being circulated and not being exposed to the natural elements as much, says Eaddy.The good news: all this extra time indoors also offers the perfect opportunity to experiment with hair treatments and letting your hair dry naturally, without heat. You can just do a hair mask and live your life! Eaddy says.Here are 7 dry hair tips to keep your locks luscious and healthy all winter long.(Related: How to Care for Curls and Coils at Home)

Try a hair oil

Oil is a great way to add moisture to dry hair in the winter, says Kelly Araujo, a Toronto-based hair stylist. Its quick and easy and a little goes a long way. How much you need depends on your hair; if you have dryer hair, youll need to use a bit more.For fine hair, Araujo suggests this daily hair perfecting oil from THIC, which is made from hemp, argan and grape seed oil, and was developed to be lightweight. Araujo also recommends Argan oil, though its a bit heavier and more suited to thick hair. Its super rich in vitamin E and its been used for centuries as a hair, skin, nails product in Morocco where it originates, she says.Ultimately, it might take a bit of trial and error before finding the right oil for your hair needs. I dont believe that there is one magic ingredient that does it all, says Araujo.(Related: How to Trim Your Hair at Home)

Take care of your scalp

The health of your hair coincides with that of your skin. People who have really dry skin, their scalp will flare up in the winter, Eaddy says.Araujo suggests applying coconut oil (yes, the stuff you get at the grocery store) directly to your scalp, especially if youre noticing any flakes. Massage the coconut oil directly onto the scalp and let it sit while you binge watch Netflix for a few hours, she says. Do this once or twice a week on your hair washing day.While coconut oil is great for nourishing dry scalps, its not great for people with fine hair because of its weight. You would have to use a very very small amount [if you have fine hair], says Araujo. Its more suited for people with thick, coarse hair.(Related: Everything You Need to Know About Scalp Care, the Latest Trend in Skin Care)

Avoid heat

As tempting as a nice, hot shower is during the dead of winter, the heat can dry out your skin and scalp. Aside from abstaining from steamy showers, Eaddy also recommends that you avoid heat styling (with tools like a flat iron, or blow dryer). Direct heat causes damage to your hair over time, leading to dryness and breakage.(Related: Is the Manta Hair Brush Worth The Hype?)

Leave it in

If youre really looking to change the health of your hair, being in the house like we are right now is perfect, she says. Were on Zoom calls where you can pull your hair back real quick and keep your hair treatments in all day.Araujo suggests introducing a mask to your routine to add moisture back into your hair. Hair masks work just like face masks: do: you apply it generously (with your fingers or a wide tooth comb) and leave it in for as long as the package says (typically anywhere from 5 to 30 minutes, depending on the product). Araujo recommends this Shea Moisture hair mask for curly hair, and this Kerastase hair mask for those with fine hair.Eaddy swears by what she calls the greenhouse technique. This is how it works: the night before youre planning on washing your hair, apply your normal conditioner directly all over your hair when its dry. Then, cover it up with a plastic shower cap (if you dont have one, a plastic grocery bag works too) and go to bed. In the morning, wash your hair like normal. You get the same effect [as if you put a hair mask in], says Eaddy. And the best part of the greenhouse technique is that your body heat creates its own steam and really helps open up your follicles so the conditioner can get inside and really do the work.(Related: Do Shampoo Bars Work?)

Silk is your new best friend

Especially for people with curly hair, silk is a godsend. [People with textured hair] should avoid cotton [pillowcases], says Eaddy. Even satin, which is marketed for textured hair, isnt the best.Because silk is so smooth, your hair will glide across the fabric when you move, instead of rubbing against it which leads to frizz, tangles and breakage. Eaddy suggests investing in a silk pillowcase to minimize friction while you sleep. Or, if youre someone who ties their hair up with scarves, scrunchies or even a bonnet, it might be time to ditch the cotton and try silk.(Related: 9 Personal Care Product Upgrades You Never Knew You Needed)

Protect your hair from the elements

If you do venture outside this winter, dont forget to wear a hat. This will protect your hair from breakage, retain your hairs natural oils and reduce frizz, Araujo explains. And for curly girls, this will keep your curls intact.(Related: All The Gear You Need to Stay Active Outdoors all Winter Long)

Wash your hair as neededand be flexible

During the winter, its important not to wash your hair excessively. Because our hair is already extra dry in the winter, we want to make sure we are not over washing and stripping the hair of more moisture, says Araujo. Challenge yourself to go one extra day [without washing].Eaddy agrees its worth being observant and only wash when you feel like youre getting a little too oilyeven for a Zoom meeting. Its all about really paying attention to the patterns of your hair and develop a regime thats flexible and works around then needs of your body.Next: 8 Drugstore Beauty Products Thatll Make You Want to Play With Makeup Again

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Bring your curls and coils to life

If you have curly or textured hair, then you might have come out of 2020s limited salon access and WFH reality in a different headspace. Theres absolutely been a shifttheres a lot more women now embracing their natural texture, says Janet Jackson, hairstylist and owner of JouJou Hair Studio in Toronto. To bring your curls and coils to life, Jackson emphasizes hair care. Its the foundation that involves using the right products while committing to a routine of cleansing, conditioning and treatments. Now people are seeing the importance of it, because theyve had to take care of their hair themselves and not necessarily leave it to a professional, she says. Start smart and a big payoff awaits. If you dont have the proper hair care, then your styling products arent going to work the way you hope, says Jackson.Scientifically, curls are drier and more delicate than straight strands. They have a different protein composition and more cuticles on the outer layer, making them more prone to breakage. The essentials to support those needs includes sulphate-free shampoo, a sulphate-free and nourishing conditioner, and a hydrating mask, to be used every two to four weeks. The mask is paramount for maintaining health, especially in the winter. You need it to add moisture and replace any kind of protein the hair needs, says Jackson. Generally, hydrating and reparative products are best. But individuality also plays a major role in how your curls and coils look and respond to products. There is no one regimen for everyone. Its about figuring that out on your own, based on experimenting, she says. Do your research first. Understanding your hair type is key before choosing products.With a solid care routine established, you can turn your attention to styling products and techniques. Learning about finger coiling, shingling or the rake and shake technique, for starters, could be game-changing. Playing with cocktailing products (mixing a product that hydrates with one that offers hold or definition) will also lead curls and coils to a happy place. As will Jacksons vital take-away. Embrace frizz, she says. A lot of times, the first thing we thinkand have been marketed to thinkis that we need to eliminate frizz to get that perfect curl. With textured hair, you actually have to embrace it. Its about having the right kind of frizz.(Related: Is the Manta Hair Brush Worth The Hype?)

Zotos All About Curls Lo-Lather Cleanser

A sulphate-free shampoo with low lather gently removes product buildup.$14, sallybeauty.ca.(Related: Do Shampoo Bars Work?)

Nexxus Curl Define Conditioner

Silk protein and marula oil create an intensely moisturizing conditioner that also helps with detangling.$17, product coming soon to Shopper’s Drug Mart(Related: Are You Washing Your Hair Properly?)

Maui Moisture Revive & Hydrate +Shea Butter Hair Mask

Treat curls to a hydrating trifecta of shea butter, coconut oil and aloe vera water.$11, shoppersdrugmart.ca(Related: These Hair Mistakes Are Giving You Split Ends)

Moroccanoil All in One Leave-In Conditioner

Multi-use and milky, this lightweight spray helps detangle, protect against heat damage and refresh second-day curls.$32, sephora.com.(Related: 38 Secrets Your Hair Stylist Wont Tell You)

LUS All-in-One: Curly

Developed in Toronto, this nourishing cream softens and defines curly hairwithout stickiness or a crunchy feel.$18 USD, lusbrands.com.(Related: How to Trim Your Hair at Home)

Marc Anthony Strictly Curls 3x Moisture Curl Control Styling Jelly

Whether used for cocktailing with another product or as a finishing step, this jelly enhances texture with flexible hold and definition.$11, pharmaprix.ca.Next: 8 Drugstore Beauty Products Thatll Make You Want to Play With Makeup Again

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The need for a trim

When the pandemic first started, and after salons had only been closed for a few weeks, an alarming number of people were overcome with the need to cut their own hair (and post their results on social media). Were they used to getting biweekly haircuts BC (before Covid)? Were they just bored?Over a year later, some of us are feeling that same itch to give our locks a trimbut for a more understandable reason. In cities like Toronto, hair salons have been closed for months, and there’s no sign of them reopening anytime soon. So we reached out toKelly Araujo (@hello.kells), hairstylist at Alibi Cutting Room in Toronto, for her tips for an at-home cut.(Also, thinking about dying your roots at home? Read these hair dying tips first.)

1. Repair before you snip

Araujo says it’s not easy to cut your hair at home and suggests concentrating on helping it get healthier instead. Your hair will feel better, which may cause you to re-think the urge to chop it all off, she says.Before hopping on Sephora.ca, check out the selection of hair masks available through your local hair salonsmany of which have created online shops to offer quality hair-care products to their clients. It’s a great way to continue to support small businesses that are currently experiencing extreme losses in revenue, says Araujo.If you can’t find what you’re looking for on a small business website, Araujo recommends:

• For brittle, over-processed hair, try Opalex No. 5 Maintenance Conditioner, $38, sephora.com
• For helping your heat-styled mane last longer (so you don’t have to wash it too much), try Color Wow Dream Coat, $35, tradesecrets.ca
• For dehydrated hair, try R+Co: Atlantis Moisturizing Shampoo, $34, beautysense.ca| R+Co: Atlantis Moisturizing Conditioner, $34, beautysense.ca
• For a scalp treatment, try Drunk Elephant T.L.C Happi Scalp Scrub, $48, sephora.com
• To give fine hair a boost, try Quai Shampoo for Fine Hair, $37, sephora.com |Quai Conditioner for Finer Hair, $37, sephora.com

2. Head to YouTube

Check out Brad Mondo’s how-to video before picking up your scissors. When you’re ready to snip, wash hair, blow dry it, and straighten itwhich will better ensure you don’t over-cut. Ready to snip? Do not use kitchen or craft scissors, says Araujo. You need precision scissors. Some pharmacies carry them, and Amazon does, too. (Try these.)

3. Don’t chop

The way you hold the scissors has a big impact on the end result. Araujo recommends point cutting, which means cutting hair upwards. “It’s more delicate,” she says.

4. Trim the bare minimum

Have a partner with short hair whos asking you to help tame their shag? Focus on trimming the sides and around the ears, says Araujo. Those are the areas that cause people to feel most unkept. She recommends watching the Nomad Barber’s how-to video, which was created to help new barbers cut hair.

5. Wait for bangs

Finally decided youre ready for bangs? You might want to put that dream on hold. I believe there is a type of fringe for everyone, says Araujo, but determining what type of fringe is best for you and your hair is best determined by you and your stylist.Have bangs that need a trim? Araujo suggests:

• Ignore the sides of your bangs and focus on the centre. This will give you more of a moon-shaped fringe that can grow out better than a blunt fringe.
• Limit yourself to trimming the hairs that are falling into your eyes, and leaving the rest for your hairstylist.

Next, learn expert tips for shaping your brows at home.

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The products and technique you should use depend on your hair type and how often it gets dirty. Here, a hairstyle and a dermatologist offer their tips to get healthy, beautiful hair.

(Related: Everything You Need to Know About Scalp Care, the Latest Trend in Skin Care)

How often should you wash your hair?

Before knowing how to wash you hair properly, you need to know how often you should wash it. The answer: It depends on your hair type and texture, says hairstylist Catalina Drouillard, owner of Three Sixteen Hair Haven in Kihei, Hawaii.

“An oily scalp and fine hair may require daily shampooing, while coarse, dry hair could only require shampooing once a week,” she explains. “Generally, though, every other day or every third day is often enough for most types of hair.”

On the opposite end of the spectrum, you may think you’re doing your locks a favor by washing as often as possible and getting them extras-clean. But it’s possible to wash your hair too often. Washing your hair every day is too much for most people, Drouillard says.

“If your hair feels dry and brittle you could be shampooing too often with the wrong type of shampoo for your hair,” she says.

(Related: 5 Reasons to Stop Washing Your Hair)

How to properly wash your hair

Before you get started, brushing out all tangles will help keep it from getting matted when you’re shampooing in the shower, Drouillard says. Apply shampoo, then massage your hair down to your scalp with your fingertips. Allow the shampoo to rinse down the hair shaft as opposed to piling hair on top of your head while rubbing in the shampoo. This will stop it from tangling.

Make sure the water isn’t too hot, as hot water can dry the hair and the scalp, causing brittle hair and/or dandruff, Drouillard says.

“It’s also important to be gentle with the scalp,” adds Rajani Katta, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Houston and author of Glow: The Dermatologist’s Guide to a Whole Foods Younger Skin Diet. “You don’t want to scratch at your scalp, so it’s important to use your fingertips and not your fingernails.”

How much shampoo to use

There is some truth to the saying, “lather, rinse, repeat.” According to Drouillard, if you’re not shampooing every day or if you’re shampooing your hair because you exercised and your hair got sweaty, you should lather up and rinse out your shampoo twice.

How much conditioner to use

After lathering and rinsing out your shampoo, you should massage in some conditioner, Drouillard says. If you don’t have oily hair, you can opt to use only conditioners on days you don’t wash your hair. That will give you a boost of added moisture.

“Anyone with any length of hair needs a conditioner, every time they shampoo,” she says. “If the risk of limp hair makes you want to skip conditioner, be sure to use a conditioner that isn’t too heavy for your texture and never put conditioner on the scalp.”

Make sure to rinse out every bit of conditioner to prevent it from weighing down your hair or creating buildup on the scalp, Drouillard says.

“A final rinse in cold water really does make a difference, as it will close the cuticle resulting in smoother, shinier hair.”

(Related: Its Time to Try the No Poo Method of Hair Care)

How to choose shampoos and conditioners

From salon shelves to drugstore aisles, there’s a wide range selection when it comes to shampoos and conditioners. You generally get what you pay for with hair care, so it can be worth it to invest a few extra dollars on your products, Drouillard says.

“Pricier products usually means higher quality ingredients,” she says. “But if your hair is healthy, I wouldn’t argue that your products aren’t good; your hair will speak to that.”

Much like how often you should wash your hair, what type of shampoo and conditioner you should look for depends on your hair type and texture, Drouillard says. You’ll also want to avoid products containing parabens and sulfates, which can be damaging and drying. She is a fan of the Paul Mitchell Clean Beauty line, which is made of natural, vegan ingredients, and has options for dry, damaged, frizzy, and normal hair.

“Most brands will have separate lines to address different needs,” she says. “If you have color-treated, dry, damaged, or thin hair, you should find a shampoo and conditioner for that type of hair.”

If your hair is very dry, Drouillard advises avoiding using anything claiming to be clarifying more than once a week. She typically doesn’t recommend two-in-one shampoo and conditioner products, particularly if you have an oily scalp, as a conditioning shampoo will just put more moisture on top of your oil instead of cleansing.

(Related: Do Shampoo Bars Work?)

How should you dry your hair?

Whether you’re going to blow dry or air dry your hair, you will likely want to pat it dry of excess water with a towel first. If you do this, be gentle because your hair can be damaged when it’s wet: Rubbing it vigorously can cause breakage and rough up the cuticle, creating frizz, Drouillard says.

“Since your hair is weakest when wet, it also isn’t the best idea to tie it up tightly right after a shower, as that can cause breakage from the hair elastic/ponytail holder,” she says. “A turban towel is my favourite thing, as it helps soak up moisture and stays on my head while I get dressed and do my makeup.”

When it comes to blow-drying, Drouillard recommends using heat as infrequently as possible. But, if you must, allow your hair to air dry as long as possible. Follow this by using a heat protectant styling product to prevent damage.

(Related: This Is How Bad It Is to Sleep with Wet Hair)

What to do if you have dandruff

If you’re experiencing dandruff, it can be bothersome for various reasons, from scalp irritation to unsightly flakes. Dandruff can often be remedied with inexpensive drugstore shampoos, but for extreme irritation, your best bet is to visit a dermatologist, Dr. Katta says.

“For most people who notice excessive flaking of their scalp, it’s usually due to a condition called seborrheic dermatitis, which is inflammation of the scalp,” she says.

She adds: “Although this condition might look as though the scalp is dry, it’s actually inflamed. For this condition, washing more frequently to remove the oil from the scalp is actually helpful.”

Dr. Katta advises gently rubbing in medicated shampoo (again, with your fingertips and not your nails) to the scalp as a treatment for dandruff, and leaving it there for 10 to 15 minutes before washing out.

(Related: 5 Sneaky Reasons You Suddenly Have Dandruff)

When to see a dermatologist

If using over-the-counter dandruff shampoos isn’t helping your dandruff, Dr. Katta recommends seeing a dermatologist to receive an accurate diagnosis. Even if it is just dandruff, your doctor may be able to prescribe a medicated shampoo that can be more effective than what you’ve tried already. It’s also important to see your dermatologist if you are experiencing hair losssince dandruff is not usually a cause of hair loss, she adds.

Next: The Trendy Hair Product Ingredient That Fixes All Your Hair Woes

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What are shampoo bars?

Basically, shampoo bars are a more concentrated, solid form of what you traditionally find in a bottle of shampoo. We take the water out, remove any other liquid ingredients and leave the really good stuff that youre rubbing directly into your hair, explains Lisa Karandat, one of the co-founders of Good Juju.There are a few different kinds of bars: soap-based, detergent-based, and those that are pH-balanced. Each has its own benefits. Soap-based and detergent-based bars tend to have a higher pH (usually hovering around 9 or 10), which is great for adding volume, but can be way too alkaline for hair, which may lead to dryness, hair breakage and frizziness.pH-balanced bars, on the other hand, maintain a balance of about 4 or 5 to avoid getting the scalp too alkaline (and dry). [A pH level of 4 or 5] will allow the product to effectively get into the hair strand and do its thing, rather than stripping it. explains Alexa Monahan, the other co-founder of Good Juju.Ingredients can vary greatly from brand to brand. Some, like Good Juju, use natural products to clean and enrich hair. A common ingredient is sodium coco sulfate, which is a coconut derivative that helps the shampoo lather up and is an alternative to other more irritating hair cleaners, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS).Since shampoo bars are ultra-concentrated, you typically need less product so they tend to last a lot longer than liquid shampoo. Typically, one bar is equal to about three bottles worth of shampoos. Both Good Juju and UpFront Cosmetics claim that their bars can be used for about 75 washes.(Related: Everything You Need to Know About Scalp Care, the Latest Trend in Skin Care)

How do you use them?

Just like you would use a bar of soap. First, make sure your hair is very wet. Then, get the bar wet to activate the ingredients (I like to rub it in my hands a little to make sure its lathering up). Once youre ready, rub the bar into your hair, starting from the roots and work down to ends. Finally, rinse it out!

What are some tips and tricks for beginners?

You want to make sure youre picking out the right formula for your hair type. Like traditional liquid shampoos, most shampoo bars have different formulas with slightly different ingredients for a variety of hair concerns (such as normal hair, oily hair and dry hair). The normal hair formula is just going to be a typical shampoo, and then with the oily hair formula, we don’t add as much butter because oily hair obviously doesn’t need as much moisture to it, explains Alicia Sharp, the founder of UpFront Cosmetics. We fluctuate the main ingredients, so it makes sense with what sort of hair type you have.The amount you need to use can also vary. In fact, when you first start out, you might find that you’re using too much or too little (it all depends on how much you rub). Karandat advises starting out with too much at first and then experimenting from there. Just be generous at first, but know that it’ll take a couple of tries before you know exactly how much you need.Lastly, letting the bars dry fully in between uses will extend their life for a significant amount of time, suggests Monahan. Ideally, youd keep your bars on a soap dish with proper drainage.(Related: 9 Things Youre Doing to Your Hair That a Stylist Wouldnt)

So, do they work?

I tried UpFront Cosmetics and Good Jujus shampoo bars and matching conditioner bars, and honestly, Im obsessed. Ive tried a few other brands shampoo bars before, but they left my hair super dry. I have stick-straight, thick, greasy hair and a lot of the oily hair formulas Ive tried stripped my hair of all its natural oils. Which was fine at first (I even liked that my hair was less greasy and I could wash it less often), but after a while, I started to develop something Id never experienced before: flakes! My hair obviously responded positively to the more pH balanced formulas of these two brands.UpFront Cosmetics are sulfate and paraben-free and tout ingredients like mango seed butter for hydration. I tried their universal (for all hair types) bar and matching conditioner and found them super easy to use. They lathered up in the shower really nicely and I loved the light bergamot, wintergreen and cedarwood smell. UpFront Cosmetics conditioner bar is also amazingI was able to get enough product from the bar (usually a huge problem for me and solid conditioners) to work through all my hair.Good Jujus shampoo bar was also fantastic. They use all-natural and organic ingredients like chaga mushroom extract to stimulate hair growth and shea butter to moisturize. I tried their oily/fine hair shampoo, which had kaolin clay to absorb oil, which did a great job removing excess oil without leaving my hair dry. I also found the matching conditioner really hydrating (without getting me oily) and did a great job detangling my birds nest of a head. One pleasant surprise was how the textured bar felt on my scalp as I rubbed it I loved the little massage I got as I lathered, though Im not sure if it had any health benefits aside from it feeling nice at the end of a long day.Overall, both brands did a great job cleaning my hair without leaving it drier than the Sahara. My hair is hydrated without being greasy-looking, which Im super thankful for as winters cold weather threatens to make any dry hair problem even worse.UpFront Cosmetics Universal Shampoo Bar and Conditioner, $14 each, upfrontcosmetics.ca.Good Juju Oily/Thin Hair Shampoo Bar and Conditioner, $18 each, hellogoodjuju.com.Next: What Is Facial Cupping? I Tried It at Home

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Wearing tight hairstyles every day

If you prefer going for the sleek look and like to pull back your hair into a tight bun or ponytail every day, you are adding stress to your scalp which will ultimately cause thinning. To get a sleek look overnight without pulling your hair tight, spray your hair with a little water, brush it, and tie it down with a scarf, suggests cosmetologist Ghanima Abdullah. For more sheen and hold, smooth in a few drops of natural oil after spraying the water. Then you can make your ponytail a little looser in the morning, but still have it sleek.(Related: The Root Cause of Thinning Hair and Hair Loss for Women)

Using clarifying shampoo as regular shampoo

Clarifying shampoos strip the hair of buildup, and that’s greatonce in a while, says Abdullah. Even if you have really oily hair, clarifying shampoo is not meant to be used every time you wash. The shampoo will successfully remove the oil from your hair, but eventually, this will cause an imbalance to your scalp. If your scalp is lacking oil, it will naturally want to produce more, so if you are continually stripping the oils from your head, you may end up with even more oil than you started with. Abdullah recommends trying a dry shampoo like Batiste to refresh your hair between washes.(Related: Everything You Need to Know About Scalp Care, the Latest Trend in Skin Care)

Using hold products on the hairline

Hair gel, hair spray, and even curl-defining products contain ingredients that bind the hair in some way, explains Abdullah. That’s great for styling, but these sticky ingredients can also clog the hair follicles. If the products you are using reaches your scalp, it will become more difficult to grow and retain hair. Layer your hair products if you wish, but don’t reapply styling aids before washing your hair again.(Related: 14 Everyday Mistakes That Are Aging Your Hair)

Over-washing your hair

There is really no reason to wash your hair every day. Washing your hair too much will make it weak and with time, it could start to fall, break, and lose its shine. Water removes the natural oils in your scalp and hair, says Mayela Vazquez from Within the Trend. Your scalp produces sebum which is excellent for dry hair. What you want to do is to brush your hair every night to distribute the oils from roots to ends and wash it every other day. Its also important to avoid washing your hair under hot water and over brushing it when it is wet in order to prevent damage. You may want to try using a natural bristle brush for a gentler approach.(Related: 5 Reasons to Stop Washing Your Hair)

Colouring your own hair

Please dont try and highlight your own hair, says NYC hairstylist Kali Ferrara. Just dont. Its not worth it. The chemicals in store-bought hair dyes are harsh and can easily break your hair off. The only solution to fixing any potential damage would be to cut it off. If youre not sure what to do, its best for both you and your stylist to wait for a professional. Theres a reason salon hair color is a multibillion-dollar industry, and its because its not out of a box. Each color is custom mixed to the clients specifications.If you insist on coloring your hair at home, make sure you dont mix brands. Each dye contains different components that could result in a chemical reaction that could ruin your hair or turn it an unexpected color.When it comes to taking care of dyed hair, Ferrara recommends doing a weekly hair mask such as Oribes Gold Lust Transformative Mask or the Verb Hydrating Mask.(Related: 12 Expert Tips for Touching Up Your Roots at Home)

Trying to trim your own hair

Trimming your own hair is something that your hairstylist will never be able to address, explains Achintya Kolipakkam of Elegance Tips. Once the damage is done, it is done. You will likely have to wait for your hair to grow out before a stylist can fix the problem.(Related: How a Celebrity Hairstylist Gets Her Clients Hair So Good)

Adding too much heat to your hair

We are all guilty of this one. Hairdryers and straighteners are an easy solution to taming frizz or styling, but the excess heat can really ruin hair. Direct heat can cause damage to the strands leading to split ends and breakage. When you do use heat on your hairbecause, lets face it, its unavoidableinvest in a heat protecting serum to serve as an extra shield for your hair.(Related: 7 Steps for Growing Out Your Hair, According to a Pro Stylist)

Brushing too much

Dont brush your hair if it doesnt need to be brushed, especially when you start at the roots. When you begin at the roots, you will create a knot that will pull off too much hair and will weaken the roots over time. Gently brush your hair beginning from the bottom and untangling knots along the way.(Related: How to Repair Damaged Hair with Items You Already Have at Home)

Wrapping your hair in a towel

Especially for those with long hair, it may be appealing to wrap your hair up in a towel to make it dry faster, but this common solution could really harm your hair. If you really want to dry it without harming your hair, gently blot hair with your towel to speed the drying process, or better yet, use an old cotton t-shirt, which is less harsh on your hair, suggests Jeremy Harrison of Hustle Life. You might not see any differences now, but you’ll see them soon enough, and by that time, it’ll be too late to turn things around.Next: 38 Secrets Your Hair Stylist Wont Tell You

The post 9 Things You’re Doing to Your Hair That a Stylist Wouldn’t appeared first on Best Health.

Why does my scalp need skin care?

Scalp skin issues can range from hair loss to dryness and itchiness to dull hair, says Li. Severe dryness and flaking (often called seborrheic dermatitis) is one of the most common scalp skin concerns. It can be related to a medical condition, like psoriasis or eczema, but often is just a simple case of dandruff that can be solved with an over-the-counter medicated shampoo containing zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide or ketoconazole, says Li.Mild dryness can be caused by poor hair and scalp hygiene or using products that are too harsh for your skin. You may need to swap your current product for one that is free of fragrance or contains more hydrating ingredients.A neglected scalp can affect your hair too. Scalp skin health is important, as it plays a key role in healthy, normal hair growth, says Li. Clogged pores, for example, can lead to dull, dry strands and increased shedding.(Related: 10 Things Dermatologists Wish You Knew About Scalp Psoriasis)

How do I care for the skin on my head?

For starters, wear a hat sun protection is vital. (Here are some of our favourite sun hats.) And if you shampoo every morning, stop. The scalp does not need to be washed daily unless your hair is greasy or the scalp is visibly soiled or sweaty, says Li. The actual frequency varies depending on the individuals tolerance and preference. But she recommends people with fair skin and hair shampoo a few times a week and people of colour at least every two weeks. Shampooing too often can dry out the scalp, but shampooing too infrequently can lead to oil and product buildup, which can be just as bad, says Li. Hot showers and alcohol-based hairsprays can also disrupt the integrity of your scalp skin barrier.(Related: 3 Simple Steps to A Healthier Scalp)

Ready for a more rigorous regimen? Here are three ways to a healthier-looking scalp and strands.

1. Go for a deep clean.If you suspect youve got some product buildup going on, your scalp could use a good scrub. Occasionally swapping your usual shampoo for an exfoliating scalp product could make all the difference. In theory, using a scalp scrub one or twice a week may provide a deeper cleanse of flakes or dead skin buildup on the surface, says Li.Try: GOOP G. Tox Himalayan Salt Scalp Scrub Shampoo ($58, thedetoxmarket.ca). Use this gentle scalp exfoliator to combat oiliness and flakes, and refresh your scalp and hair. The scents of geranium, orange and peppermint smell amazing while you scrub and they linger the perfect amount of time post-wash.2. Slather on a serum.Similar to the ones you use on your face, scalp serums are designed to fight problems like itchiness or flaking and boost skin health. Select one thats right for your scalp and hair, whether thats hydrating, clearing or soothing.Try: Krastase Initialiste Advanced Scalp and Hair Concentrate ($60, kerastase.ca). Apply directly to the scalp after shampooing. Its designed to help prevent excess shedding and perfect for soothing a dry scalp between washes.3. Shampoo smarter.When your hair is ready for a cleanse but theres no time to shower, opt for a high-performance scalp-friendly dry shampoo. Ingredients like clay and tapioca starch will gently absorb excess oil at the roots, without drying out your hair or scalp. If you have dark locks, experiment with different products to make sure they wont leave a white residue. Just dont use dry shampoo for more than two days in a row, Li warns, because it can clog scalp pores and cause buildup.Try: Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Biotin Dry Shampoo ($30, thedetoxmarket.ca).A blend of clay and rice starch absorbs excess oil, while witch hazel extract helps balance out oil production over time.Next: A Decade-by-Decade Guide to Changing Up Your Skin Care Routine

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