Beauty News

Glossy hair tips

Giving your hair some TLC can bring it bcak to life.

Glossy hair is a must for any cut or style to look right. If your locks are crying out for help, here’s how to nurse them back to health.

Scalp it

If your scalp is itchy, flaky, scaly or tender, it’s unhealthy and will affect the amount and quality of hair growth. All sorts of things can cause this, from hormonal changes to chemical processing. Treat the problem with products designed to moisturise and boost the natural protective barrier. Try CLEAR SCALPHAIR BEAUTY THERAPY TOTAL NOURISHING CARE SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER $5.99 or Head & Shoulders Scalp Massage Cream Treatment $11.23. Otherwise, opt for Clairol Professional ScALP Range $16.90, which includes a stimulating leave-in tonic. The idea of exfoliating the scalp has been slow to catch on, but KÉrastase have a Purifying Shampoo with a scrub texture, as part of its anti-dandruff range – BainExfoliant Purifiant $39.

Heat up

Blow-drying dehydrates the hair and breaks down keratin. Minimise damage by letting it partially air-dry first, as stretching wet hair with a brush can also cause breakage. If it feels like the hairdryer is burning your scalp, hold the nozzle further away from your head. Always use styling products that have an element of heat protection, such as Joico Smooth Cure Thermal Styling Protectant $31 or Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Thermo-Active Spray $10.19.

Brush off

Using the wrong tools to untangle and style can also cause damage. Avoid metal or wooden combs – choose softer plastic instead. For detangling, go for one with widely spaced teeth, such as ViA Shower Comb $3.99 or invest in a Tangle Teezer Aqua Splash $29.99. The best brush to use depends on your hair type. If it’s thick and curly, then one with tight bristles is best. Fine hair will snag on denser bristles, so look for a brush that is separated out.

Deep treat

The cuticles of the hair are like fish scales. When dry, they curl upwards and your locks look dull. A good conditioner will make the cuticles lie flat, so it appears smoother and shinier.  Try the new Garnier Fructis Goodbye Damage Conditioner $5.59 or Schwarzkopf Extra Care Ultimate Oil Elixir Conditioner $6.39.

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