Stocking your shower with the wrong products can cause a bad hair day before you even dry off. Check BAZAAR’s chart to find what suits you.
BREAK BAD HABITS Stop drying your hair with a cotton towel. “It’s the worst thing you can do,” says celebrity hairstylist Mark Townsend. The reason? Cotton fibres and loops get caught on hair, ripping open the cuticles and exacerbating frizz. Use a microfibre fabric instead, which provides a smooth surface to absorb water quickly. Truth: Hot water fades your colour and dries out your hair. Be mindful of the temperature (or wear a shower cap until you’re ready to shampoo). At the very least, seal your cuticles with a 10-second cold-water rinse after conditioning. “When the cuticle is smooth and closed, it reflects light, and that’s really what shine is,” explains Townsend. Who told you to skip conditioner? “Women with fine hair seeking volume need it the most and use it the least,” says hairstylist Tim Rogers. Why? Because they’re the ones doing the most styling with a blow-dryer to create body and who need protection from heat damage. Keep roots from getting greasy by applying conditioner from your ears down. If your hair is over-processed from one too many colour or chemical treatments, slathering on conditioner is no longer going to cut it. Repair severe dryness with a rich hair mask. “Use one on your ends every time you shower,” recommends hairstylist Valery Joseph, even on days when you don’t shampoo. For best results, rinse it out after five minutes. THE BEST PRODUCTS Kérastase Elixir Ultime Versatile Beautifying Oil Percy & Reed Perfectly Perfecting Wonder Cleanse & Nourish, RM136 Aveda Dry Remedy Moisturizing Masque, RM200 PRO TIP Choose products that contain moisturising oils and butters to smooth out your cuticles before you step out of the shower. And don’t forget about the power of your scalp’s natural oils. “They’re an amazing de-frizzer,” Townsend says. Reap their benefits by shampooing no more than three times a week.