My hair and I? Most of the time, we’re in a fight. It’s thin, blonde, and reaches frizz-ball status more often than I’d like to admit. A winning shampoo-conditioner combo would surely help tame my mane, but with the sea of products out there, I feel like I’m drowning! Factor in constant blow drying, heat tools, and highlights, and finding the right products can be a “hairy” situation. Here’s some help:
• Take a look in the mirror. How would you describe your hair? Do you have blonde highlights? A mess of gorgeous ringlets? Dry or split strands? L'Oreal Professionnel Celebrity Colorist Jennifer J says a quick glance can help determine what your hair is thirsty for.
• If you have thin or fine hair, volumizing or root lifting treatments will provide a much-needed boost. L'Oreal Professionnel's Ron King Salon says they'll infuse your mane with just the right amount of body, volume and bounce.
TIGI Catwalk Your Highness Volume Collection ($14.95-20.95)
• Gals will thick, frizzy or unruly hair will benefit from a smoothing shampoo, along with a more intense conditioner. The Ron King Salon says smoothing products will help coat frazzled locks, add moisture and shine, and bring hair back to life.
L'Oreal Professionnel Serie Expert Liss Ultime Smoothing Shampoo
• If you have dry or heat damaged hair, focus on overall hair health. Shampoo can strip the hair of its natural oils, so Jennifer J recommends reaching for a version that’s moisturizing. Then, smooth on a deep conditioner. If you haven’t had a recent trim, or you’re a slave to your styling tools, grab a leave-in conditioner or heat protectant for additional hair help.
Philip B Lovin’ Leave-In Conditioner ($8-$24)
• Color treated hair will also benefit from a moisturizing shampoo. If your hair is parched, reach for a more intense conditioner. For healthier locks, a lighter version will work best. Anything else will weigh strands down. If you tend to go for single process color, look for shampoos and conditioners that are made for color treated hair. They won’t strip or fade your mane’s main hue. Products free of sulfates will also prevent “stripping.” If you’re a fan of highlights, Jennifer J says focus more on hydration. You don’t need to worry as much about products fading your color.
L'Oreal EverPure Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner ($6.99)
• Hair products that offer UV protection are great for the summer, or in areas where the sun is always shining. Just like clothes in a dryer for too long, too much sun can fade your hair color. Jennifer J says brunettes and redheads will benefit the most from a sun guard. Blondes don’t need to worry as much. The sun will help their hair shine!
John Frieda Frizz-Ease Thermal Protection Serum ($8.99)
So, are all hair products created equal? In general, drugstore and high-end brands contain the same ingredients. It’s the amount of those ingredients that differs. Jennifer J recommends investing in a good shampoo. That’s because it can strip or dry out hair. For best results, apply it to your scalp. Once you rinse, the runoff will clean the rest of your locks. Balance out your beauty budget by getting conditioner at the drugstore. To avoid weighing your hair down, apply it to the ends and use sparingly.
Jennifer J. is the most sought-after celebrity hair colorist nationwide among the influencers, tastemakers and entertainment elite. Her experience spans more than 15 years, during which this time she has become a key figure in the world of hair coloring. Her precision and visionary techniques have made her a master at color corrections, beautiful vibrant tones and most importantly, natural hair color. She has created signature looks for clients such as Julia Roberts, Cate Blanchett, January Jones and Kristen Stewart. In addition to celebrity styling, Jennifer also finds time to create looks found in NewYork Times Style, USA Today, Harper’s Bazaar, Marie Claire, Lucky, Women’sWear Daily, Self, InStyle, E! and US Weekly.
