STYLE

Lackluster strands don't pass the vibe check. Right this way to your happiest, healthiest hair ever.

Heat styling, dyeing, over (or under) washing, loads of brushing, super tight ponies... our hair can only go through so much before it hits its literal breaking point. The result? Damaged, dull strands. Luckily, there are lots of ways to keep wear 'n' tear at a minimum—and glossiness at a maximum.

Turn down the heat

Try: Batoude Heatless Curling Rod ($10), Dae Agave Heat Protection & Hold Styling Mist ($28), Odele Moisture Mask ($12)

If you're as obsessed with your heat tools as you are with Travis and Taylor's relationship, it's time to step away from the irons. "Heat damages your strands, which creates dullness," says celebrity hairstylist Justine Marjan—so take a break and air-dry instead. When you do go back to your faves, remember to lower the temp and always use a heat protector, shares colorist Rachel Bodt.

Wash your hair the right way

Try: Tresemmé Keratin Smooth Weightless Shampoo and Conditioner ($6 each), K18 Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair Mask ($29), Tangle Teezer The Ultimate Detangler ($16)

Is there such a thing as too much shampoo? Yes—if you use the wrong products. Marjan suggests looking for hydrating and nourishing formulas whose labels read as "smoothing" or have hair-friendly proteins like keratin in them. Another expert-approved wash day tip? At the end of your shower, rinse your head with cold water to help seal strands. And be gentle when detangling: Start from the ends of your hair and slowly work your way up to minimize damage, says Marjan. "Your hair is most delicate when wet," says Bodt, who recommends using a conditioner or leave-in mask along with a soft bristle brush to work through stubborn snarls.

Boost your brilliance

Try: Kitsch Satin Pillowcase ($19), SheaMoisture Smooth & Shine Oil ($11), Muaves Champagne Gold All Satin Hair Wrap ($55), Slip Back to Basics Gold Scrunchie Set ($34)

If you're not already sleeping on a silk (or satin) pillowcase, WYD? They're not just a gimmick (Marjan and Bodt both swear by 'em). And use a silk scrunchie to pull your hair back into a bun while you sleep, suggests Bodt, to minimize friction as you toss and turn. Plan to shampoo in the a.m.? Slather on some hair oil or a mask for deeper absorption before bed. (Just sleep with a shower cap or bonnet over top to prevent any mess.)

Show off your shine

Ready to rock your transformed tresses? "A sleek, straightened style lets strands neatly align to reflect light," says Marjan. "A bouncy blowout can also help show off shiny hair." In terms of color, Bodt adds that though light tends to bounce off rich brown and black shades, any hair color can give gloss (as long as your mane isn't overly damaged). Now who's a bright babe?

Instant Shine Superstars

Want to score speedy sheen and smoothness? We thought so...
✨ Tresemmé Keratin Smooth Weightless Silky Shine Spray ($7): Apply to damp hair from midlengths through the ends for a glassy finish.
✨ EmiJay Angel-Stick ($38, emijay.com): Tame flyaway strands in a snap.
✨ Eva NYC Just Glisten Hair + Body Shine Mist ($13): Curly girls will heart the weightless, silky hydration.
✨ Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Frizz Tamer Slicking Hair Serum Wand ($10): Show those baby hairs who is boss (fight frizzies, too).
✨ Ouai Hair Gloss In-Shower Shine Treatment ($34): This 5-minute treatment keeps hair glossy and gorgeous for three weeks.

Hey, girl! Just wanted to let you know that this story originally ran in our April/May 2024 issue. Want more? Read the print mag for free *today* when you click HERE.

Keep reading for more beauty and style advice:
🎀 We've got your spring hair inspo right here
👒 Is it bad to have a skincare routine at a young age?
💅 Your guide to the hottest spring nail trends

by Lisa DeSantis | 4/18/2024