Secrets to Shiny, Healthy Hair

No matter if you're up on the stage or you're simply sitting on your couch, we all want our hair to look shiny and healthy. I get quite a few comments and questions on my hair. Everything from how do I get those big volume waves, to complete strangers asking me where I got my extensions done. (For the record, all the hair on my head is my own.) I've even had the person behind me in line at Starbucks decide to pet my hair. Based on this interest, plus some specific requests that I feature a post about my hair care, I've decide to divulge all my hair secrets.  Honestly, my hair really isn't that different from anyone else's. I have medium-thick wavy, brown hair. But over the years I've learned to care for it and found the right products for my hair type. Since we all have different hair types, what works for me obviously won't work for everyone, but hopefully you can find an idea or two to add to your own hair care routine.

Start From the Inside
Outer beauty starts on the inside. What you eat today literally becomes the components of your cells for tomorrow. Our food is the building blocks of our internal organs, bones, skin, and hair. So it's important to eat nutrient-dense, vibrant foods. I eat a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean protein, especially salmon. And I limit wheat, dairy, and processed foods. I also take vitamins everyday. Stress, which so many of are under daily, can cause hair loss, as it leaches Vitamin B out of the body. Adding a supplement to your diet can be advantageous. The portion of my vitamin regime focused on hair is the Hair, Skin, and Nails multi-vitamin supplement made by Futurebiotics, which has a high concentration of B vitamins.

Hair Care
Even if you want to retain your long hair or are trying to grow yours out, regular trims are essential. If you don't get the dead ends cut off, you're compromising the health of your hair and ultimately slowing the growth of your hair. I get about three inches cut off every four months. I also always get layers cut in, especially around my face to add lift, texture, and body. I see Carly at Salon Divine, who is great with layers.

I try to limit washing to every other day, as too much shampooing can strip hair of its natural oils and shine. Not to mention it's just time-consuming! I alternate between using John Frieda Full Repair Shampoo and Conditioner and Therapy-G Antioxidant Shampoo and Conditioner. Overall, I like a very thick conditioner as my hair is prone to tangles and this also helps keep it hydrated. I do also color my hair with an all-over non-bleach color to add depth and dimension. I see Lori Hansen, who I highly recommend. And after my shower I always finish with Ojon Revitalizing Mist, which is a leave-in detangler. Before bed, I brush my dry hair from root to tip, which spreads oil from the scalp along the hair shaft and also stimulates growth in hair follicles.

Hair Styling
I highly recommend investing in an expensive hair dryer and brush. For a hair dryer, you want one that drys at a high heat, thus drying your hair faster, which limits the exposure time of your hair to damaging heat styling. I have a professional ionic tourmaline dryer made by Bespoke Labs. For my brush, I use 50-50 nylon and boar bristle brush by Mason Pearson. Yes, a Mason Pearson brush is a bit pricey, but it comes with a lifetime guarantee and it's an item you'll use every single day. In my opinion, it's worth every penny. Before blow drying, I spray the roots with Aveda Volumizing Tonic, which provides a noticeable volume lift. I also rub in a small amount of Aveda Smooth Infusion Style Prep Smoother, which protects against heat styling and helps smooth and soften hair. I turn my head upside down and I use my Pearson Mason brush as I blow dry to blow dry my hair out straight.

Once dry, I set my hair in hot rollers. I am a huge fan of hot rollers and they are my number one hair recommendation. They will give you big, bouncy curls, and can sit in your hair while you get ready.  And, as they aren't as hot as a curling iron, they aren't nearly as damaging to your hair. A Conair set from the drugstore works just fine. Look for ones that have a minimum of 3.5 inch rollers, while 4 inches is even better. I set my style with a liberal application of John Freida Frizz-Ease Hairspray.

A few final items I keep around are Ojon Shine & Protect Glossing Mist for days when my hair is looking a little dry. And on non-shampooing days if my roots are starting to look oily, I apply good old Johnson and Johnson baby powder. But be sure to rub it in well.

Hope you found these tips helpful!