Let’s face it ladies, when it comes to our hair, we have all had some bad days. No matter what your ethnicity or hair type, this is a common factor that we can all relate to. Whether it’s the rain and humidity or just one of those days where your locks seem to have a mind of it’s own. Well, as bleak as it may seem, there are a few things that we can do to get and keep our hair on the right track(no pun intended). Here are a few quick tips that may help you get through those times.

First, when it comes to styling products there are so many out there that sometimes you may feel overwhelmed when trying to choose what’s right for your hair type. Here’s a rule of thumb that applies to everyone no matter who you are. Less is more! Remember this ladies, when it comes to oil sheen, styling gels, spritz, hair sprays and even conditioners. These products, if used in excess, can weigh your hair down and leave you with a finished product that makes you look like you need to wash it all over again. However, if used sparingly (and I place extra emphasis on the word sparingly) we can all achieve that fresh from the salon look for just pennies at home.

1. It is a must that you find a shampoo/conditioner duo that your hair agrees with. Take the time to experiment by trying various brands until you find one that your hair responds well to. You’ll find that if you change the product that you have been using for that last few months or even years, your hair will thank you for it and reward you with a better attitude. In addition to finding a great new shampoo, you should use a clarifying shampoo about every 8 weeks to remove the build-up from all the styling products you use on a regular basis. This will give your hair more movement and vitality.

Headnote: Clean hair is healthy hair but over washing can do more harm than good by stripping of natural essential oils. If you have dry and/or damaged hair, wash your hair only about every 7 days. If your hair is oily, washing it more often may be necessary. But whether dry or oil, use caution while washing (and combing after washing) to avoid breakage as hair is in its weakest state when it is wet.

2. Conditioners must be rinsed out completely to avoid weighing the hair down. Rinse in cold water if your hair is oily. This will close the pores in your scalp preventing excess oil to saturate your hair. On the contrary, rinse in hot water if your hair is dry. The hot water will draw natural oils from your scalp through the length of your hair creating a natural shine. Not too hot though, you don’t want to burn your scalp!

3. A great product that is often used by professional stylists are anti-frizz serums. These add light shine and prevent your hair from frizzing and puffing up on those humid days and allow you to enjoy outdoor activities in peace. Anti-Frizz serums are worth gold (if used properly). Too much will leave you look a wet puppy… Again, less is more. Only a dime size drop is necessary; rub into palms and evenly distribute over entire head (damp or dry).

4. Oil sheen is only necessary if your hair is feeling and looking dry or dull and in need of a boost of shine. Never spray oil sheen closer than 15 inches close to your hair and keep the bottle rotating at all times. Over use of oil sheen will prevent movement and body in your hair and give a greasy appearance. Instead, opt for a hot oil treatment. Hot oil treatments are far more beneficial than oil sheen when it comes to countering dry/damaged hair.

5. Gels and Spritz tend to be over-drying but if you must use, opt for clear gels over brown as browns especially tend to over-dry the hair and look for spritz with no alcohol.

6. Avoid blow drying hair too often. Occasionally give your hair a break by allowing a little extra time to either let air dry or use low heat under a hooded dryer.

7. For those of you who use curling irons or flat irons on a regular basis; Cut back! Over use of heat styling is extremely damaging. If you haven’t already, replace your old appliances with ceramic. Not only will ceramic curling irons and flat irons make your hair smoother, silkier and shinier they are far less damaging. Select ones with thermostat controls so that you can adjust the heat to a setting that is appropriate for your hair texture.

8. Lastly, there is only so much that we do from the outside. Healthy hair starts from within. This means diet and exercise is essential. Drink lots of water, avoid alcohol in excess, eat fruits and veggies daily, avoid smoking, and get up and get moving.

Of course, these are some basics. Achieving beautiful healthy hair is a life long pursuit. Let’s continue to make this world a more fabulous place by loving our locks!