Hair Product 101
When I was working at the salon, a lot of clients scoffed at the mere mention of product. And I get it. Product pushers leave a bad taste in your mouth and the wrong products leave you feeling like you wasted money. For that reason, I always felt bad about up-selling product, I was horrible at it. On the flip-side, when you look at a picture of a celebrity with great hair there is a 99.9% chance they have product in their hair. It takes a rare, lucky SOB to wake up and roll out of bed with fantastic hair. Product gives you the ability to fake great hair, but only if you use it properly.
I like to think of product in 3 phases and plan accordingly; prep, style and finish. I never have less than 3 products in my hair, mainly because my hair is an unruly beast that needs to be tamed multiple times a day. Not everyone needs the same products or the same amount I use, but hopefully breaking down what products make your life easier will help you on your ever-evolving quest for hair happiness.
Prep
My go-to prep product adds back in moisture and detangles. I use anything that makes combing and brushing easier. This is extremely important with thick, dry or long hair. While, this step is vital, don’t expect it to transform your hair. While, it can smooth and really help, it should be used to make your hair healthy and protect it.
My favorites include:
Bumble and Bumble Tonic Lotion
Aveda Style Prep Smoother
It’s a 10 Miracle Leave In
Style
Products used to style will depend on the look you are going for. I tend to go for anything that smooths and protects from heat, even if I wear my hair curly or wavy. Also, just because a product says curling or straightening, don’t expect that to be a result of using it.
My favorites include
Bumble and Bumble Grooming Cream
Aveda Smooth Infusion Glossing Straightener
Finish
When people think product they usually think of hair spray. This is not always true. Also, not all hair spray is created equal. I like to use a light weight for little hold. This is also where your anti frizz serums and pomades would come it.
My faves include:
Bumble and Bumble Brilliantine
Aveda Light Elements Defining Whip
