Four Simple Secrets To Make Your Hair Look Its Best

If you’re tired of your hair looking dull and lifeless, then this is the article for you. Learn four simple secrets to make your hair look its best, starting today from Heera, an award-winning makeup artist, and hairstylist in Sydney.

Secret #1: Always start with a salon quality shampoo and conditioner

The shampoo and conditioner you use are just as important as the food you put in your body. The primary purpose of these products is to remove dirt, oil, and product build-up from your hair, which helps to keep it healthy and clean. Avoid harsh shampoos and conditioners, and look for products that are sulfate-free and gentle on your scalp.

When shopping for shampoos, pay attention to the ingredient list. Sulfates, while effective at cleaning, can strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle over time. Instead, gentle cleansers that use natural surfactants derived from coconut or other plant-based sources are recommended. These alternatives clean effectively without causing damage or irritation to your scalp.

Your hair type should also determine which shampoo formula you choose. For instance, if you have oily hair, look for clarifying shampoos that can remove excess oils without overdrying. Those with colour treated hair should look for formulas that are colour safe and help preserve vibrancy and prevent fading. Fine hair benefits from lightweight, volumising shampoos, while thick or coarse hair requires more moisturising formulas.

Conditioners work by smoothing the cuticles on each strand making your hair shinier, healthier, and smoother. Conditioners help moisturise the scalp, which keeps it healthy also. Many different conditioners are available, including ones with natural or organic ingredients. Be sure to deep condition your hair at least once a week.

The way you apply conditioner matters just as much as the product itself. Always apply from mid-length to the ends of your hair, avoiding the roots unless you have very dry hair. This prevents your scalp from becoming greasy while ensuring your ends receive the moisture they need. Leave the conditioner on for at least two to three minutes to allow it to penetrate the hair shaft fully.

Deep conditioning treatments are essential for maintaining healthy hair, especially if you regularly use heat styling tools or chemical treatments. These intensive treatments contain higher concentrations of nourishing ingredients such as proteins, oils, and vitamins that repair damage and restore moisture. Consider using a deep conditioning mask once a week, or more frequently if your hair is particularly damaged or dry.

Secret #2: Protect your hair from heat damage

Heat styling can damage your hair, including blow drying, flat ironing, and curling. But there are a few ways to avoid it and repair heat damaged hair. One way is to use heat protectants before styling your hair. Another way is by using the cool setting if you have an option on your blow dryer or flat iron. If you use a blow dryer, curling, or flat iron, try not to do it daily and give your hair a break in between styles.

Understanding how heat damages hair can help you take better preventative measures. When you apply high temperatures to your hair, you’re essentially boiling the water molecules inside each strand. This causes the hair cuticle to lift and the protein structure to break down, leading to weakness, breakage, split ends, and a dull appearance. Over time, repeated heat exposure can permanently alter your hair’s texture and elasticity.

Heat protectant products create a barrier between your hair and the styling tool, distributing heat more evenly and reducing direct damage. Look for heat protectants that offer protection up to 450°F (230°C) and contain ingredients like silicones, natural oils, or keratin. Apply these products to damp hair before blow-drying or to dry hair before using flat irons or curling wands.

Embracing air drying or heatless styling methods on alternate days can significantly improve your hair’s overall health. Try braiding damp hair for natural waves, using foam rollers for volume, or styling with clips and pins for sleek looks that don’t require heat. These methods may take a bit more time initially, but your hair will thank you for the break from thermal stress.

When using heat styling tools, always start with the lowest temperature setting that achieves your desired results. Fine or damaged hair should never be exposed to temperatures above 300°F (150°C), while thick or coarse hair can typically withstand slightly higher temperatures. Invest in quality styling tools with adjustable temperature settings and ceramic plates, which distribute heat more evenly and reduce hot spots that can cause damage.

Secret #3: Use the right products to style your hair

The first thing is to identify the type of hair you have. You can do this by looking at your hair’s texture, thickness, and volume. If you have dry, frizzy, or curly hair, then it’s best to use a styling product that provides moisture and shine.

If your hair is fine and straight, you can use a volumising shampoo and conditioner to help give your hair some body and volume. You can use a curling iron or hot rollers to add some curl or wave to your straight and fine hair. Remember to use a heat protectant spray before using any hot styling tools.

The density of your hair applies to how many individual strands you have, and plays a crucial role in product selection. High density hair can handle heavier products like thick creams and butters, while low density hair becomes weighed down by these products and needs lighter formulas like mousses or sprays. Similarly, consider your strand thickness; fine strands need lightweight products, while thick strands can benefit from richer formulations.

Curly and frizzy hair types typically benefit from moisturising conditioners, curl-defining creams, and anti-frizz serums containing ingredients like argan oil, shea butter, or coconut oil. The LOC method (Liquid, Oil, Cream) is particularly effective for maintaining moisture in curly hair by applying a water-based conditioner, seal it with an oil, and finish with a styling cream. This layering technique helps lock in moisture by keeping curls defined and frizz-free throughout the day.

For those with fine, straight hair, avoid heavy oils and creams that can make your hair look flat and greasy. Instead, choose lightweight mousses, root-lifting sprays, and dry shampoos that add texture and volume without weighing your hair down. Applying products at the roots and avoiding the ends can help create lift while preventing your hair from looking limp.

Don’t underestimate the power of finishing products either. A good hairspray can help hold your style in place without making it stiff or crunchy. Look for flexible hold formulas that allow for movement while still providing control. Shine serums and glossing sprays are perfect for adding a final touch of polish to any hairstyle, but remember to use them sparingly, as a little goes a long way.

Secret #4: Wear the right parting style for you

The right side parting style is the most popular hairstyle as it is the easiest way to part your hair and can be styled in a variety of different ways.

This style is perfect for those who have a round face, as it creates more angles and allows you to highlight your best features. While the right-sided part has its merits, the truth is that the “right” parting style depends entirely on your unique facial features and bone structure. Your natural hair growth pattern also plays a role, as this forces your hair into a part that fights against its natural direction and can lead to a style that never quite sits right or looks stylish.

There are several other parting styles to consider based on your face shape. If you have an oval face, almost any parting style will suit you, including centre parts, side parts, or even zigzag parts. For those with a heart shaped face, a side-swept part helps balance a wider forehead with a narrower chin. Square face shapes benefit from deep side parts that soften angular jawlines and create the illusion of more delicate features.

A centre part creates a symmetrical, balanced look that works particularly well for those with oval or long face shapes. It’s also a trend in modern hairstyles and gives a sleek, sophisticated appearance. However, if you have a prominent forehead or uneven facial features, a centre part might draw attention to these areas rather than balance them out.

Experimenting with your part placement can also help disguise thinning hair or add volume to flat areas. Moving your part to the opposite side of where you typically wear it can instantly create lift at the roots. Similarly, creating a deeper side part rather than a shallow one can add drama and height to your overall style.

Don’t be afraid to change your part occasionally, even if you have a preferred style. Wearing the same part in the same place for years can cause the hair in that area to become weaker and thinner over time. Switching up your part every few months gives those strands a break and helps maintain even hair density across your scalp.

We hope you’ve found this article helpful. If you have any questions about hair care or makeup, please don’t hesitate to contact us.