5 Salon-Approved Tips for Styling Hair

We all crave that salon-fresh look for our hair, but achieving it at home can sometimes feel daunting. The good news is that you can style your hair like a pro right in your home with the proper techniques and a little know-how.

Get ready to unleash your inner hair diva because it’s time to transform your hair game at home while having much fun! We’ve got five stylist-approved tips for you that will leave you strutting your stuff with fabulous hair and oodles of confidence.

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What Are the Most Important Factors to Consider in Hair Styling?

Before diving into specific styling techniques for good hair days, it’s essential to understand the key factors that play a significant role in the outcome of your hairstyle:

Hair Type and Texture

Your hair’s natural characteristics, such as hair thickness, texture, and pattern, will influence your styling methods and products. Understanding your hair type is the first step in achieving the best results when styling hair. Here are some tips on what to avoid and what to do when styling different hair types:

Dry Hair

Avoid excessive heat tools for dry hair, which can further deplete moisture. Overwashing should also be avoided; aim for 2-3 times a week to prevent stripping natural oils. Be cautious of harsh hair products with alcohol or sulfates, as they can be drying.

Instead, opt for moisturizing shampoos and conditioners, and apply leave-in conditioners or hair oils to hydrate. Limit the usage of heat styling tools, and always use a heat protectant. Opt for hairstyles that minimize friction, such as loose braids or buns, and consider regular deep conditioning treatments to add moisture and shine.

Greasy Hair

If you have greasy hair, avoid overwashing, which can stimulate oil production. Heavy or oily hair products should be avoided, as they weigh hair down. Refrain from touching your hair throughout the day, as this transfers oil.

Instead, use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and apply lightweight conditioners only to the ends of your hair. Opt for hairstyles that keep your hair off your face and scalp, and use dry shampoo between washes to absorb excess oil. It’s also advisable to wash your hairbrush regularly to prevent oil buildup.

Thin Hair

Avoid excessive teasing or backcombing for those with fine hair, as it can cause breakage. Heavy, greasy products that weigh down fine hair should be avoided, as should tight hairstyles that stress hair follicles.

Instead, use volumizing shampoos and conditioners and apply lightweight styling products for lift and hold. You can blow-dry your hair upside down to add volume and use a wide-tooth comb for gentle detangling. Consider layered haircuts for added body and movement.

Thick Hair

If you have thick hair, avoid overloading it with heavy products. Neglecting regular trims can lead to excess weight, and using high heat settings too frequently can damage your hair.

Instead, use hydrating shampoos and conditioners and apply frizz-fighting serums or oils as needed. Consider thinning or layering your hair for manageability, and use high-heat settings only when necessary for styling.

Wavy Hair

To keep your wavy hair looking its best, remember these simple guidelines. Avoid over-brushing, which can disrupt your natural wave patterns, and steer clear of heavy, sticky hair products that can weigh down your waves and lead to frizz.

Instead, opt for wave-enhancing shampoos and conditioners, lightweight products for hold and definition, and embrace scrunching to encourage your natural locks. Regular trims help maintain your wave’s shape, and when drying, consider using a microfiber towel or an old t-shirt to blot gently for frizz-free results.

Curly Hair

Curly hair doesn’t benefit from excessive brushing or combing when dry, as these can cause frizz. Sulfate-based shampoos that strip natural oils should also be avoided. Over-styling with heat can lead to damage. Instead, use sulfate-free, curly hair-friendly shampoos and conditioners.

Apply leave-in conditioners and curl-enhancing products, scrunch your hair while air-drying, or use a diffuser for natural curls. Consider adopting the curly girl method for gentle care, and protect your curls with a silk or satin pillowcase.

Straight Hair

If you have straight hair, avoid heavy products, lessen heat styling, and tight hairstyles. Instead, use volumizing shampoos and lightweight conditioners.

Consider layers or a textured haircut to enhance your body, and rely on dry shampoo for volume between washes. These tips can help you keep your hair straight and silky.

Face Shape and Color

Finding a good hairstyle and hair color can vary based on your unique face shape. To discover the most flattering hairstyle and color options, consider seeking advice from a professional stylist or utilizing online resources specializing in face shape analysis. 

Product Selection

Just like choosing the right styling products for your skin, choosing one for your hair type and desired look is crucial. Invest in quality products like heat protectants, hairsprays, and hair serums to achieve long-lasting results.

Tools and Equipment

High-quality styling tools, including hairdryers, straighteners, and curling irons, are worth the investment. These hairstyling tools can make a significant difference in the outcome of your hairstyle.

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5 Salon-Approved Hair Styling Tips

Here are some hair tips that make all the difference:

Hair Diet For Healthy Hair

Step one to fabulous hair: it’s time for a “hair diet.” Give your hair a break from the heat and products. Think of it as a detox for your locks.

Give them a breather by limiting your use of heated tools and hair products for a few days or even a week. Let your hair recover, rediscover its natural charm, and get ready to style it into something amazing!

Clean and Prep Your Hair Before the Glam Session

Clean hair is the key to hair success! Before diving into your styling adventure, ensure your hair is squeaky clean and apply conditioner with products that suit your hair type. 

Practice proper hair care and create a routine while you’re at it. Use deep conditioning treatment to exfoliate dead skin cells and moisturize your hair.

We’re talking about a fresh start here! Thoroughly rinse your hair to get rid of any lingering product residues. Clean hair is a blank canvas waiting for your creative touch. Although a stylist once mentioned that dirty hair is easier to style, I prefer not to because I feel icky.  

But wait! Remember to use a trusty protection spray to ensure your hair’s health and minimize damage during styling. It’s like a shield that guards your precious locks from the heat’s fiery embrace. With clean, protected hair, you’re not just styling but creating a masterpiece!

Invest in Quality Tools: Upgrade Your Hair Arsenal

Prepare to be blown away (literally) by your hair. To achieve that parlor-worthy look, you’ve got to invest in the right tools. Trust us; it’s worth every penny!

Look for a blow dryer, straightener, and curling iron with adjustable heat settings and plates or barrels made of materials like tourmaline or ceramic. These babies distribute heat evenly and reduce the risk of hair damage.

Don’t Hesitate To Blow-Dry Your Hair

Most of the time, a stylist blowout involves a meticulous blow-drying process. Now, it’s your turn to pull that salon-quality blowout! Here’s how to do it:

• Start with that towel-dried hair of yours.
• Slather on a heat protectant and a volume-boosting product that suits your hair type.
• When trying different styling options, wear bobby pins or hair ties to section your hair to create a good foundation. 
• Grab a round brush and lift those roots like a pro.
• Direct that airflow down the hair shaft to keep frizz at bay. Make sure your brush is in the same direction.
• Finish off with a cool shot on your whole head to set your style and add some irresistible shine.

Don’t Be Afraid To Use Hair Products

Get ready to play with your hair like never before! Stylists pros swear by these products, and so should you:

• Mousse: It’s like a magic potion for adding volume and holding those fabulous styles.
• Texturizing spray: Let your inner beach goddess shine with those chic waves.
• Hair serum: Get ready to dazzle with your hair’s shine and frizz-free glory using a hair serum or a DIY hair serum. 
• Hairspray: This is your trusty sidekick for holding your style together through thick and thin!

Remember, hair products are your partners in crime. Just don’t go overboard – a little goes a long way!

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How To Style Your Hair Naturally

Natural hairstyles are all the rage, and they can be elegant and effortless. Here’s how to achieve that relaxed, au naturel look:

1. Air Dry: Let your hair dry naturally instead of using heat styling tools. Apply a leave-in conditioner or styling product suited for your hair type to enhance its natural texture.
2. Braids and Twists: Create loose braids or twists in your hair before bedtime. When you unravel them in the morning, you’ll have beautiful waves or curls without heat damage. You can also use clothes to tie it together for a more consistent wave.
3. Salt Spray: For that beachy wave look, apply a salt spray to your damp hair and scrunch it using your hands. Let your hair air dry to achieve effortless, textured waves.

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How Do I Make My Hair Look Salon-Quality?

Achieving stylist-quality hair at home may require extra effort, but it’s certainly possible. Here are some hair styling tips for high-quality hair:

1. Blowout Technique: Invest in a high-quality hairdryer and round brush. Follow a blowout technique: lift your roots, direct heat down the hair shaft, and finish with a cool shot to set your style.
2. Professional Products: Use professional-grade styling products, such as mousse for volume, heat protectants, and a strong-hold hairspray. 
3. Section and Style: Divide your hair into manageable sections before using heated tools. This ensures even styling and prevents overexposure to heat, reducing the risk of damage.
4. Precision Styling: Invest in a flat iron or curling wand with adjustable temperature settings for precision styling. Start with the lowest heat setting and gradually increase it as needed for your hair type.

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What To Avoid When Styling My Hair

When styling your hair, avoiding certain mistakes and practices is just as important as knowing what to do. Here are some key things to avoid when styling your hair:

Excessive Heat and Not Using Hair Protectant

Avoid excessive heat, over-styling, and neglecting hair protection. High temperatures can damage your natural hair (even hot water), leading to damaged hair.

To prevent this, use lower heat settings on styling tools and always apply a heat protect spray or serum before styling. Overusing heated tools can weaken your hair over time, so use them sparingly to maintain hair health.

Skipping Regular Trims

Avoid neglecting a good haircut and trim. Trimming your hair every 6-8 weeks helps maintain its health, prevents split ends, and keeps your style looking fresh.

Tight Hairstyles

Avoid tightly pulling your hair into hairstyles like tight ponytails, braids, or buns regularly. Over time, this can cause stress on the hair follicles and lead to hair breakage or thinning.

Sleeping with Damp Hair

Going to bed with damp hair can lead to frizz, tangles, and breakage. Allow your hair to air dry, or use a gentle hair dryer on a low heat setting before bedtime.

Overloading on Chemical Treatments

Excessive use of chemical treatments like perms, relaxers, or colorings can weaken your hair’s structure and lead to damage. Always follow professional guidance and avoid overlapping treatments.

Ignoring Scalp Health

Your scalp’s health is essential for healthy hair growth. Avoid neglecting your scalp by maintaining a clean and balanced environment through proper cleansing and care.

Tugging and Pulling

Avoid harshly brushing or combing your wet hair to lessen hair fall and damage. Gently use a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush to remove tangles.

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Recommended Products

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Final Thoughts

Achieving salon-quality hair at home is within reach for anyone with the right knowledge and tools. By following these five stylist-approved tips, you can confidently style your hair and achieve the gorgeous, healthy locks you desire.

Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if it takes a little time to master these techniques. With patience and some experimentation, you’ll be well on your way to becoming your hairstyling expert.