Thought Catalog | Unsplash

When it comes to skincare routines, most people have it covered. Whether it’s a simple cleanse and moisturize or a complex 10-step routine, our faces have never been as pampered as they are today. But your skin doesn’t stop when it reaches your hairline - so, does your scalp need a skincare routine too? And if so, what should that look like? We’ve spoken to New York-based dermatologists [Dr. Marisa Garshick](https://aedit.com/provider/marisa-garshick-md-313) and [Dr. Amy Spizuoco](https://aedit.com/provider/amy-spizuoco-19341) and board-certified Head & Neck Surgeon and Facial Plastic Surgeon, [Dr. William A. Kennedy](https://aedit.com/provider/william-kennedy-md-26292) to find out everything you need to know about scalp skincare routines - and what a healthy scalp-care routine should look like.

### **What makes the skin on your scalp different?**

Before delving into the merits of having a scalp care routine, let’s start by looking at what makes the skin on your scalp special, and what that means for how you should be taking care of it. While the scalp is an extension of the skin on our bodies, it also acts as a base for thousands of hair follicles and glands. These unique conditions mean that traditional skincare products won’t be the right fit for your scalp.”The weather, stress, age, and scalp-stripping hair products can all trigger irritation and dryness that present as tiny flakes. Hydrating shampoos and conditioners made with humectant ingredients like aloe or glycerin will help the scalp retain its much-needed moisture,” Dr. Spizuoco explains.

### **What are the benefits of caring for your scalp?** 

Caring for your scalp offers numerous benefits beyond just looking after your skin. Scalp care promotes hair growth by providing a healthy environment in which your hair follicles will thrive, while also preventing common issues like dandruff and excess oiliness. Massaging your scalp can improve circulation, reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Additionally, scalp care supports overall skin health, protecting against environmental damage and premature aging.  Just as aging skin on other parts of your body lose moisture, older scalp hair follicles also lose nutrients and moisture and this causes your hair to lose its luxurious, youthful appearance, [Dr. Kennedy](https://aedit.com/provider/william-kennedy-md-26292) tells us. 

### **How many steps should you include in a scalp skincare routine?**

Scalp care doesn’t need to be complicated, [Dr. Garshick](https://aedit.com/provider/marisa-garshick-md-313) tells us: “In general, at a minimum caring for your scalp should include proper cleansing with a shampoo to remove buildup without drying out the scalp.” But for some people, a more complex routine could be advisable: “Exfoliating can be helpful to get rid of dead skin cells and in other cases, properly nourishing the scalp and moisturizing the scalp may be needed.” Generally speaking, approaching scalp care as you would skincare is advisable, adjusting the steps you include depending on specific concerns or goals. ”Some scalp ingredients can be too harsh to be on facial skin,” [Dr. Spizuoco](https://aedit.com/provider/amy-spizuoco-19341) points out, so be sure to use specific products for your face and scalp.  [Dr. Kennedy](https://aedit.com/provider/william-kennedy-md-26292) says not to forget that scalp care is skin care; and everyones skin care should include a healthy mix of nondrying cleaning exfoliation, moisturizing, and frequent gentle massage to encourage blood flow and hair follicle nutrition 

### **Which steps should be included in a scalp care routine?**

Much like skincare, scalp care routines can be adjusted over time as the condition of your skin evolves. Dr. Spizuoco shared her ideal scalp care routine with us:

- **Start with a pre-shampoo treatment:** these oils, balms, and butters target specific scalp and hair concerns. They are typically applied 10-15 minutes before you shower to allow them time to get to work on your scalp.

- **Use an exfoliating shampoo:** this step is probably the most straightforward to add to your routine simply by switching out your regular shampoo for something kinder to your scalp. To take your scalp cleanse to the next level, look for a shampoo with skincare ingredients such as salicylic acid which helps control the production of sebum which can make your skin and hair appear oily.

- **Give your scalp a massage:** use your fingers or a scalp massaging tool to gently massage your skin. Starting at your forehead, massage in small circular motions, and gradually move toward the crown and back of your head. If your hair isn’t too knotted, you can then firmly comb your fingers along your scalp.


- **Keep your scalp soothed & hydrated:** apply a spray or leave-in scalp serum to keep the skin on your scalp calm and happy until your next hair wash.


### **What does an ideal scalp care shelf look like?**
Now that we’ve gone over the steps you might want to include, [Dr. Garshick](https://aedit.com/provider/marisa-garshick-md-313) talks us through what a great scalp care shelf would look like for most people: 

- **Pre-wash Treatment:** Biolage Scalp Sync Purifying Concentrate - intended for use before shampooing, this scalp concentrate helps to remove the buildup of excess oil and dead skin cells using glycolic acid and fermented tea extract. 

- **Shampoo:** “When it comes to shampoo the frequency may vary based on hair and scalp type as those with oily hair may prefer to wash their hair every day or every other day while those with dry scalp or hair may prefer to wash less often.” She recommends Dove Hair Therapy Dry Scalp Care Shampoo: “this sulfate-free shampoo helps to nourish the scalp and minimizes dryness. It is formulated with vitamin B3 which helps to calm the scalp leaving the hair and scalp looking healthy and refreshed.”

- **Scalp treatment:** “For scalp treatments, some are meant to be applied before shampooing, while others may be applied to a clean scalp after shampooing and then rinsed out and others left in for a period of time.” One of her recommended treatments is Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair Conditioner - “This nourishing conditioner, while should be focused on the hair, can help to nourish, soften and smooth the hair while also minimizing the potential for breakage,” she told us. “It incorporates conditioning ingredients such as algae extract, panthenol, and rosehip oil.”

- **Leave In:** Lastly, a leave-in product:” Dove Scalp + Hair Therapy Density Boost Serum” is recommended by [Dr. Garshick](https://aedit.com/provider/marisa-garshick-md-313). She explained: “This leave-in serum has been shown to improve overall hair density with 90 days of use while also helping to moisturize the scalp and strengthen the roots. It contains niacinamide, peptides, glycerin, and zinc gluconate which helps to prevent hair shedding and strengthen the hair.”


### **How frequently should you use a skincare routine for your scalp?**

Less is often more when it comes to scalp care, beyond cleansing daily or every other day, a more involved scalp care routine should only be practiced once or twice a week, unless your dermatologist or trichologist has advised otherwise of course. [Dr. Garshick](https://aedit.com/provider/marisa-garshick-md-313) told us “In general, exfoliation or deep conditioning treatments may only be needed 1-2 times per week or even just a few times per month depending on the specific treatment that is needed. For those with a very dry scalp, it can help to do a deep conditioning treatment once per week or once every other week, while for those with oily scalp or a lot of dandruff or buildup, using an exfoliating treatment 1-2 times per week can be helpful.”

### **In brief**

Most people already have a scalp care routine of sorts simply by cleansing their hair multiple times a week. And while, in some cases, that may be just enough, sometimes your scalp needs a little TLC too. By adding a few steps to your routine you can keep your scalp healthy, hydrated, and flake-free to help give your hair the best chance at feeling and looking great. While there’s generally no need to add several steps to your everyday scalp care routine, having a more in-depth routine a couple of times each week could help your scalp skin in the long run.


Beauty

Do you need a skincare routine for your scalp

Do You Need A Skincare Routine For Your Scalp?

joel-mott-H6h7vGf3IzY-unsplash (1)

From scalp care to bond builders to overnight treatments, these are the tips and tricks you need for your healthiest hair yet.

The Biggest Hair Care Trends Of 2022

8 Tress Trends That Prove 2022 Is The Year Of Hair

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Achieving your perfect [hair color](https://aedit.com/aedition/tracey-cunningham-true-color-hair-tips) takes patience, time, some outstanding inspiration photos, and a wad of cash. Good color doesn’t come cheap — nor should it — and the secret to keeping it looking fresh and vibrant in-between appointments comes down to what you wash your hair with regularly. Unfortunately, not every shampoo that sits on the shelves of your favorite beauty store is suited for color-treated hair. Here, we’re breaking down the benefits of shampoos formulated specifically for color-treated hair and which ones are worthy of a spot in your shower.

## **Why Color Fades Fast**	
Freshly colored tresses can lose their luster in no time flat, which is why celebrity colorist [Ryan Pearl](https://www.instagram.com/ryanpearl23/?hl=en) recommends waiting at least two days to first wash your hair after having it dyed. But that's not the only thing damaging your ’do:

### **1. The State of Your Strands**
Maintaining your new hue comes down to the color you are starting with and how you care for your hair. For example, suppose the tresses are dry or damaged. In that case, a pre-shampoo used on the ends before washing the hair helps fill it with a protective layer, says [Shab Reslan](https://www.instagram.com/shabhairexpert/), a New York City-based trichologist who is the host of the [Hair Like Hers](https://www.instagram.com/hairlikeherspodcast/) podcast and founder of [Leona](http://www.leona.co/), a hair health platform. 

### **2. The H2O**
Besides shampoo, water itself is a known color zapper. Reslan says hard water can cause a chemical reaction within the hair that changes the color. “Hard water can also leave a layer of buildup on the cuticle, which forces the color to appear dull and even darken blonde tones,” she adds. The solution: a water filter, like [T3 Source Showerhead](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.t3micro.com%2Fproduct%2Ft3-source-shower-head-filter), which sifts out heavy metals and other impurities often found in water. 

### **3. The Temperature**
Yes, your shampoo matters a lot, but so does the water temperature. For example, hot water can wash out hair color. “Very hot water will fade the color and cause it to become dull,” says Pearl, who recommends sudsing up with lukewarm to cool water. Also, try and limit washing to no more than a few times per week.

### **4. Heat**
Heat — be it from a styling tool or the sun — can dull color. The sun’s rays blanch out your existing color and can even leave it looking lighter than you desire. To limit [sun damage](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-repair-sun-damaged-hair), try wrapping sunscreen-protected strands in a scarf or wearing a hat to prevent unwanted lightening. Likewise, the heat emitted from styling tools will dull shine and flatten color, which is why Pearl advises setting the temperature on flat irons and curling irons as low as possible. 

## **How to Find a Good Shampoo** 
The goal of a color-protecting shampoo is two-fold: It needs to cleanse the hair while also protecting against color loss and fade. Color-treated hair is, to varying degrees, compromised in one way or another, Reslan says. “The cuticle layer that determines the hair’s smoothness and ability to lock in color molecules becomes disrupted,” she notes. Therefore, it’s crucial for anyone who [colors or highlights](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-mens-hair-color) their hair to know what’s in their shampoo (and other products) and how rough or gentle the cleansing agents are.

Pearl says shampoos made for color-treated hair tend to have a lower alcohol content. “Look for one that is hydrating, too, which will ensure that your color stays in top shape,” he adds. Color-depositing shampoos have been around for decades, and they are a suitable option, too. These tinted formulas deposit pigment to the hair to help retain vibrancy and prolong the life of the color. 

Steer clear of anything that’s clarifying, loaded with sulfates, and/or formulated with harsh cleansers. “They can compromise the cuticle and leave the hair feeling frizzy or dry while also washing out the color or blonde toner,” Reslan cautions. When it comes to sulfates, the ones to shun are ‘sodium lauryl’ and ‘sodium laureth’ sulfates — they are a terrible match for colored hair. “They can over-cleanse the hair, so finding alternative cleansing agents and timing your shampoo frequency to match the level of cleansing your safe shampoo is providing is the key to keeping everything clean and healthy,” she shares.

## **The Best of the Best for Color-Treated Hair**
Now that you know what to look for in a color-safe shampoo, it’s time to shop for a new one. Below, formulas for every hair type and hue.

### **BYE-BYE BRASS**: Virtue Color Kick De-Brassing Shampoo
![AEDIT-Virtue](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/5xs7fjzEA0GSxZ28e2AmH8/ddc76fc6cc6f23bace3a301f41739f15/AEDIT-Virtue.jpg)
One of the downsides to going lighter is the brassiness that almost always comes along for the ride. So, rather than resorting to at-home color kits that promise to delete unwanted tones, opt for a brass-neutralizing shampoo like this one. Regardless of your color, this sulfate-free, violet-tinted wash relies on natural flower and plant extracts to remove yellow tones in the hair while instilling a much-needed dose of moisture and protein to strengthen and repair hair. $42, [bluemercury.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbluemercury.com%2Fproducts%2Fvirtue-colorkick-debrassing-shampoo) 

### **THE OG COLOR PROTECTOR**: Fekkai Technician Color Shampoo Extended Color Vibrancy
![AEDIT-Fekkai](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/3YihZDCNpyhgzs9h5r38PP/c32b2da43643feb39a66ef1d592d203a/AEDIT-Fekkai.jpg)
The Fekkai brand has a long-standing track record for releasing cult-classic products, and this one, for colored strands, is a long-time editor favorite. In addition to its peachy scent, this shampoo works to create less friction between the strands, which equates to stronger color that’s more resistant to fading. Power-packed ingredients like Mirabelle plum seed oil and solar protecting polymers work to enhance color vibrancy. $20, [ulta.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Fp%2Ftechnician-color-shampoo-pimprod2016108) 

### **REVIVE DULL-LOOKING HIGHLIGHTS**: R+Co Gemstone Shampoo
![AEDIT-RCo](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/61t7BXJvo8hPL1YQgo5aB9/723cae0db8df34628ad58f09475325d0/AEDIT-RCo.jpg)
Many shampoos fail to deliver on their promise to wake up dull color — but not this one. The next best thing to a color-enlivening gloss, this sulfate-free formula features a color protection complex that works to bump up the definition for brighter color (it lasts up to 10 washes!) that looks like you just left the salon. $32, [randco.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.randco.com%2Fproducts%2Fgemstone-color-shampoo) 

### **FOR A SERIOUS DOSE OF SHINE**: Better Not Younger Second Chance Shampoo
![AEDIT-BetterNotYounger](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/5M974WmbymO4qTxVGctOCp/7429e274743398d7674e050facf8bae8/AEDIT-BetterNotYounger.jpg)
Colored hair tends to fare better with sulfate-free shampoos, which is why this one sits at the top of our favorites list. The low-foaming formula is ideal for all hair types, textures, and colors, and it majorly cleans without washing away any of your color. All that’s left behind are fresh strands that boast mega-watt shine. $27, [sephora.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fsecond-chance-repairing-shampoo-P451208%3FskuId%3D2301091) 

### **THE ECO-FRIENDLY OPTION**: Rhyme & Reason: Colour & Protect Shampoo
![AEDIT-RhymeReason](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/19KThkK06Q97digpLBSG1a/2cd6777ee0bb866a0897bf9c89b6927e/AEDIT-RhymeReason.jpg)
Not all shampoos made for color-treated hair need to be a splurge; there are plenty of affordable options that do the job. Case in point: this dermatologist-approved brand that boasts scalp-friendly ingredients, like white tea and babsou oil, in retro-inspired recycled plastic packaging. The innovative fade-defying formulation works to rebuild the hair’s natural barrier so it can hold onto that salon color. $9, [target.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Frhyme-38-reason-colour-protect-shampoo-13-fl-oz%2F-%2FA-80160092) 

### **A NEW TAKE ON A CLASSIC**: Brite Organix Shampoo Color
![AEDIT-Brite](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/1IlOV5YO4A9Tb8AUMi8TSJ/e862759a8787c74031e8aafede06b634/AEDIT-Brite.jpg)
Color-depositing shampoos are nothing new — they first debuted in the early 1990s — and they’re still one of the most reliable ways to pop your color (when only a touch of it is needed) without a trip to the salon. This line of color-enhancing shampoos, available in everything from pastels to gray tones, adds a buildable hue to your hair each time you wash with it. $10, [briteorganix.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbriteorganix.com%2Fcollections%2Fshampoo) 

### **FOR A DEEP-DOWN CLEAN**: dpHue ACV Rinse Lite
![AEDIT-dpHue](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/24bxTyZIStTGrrPblmLUf2/358ac0be5b1523d3d739c10bde53f2cf/AEDIT-dpHue.jpg)
Not your typical shampoo, this liquidy rinse is ideal for fine hair and does a stellar job of cleansing and refreshing the scalp while maintaining color. That’s because it contains unscented apple cider vinegar, which won’t strip away your color or your hair’s natural oils. Instead, it seals the cuticle and adds shine. $35, [dphue.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dphue.com%2Fproducts%2Fapple-cider-vinegar-hair-rinse-lite) 

### **THE NEW CULT-FAVORITE PURPLE SHAMPOO**: Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo
![AEDIT-Olaplex](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/2sWYLWbRYLM3y8tzJQY6PT/6af39aaa56daf9ae255c607006f0c90c/AEDIT-Olaplex.jpg)
Purple- and violet-hued shampoos work wonders on blondes because the pigments remove orange and brassy tones in the hair. The newest release from Olaplex is a sulfate-free shampoo made specifically for bright tones and blondes. What's unique about the super-concentrated shampoo is that you can customize it to your liking — the longer you leave it on, the brighter your hair will be. $28, [sephora.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Folaplex-blonde-enhancer-toning-shampoo-P476895) 

### **THE ULTIMATE HYDRATION HELPER**: Jaci Hydration Shampoo
![AEDIT-Jaci](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/5sDcFv46osFz7yaoNMrUo5/072d898e491514c21446c4775a98b5eb/AEDIT-Jaci.jpg)
Dry, colored strands don’t stand a chance against this daily shampoo replete with an herbal blend of coconut, quinoa, and sunflower essential oils for moisture. Another bonus: the brand is committed to minimizing its carbon footprint by using solar power and cutting-edge technology to reduce climate-changing emissions. So, every time you wash your hair with these high-functioning shampoos (and conditioners), you’re also doing good by Mother Earth. $24, [jaci.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fjaci.com%2Fproducts%2Fhydration-shampoo) 

### **LIKE A DETOX FOR YOUR 'Do**: L'Oréal Professionnel Metal Detox
![AEDIT-LOreal](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/67Ake6gLpcBVE92oXgIsUd/bdc811756734bf55e9e385ca81f1a9d9/AEDIT-LOreal.jpg)
Depending on where you live, your shower water may contain heavy metals that strip the life right out of your color. This truly innovative detoxifying cream shampoo relies on glicoamine, a tiny molecule that neutralizes metals inside the hair fiber for shinier and brighter color. $32, [lovelyskin.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lovelyskin.com%2Fo%2Floreal-professionnel-metal-detox-shampoo) 

### **THE ANTIDOTE FOR BLEACHED HAIR**: Kérastase Le Bain Cicaextreme Shampoo
![AEDIT-Ketastase](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/3nSrfTKlHQAEgDss7IQrHM/4d4e476f3ff8de5741fd8f49dad86845/AEDIT-Ketastase.jpg)
In a league all its own, this super moisturizing shampoo-in-cream revives the most sensitized, lightened, and highlighted hair after bleaching. The shampoo has the consistency of a conditioning hair mask and works best when used with the brand’s [Bain Ultra-Violet Purple Shampoo](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.kerastase-usa.com%2Fcollections%2Fblond-absolu%2Fbain-ultra-violet-purple-shampoo.html) (purple shampoos negate yellow and brassy tones in colored hair), leaving strands better hydrated and nourished. As a result, even the most extreme blondes are protected. $35, [kerastase-usa.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.kerastase-usa.com%2Fcollections%2Fblond-absolu%2Fle-bain-cicaextreme-shampoo.html) 

### **KISS DAMAGE GOODBYE**: Davroe Repair Senses Revitalizing Shampoo
![AEDIT-Davroe](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/2H42i3XGKZRJBefqKBzMlv/3e8e690e9b3dfa5da5c4fdaf3735ab70/AEDIT-Davroe.jpg)
A good shampoo for colored hair preserves the integrity of your color and leaves the mane feeling fresh, clean, and as soft as silk. This vitamin- and nutrient-rich formulation gently removes dirt, oil, and impurities without stripping the hair or its color. It’s also sulfate-free and contains rice and quinoa amino acids, so, even if you shampoo with it daily, your color will remain vibrant. $29, [davroe.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.davroe.com%2Fshop%2Fsenses%2Frepair-senses%2Fcolour-senses-shampoo%2F) 

### **KEEPS BLONDES LOOKING BRIGHT**: Drybar Blonde Ale Brightening Shampoo
![AEDIT-Drybar](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/3BlUgTjdmJugdKIb05XdFL/3134f955bdf34b3817f553c606616292/AEDIT-Drybar.jpg)
Straight from the master of blowouts and updos comes this purple pigmented shampoo that knocks out brassy tones in highlighted, white, grey, and blonde hair. Where some purple shampoos can be drying and leave the hair feeling brittle, this one doesn’t thanks to a blend of keratin and natural color preservers, like chamomile and lemon extract. $29, [ulta.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Fp%2Fblonde-ale-brightening-shampoo-xlsImpprod14021101) 

*All products featured are independently selected by our editors, however, AEDIT may receive a commission on items purchased through our links.*

Color-treated hair requires TLC, and not any old shampoo will do.

The Best Shampoos For Color-Treated Hair

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[‘Clean’ and ‘green’ beauty](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-clean-green-natural-mean-for-beauty-makeup-skincare-products) are now household terms. And, on the heels of these once-trendy buzzwords, comes the next iteration of [sustainability](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-make-your-beauty-routine-more-sustainable) and [eco-consciousness](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-sustainability-and-recycling-beauty-products) in the industry: Blue beauty. For the uninitiated, blue beauty isn’t just about water. Instead, it focuses on conserving, protecting, limiting harm, and undoing damage to the planet by safely harvesting botanical ingredients, reducing waste, and minimizing environmental damage to both the oceans and the planet as a whole. 

Terms like ‘organic,’ ‘vegan,’ and ‘planet-friendly’ (among others) were once relegated to the health food aisle, but they are now part of the mainstream beauty vernacular. As people from all walks of life are taking a more intentional and holistic approach to makeup, skincare, hair care, wellness, and the like, industry giants like Sephora and Credo have responded by implementing specific parameters that require formulations to be void of certain ingredients. All the while brands are increasingly transparent about their values and how that trickles down into what you find in their tubes. 

So, what do you need to know about blue beauty? We’re breaking it down below.

## **What Is Blue Beauty?**
Blue beauty is more than a term, it’s a full-fledged movement spearheaded by Jeannie Jarnot, the founder of [Beauty Heroes](https://www.beauty-heroes.com/), a discovery-based shopping destination focusing on healthy beauty and well-being. “Blue beauty is the new green beauty, and it’s about safe, healthy, and sustainably sourced ingredients, as well as ocean-safe ingredients, and reused and recyclable packaging,” says Kevin Wachs, CEO and founder of [Earthly Body](https://earthlybody.com/). “It’s also about limiting our impact on this planet and its inhabitants, actively contributing to a healthier planet, giving back to the community, and a concern for people over profits.” 

Blue beauty is about more than just being nontoxic, organic, clean (the definition of which differs from one person to the next since there is no set standard), or sustainable. The true differentiator, according to Jarnot, is that the brands who are truly ‘blue’ give back (in some way) to help preserve the planet. It’s easy to miscategorize blue beauty as merely ocean-friendly, but that’s not how Jarnot defines it. “Just like how green beauty doesn’t apply just to preserving trees and plants but is more about general sustainability efforts, blue beauty is about giving back to the planet,” she explains. Ocean reef-safe options are imperative in the overall blue beauty scheme, as are the land and air. “We need to do our part to make up for the damage that we’ve done to the planet and help clean it up,” she says.

## **The Blue Beauty Backstory** 
“I have always been interested in things that help the planet, like beach cleanups, and I wanted to connect people to brands that were doing good for the environment,” Jarnot says, explaining her initial involvement with blue beauty. At an industry conference, Jarnot, who, at the time, was already working on several planet-positive initiatives, met a trend analyst who clued her in on blue beauty. “He told me that as a brand if you aren’t already green and thinking about how to become sustainable, you’re so far behind the mark,” she recalls. “And he was right — consumers want companies to go blue and make a positive impact on the environment through business.”

She began creating content and telling the stories of brands diving head first into the proverbial blue beauty pool and making it a part of their brand DNA. “The goal, when it comes to the environment, has always been to share and not make the information proprietary,” she says. “We can all make positive impacts on the environment, and I knew that putting educational content out there would inspire more brands to follow suit.” And follow suit they did. “Brands watched one another and began to share resources and collaborate to do good by our planet,” she notes.

Today, many brands are instilling planet-positivity practices and principles into their brand culture and ethos. “Just as consumers have a responsibility to protect the planet, beauty brands have to do the same, too,” Jarnot says. While the concept only works if both brands and consumers partake equally, the general thought is to create a healthier, more sustainable planet by undoing the damage of the past with an eye firmly on the future. Companies that partake do anything from sourcing non-GMO, organic, wild-harvested ingredients to using minimal outer packaging that’s biodegradable, upcycled, or reusable. Many are also certified carbon-neutral and plastic negative, completely transparent in their supply chain, and choose to work with local farmers and suppliers.

## **Blue Beauty vs. Green Beauty**
At this point you might be wondering: What’s the difference between blue beauty and green beauty? “The line between green and blue is blurry,” Jarnot admits. But, in a nutshell, green beauty is blue beauty. “For example, green beauty is about incorporating organic ingredients, yet blue beauty works to generate and support independent farmers while being intentional and supporting locally,” she explains.

There’s plenty of crossover between the two categories, but here’s where they draw a line in the sand: 

- Green beauty promotes sustainably sourced and environmentally-friendly ingredients and packaging, while being vegan, cruelty-free, and void of harmful ingredients.
- Blue beauty works towards the end goal of rehabbing planet Earth through the use of plastic-free and recycled materials and locally sourced ingredients while preserving natural ecosystems and giving back via beach and park clean ups and reducing landfill waste.

One doesn’t supersede the other — they work together as part of a greater good. However, Jarnot believes blue beauty to be more comprehensive because it explicitly involves protecting the planet while also promoting positive environmental well-being. She says that “brands that take a stance on blue beauty are conscious of what is currently happening to our planet and want to do everything humanly possible to help undo the damage that has incurred.” 

Other supporters of the cause agree. “Blue beauty goes a step further in terms of sustainability and environmentalism,” Wachs says. “Unlike green beauty or clean beauty, this is more than just including natural ingredients in each product.” As he explains, blue beauty is also about “reducing the negative impact of waste on the environment and our carbon footprint.” As a result, this movement “is significant for our aquatic ecosystems like rivers, lakes, and oceans, which have an enormous impact on the world,” he notes.

## **Creating Cleaner Waters**
If you assumed blue beauty is synonymous with preserving our oceans, we don’t blame you. Part of the confusion may have to do with the fact that sunscreen was one of the first product categories to come under fire from blue beauty activists. Take, for example, two commonly used [chemical sunscreen](https://aedit.com/aedition/difference-between-chemical-sunscreen-physical-mineral-sunscreen) ingredients — oxybenzone and octinoxate. Both are known to bleach coral reefs, but it’s not only sunscreens that do damage to our waters and the planet as a whole. Moisturizers, creams, and many hair products contain SPF and are just as capable of causing destruction. The same goes for [exfoliators and body scrubs](https://aedit.com/aedition/body-scrubs-body-moisturizers-for-glowing-skin) with plastic particles, which is why sugar- and salt-based exfoliators are better options. Even deodorants are said to contain damaging microscopic particles and chemicals.

The beauty industry has more of an impact on the planet’s waters than one may think. Packaging is a huge part of the problem here. Wachs says that single-use plastic is the biggest enemy of the ocean and is devastating to our planet. “This is why we (as a brand) use glass and aluminum,” he notes. Many of the components that end up polluting the ocean do so because they are not recyclable or made from recyclable materials. Plastic-free beauty and eco-friendly packaging — like FSC-certified paper and 100-percent post-consumer packaging materials and soy inks — that minimize environmental impact is essential, too, says Lisa Fennessy, the founder of [This Organic Girl](https://thisorganicgirl.com/).

## **How to Go Blue**
Not every beauty brand launches out of the gate subscribing to the blue beauty methodology, but plenty do. Case in point: the calendula-powered indie skincare line, [Zia Botanics](https://www.ziabotanics.com/). Founder Andra Maddox harvests the seed-to-skin products on her company's own New Mexico-based farm. The hero ingredient, calendula, powers all products and relies on a hundreds-of-year-old historical acequia system. “In simple terms, we use snowmelt and rainwater that collects from the Sangre de Cristo Mountains to grow pure, supercharged plants with traditional, sustainable methods,” she explains. “I believe simpler is better for the environment as well as our bodies, and the products contain 10 ingredients or less.” Maddox also packages her products in earth-friendly glass bottles and biodegradable tubes and offers refills to encourage reuse and help eliminate single-use waste. “The brand is committed to being good ancestors for the earth and future generations,” she adds.

Beauty brands can also adapt to blue beauty standards over time. Jarnot says that these are the easiest ways for a brand to implement causes for the greater good of Mother Earth:

- Be transparent about sourcing
- Embrace fully organic ingredients
- Use planet-friendly zero-waste packaging and processes
- Implement carbon offsets
- Focus on renewable resources
- Divert bio-waste into raw materials
- Offer refillable options
- Use reusable shipping boxes

Charity is also a considerable part of the blue beauty DNA. And it's not just financial contributions that round out the cause — it's also cleanup efforts that make a monumental impact. “One of the first initiatives some brands do, which is great, is to plant a tree for a dollar amount or goal,” Jarnot says. “And there’s also [1% for the Planet](https://www.onepercentfortheplanet.org/), where companies contribute one percent of annual sales to environmental causes, too,” says Jarnot. At the end of the day, it’s all about authenticity. “The giving back portion needs to be authentic to the brand for it to resonate,” she notes.

## **The Best of Blue Beauty**
Now that you have a better understanding of what blue beauty means, you may be ready to upgrade your own routine. Below are just a few of the brands that have gone blue:

### **FOR BOOSTING SKIN HEALTH**: Zia Botanics Skin Support
![AEDIT-Zia](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/IDDmR866c2oA0ozTHXxcE/498e7c694361604175dbd5f989d1f305/AEDIT-Zia.jpg)
Comprised of just three ingredients — calendula, camellia, and marula oils — the multitasking oil works wonders to soothe and calm ultra-sensitive and reactive skin. Packing farm-grown calendula in a 100-percent recyclable aluminum container, the lightweight, quick absorbing blend defends against free radical damage, aids in tissue repair and skin healing, and promotes collagen production. $126, [ziabotanics.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ziabotanics.com%2Fproducts%2Fsensitive-skin-oil) 

### **FOR A REFINING CLEANSE**: Foamie Too Coal To Be True Face Bar For Oily Skin
![AEDIT-Foamie](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/6lok6u68A93vef6HItsgkz/49c3da68930c7fb8127171eeedb4c947/AEDIT-Foamie.jpg)
Unlike bar soaps that feature surfactants that disrupt the skin’s pH balance, this water-activated facial cleanser leaves it perfectly intact and removes every last trace of dirt and oil. Plus, each plastic-free solid bar saves about two plastic bottles. Less plastic means less waste and a cleaner planet. $10, [foamie.us](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Ffoamie.us%2Fcollections%2Fface-bars%2Fproducts%2Fcharcoal-face-bar) 

### **FOR HYDRATING PERPETUALLY DRY SKIN**: Ethique The Perfector
![AEDIT-Ethique](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/LCcEaGXRC7EPv6wbcEbq5/d003a55c5830a3b045a29f4feed7a723/AEDIT-Ethique.jpg)
What started as a personal mission to reduce the amount of plastic and waste in the bathroom has exploded into a plastic-less beauty line. The Perfector is an ethically and fairly sourced vegan moisturizing stick that alleviates even the driest of skins. Chock-full of kokum butter, jojoba oil, and [hyaluronic acid](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-hyaluronic-acid-in-skincare-dermal-filler), use it day and night to drench skin in moisture. After finishing up the product, compost, bury, or plant the packaging — it will naturally break down and support healthy soil. $30, [ethique.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fethique.com%2Fproducts%2Fthe-perfector-solid-face-cream-for-normal-to-dry-skin) 

### **FOR CLEANSING WITHOUT WATER**: Free + True Soft Power
![AEDIT-FreeTrue](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/4JZw7GL2pNCoLOKC6Appnq/0dfe2beb578c618605e2851302507a81/AEDIT-FreeTrue.jpg)
Aesthetician Tami Blake’s cleansing powder transforms into a creamy milk (when activated with water) and doubles as an exfoliant for super soft skin. Blake developed the preservative-free cleanser without water (the most commonly used ingredient in skincare) to help preserve the precious resource. And because it’s H20-less, its key ingredients, like coconut, oatmeal, and oils, are even more potent. $40, [freeandtrueskincare.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Ffreeandtrueskincare.com%2Fproducts%2Fsoft-power) 

### **FOR SQUEAKY CLEAN STRANDS**: Susteau Moondust Hair Wash
![AEDIT-Susteau](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/22ASygjovAKp3aQAHkmmq8/a0c4a3165f86a7b520e5859a1bf9c5a4/AEDIT-Susteau.jpg)
The planet was top of mind when creating this waterless powder-to-liquid shampoo, which comes in a bottle made from over 95-percent ocean-bound recycled plastic. Subscribing to a mantra of sustainability and the future of haircare, this vegan and cruelty-free wash gives a good cleanse without stripping the strands or leaving it looking flat. $29, [susteau.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fsusteau.com%2Fproducts%2Fmoondust-hair-wash) 

### **FOR REEF-SAFE SUN PROTECTION**: Goddess Garden Facial SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen Lotion
![AEDIT-GoddessGarden](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/75uQXLkBe5gwtkPvV7jWeR/c293741d15f943bcb464c42b8ea1c362/AEDIT-GoddessGarden.jpg)
Safe enough to use on even the most sensitive skin, this sheer mineral sunscreen counts 20 percent zinc oxide as the primary sun protectant. Plus, the vegan, biodegradable formulation, which is slightly scented with organic lavender essential oil, features SPF 30 protection against both UVA and UVB rays to keep skin healthy and shielded from the sun. $15, [goddessgarden.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goddessgarden.com%2Fproduct%2Ffacial-spf-30-mineral-sunscreen-lotion-3-4-oz%2F) 

### **FOR THE CLEANEST HANDS EVER**: Petal Hand Soap Kit
![AEDIT-Petal](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/4xBcYzX07L9WNx7eYMNd06/8364ae0db5bea71b8aabec10ac4bb572/AEDIT-Petal.jpg)
Intending to create less waste while maintaining clean hands, this fun-to-use soap features pre-measured pods that drop into reusable aluminum bottles. Add water, shake for one minute, and voila — you have a foaming hand wash that’s chock full of skin-friendly ingredients like essentials oils and plant-based surfactants. Since its launch, Petal has eliminated one million grams of plastic from landfills and our water. A portion of sales is donated to 1% for the Planet. $25, [amazon.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FPetal-Foaming-Hand-Soap-Starter%2Fdp%2FB08NWGYWTK)

### **FOR SERIOUSLY SHINY HAIR**: Earthly Body Marrakesh Moisture Masque
![AEDIT-EarthlyBody](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/35N6VkGBPVWg5wnPdawDHc/dcfd597b7d2cfcb6b52bb726ba782fb0/AEDIT-EarthlyBody.jpg)
Even hair masks are getting in on the blue beauty movement. This intensely moisturizing [vitamin E](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-topical-vitamin-e-in-skincare)- and shea butter-rich hair mask works wonders on parched locks that are abused by constant heat styling while still abiding by a good-for-the-planet mantra. According to Wachs, Earthly Body has been about green, clean beauty since its inception in 1996. “Our DNA is about people over profits and always taking into consideration how what we do affects others,” he shares. $24, [shop.earthlybody.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fshop.earthlybody.com%2Fmarrakesh-hair-care%2Fmarrakesh-moisture-masque%2F) 

*All products featured are independently selected by our editors, however, AEDIT may receive a commission on items purchased through our links.*

If you’ve already gone green, it’s now time to go blue.

Blue Beauty: A Guide To The Sustainable Clean Beauty Trend

Why Blue Beauty Is The Next Generation Of Clean Beauty

ian-dooley-1yl3jzKoKXg-unsplash

Let’s start with the stats: [Hair loss](https://aedit.com/concern/hair-loss) and [thinning hair](https://aedit.com/aedition/tips-for-styling-fine-thinning-hair-from-celebrity-hairstylists) is common, and it occurs for a myriad of reasons. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), 80 million Americans ([30 million women](https://aedit.com/aedition/common-causes-of-hair-loss-thinning-shedding-in-women) and [50 million men](https://aedit.com/aedition/common-causes-of-hair-loss-balding-thinning-in-men)) experience hereditary hair loss. Countless more deal with temporary thinning and shedding at some point in their lives due to factors like [stress](https://aedit.com/aedition/impact-of-stress-on-skin-acne-wrinkles-dryness), [hormones](https://aedit.com/aedition/managing-treating-postpartum-hair-loss-thinning), and [nutrition](https://aedit.com/aedition/relationship-between-diet-hair-health). And then there are those who were simply born with a lack of volume, body, and/or fullness.

Regardless of which category you fall into, limp, lifeless strands can feel like a difficult pill to swallow in a culture that celebrates big, bouncy blowouts. Depending on the cause and severity of your hair loss, [medical intervention](https://aedit.com/aedition/dermatologist-approved-hair-loss-treatments) may be necessary. But the good news is that you have plenty of options to treat hair thinning or boost naturally thin hair (only if it bothers you, of course!) starting right in the pharmacy aisle. Below, we talked to leading trichologists and hairstylists for their recommendations on the best hair thickening shampoos and treatments worth trying.

### **Briogeo Ginseng + Biotin Volumizing Shampoo**
![AEDIT-Briogeo](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/7MP2R1Wv5Oas3W0x4AoexJ/44c8dd04f4022ce5f673f2db276b103f/AEDIT-Briogeo.jpg)
Just as it’s important to peruse the ingredient list when purchasing skincare, the actives in your hair care matter, too. “Popular ingredients you'll find in volumizing products include polymers, biotin, proteins, vitamin B5, [hyaluronic acid](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-hyaluronic-acid-in-skincare-dermal-filler), [caffeine](https://aedit.com/aedition/caffeine-in-skincare-products-for-eyes-body-cellulite), and ginseng,” says celebrity hairstylist [Andrew Fitzsimons](https://www.instagram.com/andrewfitzsimons/?hl=en). “For the most part, it's the polymers that are doing the heavy lifting here.” With that in mind, the mane man likes this formula because it uses “maltodextrin, ginseng, and biotin to help build moisture without adding weight.” $26, [ulta.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Fp%2Fblossom-bloom-ginseng-biotin-hair-volumizing-shampoo-pimprod2021210)

### **Kevin Murphy Plumping.Wash**
![AEDIT-KevinMurphy](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/4Ngcbi5DAke4aYOEMIIjbZ/e6b68b7b222bb0b5f4b367ad68c3dcaa/AEDIT-KevinMurphy.jpg)
“Scalp health is essential for hair growth,” explains David Adams, a New York City-based trichologist and co-founder of [FOURTEENJAY Salon](https://www.fourteenjay.com/). “A good, clean, [healthy scalp](https://aedit.com/aedition/scalp-care-for-healthy-hair) is where thicker, fuller hair begins.” Ginger root, nettle, aloe vera extract, rice amino acids, bamboo extract, and acai berry extract are just a few of the hydrating powerhouse antioxidants and vitamins found in this reparative and volumizing formulation that is specifically designed to coat every strand with healthy, strengthening goodness. $39, [kevinmurphy.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fkevinmurphy.com.au%2Fproduct%2Fplumping-wash%2F)

### **Oribe Shampoo for Magnificent Volume**
![AEDIT-Oribe](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/7bkUnKiyDBYq3Z5n9cdnZA/c7f636af9ddd6522fa47b8bbda2ae9bd/AEDIT-Oribe.jpg)
“When shopping for volumizing shampoos, it's pretty important to be diligent, as not all are created equal,” Fitzsimons explains. “A lot of volumizing shampoos can be quite stripping, which leaves your hair dry, brittle, and more prone to damage.” Basically, you are looking a Goldilocks formula. “You really need to strike a balance between building the volume and keeping the hair well-moisturized, but not so much so that your products are weighing it down,” he says. This surprisingly weightless, creamy formula energizes the hair follicle without weighing the rest of the strand down to lift straight from the root. $46, [sephora.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Foribe-shampoo-for-magnificent-volume-P469173%3FskuId%3D2438406%26icid2%3Dskugrid%3Ap469173)
 
### **NatureLab Tokyo Volumizing Shampoo**
![AEDIT-Nature-Lab-Tokyo](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/28bRfJUldX35fTFdDIBd30/59f00b7c67edb2dcbc7054dbb24aa59f/AEDIT-Nature-Lab-Tokyo.jpg)
You may or may not be aware that hair is made of protein, and this ‘poo from NatureLab is “loaded with great proteins to help build weightless volume,” Fitzsimons says, noting that the formula moisturizes the hair without causing any buildup. “It also contains apple stem cells to help maintain your scalp’s overall health,” he adds. $15, [ulta.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Fp%2Fperfect-volume-shampoo-pimprod2013658)
 
### **Moroccanoil Extra Volume Shampoo**
![AEDIT-Moroccanoil](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/56PbZKNatp4Q8MgYsQ0mdE/01f06154b101eeb92eb182e72bb51b2b/AEDIT-Moroccanoil.jpg)
Wispy, super-fine strands have met their match with this antioxidant- and nutrient-rich formula that plumps hair at the root as it cleanses. Bonus: Like all Moroccanoil products, this shampoo is packed with hydrating [argan oil](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-hair-oils) to amp up the shine and softness. Legendary celebrity hairstylist [Sally Hershberger](https://www.instagram.com/sallyhershberger/?hl=en) says that a “thorough cleanse of the root is the most important part of a wash day routine, especially when voluminous hair is the desired end result.” So, no scrimping here! $24, [sephora.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fextra-volume-shampoo-P412089%3FskuId%3D2030310%26icid2%3Dskugrid%3Ap412089)

### **SEEN Skin-Caring Shampoo**
![AEDIT-SEEN](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/2k5rRAFiY777xLChkUdyTA/93251885800f3d432d5a48e4a1754c4b/AEDIT-SEEN.jpg)
Hair restoration isn’t just about regrowth. “You want to do everything you can to take the best care of the hair you do have,” says [Iris Rubin, MD](https://helloseen.com/pages/our-story), a board certified dermatologist and founder of SEEN Hair Care. “Treat your hair gently and consider a mild, sulfate-free shampoo, which is less likely to strip the moisture from your hair.” Since hair without moisture equals more split ends and breakage, try this mild wash that can reduce hair breakage by 59 percent when used as a regimen. $29, [ulta.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Fp%2Fshampoo-pimprod2024625)
 
### **R+Co Dallas Biotin Thickening Shampoo**
![AEDIT-R+Co](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/3Cyox3VLWfHOP8jZuP9otC/dd994ffa5a597296927b88ed5968ce2b/AEDIT-R_Co.jpg)
“[Biotin](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-biotin-in-supplements-hair-nail-care) is good for strengthening and growing hair,” explains Gretchen Friese, a [BosleyMD](https://bosleymd.com/) certified trichologist. “The bigger and stronger the follicle, the thicker and healthier the strand of hair will be.” Suds up Texas-style with this biotin-based shampoo that is formulated with advanced polymers to create body and volume. Moringa seed extract, meanwhile, protects against free radicals and repairs existing [environmental damage](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-repair-sun-damaged-hair). $29, [bluemercury.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbluemercury.com%2Fproducts%2Fr-and-co-dallas-thick-shampoo-2019)
 
### **BosleyMD Women’s Hair Regrowth Treatment with Minoxidil**
![AEDIT-Bosley](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/4ojksvgEeALU5CiJ9lPqDa/bbd087947b5b622e5247e4fedf6c641d/AEDIT-Bosley.jpg)
While not a shampoo per se, this treatment can be used as a preventative measure or for regrowth. “Hair thinning and hair loss can be genetic,” Dr. Rubin says. Since it’s much easier to prevent hair loss than promote hair growth, she says “it’s a good idea to start treatment early.” For strands that need a jumpstart, this topical treatment features 5 percent [minoxidil](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-its-like-to-use-minoxidil-foam-for-hair-restoration), which is approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat hair loss in men and women. It is clinically proven to regrow hair and slow future hair loss. $45, [ulta.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Fp%2Fwomens-hair-regrowth-treatment-with-minoxidil-pimprod2024676)
 
### **HAIRtamin Biotin Botanical Blend Shampoo**
![AEDIT-HAIRtamin](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/SsCsuJITP36a7gxTsxsX1/dbb77abd4531dbd35569d2e0f0654a48/AEDIT-HAIRtamin.jpg)
With more than a dozen plant, seed, and flower-extracts brewed together, this is the kind of TLC thinning hair needs. “I always look for products that are botanically-based, or the main ingredients are more natural,” Friese shares. A few key ingredients to look for that are found in this formula? Biotin, rosemary oil extract, and panthenol. Ones to steer clear of? Avoid “any formulation with sulfates, parabens, or phthalates,” she says. $20, [ulta.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Fp%2Fbiotin-botanical-blend-shampoo-pimprod2024460)

### **Pureology Pure Volume Shampoo**
![AEDIT-Pureology](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/7a2xPkpxQWJK6RTLFNfxg8/aeaea6040dd95149c18caad0a8cf3f7d/AEDIT-Pureology.jpg)
For [color-treated](https://aedit.com/aedition/tracey-cunningham-true-color-hair-tips) or grease-prone hair, reach for this sulfate-free shampoo that feels lightweight but packs a heavy punch of nutrients. “Volumizing ingredients are usually lightweight, so they don’t weigh the hair down,” Adams says. “They are all about lift.” All the while, it's important to avoid anything “too moisturizing” that “will make the scalp oily and weigh down the ends.” $31, [sephora.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fpureology-pure-volume-shampoo-P461620%3FskuId%3D2390938%26icid2%3Dskugrid%3Ap461620)

### **Philip Kingsley Body Building Weightless Shampoo**
![AEDIT-PhilipKingsley](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/6s0wdKYEnSFWDzXw85QAPZ/923fc79e0fa287f61a39723ae2acfb09/AEDIT-PhilipKingsley.jpg)
“People usually want volume because they feel they have flat, limp hair,” Adams notes. The main culprits are usually an oily scalp, not washing hair enough, or using an oil- or silicone-infused shampoo that leads to buildup on the scalp. After all, that’s where volume lives and dies. He says a proper wash begins with a good brushing “to loosen debris on scalp” and detangle, followed by thoroughly massaging shampoo (like this body-building option) straight into the root. $31, [bluemercury.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbluemercury.com%2Fproducts%2Fphilip-kingsley-body-building-weightless-shampoo)

*All products featured are independently selected by our editors, however, AEDIT may receive a commission on items purchased through our links.*

Best Thickening Shampoos For Hair Loss And Thinning Hair

11 Hair Thickening Shampoos That Boost Body And Volume

freestocks-rNPfyRYqjHY-unsplash

When you consider hair envy, do you think of a specific color, a style your hairdresser can't replicate, or those curtain bangs you see on your favorite influencer? For me, hair envy is reserved for those with a thick mane that seemingly grows with ease and a hairline that doesn’t waver. 

Like any woman, my relationship with my hair is complicated, and it has often been a source of insecurity. What was once thin and long became thinner and more sparse as my hairline started to show gaps in my twenties. I guess there is some relief in knowing that I’m not the only woman to experience this. The [causes for hair loss and hair thinning](https://aedit.com/aedition/common-causes-of-hair-loss-thinning-shedding-in-women) vary, but approximately 40 percent of women in the United States experience some form of it. Even so, [hair loss](https://aedit.com/concern/hair-loss) can be distressing.

I always knew that voluminous locks were not in the genetic cards for me, but what I didn’t know was that, by my mid-twenties, I would notice more of my scalp peeking through than I would’ve liked. Over the years, I’ve seemingly tried it all. Silk pillowcases and scalp massagers? Been there. Changing my shampoo and reducing [tight hairstyles](https://aedit.com/aedition/kourtney-kardashian-prp-injections-to-treat-hair-loss)? Done that. Not coloring my hair in hopes that it would improve the health? Tried that, too. It was a years-long trial and error process that led me to consider a different approach. Ahead of my thirtieth birthday this year, I decided it was time to put aside the fill-in powder in favor of a more permanent solution. 

Full disclosure: As a beauty editor, I have the privilege of regularly trying new beauty products, but few deliveries arrive at my doorstep that are as spot-on to my personal needs as a package I received from [BosleyMD](https://bosleymd.com/) earlier this summer. When the bottle of [Women’s Extra Strength Minoxidil 5% Topical Foam](https://bosleymd.com/collections/all-bosley-products/products/womens-extra-strength-minoxidil-5-topical-foam) came in the mail, I was intrigued but skeptical. Despite knowing that certain types of hair thinning can be treated, I still had my own preconceived notions about using a product I previously considered a saving grace for [men experiencing balding](https://aedit.com/aedition/common-causes-of-hair-loss-balding-thinning-in-men). 

Putting those assumptions aside, the brand has a 45-year track record and is known for restoring hair, so who was I to not try it? Moreover, what did I have to lose?

<a href="https://youtu.be/NO1KkTmoSMI" class="embedly-card" data-card-width="100%" data-card-controls="0">Embedded content: https://youtu.be/NO1KkTmoSMI</a>

## **First, What Is Minoxidil?**
“[Minoxidil](https://aedit.com/procedure/minoxidil-rogaine) belongs to a class of drugs known as vasodilators and is used to help hair growth in the treatment of baldness,” explains [Gretchen Friese](https://fousheesalonspa.com/salon-team/gretchen-friese/), a BosleyMD certified trichologist, when I inquired about the science behind the brand. The star ingredient of the foaming topical product, minoxidil is approved by the [U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)](https://aedit.com/aedition/modern-history-of-us-food-drug-cosmetic-regulation-fda) to treat hair loss in men and women. In 1988, the FDA approved 2 percent topical minoxidil as a treatment for androgenetic alopecia (read: male pattern baldness) in men. The solution was known by the brand name Rogaine. By 1992, the agency had approved the formula for the treatment of female pattern hair loss. And, since then, more potent renditions — in the form of a 5 percent solution and 5 percent foam — have come to market.

“The exact reason that minoxidil works is not fully understood, but, as a vasodilator, it widens the blood vessels which delivers more oxygen-rich blood to the hair follicles,” Friese shares. “It also helps increase the size of hair follicles, which promotes the growth of thicker, stronger hairs.” Needless to say, I couldn’t wait to get started. 

## **Getting to the Root of the Problem**
I knew going in that the root cause of my hair thinning is largely genetic, as I’ve seen other women in my family with manes similar to mine. But I also realized that my lifestyle could be to blame. Stress, bad sleep hygiene, and, at times, poor dietary decisions likely played a role, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Friese agreed that these habits don’t help matters, but there was one more thing I wasn’t considering: [my scalp](https://aedit.com/aedition/scalp-care-for-healthy-hair). “A good [hair care routine](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-hair-care-products-by-texture-color) that focuses on creating a healthy scalp environment is the first place to start,” she shares. 

Friese notes that women and men experience hair loss differently, which is why my hair concerns didn’t look like what I expected. “In men, hair loss starts in the front of the head and recedes to the back until they go bald,” she explains. “Women lose hair from all over their head that starts at the part line.” This so-called ‘diffuse hair loss’ is exactly what I was experiencing. “The hair at the temples may also recede in women,” she adds. 

So, while women are less likely to go completely bald than men, they “may have a lot of thinning throughout the hair,” Friese says. As such, I was instructed to continue the use of my scalp massager and [hair supplements](https://aedit.com/aedition/hair-growth-supplements-for-hair-loss). 

## **My Minoxidil Experience & Results** 
Adding the minoxidil foam to my nightly routine was a simple process. It takes less than five minutes to apply, and the cleanup is as minimal as washing your hands. As per the instructions, I diligently filled my product cap with foam every evening and would use my fingertips to apply it in my areas of concern: [the hairline](https://aedit.com/aedition/surgical-and-non-surgical-procedures-to-reshape-the-hairline), the crown of the head, and the temples. 

<CaptionImg url={https://images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/3Yztt0OZGXcZJ1dLbGrA6x/d4cfb821e6433531789c93cfd4732f35/MinoxidilOverhead.jpeg}>
  The writer before (*left*) and two months after (*right*) starting minoxidil treatment.
</CaptionImg>

Because the timeline for results depends on the individual (generally about two months to see some improvement), I wasn’t expecting to see any new hairs spring up for a while. It took about 45 days to notice a few new baby hairs sprout up and frame my face. Once I realized that the product was working, I spent more time analyzing each area, waiting for my hair to fill in and for my ponytail to become thicker. Although this product does not always enhance the thickness of the tresses, the idea of having more hair in general was enough to keep me motivated. Around the two-month mark, I noticed the area that I was most concerned with — my temples — having a darker hue as the spotty areas began to fill in on their own. 

Minoxidil works for me, but I want to address that the experience isn’t without its cons. Although the foam goes on clear and has a very light consistency, I noticed my hair had a crispy and lackluster texture at the roots when I woke up in the morning. This wasn’t a big deterrent since the majority of my interactions were over Zoom. But, had I needed to leave home, I would have wanted to wash my hair to make it look clean. 

<CaptionImg url={https://images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/6JXGGAQJvUALjsyOtFfZDU/038bfdb60511cd636c3ed954f107b865/MinoxidilProfile.jpeg}>
  The writer before (*left*) and two months after (*right*) starting minoxidil treatment.
</CaptionImg>

My other concern was the routine. If I had stopped applying it or skipped a few days accidentally, would that mess up my progress? According to Friese, the product “will not cause permanent regrowth of scalp hair, so you must continue using it every day to keep the regrown hair.” Basically, if I wanted my hair to grow continuously, I had to maintain the routine. As my robust vanity implies, I love a good regimen, but, when initial results take a while to appear, it can be hard to trust the process and not give up. 

## **Will I Keep Using Minoxidil?**
Considering the visibility of the results after just two months of minoxidil use and the knowledge that my hair thinning concerns can be treated with a topical product, I am determined to continue using it to maintain my growth. I realize that it is both a time and financial commitment, but, while the product was gifted at first, I will gladly repurchase it and recommend it to others experiencing similar issues. Time will tell if my hair becomes thicker and my spots continue to fill in more. I am optimistic, and, long term, I know there are other [non-surgical hair restoration treatments](https://aedit.com/procedure/nonsurgical-hair-restoration-solutions) I can consider in my quest for my own kind of hair envy.

Patient Perspective

After noticing her hair growing slower and thinning out, one writer decided to try an at-home topical product for restoration. Here’s her before and after.

What It's Like To Use Minoxidil Foam To Treat Women's Hair Loss

I Tried Minoxidil To Regrow My Hair And This Is What I Look Like Now

max-libertine-a97FHjfxHYQ-unsplash

We hate to break it to you, but [sun damage](https://aedit.com/aedition/cosmetic-procedures-treatments-to-correct-sun-damage) isn’t limited to the skin. Ultraviolet (UV) rays can pose the same [cancerous threat](https://aedit.com/aedition/dermatologist-skin-cancer-screenings-mole-checks) to your scalp, while the sun can wreak havoc on your hair, too. “UV rays are incredibly damaging to hair, much like they are for skin,” says Valerie George, a cosmetic chemist and co-host of [The Beauty Brains](https://thebeautybrains.com/). If ‘dry,’ ‘brittle,’ ‘stringy,’ or ‘lackluster’ are words you’d use to describe the current state of your mane, then there’s a good chance it has some sun-induced damage. 

UV rays can harm the scalp and hair shaft any time of year, but, with more time spent outdoors during the warm weather months, it’s most often experienced in a noticeable way in the summer. Couple the increased sun exposure with other summertime staples like salt water beach days and chlorine-filled pool outings, and your locks can quickly end up limp and lacking. 

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to treat and even prevent this damage, and we’ve spoken to an array of experts — from cosmetic chemists to celebrity hairstylists — to break down everything you need to know about caring for sun-damaged hair in the summer and beyond.

## **How to Tell If You Have Sun-Damaged Hair**
In order to determine if you have sun-damaged strands, you first have to know what to look for. “Prolonged sun exposure causes dryness, reduced strength, rough surface, loss of color, decreased luster, and brittleness in hair,” says Krupa Koestline, a clean cosmetic chemist and founder of [KKT Consultants](https://www.kktconsultants.com/). As she explains, these effects are a result of lipid degradation in the outermost cuticular layer of the hair shaft, and there is also a loss of protein and amino acids that contribute to hair changes. 

Similar to sun damage to the skin, UV rays can uniquely impact certain types of hair. “Studies show that different ethnicities have different kinds of damage based on their hair color and texture,” Koestline shares. “For example, dark and black hair have more photosensitive amino acids, like cystine, than light colored hair.”

As we touched on, sun damage is often compounded by other elements. “There are different kinds of summer damage,” says [Vickie Vidov](https://www.instagram.com/vickievidov/?hl=en), a celebrity hairstylist and founder of [Vidov West Salon](https://vidovwestsalon.com/) in New York City. Chlorine buildup, for example, will clump together, which Vidov says will cause the hair to feel straw-like and hard to comb through. And then there is the telltale shade change. “Blondes can look like cotton candy when wet or take on a greenish tone,” she explains. 

The cumulative effects of sun, chlorine, salt, and the like can have varying ramifications depending on your [dye job](https://aedit.com/aedition/tracey-cunningham-true-color-hair-tips) — or lack thereof. Vidov says that, for color-treated hair, the texture takes on “almost a gummy-like feel.” Virgin (read: non-dyed) tresses “will feel heavy, almost like it needs to be washed even after you’ve washed it,” she adds. “This is also buildup from the elements and overactive oil production.”

## **How to Repair Sun-Damaged Hair**
So, you’ve overdone it in the sun department and your strands have paid the price. What comes next? It’s time to visit the pros and invest in a product or two. “I always say, ‘if you’re paying Bentley prices for your hair, you wouldn’t take it to get an oil change at a quick shop, so don’t do the same with cheap hair products,’” quips celebrity hairstylist [Tyler Bishop](https://www.instagram.com/behindtylerschair/). “All chemically treated hair needs both moisture and protein, so I like to tackle one issue in shower and the other out of the shower, always giving you your best hair forward.” Below are five expert-approved ways to repair sun-damaged hair.

### **1. Get a Gloss**
Both Bishop and George agree that a hair gloss is an easy way to return shine to a dull ’do. “One of the things we hate most about our hair after summer is that sun-damaged hair looks drab and lifeless,” George says. “Adding a quick dash of color with shine is an easy way to restore life to your hair.” While there are at-home hair gloss options, investing in a pro treatment can yield a more customized result that touches on an array of hair concerns. “If the hair has absorbed environmental factors around them — like metals and minerals in their water, chlorine, etc. — we would do a metal detox and demineralizer and then finish with a gloss to reinstate the tone they left my chair with,” Bishop shares.

### **2. Mask It Up**
As Koestline explains, sun damage leads to lipid degradation and a loss of protein and amino acids that contribute to hair changes. It should come as no surprise then that she recommends employing treatments rich in proteins and lipids (read: oils). “Shea butter helps repair the lipids in the cuticular layer of the hair shaft, much like oils,” she says, adding that she’s a fan of the [Maria Nila True Soft Hair Mask](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.glossybox.com%2Fmaria-nila-true-soft-masque%2F12098876.html), [Amika Soulfood Nourishing Mask](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fnourishing-mask-P404916), and [Olaplex N.0 Intensive Bond Building Hair Treatment](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Folaplex-no-0-intensive-bond-building-hair-treatment-P461483). George, meanwhile, suggests looking for formulas with hydrolyzed pea peptide and marula oil.

In Bishop’s mind, both professional conditioning treatments and at-home masks are non-negotiable. “I always do a treatment on each of my guests during every appointment. I call this hair insurance,” he says. “Treatments, in my opinion, are what we do behind the chair and then I send the client home with a regimented mask to maintain the results in between appointments.”

### **3. Pay Attention to Products**
Just as you choose skincare products based on your skin type and concerns, you should [choose hair care products](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-hair-care-products-by-texture-color) based on your hair type and concerns. This is especially true when trying to undo damage. Bishop breaks it down into those with oily manes and those with dry locks, and he offers tips for what to do for your strands in and out of the shower:

### **For Oily Hair**
- **In the Shower**: “For my clients who get oily or greasy in the summer from sweating, I would maintain your regular shampoo and conditioning schedule of two to three times a week (or whatever number that is for you) and incorporate something more gently cleansing,” he explains. His pick? The [UNITE Weekender Shampoo](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Funitehair.com%2Fproducts%2Fweekender-shampoo%3F_pos%3D1%26_sid%3D43f92b865%26_ss%3Dr). “It’s a clarifying shampoo that deep cleans without removing natural oils — perfect for using once a week to erase environmental elements and daily product usage,” he notes.
- **Out of the Shower**: A lightweight combo of detanglers and dry shampoo is a must. “I recommend using [7Seconds Detangler](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Funitehair.com%2Fcollections%2F7seconds%2Fproducts%2F7seconds-detangler) to give you heat protection without over-moisturizing,” Bishop says. From there, layer dry shampoos. “My favorite combo is [U:DRY Clear Dry Shampoo](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Funitehair.com%2Fcollections%2Fdry-shampoo%2Fproducts%2Fu-dry-clear) and [U:DRY High Dry Shampoo](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Funitehair.com%2Fcollections%2Fdry-shampoo%2Fproducts%2Fu-dry-high),” he says. “These will soak up any oils in between washes and give your hair extra volume and life.”

### **For Dry Hair**
- **In the Shower**: “For my clients who feel like they can’t get enough moisture because their hair just gets so tangled, dry, and unmanageable in the summer months, creating moisture barriers is going to be your best friend,” Bishop shares. That means swapping out your usual shampoo and conditioner with something more moisturizing and repairing, like the [UNITE U-Luxury Shampoo](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Funitehair.com%2Fproducts%2Fuluxury-shampoo%3F_pos%3D2%26_sid%3D622ccddf1%26_ss%3Dr) and [Conditioner](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Funitehair.com%2Fproducts%2Fuluxury-conditioner%3F_pos%3D1%26_sid%3D622ccddf1%26_ss%3Dr). “I also recommend incorporating [7Seconds Masque](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Funitehair.com%2Fcollections%2F7seconds%2Fproducts%2F7seconds-masque) once or twice a month,” he adds. “Your hair will never feel better.”
- **Out of the Shower**: For heat protection, Bishop recommends starting off with the [UNITE 7Seconds Detangler](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Funitehair.com%2Fcollections%2F7seconds%2Fproducts%2F7seconds-detangler). Add the [U Oil](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Funitehair.com%2Fproducts%2Fu-oil%3F_pos%3D1%26_sid%3D43d1e0ff1%26_ss%3Dr) and [7Seconds Glossing Spray](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Funitehair.com%2Fcollections%2F7seconds%2Fproducts%2F7seconds-glossing-spray) until you achieve “the shine and bounce you desire,” he says. Looking for a bit of hold in the summer heat and humidity? “I like to add the smallest amount of [Conundrum Paste](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Funitehair.com%2Fproducts%2Fconundrum%3F_pos%3D1%26_sid%3D070336aff%26_ss%3Dr) to my fingertips, rub together until the product is translucent, and then touch up any fly always around the face, part line, or mids to ends,” he shares.

Oh, and if you are a blonde dealing with the effects of chlorine buildup, Vidov recommends reaching for a demineralizing shampoo. A few of our favorites include [Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Triple Detox Shampoo](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.livingproof.com%2Fphd%2Ftriple-detox-shampoo%2FR1014.html), [Kristin Ess Scalp Purifying Micellar Shampoo](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Fp%2Fscalp-purifying-micellar-shampoo-pimprod2023575), and [Pattern Beauty Clarifying Shampoo](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Fp%2Fclarifying-shampoo-pimprod2016691).

### **4. Try a DIY Treatment**
When it comes to hair repair, a solution may be closer than you think. Koestline has some tips for creating DIY hair masks. “I swear by warm [coconut oil treatment](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-hair-oils) for my dark hair,” she shares. “I have also used egg on occasion, but it can be quite messy so a good alternative is mayonnaise.” These protein- and oil-rich ingredients can help restore the lipid layer of your hair.

### **5. Scalp Care = Hair Care**
Hair repair treatments and products are for naught, if you are not simultaneously thwarting additional damage. For starters, you must protect the scalp. “The scalp is the organ that supports the hair fiber through the hair follicles that are located on the scalp,” explains [Bridgette Hill](https://www.instagram.com/thescalptherapist/?hl=en), a certified trichologist and creator of [Root Cause Scalp Analysis](https://www.rootcausescalpanalysis.com/home). “Scalp health is the tissue and cell component of hair health.”

Since the skin on the scalp is susceptible to [sunburn](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-relieve-and-treat-sunburn) like any other skin on the body, keeping it protected is one way to ensure your strands continue to grow healthy and strong. “All scalps and hair benefit from protection from prolonged sun exposure,” Hill says. As she explains, sun protection “can be as simple as wearing a hat or scarf” and “extending your facial [sunscreen](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-sunscreens-of-2021) further above the face into the hairline, scalp, and hair fiber.” 

But, if the idea of applying traditional SPF to the top of your head sounds unpleasant, there are some very effective scalp-specific formulas that defy everything you think you know about sunscreen. “I love the ease of application of the [Supergoop Poof 100% Mineral Part Powder SPF 35](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fsupergoop-poof-mineral-part-P472490),” Hill shares. She likens it to a dry shampoo, which allows “for ease of use for optimal coverage” and “aesthetically adds texture to a beach bun or braid.”

## **How to Avoid Sun Damage**
It is far easier to prevent hair damage than correct it. Like Hill, George recommends shielding your scalp and strands from the sun. “Sunscreen designed for skin doesn’t do much for the hair [shaft],” she says. “It’s best to cover your hair with a cute scarf or hat before heading out into the sun.” Leave-in conditioners and stylers that offer UV protection are another option. “There are many products that act as a leave-in sunscreen for your hair and offer water-resistant protection against damage caused by UV rays, salt, and chlorine,” Vidov shares. For blondes, she likes the [Oribe Bright Blonde Sun Lightening Hair Mist](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Foribe-bright-blonde-sun-lightening-hair-mist-P469037), while the [Rene Furterer Okara Color Enhancing Spray](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dermstore.com%2Frene-furterer-okara-color-color-enhancing-spray-5.0-fl.-oz%2F12007500.html) works for other hues.

In addition to proactively preventing sun damage, it’s also important to ward off the effects of salt water, chlorine, and the like. “I tell all my clients to avoid getting into any water (pool, lake, or ocean) with dry hair,” Bishop explains. This is especially important for blondes. “The hair tends to be more porous when it’s dry, so it is going to absorb everything in its environment,” he says. Running your hair under cold water in the sink or shower before taking a dip is an old swim team trick, but Bishop offers this DIY tip: Get a spray bottle filled with three quarters water and add a quarter size drop of the [UNITE 7Seconds Masque](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Funitehair.com%2Fcollections%2F7seconds%2Fproducts%2F7seconds-masque). “Shake and spray into dry hair, braid back, and go have fun,” he says. “This acts as a barrier and conditions all in potentially drying or damaging situations.”

Last, but certainly not least, let's talk about the [scalp](https://aedit.com/aedition/scalp-care-for-healthy-hair). While protecting the skin of the scalp with sunscreen is important, it’s not the only factor. As Hill explains, scalp health is the tissue and cell component of hair health. “The quality of the hair follicle is dependent upon the quality of the tissue, cells, and blood that fuel the follicle which makes our hair fiber,” she shares. As such, poor nutrition and unhealthy lifestyle habits will reveal themselves through the hair. “That means that deficiencies in vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, declining health, intake of toxic medications, or high cortisol levels due to our stressful lives, may negatively affect the hair follicle and compromise hair growth,” Hill says. 

Eating a well-balanced diet, taking vitamins and supplements (as needed), and limiting stress as much as possible are all important components keeping the hair strong enough to fend off sun- and summer-related damage. At the end of the day, “your scalp is the root connection between internal health and external beauty,” Hill notes.

## **Can Hair Damage Be Beyond Repair?**
Unfortunately, yes, your hair damage can be beyond repair. “​​It's important to remember that hair is a dead tissue, so there is not much that can be done to fix broken or split ends,” Koestline says. “Therefore, it’s important to get regular haircuts to prevent further damage from your ends.” 

To determine just how damaged your ’do is, Vidov says to pay attention to how your locks look after a blowout. “If the hair is beyond repair, you will know when you blowdry and the ends are all split in different lengths,” she explains. Another sign? Textural changes. “When the hair is wet, you have a gummy, almost slimy feel,” she notes. And then there is the stretch test. “If you stretch the hair and it has no stretch but simply breaks, you will need to cut it,” Vidov says. “Otherwise, it spreads up the hair shaft and ultimately breaks off.”

We appreciate that you may be holding onto your hair for a special occasion or simply don’t have the time to get it cut. To temporarily revive tired tresses, George recommends treating your locks to a weekly hair mask and using products that purport to seal split ends. “The temporary repair will help your hair feel like it’s old self and look healthier,” she says. But that doesn’t replace the need for a seasonal salon visit. George’s recommendation: “At the end of the summer, I recommend getting your hair trimmed to remove damaged ends and to refresh your color at your salon with a color gloss.”

*All products featured are independently selected by our editors, however, AEDIT may receive a commission on items purchased through our links.*

Expert Opinion

If ‘dry,’ ‘brittle,’ ‘stringy,’ or ‘lackluster’ are words you’d use to describe the current state of your mane, then there’s a good chance it has some sun-induced damage. Here’s how to fix it.

How To Repair Sun-Damaged Hair In The Summer

5 Ways To Repair Sun-Damaged Hair

shutterstock 1576857208

Oils have long gotten a bad rap, but, in recent years, we’ve seen the slick stuff reestablish itself as a skincare stalwart. Whether it’s for [cleansing](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-makeup-removers-for-every-skin-type) or moisturizing, it’s hard to imagine a time when [face oils](https://aedit.com/aedition/benefits-of-face-oil-for-all-skin-types) weren’t an integral part of our routines. While oils are now commonplace both above and below the neck (yes, body oils are also having a moment), hair oil is still a little less mainstream. 

Much like the debate over face oil, many hair oil skeptics worry about clogging their follicles, adding grease, or weighing down their locks. There are, however, a variety of formulas to choose from, and it’s easy to avoid shiny strands when you pick the right product and apply it properly. Here, we talk to two mane experts to learn more about how to use hair oils to ensure you are best tressed.

## **Hair Oils 101**
Adding yet another product to your beauty regimen can be daunting (and, frankly, exhausting), but a hair oil may be just what your [hair care routine](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-hair-care-products-by-texture-color) needs. “When applied correctly, hair oils can increase moisture, luster, and shine,” says [Lee Stafford](https://www.instagram.com/leestaffordhair/), a celebrity hairstylist and founder of his [eponymous hair care line](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fleestaffordhair.com%2F). “Once massaged into the scalp, the oil can penetrate deep inside and help promote healthy hair growth, preventing hair breakage and split ends.” 

[Scalp care](https://aedit.com/aedition/scalp-care-for-healthy-hair) is perhaps the most vital part of any hair care routine, and hair oils can help ensure the skin beneath your strands remains in tip-top shape. “If your scalp isn’t cleaned properly and still contains product build-up and grime, it’s harder for healthy hair to grow through,” Stafford shares. “Hair oils help to exfoliate the scalp, making way for strong and beautiful hair.”  

But it’s not just about the scalp. A well-formulated hair oil is the ultimate multitasker — reviving tired tresses, too. “Oils increase the strength and elasticity of your hair,” explains [Sarah Potempa](https://www.instagram.com/sarahpotempa/), a celebrity hairstylist and inventor of the [Beachwaver](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbeachwaver.com%2F). “Essentially, they act like a barrier and fill damaged strands.” Most hair oils can be used on both your strands and your scalp, but,  if you find any buildup, you should use a clarifying shampoo and dial back on the amount of oil you’re using.

## **The Best Candidates for Hair Oils**
While hair oils can be used by a variety of hair types, both Stafford and Potempa agree that they most benefit people with compromised locks. That includes those with: 

- Dry hair 
- Damaged hair
- Color-treated hair 
- Bleached hair 
- Split ends

As for those who should stay away, Potempa recommends that “anyone who has really [thin hair](https://aedit.com/aedition/tips-for-styling-fine-thinning-hair-from-celebrity-hairstylists) that produces a lot of oil at the scalp should avoid using hair oil.” Additionally, “anyone who has skin build-up already, like [eczema](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-skincare-products-to-treat-eczema-flare-ups-in-the-winter) or dandruff,” should also steer clear, she adds. If you have questions about the state of your scalp, consider consulting with your dermatologist before proceeding. 

Stafford notes that those who struggle with volume don’t need to forgo hair oils — but they should be mindful of how they apply them. “If you have flat hair, I would stay away from applying oils at the roots because hair will feel heavy and a little lifeless,” he says.

## **How to Choose a Hair Oil**
First things first: what’s your [hair type](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-hair-care-products-by-texture-color)? Examining your strands will allow you to get to know your mane’s strengths and weaknesses, and you’ll then be able to pick the right formula to complement it. “If you have very fine hair, it’s best to use a lightweight oil,” Potempa says. “If you have thick, dry, damaged hair, you may need heavier oil.”

At this point, you may be wondering if you should use a single oil or a product that combines multiple. Potempa says it’ll depend on your routine. “If using one oil, I suggest using a small amount and distributing it evenly,” she shares. “If you’re looking for shine and smoothness, a small amount of one oil is perfectly fine.” 

While a pure oil works well as a once-in-a-while treatment for relatively healthy hair, those with damaged ’dos may want to consider a cocktail. “If your hair is really damaged, you might need oils that are mixed in products,” Potempa explains. She recommends the coconut oil-infused [Beachwaver Good Vibes Shampoo](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbeachwaver.com%2Fcollections%2Fnew-haircare%2Fproducts%2Fgood-vibes-shampoo) because it’s lightweight and the perfect way to “slowly introduce oil into your everyday hair care routine.”

So, what are the best ingredients to look for? Stafford and Potempa break down some of the most popular hair oils like this:

### **1. Abyssinian Oil**
- **Ideal For**: Thick hair
- **Benefits**: Full of omega-6 fatty acids, this rich oil enhances softness and hydration.
- **Usage**: Consider it the ultimate detangler 

### **2. Argan Oil**
- **Ideal For**: Dry hair
- **Benefits**: This moisturizing oil hydrates both the stands and the scalp, protecting hair from everyday damage and adding shine.
- **Usage**: Ripe for regular use 

### **3. Avocado Oil**
- **Ideal For**: Damaged hair
- **Benefits**: Rich in monounsaturated fats and vitamin B, it deeply penetrates the hair shaft to moisturize, strengthen, and repair locks. 
- **Usage**: Can be easily mixed with other oils

### **4. Castor Oil**
- **Ideal For**: Dry, itchy scalps
- **Benefits**: This guy is rich in nourishing omega-9 fatty acids and ricinoleic acid, which is antifungal and antibacterial.
- **Usage**: Works well as a scalp treatment 

### **5. Coconut Oil**
- **Ideal For**: Most hair types 
- **Benefits**: The “holy grail” contains vitamins E and K to nourish the strands and scalp.
- **Usage**: Good for daily use

It should be noted that some of these products may be closer to you than you think. Your local grocery store or health and wellness outpost likely carries some or all of these oils, and Potempa even suggests using an actual avocado as a hair mask instead of shelling out for a pricier product.

## **The Best Hair Oils to Add to Your Routine**
If you are ready to add a hair oil to your routine and looking to take the guesswork out of the cocktailing process, there are plenty of products on the market to choose from. Below are nine that deserve a spot in your routine:

### **Lee Stafford Coco Loco Hair Oil**
![AEDIT-LeeStafford1](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/qoL2tQ0MBIgUz12qNo3Cq/b6a9fd37331764ad064b8950c94f8cb4/AEDIT-LeeStafford1.jpg)
Want to smell like you’re on a tropical vacation and treat your hair at the same time? This coconut oil-infused formula is light enough for daily use, great for most hair types, and still packs a seriously moisturizing punch. $13, [leestaffordhair.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fleestaffordhair.com%2Fproducts%2Fcoco-loco-hair-oil-75ml%3F_pos%3D2%26_sid%3Db432bd8b8%26_ss%3Dr) 

### **The Beachwaver Co. Be Confident Co-Wash**
![AEDIT-Beachwaver](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/1jNpjud7yTP5ytVbVfEX9b/d10559ba857642203506c2d177d0d905/AEDIT-Beachwaver.jpg)
Designed with dry, wavy, curly and coily hair textures in mind, this co-wash (read: conditioner-only) combines the powers of abyssinian oil, coconut oil, and shea butter to boost shine and hydration. $18, [beachwaver.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbeachwaver.com%2Fcollections%2Fnew-haircare%2Fproducts%2Fbe-confident-co-wash) 

### **Gisou Honey Infused Leave In Conditioner**
![AEDIT-Gison](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/27QUqAxYETf5Nu5pND4jzt/d1ac39cd1502d6414f199cbcd232398b/AEDIT-Gison.jpg)
Lightweight enough for all hair types (even you fine-haired gals!), this leave-in conditioning mist combines the nourishing powers of Mirsalehi honey with strengthening baobab extract, moisturizing panthenol, and, yes, smoothing argan oil. Use it as a hydrator, detangler, heat and UV protector, frizz-fighter, or shine booster — the options are endless. $34, [sephora.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fgisou-honey-infused-leave-in-conditioner-P473838) 

### **Aquage SeaExtend Silkening Oil Treatment**
![AEDIT-Aquage](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/4d7NdnidTRjQYNkWoUUoYI/bec5e02f87ec11e7d3efa1ab8d206bf3/AEDIT-Aquage.jpg)
Looking for silky smooth, frizz-free results? Apply this ultra-lightweight oil on damp hair and then style. Marine botanicals, argan oil, and sweet almond oil seal in color, replenish moisture, and add shine. $36, [ulta.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Fp%2Fseaextend-silkening-oil-treatment-xlsImpprod15941157)

### **Trader Joe’s Certified Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil** 
![AEDIT-TraderJoes](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/1RHM02zGfSQ0E7cPyGHQro/dd36214b59e7eefcd4a7b239f60b12ea/AEDIT-TraderJoes.jpg)
The ultimate multitasker, this 100 percent pure coconut oil delivers serious bang for your buck. It can be used as a hair treatment, body moisturizer, makeup remover, and/or cuticle oil — there’s nothing it doesn’t do. $19, [walmart.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FNEW-Trader-Joe-s-16-fl-oz-Coconut-Certified-Organic-Extra-Virgin-Coconut-Oil-by-Trader-Joe-s%2F184799812) 

### **Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil**
![AEDIT-Olaplex](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/3a7M5NqWoWeHtV73AjYEeF/ce6e3449fa33f3e51c70c08f56680ebd/AEDIT-Olaplex.jpg)
This brand is known for bringing dry, damaged locks back from the dead, and this highly concentrated formula does not disappoint. It provides heat, color, and UV protection, in addition to fighting frizz and strengthening strands thanks to a blend of nourishing grape seed and fermented green tea oils and reparative bis-aminopropyl diglycol dimaleate. $28, [sephora.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fno-7-bonding-oil-P447376) 

### **TWIST Curl Reign Multi-Use Miracle Oil**
![AEDIT-Twist](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/72tp5uRhLrdmLm5rKIm10/7aa1ffea3820c585b7d6cffffaef7aae/AEDIT-Twist.jpg) 
Specifically formulated with curly hair types in mind, this budget-friendly formula features six oils (including castor, coconut, and grapeseed) that deliver hydration, protection, and shine. Use on wet or dry hair as a conditioner, treatment, or styler depending on what your locks are looking for. $10, [twisthair.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Ftwisthair.com%2Fproducts%2Fcurl-reign) 

### **Lee Stafford Argan Oil Nourishing Miracle Oil**
![AEDIT-LeeStafford2](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/6xqjgsxK2wtJX8flXTMyVa/3ca06f5023bc4cba6a105222fa3e07ac/AEDIT-LeeStafford2.jpg)
The best part about this non-greasy argan oil? There is no wrong way to use it. Apply it to wet hair to detangle or add it to dry tresses for a silky sheen. $16, [leestaffordhair.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fleestaffordhair.com%2Fproducts%2Fargan-oil-nourishing-miracle-oil-50ml%3F_pos%3D1%26_sid%3Db432bd8b8%26_ss%3Dr) 

### **Cuvée Beauty Hair & Body Glow**
![AEDIT-CuveeBeauty](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/39lmxe4JLX5a8VcaOAdBrQ/113741cbbc7216c18319bdc2e2ccf170/AEDIT-CuveeBeauty.jpg)
Whether you are seeking for a super sleek look or lived-in waves, this lightweight oil spray adds a hint of shimmer and includes natural oils, like sunflower, apricot and evening primrose, to support healthy strands and scalp. Oh, and you can use it on your body, too. $24, [cuveebeauty.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cuveebeauty.com%2Fproducts%2Fhair-and-body-glow%3F_pos%3D1%26_sid%3D15ea3abb7%26_ss%3Dr) 

*All products featured are independently selected by our editors, however, AEDIT may receive a commission on items purchased through our links.*

Put aside your fear of greasy locks and prepare for moisturized strands and a healthy scalp.

The Best Hair Oils For Every Hair Type

Why Hair Oil Is The Beauty Product You Never Knew You Needed

paul-siewert-dnpa8k6TGRE-unsplash

Curly hair can feel like an enigma. Some days, you just can’t get it under control. Other days, it air-dries to perfection. So, how do you get more consistent results?  “Curly and textured hair needs a maintenance routine that maintains and continues to add hydration,” says [Dominique LyVar](https://www.instagram.com/kingdomofcurls_/?hl=en), a senior stylist at [Devachan Salon SoHo](https://www.devacurl.com/us/salons) in New York City. “The types of product used depend on the texture, but all need a balance of moisture and protein.” 

Generally speaking, the curlier and coarser your hair, the more moisture you need. These hair types can also handle heavier products. Looser waves and softer textures, meanwhile, need hydration, too — albeit with lighter-weight products. But these rules are anything but one-size-fits-all. To better understand the best way to maintain and style curly and textured hair, we’ve tapped four curl experts to answer all of your burning questions (*spoiler alert: there are some really simple changes you can make to get big results!*).

## **Determining Your Curl Type**
Did you know that not all curls are the same? The first step of maintaining curly hair is determining your texture and curl type. Hair texture refers to the thickness of the individual hair strands and is most often measured on a three-point scale:

- Fine
- Medium
- Coarse

Thicker hair tends to be stronger and can be styled more easily than finer, weaker hair because coarser tresses hold their shape more effectively. It should be noted that the texture of the hair can vary. “For styling uneven textures, you may have to use products specific to the styling need in those areas,” LyVar says. In some cases, the variations are the result of hydration levels and can be corrected. “To help even out your texture, I find staying consistent with your conditioning will relieve this issue over time,” he explains. 

Curl type, on the other hand, refers to the shape of the curl. While there can be a lot of nuance to curl patterns, there are three main curl classifications with sub-categories in each group based on the diameter of the individual strands:

- Wavy
- Curly
- Kinky & Coily

If your mane feels like it could fall into several curl categories, you’re not alone. “It is very normal to have different curl patterns throughout the hair,” says [Merian Mismmo](https://www.instagram.com/herbalmmo/), a cosmetic chemist and founder of [Bounce Curl](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bouncecurl.com%2F). The key is to pay attention to your ’do and style as needed. For example, “if you have a looser pattern, you can finger coil the hair to get the curl more uniform,” she shares. Similarly, “you can also stretch a pattern out if it is too curly and you want elongation,” Mismmo notes.

## **Tips for Maintaining Curly Hair Health**
The reason for determining your hair and curl type is so that you can curate your [hair care routine](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-hair-care-products-by-texture-color) accordingly. While individual hair goals may vary, there are general rules of thumb to abide by that correspond to texture:

- **Fine Hair**: People with fine hair will usually need help creating volume. But, in addition to looking for volumizers, Mismmo also recommends adding in deep conditioners because “the hair strands are more fragile.”
- **Medium Hair**: The Goldilocks of the bunch, Mismmo says those with medium manes will be able to layer products, “as their hair can hold [them] better.”
- **Coarse Hair**: Adding moisture back into the strands is key for thicker hair types. Hydrating products will help ward off the dryness that leads to breakage. 

And then there are certain tips that transcend hair type. “You want to avoid products with hair sulfates, parabens, and silicones,” LyVar says. As he explains, sulfates strip the strands of their natural moisture, while parabens give a false sense of hydration. “Parabens are a form of wax that coats the hair to make it feel smooth and conditioned, but they don’t add any moisture,” LyVar shares. Similarly, silicones create a barrier effect. “Silicone also coats the hair and prevents moisture from entering the hair shaft, causing dryness and, possibly, breakage,” he says.

So, what about hair oils? LyVar says it depends on the use case. “Oils can be great for your scalp and skin, but oil directly applied to the hair can prevent moisture,” he cautions. If you wish to apply an oil to the [scalp](https://aedit.com/aedition/scalp-care-for-healthy-hair) and shaft, he recommends using a leave-in conditioner or other hydrating styler first — that way the oil is not resting directly on the strand. 

### **More Curly Hair Care Tips:**
- **Shampoo Strategically**: Daily (or even weekly) washing isn’t always required. Removing product build-up is necessary, but Mismoo says to avoid getting your hair wet too often.
- **Condition Constantly**: “I look for conditioning ingredients, as they will help moisturize and detangle hair,” Mismmo shares. Incorporate conditioning treatments, washes, and hair masks to get silkier, more defined curls.
- **Fight Frizz**: To reduce frizz, wash hair with cool (read: not hot) water, swap out your terrycloth towel for a microfiber cloth or t-shirt that’s not as rough or textured, and sleep with a silk pillowcase to reduce friction.
- **Add Definition**: Scrunch your curls after a shower to restore shape, and add a diffuser to your blow dryer to get more definition and shine — without frizz.
- **Trial & Error**: Curl care is as personal as skincare. Don’t be afraid to experiment with conditioners, gels, serums, and sprays until you find what works best for you.

## **How to Style Curly Hair** 
Now that you know your curl type and how to care for it, it’s time to talk styling. Whether your texture is fine or coarse, loosely wavy or tightly coiled, your style goals likely fall into two main categories: straightening it out or defining your texture. Below, two celebrity hairstylists break down the simplest (and safest!) way to achieve both looks.

### **Straightening Your Curls**
We love natural waves and curls, but sometimes you’re in the mood for a sleeker hairstyle. To make curly hair straight without chemical processing, you’ll need a heat styler in the form of a blow dryer and/or flatiron. Either way, it all starts with proper protection. “When straightening curly hair, you want to do everything possible to avoid heat damage,” says [T.Cooper](https://www.instagram.com/tcooperbeauty/?hl=en), a celebrity hairstylist and [Eva NYC](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Feva-nyc.com%2F) hairstylist partner. “Make sure your heat protectant game is strong.” 

She recommends prepping your strands with a heat protectant like [Eva NYC Mane Magic 10-in-1 Hair Primer](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Feva-nyc.com%2Fproducts%2Fmane-magic-10-in-1-primer%3Fvariant%3D38209042506) before any thermal styling and then using a good quality blow dryer to smooth the hair. “While blow drying curly hair, it’s very important to use steady tension, and don’t be shy with the shots of cool air,” she explains. “Follow up by using a flat iron on small sections to thoroughly silk out the hair.”

It’s important to recognize the process involved in styling curly hair. “Your hair makes a physical change in two ways: wet to dry and hot to cold,” says [Sarah Potempa](https://www.instagram.com/sarahpotempa/?hl=en), a celebrity hairstylist and inventor of the [Beachwaver](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbeachwaver.com%2F). Her go-to combo for achieving a “sleek red-carpet look” involves a blow dryer and paddle brush. “When straightening wet hair, you want to dry your hair roughly 80 percent by loosely blow drying it,” she shares. “When drying the last 20 percent, dry with the [Beachwaver Paddle Brush Pro](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbeachwaver.com%2Fproducts%2Fpaddle-brush%3F_pos%3D1%26_sid%3D8d00f1b09%26_ss%3Dr).”

Ready to give blow drying a try? Potempa offers these tips: 

1. Rinse with cool water in the shower and towel dry your hair with a t-shirt to reduce frizz
2. Use a gentle detangler to prep the hair before adding heat
3. Apply a heat protectant before styling
4. Place your part before you start (Potempa says a center part goes “straight down the middle of your hair,” while a side part should be placed “at the arch of your eyebrow”)
5. Loosely dry 80 percent with a blow dryer and paddle brush to smooth out large sections; flip the sections right and left to smooth out the curl pattern 
6. For the last 20 percent, section the hair by starting at the bottom and working your way up (use the [Paddle Brush Pro](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbeachwaver.com%2Fproducts%2Fpaddle-brush%3F_pos%3D1%26_sid%3D8d00f1b09%26_ss%3Dr) and concentrator on the nozzle parallel to each other)
7. Finish off by closing the cuticle with a quick cool shot

Depending on what you’re going for, a blow dry alone may or may not be enough. Following it up with a flatiron, like the [Beachwaver Coast Pro](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbeachwaver.com%2Fproducts%2Fmidnight-rose-flat-iron%3F_pos%3D1%26_sid%3D7e17d713c%26_ss%3Dr), can add sleekness and shine, but you need to be careful to avoid damage. “When straightening with a flat iron, heat protectant is important – it protects the cuticle,” Potempa shares. “And start at the lowest temperature. You can always increase the temperature as needed.” With that in mind, below are her pro tips:

1. When straightening, split your hair straight down the middle and comb small, clean sections with the [Beachwaver Prep Brush](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbeachwaver.com%2Fproducts%2Fprep-brush%3F_pos%3D1%26_sid%3D5ef25f306%26_ss%3Dr)
2. Line up the iron with that section and continue to take small sections
3. Pin the sections of hair that you’re not working on with [darby clips](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbeachwaver.com%2Fproducts%2Fdarby-clips%3F_pos%3D2%26_sid%3Dc80ca072e%26_ss%3Dr)
4. To avoid frizzy ends, try gliding down and making the shape of a crescent moon towards your body 
5. To gain volume, lift the iron perpendicular, like a candy cane, and pull the straightener down – giving a slight bend at the ends
6. If you have really frizzy roots, use the [Beachwaver Braid Balm](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbeachwaver.com%2Fcollections%2Fmakewaves%2Fproducts%2Fbraid-balm-pre-braid-prep) to smooth or [Half Up](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbeachwaver.com%2Fcollections%2Fhair-accessories%2Fproducts%2Fhalf-up) to create a top knot

### **Curling Your Curls**
The concept of curling curly hair is difficult for non-curly hair types to understand, but we all know there is a big difference between beachy bends and tight ringlets. “I absolutely recommend curling naturally curly hair,” T.Cooper explains. “Most people don’t have curls that are consistent — curl patterns tend to change from one area of the head to another.” She is a fan of the [Eva NYC Spectrum Far-Infrared Curler](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Feva-nyc.com%2Fproducts%2Fspectrum-far-infrared-curler%3Fvariant%3D32083787972675) to “make sure curls stay lit.”

The next question that is likely on your mind? To straighten or not to straighten. “It really depends on the curl pattern whether to straighten the hair first or not,” she says. Her preferred method depends on curl type. “For looser curls and ringlets, I prefer my clients not to straighten the hair first,” she explains, adding that pre-straightening looser textures often leads to a lack of volume and poor hold. “For my kinky and coily babes, straightening the hair first — with a straightener like the [Eva NYC Healthy Heat Nano Silk Styling Iron](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Feva-nyc.com%2Fproducts%2Fnst-styling-iron%3Fvariant%3D18723905110083) — makes for a smoother looking curl, even if you just straighten the roots a little bit,” she shares.

Both T.Cooper and Potempa emphasize the importance of starting with your curling iron’s lowest possible heat setting and adding warmth as needed. From there, it’s important to choose a barrel size that complements your natural curl pattern. In the case of Potempa’s Beachwaver, there is a tool for every type:

- **For Beachy Waves**: “If you have a slight wave, detangle your hair, split it in the back, and bring the sections forward and over each shoulder,” she explains. “Starting with the bottom section, take the [Beachwaver](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbeachwaver.com%2Fcollections%2Fbeachwaver-rotating-curling-irons%2Fproducts%2Fbeachwaver-s1-dual-voltage) with the clamp facing forward and curl away from your face.”
- **For Smooth Waves**: “Use a paddle brush and mousse, along with a larger barrel like the [Beachwaver B1](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbeachwaver.com%2Fproducts%2Fbeachwaver-b1-love%3F_pos%3D1%26_sid%3D532b893c2%26_ss%3Dr) and curl away from your face for smooth medium waves,” Potempa shares.
- **For Medium Curls**: “In the case of medium-sized curls, a larger barrel – like the [Beachwaver S1.25](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbeachwaver.com%2Fproducts%2Fbeachwaver-s1-25-dual-voltage%3F_pos%3D3%26_sid%3D43723bc7f%26_ss%3Dr) – will give a blowout type look,” she notes. “The ceramic barrel will smooth the curl into a nice, relaxed wave.”
- **For Bouncy Curls**: “For a more defined voluminous curl, use a smaller barrel,” she says. “The [Beachwaver S.75](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbeachwaver.com%2Fproducts%2Fbeachwaver-s-75-dual-voltage%3F_pos%3D3%26_sid%3Dfbf0d7033%26_ss%3Dr) will enhance the curls and reduce any frizz.”
- **For a Natural Finish**: “For a more natural look, alternate the direction of the curls, and use small sections of hair,” Potempa explains. 

Once you’ve finished curling, you’ll want to finish off your ’do to maximize results. Dealing with flyaways? “Use a little styling cream, like [Eva NYC’s Satin Dream Smoothing Leaving-In Cream](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Feva-nyc.com%2Fproducts%2Fmane-magic-10-in-1-primer%3Fvariant%3D38209042506), to tame any frizzy pieces,” T.Cooper says. Looking for added volume? “Especially for fine textures, my advice is to spray the roots with a dry shampoo for root lift and alternate the direction of the curl with each row,” she shares. This makes it so that the curls stack on top of one another, and the result will be a big, bouncy head full of voluminous curls.” 

Regardless of your look, don’t forget to top it off. “Finish with [Eva NYC Just Glisten Shine Mist](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Feva-nyc.com%2Fproducts%2Fjust-glisten-hair-body-shine-mist%3Fvariant%3D32293764759619) for added bling,” she says.

*All products featured are independently selected by our editors, however, AEDIT may receive a commission on items purchased through our links.*

Curly hair can feel like an enigma. Some days, you just can’t get it under control. Other days, it air-dries to perfection. So, how do you get more consistent results? We asked the experts.

How To Maintain And Style Wavy, Curly, Textured Hair

Exactly How To Maintain And Style Curly Hair

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“I am a very less-is-more kind of colorist,” says celebrity hair colorist [Tracey Cunningham](https://www.instagram.com/traceycunningham1/?hl=en) of the philosophy behind her decades-long career tending to some of Hollywood’s most famous manes (think: [Jennifer Lopez](https://www.instagram.com/p/CQz5j48An7V/), [Charlize Theron](https://www.instagram.com/p/CQtSGS3AdC9/), and [Khloe Kardashian](https://www.instagram.com/p/CPOWoNxA6lA/) to name a few). It may sound counterintuitive to hear a legendary hair colorist advocate for minimalism, but that is precisely the impetus behind her new book, *[True Color: The Essential Hair Color Handbook](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.barnesandnoble.com%2Fw%2Ftracey-cunninghams-true-color-tracey-cunningham%2F1137392850)*. “I wanted to explain why you shouldn’t do so much,” she shares.  

As it turns out, not doing “so much” amounts to embracing what Cunningham has deemed your “true color” — the hue you were naturally gifted with as a child before age and trends and dye took over. We had a chance to chat with Cunningham about her new book, the “true color” theory, and tips she wants everyone (colorists and clients alike!) to know.

## **What Is Your ‘True’ Hair Color?**
Your hair can (obviously) be whatever color you want it to be, but Cunningham has found that, depending on how much time and effort you wish to spend on getting ready on any given day, certain hues can make life simpler. “I have clients who are so good with their makeup and fixing up their hair that they can really do anything,” she says. In the book, she explains how someone like, say, [Emma Stone](https://www.instagram.com/p/CPOOqumAqmL/) (another client of hers) can go from platinum to auburn to mocha and back again because she updates the rest of her beauty look accordingly.

![True Color By Tracey Cunningham Cover](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/G12qx6JVTloaSOmiIZNbB/900ed2e5c1c18f2464c298c57b4aaa69/True_Color_By_Tracey_Cunningham_Cover.jpg)

If, however, you don’t have access to a celebrity glam squad and are in search of a look that requires minimal effort to pull together, Cunningham maintains that your childhood shade — which almost certainly complements your skin tone and eye color — is your best bet. “Clients will bring their kids in and say that they just want their hair to look like them or how it did when they were younger,” she shares. Whether you have previously colored your hair or not, your locks, like the rest of your body, age. “The truth is, our hair does get darker as we get older,” Cunningham explains. “And I feel like a lot of people are always chasing that rainbow.”

In putting pen to paper, Cunningham hopes to change that. “I thought it would be a fun book to show celebrity photos of them when they were younger and then what they chose to do when they got older,” she says. The tome features childhood pictures of stars like Jessica Biel, Minka Kelly, Maria Sharapova, and more to give you a sense of how the colorist has been able to honor their, well, roots. “Not everyone follows the recipe, but it is a good idea,” she says. “Most of the time, it works.”

## **How to Achieve Your True Color**
Intrigued by the prospect of returning to your roots? “Bring in a picture because a picture says a thousand words,” Cunningham suggests. Showing your colorist photos of yourself growing up will allow them to see your hair in its original state — before [hair dye](https://aedit.com/aedition/hair-dye-allergies) or, simply, time took its toll. 

In addition to taking a trip down memory lane with your baby photos, you can also flip through hundreds of inspiration images in Cunningham’s book. Broken up into four sections (blondes, brunettes, redheads, and silvers), you are able to get a sense of how hair color changes over time and the steps you can take to return yours to its natural glory — with the help of some strategic coloring, of course.

And since even the best dye job in the world can’t make up for damaged tresses or an unhealthy lifestyle, Cunningham devotes an entire section of the book to [hair health](https://aedit.com/aedition/at-home-hair-care-tips). And it’s not just about products (though she is a big fan of and advisor for [Olaplex](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Folaplex.com%2F)). “If you hold back on nutrients, it’s bad and I can see it in the chair,” she says. “There is something to taking your vitamins and eating your vegetables.” 

## **The Takeaway**
As COVID-19 lockdown restrictions lifted, Cunningham started to see many of her clients for the first time in many, many months. For those who hadn’t been bitten by the DIY bug, she was pleasantly surprised by what she saw. “For a lot of people, I liked their hair better without them coloring it so much,” she admits. While that may sound blasphemous coming from a professional hair colorist, it all goes back to her less-is-more approach. “I tried to talk them into staying gray or keeping their natural color,” she says. At the very least, she can extol the virtues of embracing your roots. For Cunningham, the end game is always the same: “I love shiny, healthy hair,” she says.

*All products featured are independently selected by our editors, however, AEDIT may receive a commission on items purchased through our links.*

Tracey Cunningham is the mastermind behind some of Hollywood's most desired hair colors (Lily Aldridge's enviable ombre, anyone?). In her new book, she makes the case for returning to your roots.

Celebrity Hair Colorist Tracey Cunningham's Natural Hair Color Tips

Why A Celebrity Hair Colorist Wants You To Embrace Your ‘True Color’

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Imagine it going down like this: You fork over a pretty penny and the better part of your Saturday afternoon in hopes that you’ll walk out from behind the salon chair with gorgeous, natural-looking [hair color](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-hair-care-products-by-texture-color) that will have women chasing you down the street wanting your colorist’s name and number. Instead, you succumb to an allergic reaction on your scalp (or worse, your face, too) that rivals the itch and burn of chickenpox. While your color looks fabulous, the discomfort and pain leave you questioning if the J.Lo-inspired shade of honey brown locks was really worth it. 

If this sounds familiar, you likely have a sensitivity to hair dye. Here’s how to recognize a reaction and what to do if you’re not ready to go au naturel.

## **The Dicey Ingredient in Your Hair Color**
There are numerous chemicals in hair color, but the one that is most commonly associated with allergies is paraphenylenediamine (a.k.a. PPD). “PPD is an amine that is mainly used as an ingredient in hair dyes and henna tattoos,” says [Naana Boakye, MD](https://bergenderm.com/), a board certified dermatologist in Englewood Cliffs, NJ. The ingredient, which is used in almost every dark hair color formulation, allows the dye to deposit into the hair shaft and for the color molecules to penetrate the cuticle and stick.

PPD (it can also appear in the ingredient deck as PPDA or 1,4-benzenediamine) is a well-known skin irritant and allergen — so much so that, according to Dr. Boakye, it was declared the [Contact Allergen of the Year in 2006](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/340921466_American_Contact_Dermatitis_Society_Allergens_of_the_Year_2000_to_2020) by the American Contact Dermatitis Society (ACDS). Sure, plenty of women and men safely color their hair with no side effects. But, for those that are sensitive to color, it’s an uncomfortable allergy. “A reaction of some sort to the ingredient is more common than people might realize, but it more often causes a mild dermatitis irritation,” says [Ava Shamban, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/ava-shamban-md-2325), a board certified dermatologist in Santa Monica, CA. As she explains, [research estimates](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3927172/) that 1 to 2 percent of users experience an allergic reaction and less than 1 percent a severe allergic reaction.

Other ingredients frequently used in hair color include paratoluenediamine (PTD), which is said to be better tolerated but can still cause reactions, as can cobalt, glyceryl thioglycolate, ammonia, peroxide, and resorcinol. “Hair dye, in general, can cause issues — even those that claim to be organic,” says [Kavita Mariwalla, MD](https://mariwalladermatology.com/), a board certified dermatologist in West Islip, NY. And reactions and irritations aren’t limited just to darkening hair. “Anytime you lighten the hair, you are exposed to chemicals that are some form of ammonia or bleaching agent,” she explains. “Over time, the skin can become sensitized and develop a rash.” In case you’re wondering, the same goes for henna, too.

## **What a Hair Dye Allergy Looks Like**
If an allergic reaction ensues as a result of hair coloring, it’s common for a series of dermatitis-like reactions to appear on the skin. “It classically appears on the hands, head, and neck where the chemical is in contact with the skin,” Dr. Boakye says. “These allergies appear as [eczema](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-skincare-products-to-treat-eczema-flare-ups-in-the-winter), spongiotic like a rash, or, at times, it can appear very non-specific and present with hives or lichen simplex chronicus, which is thickened skin.” Other symptoms include an itching, stinging, burning sensation on the scalp and blisters, welts, and swelling at the hairline and on the scalp, forehead, neck, ears, eyes, lips, upper back, or feet. 

Here’s the tricky part with hair color allergies: the reactive response is not always instant. “Symptoms may occur immediately or take up to 48 hours to manifest and become more severe over time,” Dr. Shamban notes. This classifies the allergy as a [type IV hypersensitivity reaction](https://aedit.com/aedition/moderna-covid-19-vaccine-dermal-filler-swelling) (meaning it doesn’t show immediately). 

But that’s not to say that one session in your colorist’s chair (or if you’re doing your hair yourself at home) can’t lead to an immediate reaction — it can. Dr. Mariwalla says that if there is an aggressive exposure that occurs over several episodes (like ignoring the itching at first and then getting your hair done again with the same product), the reaction will worsen. “So, what may begin as itch can progress to severe redness and even swelling and blisters,” she shares.

Because an allergy can occur the first time color is used or years afterward, it’s important to patch test hair dye on the inner crease of the elbow and the nape of the neck. “Patch testing is crucial because, otherwise, you are just guessing,” advises Dr. Mariwalla. “The right way to do it is to see a board certified dermatologist or an allergist for proper patch testing” However, as Dr. Shamban points out, any single-use or contact point can solicit an allergic response. “Therefore, even a patch test one day, on one area or repeating use of a product used multiple times previously can still result in an unexpected allergic reaction,” she adds. Dr. Boakye agrees and says she has a few patients that have developed allergies to hair color after years of use, which “was a surprise to them because they have been dying their hair for years and subsequently developed the allergy.”

Age can also be a driving force — especially since the body’s ability to fight off allergens declines as we get older — but plenty of younger people are sensitive to hair color, too. It is important to note that once the body is exposed to an allergen, the body will continue to recognize the known allergen and, “while it does not accumulate or remain in the body, usage is like pulling the wild card out of the deck; one never knows when it will occur,” Dr. Shamban explains.

Hair color shifts the pH of the scalp, which won’t necessarily cause an allergic reaction, but it can lead to an irritated or inflamed scalp. “Color is meant to be placed on the hair, which is already-formed keratin strands,” Dr. Mariwalla says. Even so, the scalp is impacted. “The process of hair dying can irritate the scalp, but, once the hair is dyed, there is usually not an issue,” she explains. “During the process, the scalp takes an insult due to the chemicals, heat, and processing experience.”

New York colorist Lauren Paglionico of [LRN Beauty](https://lrnbeauty.com/) has watched minor color reactions ensue right before her eyes. “I have seen clients experience sensitivities to hair color with PPD, which shows up as itchiness or redness at the nape of the neck,” she shares. “Luckily, it went away after an hour.” But that’s not always the case for everyone. 

In extreme cases, the face can become so swollen, puffy, and tight that the eyes and nose appear distorted and the face doubles in size and width. The lips can react, too, and blow up. In the most extreme cases, anaphylaxis (a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction) can occur, which can land you in the emergency room. “Symptoms to look out for with anaphylaxis may include the same stinging, burning, swelling, or rash, but it will extend to the tongue and throat, followed by trouble breathing with feelings of faint, nausea, or vomiting,” Dr. Shamban says. “It is very, very rare, but a hair dye allergy can even be fatal if not attended to properly with immediate medical attention.”

### **How to Treat a Hair Dye Allergy**
To remedy dermatitis and allergic reactions, first rinse off the dye as much as possible with warm water and a gentle, [fragrance-free](https://aedit.com/aedition/fragrance-free-beauty-skincare-for-sensitive-skin) shampoo (like baby shampoo). “A shampoo with a topical corticosteroid, such as Clobex, an antifungal shampoo, like Ketoconazole, or a coal-tar shampoo for dandruff may work as well,” Dr. Shamban says. 

Next, apply a layer of topical cortisone or a corticosteroid cream or lotion to the affected areas and take Benadryl to reduce the inflammation. “I also suggest using hydrogen peroxide to oxidize the PPD, steroids to help cool the scalp, and antihistamines to quell the itch,” says Dr. Boakye, who also recommends allergy testing to determine the exact causative agent. As far as any scabs that form, treat them with a layer of [emollient-rich, fragrance-free cream](https://aedit.com/aedition/dermatologist-approved-body-creams-moisturizers) applied to damp skin. 

## **Gentler Color Options**
So, what’s a girl ([or guy](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-mens-hair-color)) to do if the act of hair coloring is too risky and virtually out of the question? For starters, avoid any type of hair color that contains PPD (PPD-free color is available in [Wella Koleston Perfect Me+](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FWella-Koleston-Perfect-Me-Permanent-Creme-Hair-Color-Deep-Browns-2-Oz%2F683520515) dyes) or an allergen. “Highlights and balayage are safer options because bleach does not contain PPD,” Paglionico says. But bleach can be irritating, too, so proceed with caution. Gloss and toner, which are used after highlights to add shine and soften freshly highlighted hair, typically don’t contain PPD and are applied to the hair, not the scalp. 

A few hacks to keep in mind include adding a few packets of Sweet N’ Lo (yes, you read that correctly) to the color, which Dr. Mariwalla says changes the pH of the solution to prevent an itchy scalp. Or try an anti-irritation solution, like [Antidot Pro Scalp](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fantidotpro.com%2Fcollections%2Fconsumer), which is mixed into hair color to prevent reactions. “Also, if you can avoid it, don’t color your hair on your own at home,” she cautions. “You don’t know what is in the box and you can get exposure without realizing it.”

“Hair color has come a long way and many of today’s lines are safer than they used to be,” says Paglionico, adding that her favorite is the ammonia-, silicone- and PPD-free L’Oréal INOA. Now that clean beauty is the norm, it’s fitting that options like these are available in the hair color arena:

- [CHI’s Iconic Shine Shades Permanent Hair Color](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sallybeauty.com%2Fhair-color%2Fshop-by-type%2Fpermanent-hair-color%2Fionic-shine-shades-permanent-hair-color%2FCHI02.html) is an ammonia- and PPD-free formula that can be used as permanent, demi-permanent, or semi-permanent color depending on how much of the color is mixed with the brand’s [Color Generator](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sallybeauty.com%2Fhair-color%2Fother-products-and-applications%2Fdeveloper%2Fcolor-generator-20-volume-developer%2FCHI05.html) (a developer).
- Although [Maria Nila’s Colour Refresh](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fmarianila.com%2Fus%2Fcolour) isn’t traditional hair color, the 17 different shades (they’re available in both DIY and professional versions) deposit non-permanent color pigments in minutes, while adding moisture to hair — sans parabens, PPD, sulfates, and animal byproducts. 
- [Madison Reed’s Radiant Hair Color Kit](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.madison-reed.com%2Fhome-hair-color-kit) (it’s also available as a color service at a Madison Reed Color Bar) is a permanent color option that’s in the clear of ammonia, resorcinol, and PPD. Instead, it uses PTD- Toluene 2,5-Diamine Sulfate (TDS) as an effective replacement for PPD. According to the brand, studies show that more than half of users who are allergic to PPD did not experience any adverse effects to products using a PTD substitute. Because the ingredients are chemically similar, it is possible for users who are allergic to PPD to experience some irritation when using color with PTD. So, always patch-test first.
- [Miranda Shaffer](https://www.instagram.com/mirandashafferhair/?hl=en), a hair color specialist and balayage expert at Adel Atelier in New York City, recommends a powder-based color line called [Water Works](https://www.amazon.com/stores/Water+Works/page/B0D0819A-B039-444B-BA01-8085DD1FE059?ref_=ast_bln), which she says works similarly to henna (it can’t lighten hair) to cover greys or deepen your natural color. “Instead of using a developer, the color is mixed with water,” she shares. “But, for some, natural products can also cause reactions, so always proceed with caution.”
- Ammonia-free color is another avenue to explore. Celebrity colorist [Ryan Pearl](https://www.instagram.com/ryanpearl23/?hl=en) of IGK Salon in Miami says color that is formulated without ammonia “helps to decrease the tingling and burning sensation that can come with regular color” because ammonia “opens up the follicles on the scalp and gives the allergen easy access to penetrate the skin.” He likes the Redken Chromatics color line (available through professionals) because “it is a lot less harsh than traditional color” and “it does a great job of lifting and depositing color.” To keep the follicles closed and less permeable, Pearl suggests not washing your hair for a day or two before getting color.

If none of the above are viable solutions, hair extensions are always an alternative option. Pearl says that any color can be added to extensions (pick the right shade to start with so less color work is needed). “It’s best to leave this one to a professional to get the color match just right,” he says. And rest assured that the color will never touch your strands or scalp. “The nice thing about wearing extensions as opposed to coloring your hair is that the color doesn’t come into contact with the scalp at all,” Pearl explains. “We color them off the head, using a methodical process that pretty much eliminates any sort of adverse reaction.”

And, of course, you can always go au naturel, which is — hands down — the safest bet.

*All products featured are independently selected by our editors, however, AEDIT may receive a commission on items purchased through our links.*

Wellness

While this isn’t your run-of-the-mill sensitivity, it can be severe. Here’s how to recognize a reaction and what to do if you’re not ready to go au naturel.