Tips to give dull, dry hair some TLC

Hot styling tools, colouring and chemical processes all can lead to the same thing: dull, dry locks that tangle easy.

“Many of the styling steps we take to look our best can ultimately leave our hair looking flat and dull,” says Jonathan Colombini, L’Oréal Paris creative director of Style & Color. “Fortunately, there are some easy, at-home fixes you can make to restore shine and lustre.”

Here are Colombini’s insider tips for combatting dull, dry hair and detangling tresses.

Take a Heat Detox

Avoid super-hot showers. Strands are best shampooed in warm water and conditioned in cool water to help remove residue and leave hair looking shiny. If you’re used to cranking up the heat daily on your styling tools, it may be time to take a little break. Every head of hair can benefit from periodic heat detoxes. To help dry locks fast, use a microfibre towel. They’re more absorbent than conventional bath towels, and tend to cause less frizz and fewer tangles. If you do blow dry your hair during your detox, use a cool setting.

Change Your Care Routine

Colouring and chemical processes can alter your hair’s ideal pH range, resulting in dullness. To restore shine and achieve smooth, healthy-looking hair that has a salon inspired gloss finish, use products that have a pH of 4-6 and are sulfate- and paraben-free.

Sport Tangle-Less Styles

When hair is dull and dry, it can tangle more easily, which is not only a hassle, but can lead to breakage. Avoid these woes by sporting styles that prevent tangling. “A smooth, shiny ponytail is a great fix for tangles,” says Colombini. “It’s low-maintenance, while giving you a sophisticated, pulled-together look.”

If dull, dry locks are weighing your hair down, don’t despair. With the right routine, you can achieve salon-inspired shine at home.