Rasta Hair Products

Rasta, or Rastafarian, hairstyles often include thick dreadlocks. To maintain this look and keep the hair healthy, you should consider using products specifically made for dreadlocks. With little effort and some care, your Rasta hairstyle will not only look great, it will be healthy. Does this Spark an idea?

Shampoos

Contrary to some beliefs, dreadlocks or Rasta styled hair needs to be washed in order to be healthy and look good. For normal hair (not excessively dry or damaged with split ends), try a moisturizing shampoo that will keep the locs looking healthy and strong. Lockology Mint Medley is a shampoo that combines a blend of spearmint, peppermint and rosemary that soothes as it cleans. It's made from all natural products and promotes hair growth. For kids, consider using Little Locs Lavender for a moisturizing deep cleansing that blends together lavender with other natural products. This shampoo is made to condition and protect your child's locs while keeping them strong and healthy.

Wax

Putting wax in your hair may not sound like a great choice, however, Rasta/Dreadlock wax is specifically designed to keep your style moisturized and healthy. Wax products, such as Knotty Boy, are made to hold the locs longer and create a thicker appearance for thinner hair. Because of its thickness and strength, the wax should maintain through warm/hot water washings. The light-colored wax products are great for hair colors like blond and light brown. Knotty Boy also makes a darker wax for darker shades of hair like brunette and black.

Accelerator

Accelerator for Rastafarian hairstyles normally comes in spray form and is designed to keep locs healthy while promoting growth. DreadheadHQ Locking Accelerator is an unscented water-based product that does not leave residue on your hair. (Be careful not to over-spray.) There are no oils, so it does not leave hair greasy or slimy. When used properly, DreadheadHQ Locking Accelerator should tighten up your dreadlocks, giving them a neater appearance.

Trulift Hair Products

Trulift Hair Care is a brand of hair products designed to increase volume for those with limp or fine hair. The hair care products advertisements promise an increase in shine, volume and body. Their product line includes creams, sprays, shampoos and haircare accessories such as dryers and flat irons. The prices range from the single digits to over $100. Does this Spark an idea?

Trulift Travelsol Spraymate

The Trulift Travelsol Spraymate is a compatible hair spray product. By simply inserting the tip of the nozzle of a regular hairspray canister into the bottom of the Travelsol Spraymate, the hair spray can be transferred from the large container to the travel can for easy transport in a purse. The canister costs $21.95 as of October 2010.

The Trulift Color-N-Lift 2Go Brush

The Trulift Color-N-Lift 2Go Brush is a brush-on color touch-up for people with dyed hair. It is a convenient way to touch up color when gray roots begin to show. The brush colors available are black, neutral, brown, blond, auburn, light brown and red. The brush is compact and portable so it is easy to fix your hair on the go. The price of the brush is $19.95 as of October 2010.

Trulift TEASEase Volumizing System

The Trulift TEASEase Volumizing System consists of two TEASEase double-ended combs and two ounces of the Trulift volume spritz. It is designed to increase volume in all types of hair and it can also strengthen the hair. The combs have a special design that helps them lift the hair from the root. Trulift TEASEase Volumizing System costs $19.95 as of October 2010.

Trulift Uplifting Cream

The Trulift Uplifting Cream is a product designed to increase volume and give your hair a boost. It can be used either on damp hair or when styling dry hair. The cream is a combination of vitamin B, avocado oil and keratin. The Trulift Uplifting Cream costs $16.50 as of October 2010.

Trulift Pro Cordless Styling Iron

The Trulift Pro Cordless Styling Iron is made to straighten all kinds of hair types. It features dual ceramic plates that cause less damage to the hair. When fully charged, the iron can stay powered for up to 35 minutes and can reach as hot as 410 degrees. It comes with a drawstring pouch and a 1-year warranty. As of October 2010, the price of the iron is $89.95.

Trulift the Stylist

Trulift the Stylist is made to increase volume, boost and shine. It is designed for those with limp, dull and frizzy hair and is a styling cream that can be applied to damp or dry hair. It is a lightweight, oil-free product that leaves hair light and fluffy. It costs $17.50 as of October 2010.

Hair Products Without Animal Ingredients

Animal ingredients in hair products can be cleverly disguised. Some common ingredients in hair products like gelatin, amino acids and hyaluronic acid are often animal derivatives. The use of some of these ingredients may involve cruelty to animals. There are manufacturers, however, that make vegan-approved products. Vegan means no animal products were used including by-products such as dairy. PETA provides an extensive list of animal ingredients in addition to vegan companies that manufacture beauty products. Does this Spark an idea?

Pureology

Pureology has been in existence since 2001. Pureology specializes in hair care for color treated hair. The hair care line offers products to hydrate, smooth, repair and add volume to color treated hair. Created by Jim Markham in Irvine, California, Pureology uses 100 percent vegan formulas. Jim uses natural and botanical ingredients such as biotin, organic shea butter, lavender and chamomile. These ingredients are found in Pureology's shampoo, conditioners, leave-in conditioners and styling products.

Tara Smith

Celebrity hair stylist Tara Smith created a line of natural and organic hair care products in 2008. Her line of shampoos, conditioners and styling products are vegan approved and do not contain any animal derivatives. Tara's hair care line is the recipient of the 2009 Pure Beauty Best Organic Launch award. Aloe, lavender, chamomile and rosemary are some of the natural ingredients in Tara's products. Made in the United Kingdom, the products are available at Tesco and Duane Reade stores and online. Tara Smith products are priced ranging from $5.95 to $9.95, according to a 2010 price index.

ABBA

ABBA honors a commitment to purity with products that contain 100 percent vegan and all natural ingredients. ABBA's hair care line provides hair products to cleanse, condition, correct and create -- the company refers to the line as the 4Cs. ABBA uses aloe, chamomile, green tea and avocado in its sulfate-free shampoos, conditioners, leave-in treatments and styling products. ABBA was created in 1988 by Alan Benfield Bush and Jim Markham.

Hair Products of the 1970s

The 70s were a time of feathered bangs, up-dos, afros and generally big hair. The hairstyles of the 70s were designed to go along with popular cultural aspects of the time, such as disco, bell bottoms, rock and roll and the movies and television shows of the time. To achieve these hair styles, several types of hair products were used, some of which continue to be popular. Does this Spark an idea?

Gee, Your Hair Smells Terrific

Gee, Your Hair Smells Terrific is a brand of shampoo introduced in the 70s aimed at making your hair shiny, full, soft, and of course, smelling terrific. This brand of shampoo is still sold today, and can be found from online retailers such as Vermontcountrystore.

Afro Pick

The afro pick is a specially designed comb for manipulating the thick curls of an afro. Originally, the afro was popular with black nationalist groups, but became mainstreamed and popularized in the 1970s. Today, people still use afro picks as the main way of combing their hair.

LemonUp Shampoo

According to the website Datazap, LemonUp is a brand that made both shampoos and conditioners that contained an entire lemon in the bottle. Besides providing a lemony scent, this shampoo was aimed at maximizing the body and texture of your hair.

Supermax Hair-Dryer

According to Stuckinthe70s.com, the Supermax hair-dryer was a combination hair dryer, curler and straightener aimed at creating various types of hair styles quickly. This is achieved by the components of the product that include a wide-toothed drying comb, fine-tooth curver, drying concentrator, a brush and a storing handle.

Items That Restore the Natural Melanin in the Hair

There are several ways to restore or stimulate natural melanin in the hair without using pricey dyes or harsh ingredients. There are various reasons hair can gray or whiten but changing your diet and using oils and herbs can help replace the loss of pigment. Finding the right natural melanin restorer for your graying hair can also be safe and easy. Does this Spark an idea?

Copper-Rich Foods

A copper-rich diet can help your body naturally restore melanin in your hair. Some foods include almonds and cashews, chickpeas, liver and oysters. Cereals, meat and fish generally contain up to 50 percent of the required copper intake for a balanced diet, so adding nuts or seeds such as poppy or sunflower can increase your daily intake, too.

Iron-Rich Food

Eating foods rich in iron can add benefits to a copper-rich diet when attempting to restore melanin in your hair. Dark green vegetables such as spinach and kale or yellow fruits such as bananas and tomatoes are excellent sources of iron.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is one of the healthiest oils for your scalp. Not only does it prevent lice and dandruff, it promotes the regrowth of damaged or graying hair. By massaging this oil into the hair roots and scalp, natural melanin can return. You can also combine this oil with lemon juice or Indian gooseberry (Alma) for an additional melanin boost to your scalp.

How to Use Wen After Coloring

Wen is not a shampoo. Wen is a "cleansing conditioner" that acts as five products in one: shampoo, conditioner, deep conditioner, detangler and leave-in conditioner. Wen can be used on any type of hair, including color-treated hair. Although any of the Wen cleansing conditioners may be used, the Fig Cleansing Conditioner is best for thick, coarse, wavy and curly hair as well as dry, heat-damaged, color-treated or dehydrated hair. Does this Spark an idea?

Cleansing

Rinse hair with cool water for two minutes.

Pump six to 12 squirts of the cleansing conditioner into your hands and rub together. Use six pumps for short hair, eight pumps for hair that is down to the shoulders, 10 pumps for hair past the shoulders and 12 pumps for long hair. Apply the cleansing conditioner to the crown of the head.

Apply the cleansing conditioner to the hair, starting at the scalp and working toward the ends.

Work the conditioner into the hair. Add a bit of water and massage for two to three minutes. Be sure to start at the crown and work toward the ends. Use your fingers to push the cleansing conditioner into the hair shafts.

Use a wide-toothed comb to comb the product evenly through the hair. Leave on for a minimum of three to five minutes. The longer you leave it on the better the results.

Rinse with cool water. Use your fingers to massage your scalp for one to two minutes while rinsing. Be sure to run your fingers through to the ends of your hair. Leave your hair soaking wet.

Conditioning

Pump one to three pumps of the cleansing conditioner into your hands and rub together. Apply as a leave-in conditioner. Start from the back of the head and work through to the ends, and then apply from the crown to the hairline.

Apply one to three pumps of Wen styling creme. Start from the back of the head and work through to the ends, and then apply from the crown to the hairline.

Wrap your hair in a towel to absorb moisture. Avoid rubbing your hair with the towel, as this may cause frizz. Remove the towel and style. Allow your hair to dry naturally.

Tips

- Use the cleansing conditioner as an overnight deep-conditioning treatment. Instead of rinsing, cover your hair with a plastic shower cap. The next morning rinse thoroughly.

- Do not use heated styling tools, like flat irons and curling irons, which can dry out and damage your hair.

- Wen may also be used on children and some animals.

Warning

- Although Wen may be used on animals, do not use Tea Tree Cleansing Conditioner on your cat. Tea tree oil is toxic to cats.

How to Care for Rasta Hair

Rasta, or Rastafarian, hair is more commonly referred to as dreadlocks. While Rasta hair is worn as a symbol of devotion, the wearing of dreadlocks is not limited to the Rastafarian culture. Examples of dreadlocks can be found in African, Asian and European cultures and more recently have been adopted as an acceptable fashion statement. Because dreadlocks are essentially intentional mats of hair, many people believe dreadlocks simply require not brushing your hair. However, neat and clean dreadlocks require a careful hair-care routine. Does this Spark an idea?

Make an appointment with a loctician --- someone who specializes in the making and care of dreadlocks. Whether you are just starting to grow dreadlocks or if you have had dreadlocks for years, a loctician can help refine your style and recommend the best care routine for your hair.

Use only products created for dreadlocks. Because dreadlocks are dense mats of hair, shampoo residue does not rinse away. Use a low-lather shampoo that rinses cleanly. In addition, use natural oils like olive, jojoba, or rosemary to condition the dreadlocks and prevent breakage.

Wash your dreads, but do so infrequently. It is a misconception that you should not wash dreadlocks. Unwashed dreadlocks smell, frizz, and break due to internal rotting. When first creating dreadlocks, you should only wash once a week. After the first three or four weeks, wash the dreadlocks as often as every other day or maintain a once-a-week regimen.

Establish a waxing routine. Dreadlocks maintain their shape through the careful application of beeswax. The wax holding dreadlocks together washes away over time. Dreadlocks should be re-waxed frequently to maintain a smooth look and reduce frizz. Mature dreadlocks only need to be waxed every-other week.

Palm roll the dreadlocks. Continue to palm roll each dreadlock in a clockwise direction after every washing. This will keep the dread tight and incorporate new hair as it grows out.

Give yourself a good scalp massage. Brushing hair regularly distributes oils along the hair shaft and removes dead skin. Since dreads cannot be brushed, rubbing the scalp encourages the production of natural oils that condition the scalp and help prevent dandruff.

Sleep in a silk scarf or head wrap to protect the dreadlocks. The slippery nature of silk allows hair to slide unlike the cotton of a pillow case. The silk protects the dreadlocks from unraveling and becoming frizzy as you toss and turn in your sleep. If you are a back sleeper, try an African head rest that supports the back of the head while leaving the hair unpinned.

How to Strip Oil Out of Your Hair

Cooking oil splattering in hair, the use of cooking oil to loosen extensions, killing lice with essential oils or just not washing your hair for several days can all lead to an oily scalp or hair. The excess oil will not only make your hair look dirty, but also weigh it down. Washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo multiple times may be enough to remove the oil, depending on your hair type and type of oil. Absorb oils by sprinkling baby powder in the hair if washing your hair doesn't remove all of the oils. Use astringents as a last resort. Although they will strip the oil from your hair, they also strip oils that condition your hair and scalp, leaving your hair dry, brittle or straw-like. Does this Spark an idea?

Wash Your Hair

Pour a quarter-sized drop of a clarifying shampoo into the palm of your hand.

Rub the shampoo into your scalp. Massage the shampoo into your hair, working from the scalp down to the end of your hair.

Rinse your head under running water to remove the shampoo from your scalp. Repeat the process up to two more times.

Apply a moisturizing conditioner to your scalp and head to restore moisture to your hair. Allow it to sit in on your hair for one to three minutes. Rinse clean under cool running water.

Baby Powder

Sprinkle baby powder liberally over your scalp and throughout your hair.

Allow the baby powder to soak up the oil in your scalp and hair. Leave the baby powder on overnight, if possible.

Wash and condition your hair as described in Section 1.

Witch Hazel or Lemon Juice

Combine 1/2 cup of witch hazel or lemon juice with 1 cup of room temperature water. This will act as an astringent to strip the oil from your hair.

Pour small amounts of the liquid astringent into your hair and scalp, massaging it into your hair so it is fully absorbed.

Place a shower cap over your head to keep the liquid from drying out. Leave the astringent in your hair for one hour.

Wash and condition your hair as described in Section 1.

How to Keep Hair Tidy When You Wear it Down

Whether going to a special event, like a wedding, clubbing or even if it's just for your day-to-day life, keeping hair looking as good all day as it does when you first leave the house can present a challenge. While there are some products that can help hold hair for extended periods of time, regular maintenance and upkeep as well as repairing existing damage is just as important to long-lasting hairstyles as the type of hairspray in use. Does this Spark an idea?

Maintain healthy hair. Healthy hair is easier to keep in check. Moisturize regularly and trim split ends.

Braid your hair before bed. This is important if you don't plan on washing your hair before going out the next day. Satin pillowcases can help keep hair undamaged while you sleep.

Repair heat and styling damage. Damage can cause hair to rebel, sticking out at all sides. You can tell if your hair is heat damaged by pulling out a hair and running your fingernail along the length of the hair from end to end. Drop the hair in a glass of water. If it doesn't uncurl, your hair is heat damaged. Upgrade your styling tools to more modern devices, like those made with ceramic, to decrease damage. Lay off using the blow dryer, curling or flat irons when you can. Apply a serum to hair before styling with heat; this will protect your hair.

Use aerosol hairspray. Aerosol cans deliver a finer mist over a wider range of hair, which holds hair in place without stiffness or crispness. Don't hold the can too close to the hair; 10 to 12 inches of distance works best.

Combat flyaway hair due to humidity or natural frizz with a smoothing serum. A small dollop, the size of a nickel, is typically all you need. Rub it between your palms and apply to your hair, starting at the tips and working your way up, using the least over the scalp, which is naturally the oiliest part of hair.

Apply lacquer. Lacquer is stronger than hairspray and will create a rock-hard hold. Like hairspray, lacquer is sprayed onto the hair.

Plan your day accordingly. Bring travel hairspray and any other hair maintenance products for quick hair taming. Be aware of what your hair can and cannot withstand; if you're going for a ride in a convertible, cover your hair with a scarf. Don't expect the impossible.

Hair Moisture Products

Hair can be your best friend or your worst enemy. A variety of factors contribute to unhealthy, damaged hair. Often environmental pollutants, hair styling tools and even genetics can cause dryness, which can lead to breakage, stunted hair growth and make hair hard to style and manage. By employing products that increase and lock in moisture, damage can be repaired and reversed and hair of all kinds is healthier and free to grow. Does this Spark an idea?

Original Mane 'n Tail

Original Mane 'n Tail products are often called a best-kept beauty secret. The Deep Moisturizing Conditioner, made especially for dry and damaged hair, is full of natural ingredients such coconut oil, wheat and protein to help nourish and strengthen hair. Gentle enough to be used on all hair types, Mane 'n Tail replenishes the hair's natural moisture and increases elasticity and manageability. By repairing and rejuvenating the scalp, hair is nourished from the roots to the ends, making it healthier and softer, while restoring its natural shine.

Carol's Daughter

Fairly new on the beauty market are the all-natural Carol's Daughter products. Often thought of as a products targeted toward African-Americans, Carol's Daughter products are made for all hair types, from coarse to fine, color-treated and relaxed to natural. Rich in essential olive oil, sunflower seed extracts and fatty acids, such as omega-6 and omega-3, the Black Vanilla Hair Smoothie contains shea and cocoa butters to combat brittleness by providing deep conditioning moisture, while protecting and detangling hair. With the fragance of warm vanilla and coconut, the Black Vanilla Hair Smoothie not only moisturizes but smells good enough to eat.

Hollywood Beauty

Containing no pretroleum jelly, Hollywood Beauty products, specifically the Carrot Creme and the Olive Creme, are infused with beta-carotene, olive oil, vitamins and other essential oils to help restore natural shine and prevent hair breakage caused by dryness. Ideal for all hair types, both products condition the hair to the roots and instantly restore moisture in dry patches, leaving hair softer and easier to style.

Luster's Pink

Packaged in a unmistakable pink bottle, Luster's Pink products are so well known for their moisturizing capabilites that the products are affectionately referred to as hair lotions. Made for hair of all textures, Luster's Pink Original is light enough that it doesn't weigh hair down, but hydrates and softens with or without styling tools. Formulated with provitamin B5 and vitamin E, Luster's Pink restores the hair's health and natural moisture.

The Effects of Alcohol on Hair

Many hair care products contain alcohol. It is added to provide thickness to the product and protect it from bacteria such as microbes. Alcohol also acts as a preservative, helping products last longer on store shelves. While alcohol has some benefits, it also damages hair, making it appear dry, flaky, dull and lifeless. Does this Spark an idea?

Many Reasons Manufacturers Add Alcohol

Longer shelf life is among the many reasons manufacturers add alcohol to hair care products. Alcohol is used as a preservative because it evaporates quickly. The problem is that when it evaporates, it takes a bit of your hair's moisture with it. Alcohol is also added to thicken hair products, keep them from foaming and protect them from microbes. The types of alcohols used in hair products differ from grain alcohols made by fermenting starch, sugar and other carbohydrates. The alcohols have many cosmetic uses, but when used in excess, cause your locks to look deprived.

Short-Chain Alcohols

Short-chain alcohols include ethanol, propyl and isopropyl alcohol. Ethanol is typically found in hair sprays. Due to a low molecule weight, these alcohols evaporate quickly and are used in hair care products to decrease the time it takes for hair to dry. You have approximately 100,000 hairs on your head. Each hair is protected by a cuticle, or outside layer, which protects the inner layers. When the cuticle gets dry, it causes the inner hair fibers to fray, making your hair appear dry and frizzy.

Fatty Alcohols

Not all alcohols are bad for your hair. Fatty alcohols, or long-chain alcohols, such as stearyl and cetyl actually help to hydrate hair. These alcohols originate from natural sources and contain a high carbon content, meaning these molecules are oilier or fatty. Fatty alcohols are added as a moisturizer in hair care products. Hair looks smoother and softer because the cuticles are weighed down. If used in excess, these fatty alcohols combine with the natural sebum on the scalp, forming a sticky substance that makes hair appear greasy.

Alcohol-Free Products

Some hair products don't contain alcohol, advertising "alcohol-free" on the label. If unsure, read the ingredients.

Give Your Hair a Rest

No matter the products you are using, give your hair a chance to breathe. Avoid washing your hair a couple days a week. This helps to keep your hair shiny, bright and moisturized. When hair is wet, it stretches, making it more vulnerable to cuticle damage and breakage. If you need to wash your hair every day, try using a mild shampoo. If you have curly or dry hair, avoid washing your hair every day, as washing causes it to appear even more dried out.

Techniques to Seal in Hair Moisture

Many people face the problem of dry hair. From split ends that are super dry to listless hair that won't shine, dull, dry hair is a problem. It doesn't have to be, though. Simply replacing a few techniques or products that you normally use can be a big help in making your hair shiny, manageable and full of moisture. Does this Spark an idea?

Brush with Boar Bristles

Your hairbrush is important for a number of reasons. It detangles and helps you style your hair. One overlooked aspect of the hairbrush is that it helps keep your hair moisturized and shiny. It does this by spreading your scalp's natural oils down to the rest of the hair shaft. The best brush for doing this is one made of natural boar's bristles. If your hairbrush becomes worn, replace it immediately, as worn bristles can actually strip the hair of oils and make it frizzy.

Shampoo Less Often

Most people shampoo their hair everyday in the shower. This can be bad for your hair, especially if you take multiple showers in a day. Shampoos strip hair of their natural oils, which makes hair drier. If you can, try skipping a shampoo and do it every other day instead. See if this helps with the moisture level of your hair. Of course, if you perspire or workout a lot, this may not be possible. However, even skipping one shampoo on the weekends may help strip less moisturizing oils out of your hair.

Conditioning

Conditioning is essential to having moisturized hair. Conditioners add moisture and help reduce frizz by penetrating and coating the hair follicles. Follow the directions on the bottle and make sure to rinse with cool or cold water instead of hot. This helps lock in shine and moisture. It is also a good idea to use a deep conditioner at least once a week, paying particular attention to the ends of hair, which are the driest and can often split.

Products

There are literally thousands of products on the market for hair care, many of them claiming to moisturize your hair. Some of them appear to moisturize your hair because after application, your hair seems shinier and softer. But many of them are oil-based, which means that they are only coating your strands of hair, instead of penetrating them, which locks in moisture long-term. Try using a water-based leave-in moisturizer or conditioner. This type of product will penetrate the hair shaft, which truly moisturizes your hair.

The Best Hair Products for Kids

Generally, kids need hair-care products that are mild, help untangle their hair, keep them from tearing up and come in kid-friendly scents. If you have a tight schedule, or a child who struggles to stay still, finish washing her hair faster with shampoos that are also conditioners. Does this Spark an idea?

Loreal Kids

The shampoos and shower gels are easy to recognize in stores, as their containers are shaped and decorated to resemble brightly colored fish. They are tested by dermatologists and ophthalmologists to ensure they are healthy for your child's hair and skin, while still being mild enough for his sensitive eyes. They also come in a variety of fruity scents such as watermelon and sweet pear.

Suave Kids

This gentle shampoo will clean and nourish your child's hair in one fast step. The shampoo is tear-free and comes in a variety of fragrances including coconut, strawberry, orange mango and wild watermelon. The Oops morning hair tamer is designed not only to fix tangles, but also help style the hair. The formula is alcohol free and hypoallergenic.

Johnson's Natural Kids

With ingredients derived from coconut, sunflower and vegetable oils, this product is designed to clean and nourish your hair and body. Johnson's 3-in-1 shampoo is 98 percent natural with a mild fragrance that is hypoallergenic. It's also free of any dyes or irritating oils. The shampoo is gentle on eyes as well.

Paul Mitchell Baby Don't Cry

Your child will enjoy the gentle tearless formula of this mild shampoo and will come away with hydrated skin and hair. The chamomile and corn-flower extract in the shampoo is designed to calm and soothe the child as she washes. The taming spray is designed to help children detangle dry and damp hair. It also neutralizes static to help with bad hair in the morning.

Volumizing Hair Treatments

If you've seen any hair product commercials, then you're familiar with how many hair care companies push products that add volume to your hair. Thin, limp hair is very common but many products on the market can pump up you hair and give you the amazingly voluminous hair you're looking for. Does this Spark an idea?

Shampoo

Choosing a shampoo that increases volume is the first step in treating your hair. A voluminizing shampoo can be easily identified because it says on the bottle that it increases volume or thickens hair. Many hair care companies offer volume-increasing shampoo so you can purchase it anywhere you buy shampoo. However, salons usually carry higher-end products of better quality. Leaving the shampoo in your hair for 5 to 10 minutes increases the volume even more.

Conditioner or Masque

Conditioners for adding volume are different than regular conditioners that can actually weigh hair down. A voluminizing conditioner or masque often contains wheat proteins, which are the key ingredients in a good volume-enhancing hair product. Wheat proteins bond to the hair and increase the thickness of the hair shaft. The best way to achieve the maximum volume from a conditioner or mask is to use a heat cap.

Hot Oil Treatment

Hot oil treatments have been used for years on dry, brittle hair. However, many hot oil treatments help to increase volume and make your hair shiny and healthy at the same time. When choosing a hot oil treatment, check that it is the volume-enhancing kind. Alberto VO5, a well-known name in hot oil treatments, offers a weekly conditioning treatment used in the shower, which adds volume and doesn't have to be heated up.

Thickening Spray

A product sure to give you volume is thickening spray. Many hair care companies offer thickening sprays that you apply on damp hair. You can spray it all over or put it at the roots to pump up the top. It actually adds a coat to the hair strands which make hair visibly thicker and can be used on any type of hair. Companies such as Bumble and Bumble offer excellent thickening sprays.

Hair Health Products

Products that make hair healthier contain a combination of natural and synthetic ingredients. Using products designed for your specific type of hair is the best way to keep your tresses shiny and manageable. Deep conditioning treatments containing vitamins, proteins and amino acids help repair damaged hair, while using products with ultraviolet protection protects hair during the summer months. Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals keeps your hair healthy from the inside out. Does this Spark an idea?

Curly Hair

Naturally curly hair is fragile and porous. Conditioning treatments containing amino acids, protein, antioxidants and sulfate keep it healthy and reduce frizz. Thick conditioners make course curly hair more manageable.

Dry Hair

Chemicals found in dyes and straightening and curling products deprive hair of its natural nutrients, leaving it brittle and dry. Deep conditioning treatments designed for damaged hair help restore it to health. The vitamins, proteins and natural oils in dry hair treatments strengthen hair and restore it to manageability. You can find intensive conditioning products for dry hair in drug stores or pharmacies, or treat yourself to a deep conditioning treatment at a hair salon.

Fine Hair

Shampoos, conditioners and serums that add volume and protection to fine flyaway hair make it look fuller and help prevent split ends Look for products specifically designed to care for fine hair. These contain ingredients that coat and moisturize the hair. Ingredients include crustacean shell extract which has natural moisturizing properties, while mango butter, honey and proteins smooth and coat fine hair. Collagen extracts strengthen flyaway hair and help it to absorb nutrients. Amino acids contain protein-building components that give fine hair a fuller appearance.

Summer Hair

Hair needs extra care when temperatures soar, as exposure to the sun leaves it dry and frizzy. Leave-in hair serums and oils with UVA and UVB protection keep your hair soft and shiny after days at the beach. If these aren't available, apply regular sun cream to your hair before sun-bathing or swimming. Joyoba oil also helps keep hair healthy during the summer months. Apply it to the ends of your hair to keep them soft and prevent splitting. Alternatively, comb it through dry hair and leave it in if you spend time in the sun.

Volumizing Tips

Transform flat, lifeless hair into a bouncing coif of fullness, simply by using different volumizing techniques. Hair is tricky to control and if you do not use the right products, or have the right texture in your hair, you may be caught with limp locks. Avoid this hair pitfall and create your own volume to pump up your hair to the height you desire. Does this Spark an idea?

Try a New Haircut

Haircuts are a surefire way to revive flat hair simply by adding texture to the hair. Women with thinner hair will benefit from layers cut into a bob shape. Layers, especially added at the crown area, will give the hair movement and the illusion of full hair. Women with neither thick nor thin hair can add layers around the face and crown of the head to give a bounce and fullness to any style. Those with thicker hair may have the issue of heavy hair; therefore, lighten the hair by defining the shape through layers, razoring or a pixie cut.

Switch Shampoo and Conditioner

Purchase volume-enhancing shampoo and conditioner. Depending on the brand you choose the shampoo and conditioner may be for volumizing only; therefore, if you have color-treated hair it could fade your color. Check with your stylist if you need help choosing an appropriate shampoo and conditioner for your specific hair type. Other options to consider is skipping the rinse-out conditioner all together and purchasing a leave-in conditioner. According to Hair Boutique, rinse-out conditioners can over-moisturize your hair and weigh it down. Purchase a leave-in conditioner with a volumizing ingredient to add bounce to your hair.

Blow Dry Volume

Blow drying your hair the correct way can add tons of volume to limp strands. Apply a heat protection serum to your hair before you dry to protect your strands against the hot air. Divide your hair into sections to ensure you reach every strand. Dry your hair on medium to high heat until your hair is 90 percent dry. Use a root lifter to spray directly onto the crown of your head, and any other areas in need of volume. Continue drying the hair on low to cool heat and lift your hair upwards, around the root lifter application, while you dry.

Hot Rollers

Use the foolproof method of hot rollers to give your hair extra height. If you need to blow dry your hairs then apply a heat protection serum and dry your hair to just at 90 percent. Apply a volumizing gel from the roots to the ends of your tresses. Section your hair into 2-inch sections and apply a large hot roller. Apply the rollers around the crown of your head and the back and sides if needed. Leave the rollers in your hair for at least 10 minutes, longer for a curlier look. Remove the rollers and back tease with a teasing comb to add additional volume. Spray the roots with a light-hold hairspray to secure.

Ways to Spike Hair for Guys

Guys wear a variety of hairstyles today. Spiked hair is a style that has been around for many years. There are several different methods for guys to spike their hair, depending on certain factors. It depends on the length and thickness of the hair. Shorter hair is easier to spike. Thicker hair may need a little more product to hold in the spiked look. With a little practice, guys can figure out what works best in helping them achieve this look. Does this Spark an idea?

Mild Spikes

Most guys with short hair like to spike a small portion of it toward the front and some prefer an overall area on the top. Either way, it is a mildly spiked look that seems most common. This can be achieved by applying a small amount of gel to freshly washed wet hair. Use the fingertips to run it through from roots to the ends. Rub hair briskly to "mess up" and separate the hairs, giving it that spiked look.

Defined Spikes

The trick to more defined spikes is product. Guys that want want this look cannot be afraid to use a more generous amount of product in their hair. Apply a strong holding gel to the hair while it is wet. Run the blow dryer on gentle speed over the gel-covered hair. This will set the gel and hold the spikes in place.

Dramatic Spikes

It may be easier to create dramatic spikes in hair that hasn't been freshly washed. The more product in the hair, the better. Apply a hard-holding gel to the hair and add a little pomade or hair clay to it. Clay is effective for thicker hair. Its holding power is stronger than the other products. Form the spikes with your fingertips and gently blow the dryer over them to set the product in. Spray an extreme-holding hairspray over the entire spiked area for a final touch.

Faux Hawk

The faux hawk is a type of spiked-hair style that is a combination of dramatic and mild spikes in the hair. This look is accomplished by cutting the hair shorter on the sides but not shaving it. It is left longer on the top on the center stripe. This stripe is not as dramatic as an actual Mohawk, though it is reminiscent of that look. The ability to spike the hair for this look is all in the cut. Simply add some gel throughout, hair clay on the top for some dramatic spikes and set the look with extreme-holding hairspray.

How to Combat Humidity

Humidity and hair do not mix. That is especially the case for those who have curly hair or hair that is prone to frizz. Humidity exacerbates frizz, fluffiness and flyaway hairs, making for an unattractive look. To combat humidity, you must take certain styling measures. The use of the right products, along with styling techniques will help you keep your hair under control in the swampy air. Does this Spark an idea?

Use an intensely moisturizing shampoo and conditioner on your hair each time that you wash it. Try and use one made for frizz-prone hair if possible. Make sure that you wash out all of the product. Any residual product left in the hair will frizz when in humid air.

Comb anti-frizz serum through hair when it is damp. The amount to use depends on the length of the hair. Always err on the side of less rather than more. Put it on the hair with your hands starting at about mid-length. Avoid putting serum on roots as it will make them thoroughly greasy. Comb it through using a wide-tooth comb.

Spray finished hairstyles with anti-humidity hairspray. It is nourishing and moisturizing enough to specifically combat humidity. Avoid ultra-strong formulas as it will be too stiff. Mist hair lightly with the hairspray after styling it.

Put your hair up. One way to combat humidity without ending up with crazy hair is to simply wear it up off of your face in ponytail. Sweep hair up into a high ponytail just at the crown of the head. Secure with a rubber band. Add a headband to the top to smooth back any flyaway hairs.

Tips

- Avoid straightening your hair in high-humidity weather as it will not last long.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Volumizing Gel

Most everyone has woken up to flat, dull, lifeless hair -- and sometimes a ponytail seems like the best solution. But volumizing gel was created to give body to even the flattest of hair. While gels come in many different preparations, using it properly is likely to result in hair that exceeds your early-morning expectations. Does this Spark an idea?

Using Gel on Wet Hair

Wash and condition your hair, then towel dry to remove excess moisture.

Apply volumizing gel to damp hair. Gel works best on the roots, so flip your hair upside down to concentrate application at the base of your hair.

Blow-dry your hair using a round brush and medium-high heat. Pull hair away from your head to fully activate the gel.

Applying Gel to Dry Hair

Brush hair until free of tangles.

Flip your hair upside down and rub volumizing gel into the roots.

Pull your hair into a high ponytail for at least 15 minutes to allow time for the gel to work.

Remove the ponytail holder and use your hands for styling.