How to Get 'Shine'

Brought to you by our friends at VirtualHairCare.com
Hair that shines equals healthy hair and we all want that, but before you launch into following our tips for beautiful, gleaming hair, there is one factor that you cannot help.

If you have stick straight hair you will already be half way there to getting great "shine". However, the more curl or wave you have, the less your hair will shine. It's all to do with the reflection of light and curly hair has an uneven surface so does not reflect light as easily as straight hair. You can however improve the level of shine by following a few of these tips:

Keep your hair healthy by using heated styling tools less frequently.

If you use a dryer, use one with a nozzle attachment to direct the airflow from roots to ends to create smooth sections.

Blow-dry your hair right side up, not bent over upside down as this can create frizz.

Avoid brushes with plastic bristles, a boar bristle brush is always better.

The correct shampoo and conditioning regime can really help boost shine. Moisturising shampoos and conditioners will help seal and smooth the surface of your hair allowing it to reflect light. Once a week, use a clarifying shampoo to remove product build up which can make your hair look dull. Check out our detailed shampoo and conditioning section for lots more great tips.

Using a wide-tooth comb whilst in the shower to distribute your conditioner evenly will also improve shine.

Give your hair a final cool rinse just before you leave the shower to seal down the surface of your hair so it reflects light better.

Consider a special in-salon treatment that is like applying a "gloss finish". A sheer wash of just the gloss part of colour is applied to your hair like a non-permanent colour would be. This will boost your hair's natural colour without changing it and it slowly washes out in 4 to 6 weeks without any condition worries.

VirtualHairCare.com is the only place to find out everything you would ever need to know about your hair. From the latest looks and styles and how to maintain them, through to practical stuff like how to get the best out of your next salon visit, what products are best for you and medical conditions of the hair and scalp. For all the latest about hair, check out Virtual HairCare