A Guide to Hair Products 

Shampoo

The glands in the hair follicles produce a natural oil, or sebum, to protect the hair shaft and give it a healthy shine but if it is allowed to build up the result will be lank and greasy hair.  Hair shampoos are formulated to remove excess oil, dirt and the build-up of hair styling products.  The key to healthy and shiny hair is to buy a good quality shampoo with balanced ingredients to address specific problems or for your particular hair type.

Conditioner

The purpose of a conditioner is to moisturise and detangle hair by smoothing the cuticles of the hair follicles and the most common form of hair conditioner is usually applied after shampooing and then rinsed out.   Many of the modern conditioners contain glossers for shine and thermal protectors to safeguard the hair from heat when using straighteners or curling tongs which is often a common cause of damage to hair. Spray-on or leave-in conditioners are ideal for protecting the hair from chlorine or sun damage.  For a more intense treatment your hairdresser may recommend a deep moisturizing Masque which is left in the hair for a longer period of time than a normal conditioner.  

Hair Spray

Applied through an aerosol spray nozzle or a pump, hairsprays contain polymers or setting films and are available in varying holds.  Many of the modern hair sprays contain vitamins and other beneficial components which can help to restore damaged hair.

Hair Gel

Targeted mainly for short hair, hair gel is a versatile product available in different holds. It is less sticky that other styling products and gives a more natural look, perfect to tame unruly hair or to create the “wet look”.

Mousse

Mousse or hair foam gives a softer and more natural finish. Dispensed through an aerosol spray this is a lightweight product that provides volume and hold and is applied to hair before drying.

Hair Wax, Putty, Paste or Glue

Wax based products do not dry on the hair leaving it pliable and easy to re-style. These types of products are best applied with the fingertips using a little at a time to clean, wet or dry hair.

 Glossing Cream

Glossing cream is applied as a finishing touch to clean dry hair. Formulated with olive oil spheres this product reduces frizz, conditions and adds shine to all hair types. Some glossing creams contain UV reflectors to protect hair from sun damage.

 Hair Serum

Generally used on curly or frizzy hair, hair serums smooth the hair follicles by forming a protective layer on the hair strands. Serums are normally applied sparingly to wet or damp hair.

 Finishing Spray

A fast drying product, finishing sprays provide a stronger hold than traditional hairsprays. Available in pump or aerosol form finishing sprays have a dual role in both setting the hair and providing volume and lift.