Tuesday 6 August 2013

Rinsing your hair in cold water WON'T make it shiny!

First, a bit of science.

The outer layer of the hair is called the cuticle - rows of little tiles that open and close. Things that make them open include heat and alkaline products (perm lotion, hair colour, bleach etc.)  Things that close the cuticle are cold and acid products (vinegar, lemon juice, pH balanced conditioners etc.)

So why won't cold water make your hair shiny? Well, it's true that the cuticle will close with cold water - but then what? Unless you're an otter, your hair is going to need drying at some stage. Either you're going to rough up the cuticle with a towel, or your going to apply heat in the form of a hairdryer, or both!

So how do you get hair to shine?

1. Products. There are a ton of shine products for all hair types.
2. Condition. Parched hair is prone to frizz, flyaways and will never look glossy.
3. Colour. Artificial colours, especially semi- or demi-permanents bring bags of shine. That said, you'll struggle more with shine on lighter shades and blonde due to the way colour pigment lies in the hair.
4. No colour! Ask your stylist about a clear glossing service. It's literally a clear shiny coating for the hair.

Be kind to your hair, and enjoy warm water!
Phil xxx
phil@bravohair.com
Bravo Hairdressing, Newbury, Berkshire

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