Salon Secrets to Beautiful Hair

Learn salon secrets and top hair styling tips in a new step-by-step DVD exclusive to Look Gorgeous from leading hair stylist Sean Hanna.

Sean has also compiled a Top Ten of common Hair Care Mistakes you should avoid to keep your hair in top condition:

1. Not regularly trimming hair because you are trying to grow it: This can lead to split ends and frizzy hair over time, so a regular trim is important to maintain good shape and condition as your hair grows

2.  Not using conditioner because you think it will make hair greasy: Daily conditioning can make your hair shinier, smoother and less frizzy, but check you have the right product for your hair type.

3.  Using the wrong shampoo for your hair type: Different hair types and textures require different products such as shampoos and conditioners.  If you’re not sure, ask your stylist what products are ideal for your hair, and always check product descriptions before buying.

4. Not emulsifying shampoo before rinsing, makes hair dull and lifeless: Don’t  just apply and rinse off.  Add a little extra water after applying shampoo to damp hair , then work into a lather to release the active ingredients in the product before the final rinse.

5. When colouring, not understanding the effects of the ‘undercoat’ colour:  Permanent colours work in layers.  First there is an undercoat, which would typically be lighter and warmer than the desired finished result.  A professional colourist takes this into account when applying the “top coat” to achieve the desired colour.  If you don’t understand how colouring works there is a genuine risk of your colour being quite different from what you expect.  When going for a new colour, use a professional hairdresser whenever possible.

6. When colouring at home, not just matching the roots, but continually colouring ALL the hair: If you apply colour all over the hair each time you colour , the hair can become unnecessarily dry and damaged.  By applying the colour product only at the roots or the areas where it is needed, “over processing” can be avoided.

7. Brushing long hair from the roots first: Always start at the ends and then work back to the roots as the hair becomes less tangled.  Use a detangle product if you have a lot of knots after your shower. Brushing too vigorously from the roots can tear hair out and really damage your hair’s cuticles.

8. Not using sun protection for the hair whilst swimming in highly chlorinated water, sea water, or just spending a lot of time in direct sunlight: Our hair needs protecting from sun and chemical damage just as our skin does, so apply a protective hair product when swimming or sunbathing.

9. Using the wrong type of styling products to try and achieve certain styles:  Styling products are specifically formulated to help you achieve certain effects, so read the directions carefully before applying to check it is suitable for your look.

10. Using very hot water for rinsing out shampoo / conditioner: This often aggravates the scalp and can be damaging for the hair.  Treat your hair gently, and use warm but not hot water to rinse.

More detailed advice and hair care tips are included in the Sean Hanna hair care DVD set Essential Cleanse and Essential Styling  available exclusively online at www.LooksGorgeous.com  for £15.99