HAIR do's and donts

With so many options available in the market, it can be daunting task to choose the right haircare product. Here's a list of the ones that are best suited for different hair types and tips on how to use them.

OILY HAIR

Oily hair can be difficult to maintain. Many people wrongly believe that washing their hair repeatedly will eliminate excess oil. However, over-washing could make matters worse. The human body has a way of trying to restore balance by producing excess sebum secretion, resulting in even more oily hair.

The best way to wash oily hair is to select a shampoo with deep cleansing properties to remove the build-up of oils (which can cause your hair to be limp) from your scalp. A deep cleansing shampoo is less likely to strip your hair of its protective oil. It will also help reduce the amount of oil produced in your scalp. When choosing a conditioner, select one that is specifically designed for oily hair and apply it only to the ends and drier areas of your hair.

You also need to be careful with the selection of styling products. Most styling creams and mousses add shine, which will make your hair oilier. It is best to choose mild formulations, such as a volume and lift mousse or hairspray, which don't leave any residue.

DRY HAIR

Most people living in the Middle East - with soaring temperatures and sun exposure - tend to have dry hair. As dry hair lacks natural moisture, look for products that offer hydration. To keep your hair looking healthy without adding weight and build-up, choose a good hair product that will lock moisture into the hair strands and boost its softness. If your hair is really dry and brittle, you should avoid excessibely blow drying or straightening it. You can also look for a haircare formula - containing keratin and vitamin B12 - that helps strenghten hair and protects against hair fall due to breakage from brushing and heat damage. This ingredients will leave your hair feeling soft, manageable and revitalised.

CURLY HAIR

If your curly locks are prone to dryness or frizz, purchasing an appropriate product can be somewhat difficult. To de-frizz and hydrate your hair, choose a cream-based, moisturising shampoo and conditioner. To hold your curls in shape, choose a shampoo with more moisturising ingredients than regular shampoos. The best conditioners will include hydrating formulas with ingredients such as almonds oil to soften the hair, leaving it sleek and smooth without building it up or weighing it down.

DAMAGED OR COLOURED HAIR

Damaged or colored hair is usually dry, brittle and prone to breakage and split ends. The best productd for this hair type are ones that are specially formulated for dyed, highlighted or permed hair. These product generally contain mild ingredients that won't harm the chemical set. Ingredients such as aloe vera extract in these products help to moisturise, rejuvenate and strenghten damaged hair. It is also beneficial for your conditioner to include a UV-filter guard to protect your hair against damage from the sun.

Avoid overuse if hairsprays, gels ans mousses that can build up on hair and lead to breakage. If you must use these products,choose those with mild ingredients and ones that are 24-hour humidity-resistant and alcohol-free.