Understanding Hair Products

With all the new hair products on the market, it can sometimes be difficult or even down right confusing to try to understand which styling and care products are right for your hair. The decision does not have to be difficult. Learning what each type of product can do will make hair styling a lot easier and fun. Most products work well for hair for both men and women, but recently more companies have started men’s exclusive hair styling lines to encourage men to use products to keep their hair looking tip top.

Be cautious when purchasing hair care products to avoid products that contain high levels of alcohol which might dry out your hair. In addition, stop using any products or combinations of products that appear to dry out your hair or scalp or cause an itchy sensation or flaky scalp conditions.

The first products you should use on your hair are shampoo and conditioner, and it is important to use good quality products. They add moisture to your hair and help the hair deal with the drying effects of the styling products that you will be applying later.

Mousses and root volumizers are lightweight products designed specifically to add volume. Mousse is applied as foam directly to the length of the hair, and root volumizer is usually a liquid or spray applied to the root area of the hair only. A round brush and a blow drier are then used to build in volume and height.

Hair gels are generally a firmer hold styling product than a mousse. Many gels are used to give a slicked back appearance to the hair if applied to dry hair, or used as a general styling product if applied to damp or wet hair. Many gels also contain shine enhancers and come in different colors to match or enhance your hair.

Pomades, crèmes, molding pastes or fiber gums are finishing products used to hold hair in place. These products are usually applied after the hair is dried and styled. They are rubbed on the hands and finger combed through the hair to give definition, pull individual hairs down or into place, or used to spike hair up or add volume directly to the roots. Many of these products have shine enhancers to give a nice finish to your style. These products also often have moisturizers and conditioners to nourish your hair throughout the day. Pomades and other firm styling products are used both on long and short hair, depending on the style.

Finish creams are essential for taming fly aways and leaving a healthy shine to your hair. They are rubbed into the hands, and then gently slicked over the hair to give luster and natural sleekness to your hair. Like most other products there are finish creams and anti frizz products that are specific to different hair colors.

The final product most people use is a good quality, flexible hair spray or spritz. Depending on the style you are trying to achieve, either firm hold or gentle hold spray will work best. For updos and long hair a firmer hold is generally needed, whereas softer curls and shorter hair may be fine with a light hold spray or spritz.

Whatever your hairstyle may be, try experimenting with a few new products to discover new hairstyling possibilities. You may be amazed with the results and surprised at the ease of styling. Remember that with most of these products less is more, and avoid overusing any product as this may distract from the natural beauty of your hair.

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