Bazaar’s eight simple steps to soft, smooth tresses
Frizz is caused by changes in humidity levels, which makes each hair strand expand and reshape. The warm weather in the Middle East, coupled with our near-constant presence in air conditioning as a result, can play a key role in the dehydration process. To keep frizz levels under control, hydration is essential; but there are other tips and techniques that can help you achieve sleeker, groomed tresses. Here is Bazaar‘s eight-step guide to frizz-free hair.
First steps to rehydration
To reverse last week’s damage and set your hair up for the week ahead, we recommend adding a pre-shampoo treatment into your Sunday beauty routine. We currently love Kérastase’s Nutritive Masquintense Mask, but hair oils can work really well too. Simply massage the product onto dry hair from the lengths and ends, and leave on for 3-5 minutes.
Hero Pick:
- Kérastase’s Nutritive Masquintense Mask, Dhs242 at Ounass
It’s all in the technique
Washing your hair too frequently can result in a loss of natural oils, which help to nourish and hydrate. Aim to wash hair two to three times a week. It’s not just how often – it’s also the techniques you’re using. “Shampoo your hair using your fingertips, and apply and massage to the scalp. This will clean your scalp, but leave the dry mid-shaft to the ends of your hair in better condition,” explains celebrity hair stylist Ken Paves, who Victoria Beckham and Eva Longoria entrust their tresses to. “The water and shampoo, as it rinses over the ends of your strands, will lift away any styling products or environmental debris but won’t cause further dehydration.”
Hero Pick:
- Olaplex No.4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo, Dhs126 at LOOKFANTASTIC
Supercharged conditioners
One of the easiest ways to rehydrate hair is to swap your conditioner for a nourishing hair mask. Use it in the shower and leave the mask on while you wash, so it has time to get to work. Our favourites include…
Hero Picks:
- For deep nourishment: AÏZA Nectar Noir Nutri-plenish Hair Mask, Dhs 175
- For a natural approach: Rahua Omega 9 Hair Mask, Dhs400 at LOOKFANTASTIC
- For soft, silky hair: Kérastase Elixir Ultime Beautifying Oil-Enriched Masque, Dhs242 at Sephora
- For seriously damaged tresses: ORIBE Gold Lust Transformative Masque, Dhs274 on Amazon
Natural vs blow-dry
While it might seem strange, blow-drying your hair rather than leaving it to dry naturally will prevent frizz. Air-drying leaves your tresses free to soak up the humidity and expand, while blow-drying closes and smoothes the cuticle. A heat-protection spray is essential – and don’t leave the hair damp. Finish by blasting tresses with cold air to fully seal the cuticles.
Hero Picks:
- Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray, Dhs 90 at LOOKFANTASTIC
Essential bedtime accessory
Wrapping hair up in a silk scarf was a beauty ritual followed by the likes of Bette Davis and Marilyn Monroe to keep tresses soft and glossy. It helps to prevent friction and static, and therefore prevents frizz. If you don’t have time before bed, switching your pillowcase for a silk version will help too.
Hero Pick:
- SILKE Hair Wrap, Dhs 225 at LOOKFANTASTIC
Hair oil
The new generation of hair oils are lightweight and won’t weigh down fine tresses. In terms of preventing frizz, oil is perfect as it can penetrate further into the hair follicle to smooth and hydrate. Plus, it is versatile and can be used as a pre-shampoo treatment, on damp hair after washing and on dry hair as a styling product.
Hero Pick:
- Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil, Dhs50 at LOOKFANTASTIC
The must-have tool
The revolutionary Tangle Teezer (Dhs80 for the regular size, available at Pastels Salon) is a must-have for any hair styling kit. First launched back in 2008, the brush has been internationally lauded for its extraordinary detangling capabilities, whilst remaining gentle on both dry and wet hair. The wide-tooth bristles also mean that hair doesn’t tear when being brushed. Available in a range of different sizes, we suggest stashing one in your handbag, one at work and one at home.
Hero Pick:
- Tangle Teezer, Dhs55 at LOOKFANTASTIC
Expert SOS
If all else fails, similar to the salon treatment to eradicate frizz. Bazaar’s favourite is the Dream Cream 3 in 1 styling cream by Slick Hair— equally effective when used on damp or dry hair to control fly-always. This product also gives your strands extra love, doubling as a hair mask. We also rely on the KeraStraight treatment oil. Formaldehyde- and Aldehyde-free, the treatment oil tames wild tresses. The formula strengthens hair, boosts shine and radically reduces styling time.
Hero Pick:
- Slick Hair Company Dream Cream 3 in 1 Styling Cream Dhs115, at Sephora
- KeraStraight Ultimate Oil, Dhs195.50 at Pastels Salons
