12 Expert Hair Care Tips from Onyx Salon Stylists You Need to Know

Welcome to the ultimate guide for your hair care routine! If you've ever wondered how to achieve salon-perfect hair without stepping out of your home, you're in the right place. Our stylists at Onyx Salon have curated these expert tips just for you.

1. Embrace Natural Textures

Learning to love and work with your natural hair texture can simplify your hair care routine and reduce unnecessary styling damage. Find products that enhance your hair's natural beauty. For instance, if you have curly hair, seek out creams and gels that define curls and prevent frizz. On the other hand, if your hair is straight, opt for lightweight products that add shine without weighing it down.

One way to fully embrace your natural texture is by reducing the frequency of heat styling. Heat tools can strip moisture from your hair, leaving it dry and prone to breakage. By opting for more natural styling methods, such as air drying, you allow your hair to maintain its natural oils, leading to healthier strands over time. This approach does not only promote healthier hair but also saves you time in your daily routine.

Another aspect of embracing natural textures is understanding the uniqueness of your hair type. Every hair type reacts differently to products and styling techniques. Hence, the first step in maintaining and enhancing your natural texture is identifying whether you have fine, thick, wavy, or coily hair. Such understanding will aid you in selecting the right hair care products that complement your natural hair characteristics while ensuring the best possible outcome with minimal effort.

2. Invest in a Quality Shampoo and Conditioner

Picking the right shampoo and conditioner sets the foundation for healthy hair. Look for ingredients that suit your specific hair type and keep your scalp balanced. A sulfate-free shampoo, for example, is gentler on the hair and prevents it from drying out. Meanwhile, conditioners that contain natural oils and vitamins can boost your hair's health and shine.

When selecting your shampoo and conditioner, be mindful of your hair's unique needs. For instance, if your hair tends toward the oily side, a clarifying shampoo used once a week can help remove excess oil and product buildup. Alternatively, if your hair is dry or color-treated, a moisturizing or color-safe shampoo might be more beneficial. Matching your products to your hair's specific requirements not only preserves your scalp's natural pH balance but also enhances your hair care results over time, giving you the luscious locks you desire.

3. Regular Trims are Essential

To keep your hair looking fresh and prevent split ends, make sure you schedule regular trims. A routine cut can make a significant difference in the overall health of your hair. Trimming your hair every six to eight weeks does not simply aid in maintaining your haircut's shape; it also minimizes split ends and breakage, promoting healthier and longer hair.

Chopping off the damaged ends revitalizes your hair, giving it a fuller appearance. Despite the common misconception, regular trims actually encourage growth by removing the unhealthy, weakened parts of your hair. By removing these split ends, your hair can focus on becoming stronger and growing longer, rather than trying to repair itself. For personalized maintenance tips, the stylists at Onyx Salon can provide guidance tailored to your hair type and lifestyle.

4. Heat Styling with Care

Always use a heat protectant before you style with hot tools. This helps in minimizing damage and keeps your hair strong and shiny. Heat protectants form a barrier over your hair strands, reducing the amount of heat exerted directly on your hair. As a result, your hair retains its natural moisture, which otherwise could evaporate during styling, leading to dry and brittle hair.

Aside from using a protectant, controlling the heat setting on your tools is crucial. For fine or thin hair, lower temperatures are advisable as it reduces the risk of damage. For coarser hair, slightly higher settings can be used with caution. Remember, the key is not to exceed the temperature that your hair can safely handle. By adjusting these settings according to your hair type, you ensure that your styles not only last longer but your hair stays healthy. For more advice on effective styling techniques, consult professional hairstylists who can offer personalized recommendations.

5. The Magic of Hair Masks

Incorporate a nourishing hair mask into your routine, at least once a week, to replenish moisture and restore life to your strands. Hair masks are rich in conditioning agents and provide deeper nourishment compared to everyday conditioners. They penetrate deeper into the hair shaft, delivering essential nutrients and repairing from within.

For dry and damaged hair, a mask containing argan oil or shea butter can work wonders. These ingredients are renowned for their deep-conditioning properties and help in revitalizing dull hair. Similarly, for a quick hydration boost, a mask with avocado or coconut oil can help in restoring moisture balance. Applying these treatments weekly can make a noticeable difference, leaving your hair silkier and more manageable. When in doubt, our experts at Onyx Salon can assist you in selecting a mask that perfectly matches your needs.

6. Understand Your Hair Type

Knowing if your hair is fine, thick, oily, or dry can help you make more informed decisions about products and styling techniques. Each hair type has unique requirements and responds differently to treatments and styling efforts. By comprehending these differences, you can cater to your hair's specific needs more effectively.

Fine hair tends to be more fragile and requires lightweight products to maintain volume without weighing it down. On the contrary, thick hair might need heavier moisturizers to tame frizz and define textures. Understanding these nuances empowers you to choose formulations that enhance natural attributes and minimize struggles like frizz, dullness, or oiliness. By consulting with Onyx stylists about your hair type, you get a personalized routine that optimizes your hair's health and appearance.

7. Scalp Health is Key

A healthy scalp leads to healthy hair. Exfoliate regularly and avoid harsh chemicals that might disrupt the natural balance. Incorporating scalp massages into your routine improves circulation and ensures that nutrients reach your hair follicles, promoting stronger, healthier hair growth.

Choose products that soothe rather than irritate your scalp. Ingredients like tea tree oil and peppermint are known for their calming and antibacterial properties. Regular scalp exfoliation can also prevent dandruff and promote hair growth by removing dead skin cells and product buildup. This not only enhances the shine and strength of your hair but also provides a clean base crucial for applying additional products and treatments. The hair experts at Onyx Salon can guide you to maintain optimal scalp health as part of a holistic hair care routine.

8. Don't Forget to Condition

Conditioners are crucial as they lock in moisture and help detangle your hair, making it more manageable and softer to the touch. After shampooing, conditioner acts as a sealant, closing the hair cuticle and protecting it from outside elements. This leads to less tangling, easier styling, and a polished finish.

To maximize the benefits of your conditioner, apply it mid-length to the ends of your hair, where moisture loss tends to occur most. Avoid putting conditioner on your scalp, as it may make it greasy. A leave-in conditioner can also offer additional protection and styling ease by maintaining moisture throughout the day. Each conditioning step plays a vital role in maintaining your hair's hydration level and protecting its structure. For more on effective conditioning strategies, visit our store for products designed to complete your routine.

9. Select Brushes Wisely

Different hair types require different brushes. The right brush can limit breakage and promote smoother strands. Fine-toothed combs are ideal for wet hair as they prevent tugging and pulling, minimizing unnecessary breakage. Meanwhile, boar bristle brushes are perfect for distributing natural oils and adding shine to your hair without causing static.

For curly hair, a wide-tooth comb reduces tangles, preserving your curl pattern without additional frizz. Different brush materials and shapes can either help or harm based on hair characteristics like thickness and texture. By choosing the appropriate tools for your hair type, you not only optimize the health of your hair but also achieve smoother and more manageable styles with less effort. For further recommendations on selecting the right tool for your hair, consult the professionals at Onyx Salon.

10. Avoid Over-Washing

Washing your hair too often can strip it of its natural oils, leading to dryness. Find a washing schedule that maintains cleanliness without harming your hair balance. Your scalp naturally produces oils that nourish and protect your strands. By shampooing too frequently, you might eliminate these beneficial oils before they have a chance to do their job.

Frequent washing can also disrupt your scalp's pH, leading to overproduction of oil to compensate for its loss, ultimately resulting in greasy roots. Instead, aim for washing your hair two to three times weekly, depending on your hair's specific needs and lifestyle. If you struggle with oily hair, dry shampoo can extend the time between washes, keeping your hairstyle fresh and voluminous without causing damage. For more personalized advice, reach out to the experts at Onyx Salon who can guide you through establishing a hair-washing routine that works best for you.

11. Be Gentle with Wet Hair

Wet hair is more prone to breakage. Use a wide-toothed comb to gently detangle starting at the ends. By addressing knots from the bottom, you minimize tugging and reduce the chance of splitting your strands. It's especially important following washes that involve heavy products like deep conditioning treatments, as they may leave hair feeling thicker and more susceptible to tangles.

When drying your hair, be gentle and patient. Instead of rubbing with a towel, blot or squeeze your hair gently to remove excess water. This method prevents unnecessary friction and helps maintain the hair's cuticle, reducing frizz and breakage. A microfiber towel can be exceptionally effective in absorbing moisture while being soft and kind on your hair. By practicing gentle drying and detangling methods, you're setting the stage for healthier, stronger hair. For specific techniques on protecting your hair, our Onyx Salon team is here to help.

12. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well

Your hair reflects your overall health. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports vibrant, growth-friendly locks. Essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and vitamins A and E play critical roles in the production and maintenance of glossy, strong hair.

Staying hydrated is equally important. Water is vital for every cell in your body, including those responsible for hair growth and strength. Hair is made mostly of protein, so maintaining a diet rich in lean protein sources like fish, nuts, and legumes can enhance your hair's health. Moreover, minerals such as zinc and iron are key components in strengthening hair follicles, preventing hair loss, and promoting growth. By incorporating a healthful diet with adequate hydration, you nourish your hair from within, creating a foundation of health and vitality that radiates through each strand. For tailored hair care advice and tips on maintaining healthy hair, visit our homepage.