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Home · Natural

Ask the Experts: Dry Hair Solved

If your strands feel parched and crunchy, fret not.  Dry hair is totally fixable with the right products and techniques.  Celebrity stylist Tymothe Wallace, who maintains the manes of Brandy, Gabrielle Union and Kelly Rowland, offered his top tips and products that will help you say goodbye to dry.

By Nicole Marie Melton · March 13, 2014October 27, 2020
01
First Things First

Dry hair is the result of several factors, so it’s important to first evaluate your entire hair routine to determine the best course of action. It’s not simply enough to slather a heavy cream onto your hair. That can actually do more harm than good, since thick products can lead to buildup and prevent moisture from penetrating into the hair shaft and scalp.

02
Clean Streak

Your first step to happy, hydrated hair is to find the right shampoo.  “Many shampoos contain harsh detergents that strip the hair of moisture,” says Wallace. When shopping for cleansers, look for the phrase “sulfate-free” on the label.  Cleansing conditioners or co-washes (short for “conditioner washes”) are also infused with rich moisturizers and therefore make great options. 

03
Product Pick: Wen Sweet Almond Mint Cleansing Conditioner

Wallace recommends Wen Cleansing Conditioner, a non-sudsing hair wash that’s chock-full of hydrating ingredients. “The more moisture your shampoo has, the better,” says Wallace. (Prices vary, available at Wen)

04
Watch Your Water

While a steamy shower may feel good after a long day, too-hot water temps can wreck havoc on your hair. Always wash your hair with lukewarm or even slightly cool water. “Temperature control in water plays a big role on keeping your hair moisturized,” says Wallace.   “Hot water dries out your scalp and hair.”

05
Natural Resources
Natural oils are an excellent choice if you’re looking for a product to keep your hair hydrated. Wallace advises against heavy, petroleum-based formulas that can lead to buildup. Instead, head to your local health food store and stock up on jojoba and coconut oil, which are Wallace’s top two picks for healthy hair.
06
Product Pick: NOW Foods Virgin Coconut Oil

This organic coconut oil can be used as a pre-poo treatment before you wash your hair or as a sealant to lock in moisture between washes. ($13.99. available at drugstore.com)

07
Between the Lines

For the ladies who like to mix it up with hair extensions, it’s always important to keep your own hair hydrated under your tracks.  An eye dropper is the best tool to use for ensuring those hard-to-reach areas are moisturized while you’re wearing sewn-in extensions. “Your hair is braided up, so it won’t be able to get fully moisturized, so be sure to focus on your scalp being moist, because after all, your hair comes from your scalp,” says Wallace. ($2.69, available at Walgreens)

08
Oil Change

Ladies, if you’re still “oiling your scalp” with heavy grease, stop it!  Put that tub of Blue Magic in the trash bin, and opt for natural oils instead.  “Do not use hair grease to oil your scalp.  It will only clog your pores and could stunt your hair growth,” says Wallace.  Fill your squeeze dropper with light, natural oils, such as eucalyptus or tea tree oil, which are known for promoting scalp health.

09
Product Pick: EDEN BodyWorks Peppermint Tea Tree Oil

The EDEN BodyWorks Peppermint Tea Tree Oil is infused with scalp-stimulating tea tree oil and comes in a convenient spray bottle.  ($9.47, available at Walmart)

10
Blame It on the Alcohol

Alcohol-based products are a major no-no.  To determine whether a product is alcohol-based, Wallace advises to take a peek at the ingredient label. “If alcohol is one of the first five ingredients listed, that means alcohol is a prominent ingredient and the product should be avoided.”  (Tip: Read a common a list of terms used to describe alcohol in hair products here.)

11
Product Pick: Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask

For an intense deep treatment, this mask offers maximum moisture. While the price tag may make you think twice, Wallace says it’s worth every penny. ($74, available at Moroccanoil)

12
Nighttime Care

How you care for your hair at night is just as important as what you do during the day.  Wallace recommends sleeping on a satin or silk pillowcase or wearing a silk or satin wrap to help your hair maintain moisture while you sleep.

13
Connect with Tymothe Wallace

Get more expert styling tips from Tymothe Wallace and see his latest work with celeb clients by following him on Instagram @TymWallaceHair.

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