Nothing can ruin your morning like a frizzy head of hair. It doesn't matter what you are wearing or how perfectly you've applied your makeup if your mane is a mess. That seemed to be my constant problem -- and not just in the summer months. Whenever there is a hint of humidity in the air, my hair blows up like a bush. I have tried every smoothing product out there and I had almost given up hope. But I think I have found the best do-it-youself frizz-fixer out there and it won't break the bank. Check it out.
Step 1: Wash. The first step is to get a creamy, moisture packed shampoo and conditioner. I've tried about a zillion brands over the years and the best has to be Moroccanoil Moisture Repair Shampoo & Conditioner ($40 for both, amazon.com) Wash your hair as normal and if you have the time, leave the conditioner in for about five minutes. Let it really penetrate those strands. (Optional extra step: If you have a heating cap, put that on for 20 minutes before washing it out.)
Step 2: Dry. So I never though much about my blow-dryer. It blows hot air. Isn't that all it needs to do? Apparently not. I came across the Kiss Tornado 360 Heat Protection Air Booster ($25, walmart.com). A mouthful, I know. I was intrigued not just by the claim to reduce frizz and help create shiny hair, but also the claim that it dries hair three times faster. Amazingly, it does. I had never had my newly washed hair dry so quickly. I especially love that it's under $30 and works better than $200 dryers.
Step 3: Flat-iron. Flat-iron. Flat-iron. I have tried everything from the super expensive imports to the cheap brands. And the only thing that matters is a high temp (I like one that goes up to 400 degrees). But make sure to use a ceramic one to give your hair some protection.
Step 4: Protect. The last step -- and arguably the most important -- add a dime-sized amount of FaBriq Control Balm ($25, fredericosalon.com) to your hair. Place it in the palm of your hand, rub your hands together to emulsify, then apply. I came across this miracle product after interviewing hair expert Bianca Lyder of New Horizons hair salon. It soothes even the craziest, wildest frizz. You can apply it whenever you have the need for a tamer. The best part? A little goes a long way. A 4-ounce bottle has lasted me nearly a year!
So there it is -- my formula for a frizz-free life. Try it out and let me know if it works for you too.
What has successfully tamed your hair?
Image via Emily Abbate