Unlock the Secrets to Shiny Hair: Tips for Radiant hair all year long

As a colourist, I am obsessed with hair glossiness, but why does shiny hair look so expensive and beautiful?  

Shiny hair is a sign of health (NOT WEALTH!) and vitality.

To help you achieve that glossy look all the time, I wanted you to understand what makes your hair shine and how to care for it properly.

 

Do you know what causes your hair to appear shiny or not?

It might not seem very easy to understand at first, but I am sure that after reading this, it will make sense. 

The eye perceives the shine of the hair through the reflection and refraction of light. When light encounters the hair strands, it undergoes several optical processes. The outer layer of the hair, called the cuticle, reflects light, contributing to the overall sheen. Additionally, the hair's internal structure, such as its thickness and smoothness, affects how light interacts with it.

Smooth and well-maintained hair tends to reflect more light, creating a shiny appearance. The natural oils on the hair's surface can also enhance this effect. Ultimately, the eye detects variations in the intensity and quality of light reflected from the hair, allowing us to perceive its shine.

 

What makes hair shine?

1. Natural Oils: Your scalp produces natural oils, such as sebum, that help keep your hair shiny. Avoid over-washing to retain these oils.
2. Protein: Your hair is primarily made of a protein called keratin. A protein-rich diet can promote hair health and shine.
3. Hydration: Proper hydration, inside and out, is key to shiny hair. Drink water and use a hydrating shampoo and conditioner.
4. Avoid Heat Damage: Excessive heat styling can strip your hair of shine. Use heat protectants and limit the use of hot tools.

 

10 TOP Tips for Shiny Hair

1. Balanced Diet: Eat foods rich in protein, vitamins (like Biotin), and minerals (like Zinc) for healthy hair.
2. Gentle Washing: Don't wash your hair daily; it can strip natural oils. Opt for a sulfate-free shampoo - The Davines shampoos are sulfate-free.
3. Condition Regularly: Use a good-quality conditioner to lock in moisture. Remember to use hair masks at least once a week. 
4. Cool Rinse: Finish your shower with a cool water rinse to seal the cuticle and boost shine.
5. Hair and scalp treatments: Within the scalp, blood vessels supply essential nutrients and oxygen to the hair roots. This nourishment plays a crucial role in promoting hair strength and health. Treating and massaging your scalp contributes to the resilience and vitality of each strand. Therefore, a healthy blood flow is fundamental in nurturing strong and vibrant hair.
6. Avoid Tight Hairstyles: Wearing tight hairstyles can lead to hair breakage and dullness.
7. Regular trims + gloss in hair salon: Get your hair trimmed if needed; damaged hair does not look good but dull. Getting your hair gloss/toner refreshed is essential as its PH will close the cuticles of your hair and lock in the pigments and shine. They will also intensify your hair colour, warming up or cooling down, making it look fresh and radiant. 
8. Protect from the Sun: UV rays can damage hair. Use UV-protective products or wear a hat in the sun. Here is a selection for you. 
9. Choose the Right Products: Io use hair products that are suitable for your hair type. Avoid using products that are too heavy or cleanse too much, even if they are of good quality.
10. Silk Pillowcase: Sleeping on a silk pillowcase reduces friction, helping maintain hair's shine.

 

Conclusion
You can always maintain shiny hair with proper care. To achieve this, focus on maintaining a healthy scalp, protecting your hair from damage, and following a hair care routine that suits your needs. It's important to remember that consistency is key to unlocking the secrets of shiny, lustrous hair.