The Hair You Want: How to Get It

By Janna Johnson | January 27, 2011
We asked ELLE’s Facebook fans for three words that describe their dream hair, and they answered voluminous, smooth, and shiny. Experts explain how to get what you really want, now

Voluminous
You share va-va-voom maestro Oribe’s motto “Bigger is better.” For sexy, “modern” volume, follow his supermodel-tested-and-approved prescription: After applying a volumizing spray, blow-dry hair using a round brush, pulling hair upward from the root. While hair is still warm, wrap sections around large Velcro curlers and allow it to cool. Remove rollers, tease around the root for added height, and comb through with your fingers to create a soft finish. Refresh as needed with a dry shampoo such as Tresemmé Fresh Start. For added oomph, use a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove weighty product buildup.

Smooth
For frizz-free strands, NYC-based stylist Michelle Snyder suggests working a dime-size amount of Oribe Supershine Moisturizing Cream into towel-dried hair to calm unruly strands before blow-drying with a large round brush, making sure to point the dryer nozzle downward (moving the dryer in all directions lifts the hair cuticle and causes frizz). Soften ends with a moisturizing oil like Weleda Rosemary Hair Oil and finish with an anti-humidity hairspray such as Garnier Fructis Style Sleek & Shine. In a rush? Here’s a simple solution for static-free texture: “Comb damp hair into a loose bun and let it air dry. That will tame frizz and create a soft wave,” Snyder says.

Shiny
Despite the matte-hair trend, shine is still on the most-wanted list. To get mega-gloss, celebrity stylist Amanda Williams recommends starting with a vitamin- and protein-rich shampoo and conditioner (try the Pantene Restore Beautiful Length Shine Enhance duo), running a comb through hair to coat each strand. After towel drying, apply a leave-in conditioner (we like Davines Glorifying spray) to protect against heat damage. Blow-dry, again positioning the nozzle down. Finish with a blast of cold air, then a glossy mist such as Awapuhi Wild Ginger Shine Spray. For a weekly boost, try an at-home gloss treatment such as Frédéric Fekkai Salon Glaze.