Choose Long Layers
"Long layers will work to frame the face while also being easy to style," says celebrity hairstylist Arsen Gurgov. "In fact, many of my clients can get away with just air-drying their hair plus long layers are easy to maintain so you can go longer between hair appointments."
Long layers actually take some of the weight off the top of the head, which speeds up the styling process, according to Leo Izquierdo, co-founder of IGK. If you prefer shorter cuts, a bob or pixie will go a long way explains Izquierdo. "These haircuts don't need as much maintenance as other haircuts. Try to avoid bangs and always make sure to cut just a bit more than your preferred length so the haircut lasts longer."
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Picking the Right Products Is Key
Izquierdo recommends using a good oil, like IGK Best Life 100% Plant-Powered Nourishing Hair Oil, $32, to replenish all the nutrients your hair has lost and to rehydrate dry strands. "Best Life is very versatile and deeply penetrates the hair cuticle so it adds nourishment, shine and frizz control. Other than that, try to keep it very simple and avoid hair products as much as possible since they can make your hair greasy if you add too much."
That said, dry shampoo is a must. Gurgov recommends opting for it in spray form so you'll have more control over where the product is going and you'll be less likely to get any cakey residue. "Alternatively, you can use a dry texturizing spray, which many people don't realize is equivalent to a dry shampoo spray."
He also stresses that it's important not to shampoo too often (ideally no more than two or three times a week) and to avoid applying conditioner on your scalp.
You'll also want to add a leave-in conditioner to your arsenal now that it's getting cold. "The cold air steals moisture from the hair strand and makes it very brittle and dry," says Izquierdo. "We also tend to use more beanies and hats right about now and with this comes static, which means your hair is losing even more moisture so it looks frizzy and unruly."
He suggests using products that specifically work to improve your hair's hydration, like IGK Thirsty Girl Coconut Milk Leave-In Conditioner, $31. Make sure to avoid heating tools during the winter as they'll dehydrate your hair making it more cumbersome to style.
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Take a Hands-Off Approach
Beyond that, once your hair is styled the way you like it you'll want to avoid sweating and touching your hair too much to cut down on upkeep. Before you blowdry your hair, make sure your hair is very clean by shampooing twice.
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