Hair Color, Shampoo, Styling Products and Tools

Start with what you want the product to do

Shampoos and conditioners are chosen by hair type and concern: fine, thick, curly or color-treated, with bond-repair and fortifying formulas aimed at damaged or lightened hair. Styling products are rated by hold, from light to intense, and sprays, mousses and gels behave differently on fine hair. Salon sizes such as 33.8 oz bottles suit pump dispensers and last longer, but they take up space. Refill packs and accessories appear in this area too, so read the title to confirm what the item is.

Color kits, heat tools and attachments that fit one model

Hair color and lightening systems need a developer and a set mixing ratio, so follow the instructions and do a strand test and a skin patch test beforehand. Lightening removes pigment, so toning often follows. For heat tools, barrel size sets curl size, and a one-inch barrel makes medium curls, while temperature control matters more than the top setting. Attachments such as snap-on diffusers are made for a particular dryer model, so match the model number. Check the voltage of any tool you plan to travel with.

Questions about Hair Color, Shampoo, Styling Products and Tools

Do I need a patch test before coloring my hair?

Yes. Apply a small amount of the mixed product behind the ear or inside the elbow and wait the time stated on the pack, usually 48 hours. Skip coloring if you notice redness, itching or swelling.

What size curling iron barrel makes which curl?

A smaller barrel, around half an inch, makes tight curls; a one-inch barrel makes medium waves and curls; a one-and-a-half to two-inch barrel gives loose waves. Match the barrel to your hair length and the curl you want.

Why won't a diffuser fit my hair dryer?

Diffusers and nozzles are made for particular dryer models, with different sizes and snap-on shapes, so a generic attachment may not fit. Look for the dryer model number in the attachment's listing.