Style and Cheek

I live with and I’m married to a hairstylist and I am still confused by all the products I can use. Why should I use them? How much should I use? Can I use too many products? Luckily I’ve tapped into a professional’s mind and have come up with some answers to help us all out. I played a game of 20 questions with Adam (which he loved) to find out once and for all the basics on hair products. What do we need, when do we apply, how much should we use and which products are the best.

1-2-3 Rules

1. Straight out of the shower you want to apply a product that is best for hydrating or detangling. This not only helps to lock in the moisture but will help prep your hair for the other products and heat styling you are about to do. You can be a bit heavy-handed in this step. Obviously don’t squeeze half of the bottle into your hand.
2. For the ladies with curls looking to enhance their natural hair use Bb Curl Style Primer. It refreshes second day curls and also preps before you apply other curl styling products.
3. If you’re looking for a basics prep product, Bb Tonic is an easy, lightweight spray best for all hair types. It also evens out the pH of the hair to help other products apply more evenly.
4. If you need more moisture, go for a leave-in conditioner like Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Relaxing Balm.
5. The next product you want to consider using is a styling product. Are you curling, straightening, smoothing, volumizing? These are your foundation products that will build your style. The dime size rule applies here. You don’t want to over do it but you don’t want to do too little. Work a dime size amount of each product from root to tip.
6. Fine, limp hair needs a little volume. Reach for Bb Thickening Spray or Oribe Grandiose Hair Plumping Mousse.
7. If you want to tame and straighten your hair use Bb Grooming Creme or Oribe Creme for Style.
8. Maybe you want to enhance that natural curl again? Bb Curl Cream,Bb Surf Spray or Paul Mitchell Twirl Around.
9. The last step will be your hair sprays and dry shampoos. The last thing you apply to help set and finish off your look. Try a little and build to the desired amount as needed.
10. My favorite of all favorites is the Bb Spray de Mode. It’s a very lightweight hair spray that can be used as a heat protectant and hair spray in one.
11. Bb Dryspun Finish or Oribe Dry Texturing Spray are great for adding airy texture and separate defined curls.

Why that order? It’s just like makeup. You’re building up the base to the finished product.

Hair Product Tips

1. Always read the bottle. Sometimes products are very specific on when to apply and how much to apply. They can go against the basic rules above. So always read before using.
2. Time can be of the essence. Some products can dry faster than others. You don’t want to use those then walk around the house cleaning up before styling. By that time it’s already dried and defeats the purpose.
3. There is such a thing as using too much. Know your hair and the style you want to achieve. Don’t overkill it with the product. Sometimes 2-5 products are all that you need…max! If you find yourself using more, you may want to consider what’s in your arsenal or the style you’re trying to achieve.
4. If you still need help, ask a professional! Take the advice of your stylist. Chances are they are not just pushing product on you each time you visit the salon. There is a reason for the products they suggest. They can also offer up advice on the products to use for the style you want to achieve.

– Jamie of Hello There, Lady