Fall 2010 Hair Trend: Tips for Straight Hair

During the spring and summer, messy, tousled hairstyles were popular and also functional. Beachy waves don't usually require many heat styling tools, which helps protect hair during a season when locks are under fire from chlorinated pools and the summer sun. However, on the fall 2010 Fashion Week runways it is clear that for the upcoming season long, straight long hairstyles are definitely in. Smooth, frizz-free straight hair has a refined, sophisticated feel which is why it seems to never go out of style. If you're looking to follow this trend, here are some tips on how to achieve the look without going to the salon for a blowout or a Keratin smoothing treatment.
When you shampoo, use a deep conditioner if you have very dry hair or a light leave-in conditioner if you don't need as much moisture. Many products contain high levels of sulfates, which strip hair color and increase dryness so look for sulfate-free products. After cleansing, use a product formulated to achieve straight hair, such as Unite Eurotherapy Lazer Straight Relaxing Fluid. Dry your hair in sections with a round brush or a flat brush. Center parts were prevalent on the Anna Sui runway, but if a center part doesn't flatter your face shape don't worry-side parts are still fashionable.
If you plan to wear your hair straight often, invest in a good flat iron. CHI has a reputation for producing some of the best heat styling tools available, but many people are turned off by the price. I've used both a CHI iron and cheaper flat irons, and going with CHI makes a difference. Look on sites like EBay for discounted prices to save money. When using a flat iron you'll also want to use a thermal protectant, like CHI's 44 Iron Guard spray. When ironing your hair, remember that the smaller the section you iron, the flatter your hair will be. To maintain some volume, iron in larger sections. Once all the hair is straightened, if you find that the ends are still a little dry try Moroccan Oil treatment to smooth them out.