Shiny Hair 101: Your Guide to Glossy, Frizz-Free Tresses

Shiny hair is a product of several factors, the most important ones being hair and scalp health. The distribution of natural oils throughout the hair shaft also helps, as does the smoothness of the hair cuticle, which is a function of healthy hair. However, you can also instantly boost shine with a few nifty hacks. Here’s an accessible guide to getting glossy, frizz-free tresses.

Hair serum is the quickest way to get soft, shiny hair. Choose one that has multiple benefits, such as TRESemmé Keratin Smooth Shine Serum. Formulated with keratin and marula oil from Africa, this product delivers five smoothing benefits — fights frizz, detangles, boosts shine, adds softness, and tames flyaways — without the weight. Apply after you’ve shampooed and conditioned for polished, healthy-looking hair.

Debris buildup is a massive hindrance to showstopping shiny hair. These include residue from shampoo, conditioner, styling gels and waxes, dirt, and pollution. They prevent natural oils from the scalp from being properly distributed throughout the hair shaft. Use a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove buildup. In between, shampoo and rinse thoroughly. A scalp massage may also help loosen some of the remnants while stimulating your scalp — a double win for hair health.

If you’re still rinsing with icy cold shower water in the hopes of boosting shine, stop now. Studies from the chemists at TRI Princeton in New Jersey have proven this is a myth. According to their research, cold water has zero shine-enhancing effects on the hair and warm water makes hair glossier.

Sleeping on silk pillowcases may sound bougie, but if you want shiny hair, give it a shot. Silk is a smooth fabric known for its frizz protection benefits. Unlike a regular pillowcase, it won’t cause friction against your hair cuticles and rough them up. The smoothness also helps prevent tangles and hair breakage, as well as retains hydration, preserving your hair’s natural shine.

Don’t worry. Eating for hair health doesn’t require a whole new diet. Just add some shine-enhancing snacks here and there. For example, sip some green tea in the morning to help stimulate sebum production in the scalp. Enhance the strength of your tresses by adding chia seeds and walnuts to your breakfast muesli. Finally, add a side salad with spinach and tomato to your main meals to encourage healthy hair growth.

Bristles composed of boar hair are softer than plastic, making them great for delicate hair prone to breakage and split ends. Like human hair, they are also made up of keratin, which helps gently and effectively stimulate hair oils and spread them from the roots of the hair down to the ends.

Consider your hair type when choosing a boar bristle brush. Extra-soft bristles work best with fine hair, while longer, stiffer bristles are ideal for thick or textured hair types. As an added tip, go for an ethically sourced brush.

The key to shiny hair is achieving hair health through a proper haircare routine and a hair-friendly diet, but an instant boost won’t hurt either. Investing in glow-boosting products can help your hair look healthy every day.