Shampoos are formulated with cleansing agents called surfactants (a type of detergent), which are small molecules that have "water-attracting heads" and "oil-attracting tails".

When you mix shampoo with water and apply it to your hair, lather is formed. This happens when the water-attracting molecules in the shampoo are drawn towards the water, and the oil-attracting molecules are drawn towards the oil and grease on the scalp (as well as other dirt and skin particles in the hair).

The lathering action creates a push-and-pull effect on the oil and grease, essentially lifting it from the hair. Shampoo cleanses by stripping sebum (oil secreted from hair follicles) from the hair. While sebum is a necessary element of the hair because it provides a protective barrier on each individual strand, it also attracts and collects flakes, styling products, and dirt (especially around the hairline). When shampoo removes sebum, it also removes all of the unwanted residues from the hair.

*While shampoos and soaps both contain surfactants, you should avoid using soap to wash your hair. The surfactants found in soap bind and remove oils too much, making it harmful to your hair. Shampoo uses a different class of surfactants, which are balanced in order to remove just the right amount of oil from the hair.

These easy-to-follow steps will provide you with the "Do's" and "Don'ts" to remember each time you wash your hair.

1. Completely soak your hair in WARM water and pre-rinse for about 2 minutes. Water that is too hot can strip hair of pre-existing color, while water that is too cold will not completely dissolve sebum.

2. Place a quarter-sized amount of your favorite shampoo in the palm of your hand and rub into your scalp. Massage the shampoo into your scalp for as long as you can. The longer you do this, the better it is for the scalp and your hair. Be sure to focus on your hairline, as dirt and oil naturally gathers there first.

3. Proceed to massage the scalp with either your fingertips or your nails. Be sure to not pile your hair on the top of your head, as this can cause knots and tangles.

4. Rinse your hair under warm water from the front of your scalp towards the back until all excess shampoo bubbles/lather is gone.

5. Squeeze any excess water from your hair before conditioning. Soaking-wet strands of hair aren't able to absorb the conditioner efficiently.

6. If you have time, use a flat comb to work out all of the knots before adding any conditioner for an extra smooth look.

7. Use a considerably smaller amount of conditioner on your hair than shampoo. Place a dime-sized amount in the palm of your hand and massage it throughout the middle of your hair, extending all the way to the tips. It is not necessary to focus on the scalp because your hair's natural oils will sufficiently condition and moisturize this area.

8. Proceed to rinse the hair again, until all of the excess bubbles and lather are removed.

9. Towel-dry the hair. Avoid vigorously rubbing it with a towel, as this can break and damage your hair. Instead, pat your hair dry with a towel to remove any excess water or air-dry it if you have the time.

10. Finally, blow-dry and style your hair with your favorite products for that perfect look time and time again.

Have you ever wondered how to make your own shampoo? Homemade shampoo recipes are quick, easy, and very beneficial to your hair and your budget. Most homemade shampoos do not contain sudsing agents; so don't be surprised when bubbles don't form as you are washing.

A thick lather does not equate to a great shampoo...homemade shampoos are designed to clean just as effectively as commercial products. You can personalize them with ingredients to treat your specific hair type or with essential oils to create your favorite fragrance. Here are a few examples to get you started:

Basic Shampoo

Ingredients:

• 4 ounces of Castile Soap Flakes
• 1 quart of distilled water

1. Bring water to a boil.
2. Pour boiled water over soap flakes.
3. Stir mixture until soap flakes are completely dissolved.
4. Once the mixture has cooled, it is ready for use. Store shampoo in a plastic bottle.

Essential oils can also be put into shampoo for added scent and treatment. Mix 4 to 8 drops of the oil with one teaspoon of rubbing alcohol. Stir this into the soap mixture just after all the soap flakes have dissolved. Lavender, citrus or other fruit oils are great options which smell good and also help to hydrate the hair.

Herbal Shampoo Recipe #1

Ingredients:

• 4 ounces of Castile Soap Flakes
• 1 quart of distilled water
• 1/2 ounce of dried herbs (i.e.; rosemary, mint)

1. Bring water to a boil.
2. Turn off heat and add herbs.
3. Let infuse for 20 minutes.
4. Pour herbal infused water over soap flakes.
5. Stir mixture until soap flakes are completely dissolved.
6. Once the mixture has cooled, it is ready for use. Store shampoo in a plastic bottle.

Herbal Shampoo Recipe #2

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 tablespoons Dried Soap Wart Root (chopped)
• 2 teaspoons lemon verbena
• 2 cups distilled water

1. Bring water to a boil.
2. Add Soap Wart Root.
3. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes
4. Remove from heat, add lemon verbena and allow mixture to cool.
5. Strain mixture, keeping the liquid.
6. Pour liquid into a bottle and store in a cool dark place. (Must be used within 8-10 days)

Herbal Shampoo Recipe #3

Ingredients:

• 4 ounces of Castile Soap (plain, peppermint, or eucalyptus)
• 2 cups distilled water
• 1/2 ounce rosemary - stimulates the hair follicles and helps prevent premature baldness
• 1/2 ounce sage - contains antioxidants
• 1/2 ounce nettles - contains a large source of nutrients for hair growth
• 1/2 ounce lavender - controls the production of sebaceous gland oil and reduces itchy/flaky scalp conditions

*Note: Substitute any of the above herbs with your own favorites!

1. Mix all of the herbs together in a jar.
2. Boil 2 cups of distilled water.
3. Add mixed herbs to the boiling water.
4. Let mixture cool.
5. Pour the herbal mix into a plastic bottle and add the 4 ounces Castile Soap. Cap the bottle and shake to mix the ingredients.

Dry or powdered shampoos are designed to work without water. They are typically made with powders such as starch or talc and are intended to absorb excess sebum from the hair before being brushed out. These products are good to use when camping, when you are sick, or in the winter when you don't want to get your hair wet. Dry or powdered shampoos also work great for extremely oily hair.

Dry Shampoo Recipe #1

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon cornmeal
• 1 tablespoon powdered orris root
• 1 tablespoon finely ground almonds

1. Mix all ingredients together into a dry paste.
2. Brush hair well from the roots to the tips.
3. Rub the mixture into your scalp.
4. Brush hair again, focusing on getting the paste on the hair. Excess paste left in your hair will simply absorb the sebum that is secreted from the hair.

Dry Shampoo Recipe #2

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup cornstarch

1. Sprinkle the cornstarch in your hair.
2. Let absorb for a few minutes.
3. Brush out.

Chamomile Shampoo Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 bags of Chamomile Tea (or 1 handful of fresh Chamomile flowers)
• 4 tablespoons Pure Soap Flakes
• 1 1/2 tablespoons glycerin
• 1 1/2 cups water

1. Let tea bags steep in boiled water for 10 minutes.
2. Remove the tea bags and add soap flakes to the water.
3. Let stand until the soap softens.
4. Stir in glycerin until mixture is smooth.
5. Pour into a bottle and store in a cool, dark place.

Conditioner Recipe #1

Ingredients:

• 1 small jar of real mayonnaise
• 1/2 of an avocado

1. Combine ingredients and mush together until a green paste is formed.
2. Smooth it into hair from the roots to the tips.
3. Put on a shower cap or wrap your head with saran wrap.
4. Let sit for 20 minutes then rinse.

Tropical Conditioner Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 avocado (peeled and mashed)
• 1 cup coconut milk

1. Combine the mashed avocado with the coconut milk.
2. Mix together until smooth.
3. Comb it through the hair and let sit for 10 -15 minutes then rinse.

Egg Conditioner Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon baby oil
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 cup water

1. Beat the egg yolk until frothy, add baby oil and beat again.
2. Add mixture to water and massage into the scalp and throughout hair.
3. Rinse thoroughly.

Cutting my hair will make it stronger or grow quicker.

False. Cutting your hair will only make it shorter. Hair typically grows about one-half inch per month, no matter what you do to it.

 

Split ends can be repaired without cutting them.

False. Split ends cannot be repaired. They need to be cut off or they will split yet higher cause even more damage.

 

The more I brush my hair, the better it is for my hair.

False. Beyond a certain extent, brushing can be bad for your hair. Excessive brushing may cause split ends and hair breakage.

 

Wearing tight hats can contribute to baldness.

False. Baldness is most often caused by a hormone called dihydrotestosterone, not by wearing hats.

 

Baldness is inherited from a particular side of the family.

False. Male or female pattern hair baldness can be attributed to either side of the family. It also may or may not skip generations. Studies have shown that male pattern baldness begins at age 18, whereas female pattern hair loss occurs around age 45.

 

Dandruff is contagious.

False. Everyone possesses the microorganism that causes dandruff; yours just might not be active.

 

Hair grows faster on different parts of the head.

True. Scientific evidence shows that the growth rate of hair may vary on different parts of the head for certain people.

 

Smoking causes gray hair.

True. Research shows that smokers are 4 times more likely to have gray hair than nonsmokers. Smokers are also more likely to have accelerated hair loss.

 

I should wash my hair everyday.

False. There is no set schedule for when your hair needs to be washed. Everyone's hair is different, so everyone's hair treatment is different, too. While some people may benefit from a daily shampoo, others may benefit from varying shampoo schedules.

 

Sharing combs and/or brushes can spread scalp diseases.

True. Lice and other parasites can transport from scalp to scalp through the sharing of brushes, combs, and other hair care tools.

1. The Right Shampoo
   
   Never underestimate the value of a great shampoo. We don't...that's why it's #1 on our list. Before buying a product though, you need to know what type of hair you have. Most shampoos on the market are formulated to treat one specific type of hair, so if you know what kind you have; you are one step closer to finding that perfect shampoo. If you don't know what kind you have, ask the advice of your stylist. Some factors to consider when determining the value of a shampoo are the price, the ingredients, and of course, the result.
   
   What to look for if you have:
   
   Coarse/Curly Hair
   This hair type tends to be dryer than most due to the fact that the oils that are naturally produced in the scalp to hydrate the hair have a harder time finding their way down the hair shaft. If this is your hair type, we recommend you purchase a shampoo with Shea butter, wheat germ oil, or any kind of nut oil in it. These will help to replenish and moisturize dry hair more successfully than normal shampoos. Want a few other helpful hints? The creamery the shampoo texture, the better it will be for dry hair. Also, stay "clear" of clear shampoos...most are not formulated to treat dry hair properly.
   
   Fine/Oily Hair
   Fine hair is usually oily and oily hair is usually fine. Since oily hair needs to be washed more frequently, you should first eliminate any shampoo type that isn't marked for daily use. As creamier shampoos are generally formulated for coarse hair, clear shampoos are gentle and formulated to treat fine hair on a daily basis. The key ingredient to look for when treating fine, oily hair is Panthenol. Panthenol penetrates into each strand of hair and helps to thicken it. Also, consider using a dry shampoo such as cornstarch or talcum powder before your normal wash to pre-absorb as much oil as you can.
   
   Color-treated/Permed Hair
   With this type of hair, it's all about cleansing the roots and moisturizing the ends. Using a gentle shampoo, concentrate on cleansing just the scalp to avoid damaging the chemically treated portions of the hair shaft.  Also, since chemicals from color treatments and perm can be harsh on the hair, focus on extra conditioning from the middle of the hair shaft down to the tips.
2. The Right Conditioner
   
   What can't conditioners do? They seal hair follicles with a protective layer of moisturizer that leaves hair less frizzy, more manageable, and guarded against poor brushing habits. The trick is obviously finding the right conditioner for you. Don't overlook any conditioner, as the next one may be the difference between average and gorgeous hair.
   
   What to look for if you have:
   
   Coarse/Curly Hair
   
   Coarse hair needs to be conditioned after every single wash. It needs to be constantly replenished with ultra-moisturizing conditioners that put much-needed nutrients back into the hair. In addition to daily conditioning, we recommend a hot oil treatment once a month for added moisture and shine.
   
   Fine/Oily Hair
   
   If you have this type of hair, you might not need a conditioner at all. If you find your hair to be completely manageable after a wash and can easily run a comb through it, you probably don't need to condition on a regular basis. If you do decide to use a conditioner, try an oil-absorbing product on just the tips for best results.
   
   Colored/Permed Hair
   
   First things first...avoid silicon-based conditioners, as they tend to harm colored and/or processed hair. Look for conditioners that are formulated for the tips only and avoid using it on the scalp.
   
   
3. Dry Shampoo
   
   This multipurpose wonder is often overlooked and under-appreciated. Dry or powdered shampoos are very beneficial to those with color-treated hair, extremely oily hair, or simply those who have no other option (i.e.; camping in areas without water supplies). Some common examples of these products are cornstarch and talcum/baby powder. Applied directly to the hair, dry shampoos work by absorbing natural oils from the hair follicles.
   
   
4. Volumizing Mousse/Spray/Balm
   
   Add thickness and fullness to any look with volumizers. Use the mousse or spray for normal hair and the balm for thicker, coarser hair. If you need a little lift, this is the product for you! 
5. Shine Serum/Spray
   
   This silicone-based styling product is formulated to restore damaged hair, de-tangle and add extra shine. The serums and sprays form a thin protective layer over each strand of hair and are ideal for chemically treated or damaged hair. Use the spray for fine hair and a serum for thick hair. This product is a great investment that's a proven winner every time.
6. Wide-Toothed Comb
   
   If there is one thing to learn, it's that you should never use a brush on wet hair. Doing so will cause damaged hair to break. Instead, opt for a wide-toothed comb to help de-tangle hair and prevent breakage.
7. Good Hairspray
   
   What's the use of a great shampoo and hairstyle if you can't hold it in place long enough to show it off? A good hairspray will protect against harmful UV rays, extreme heat and humidity. Choose a product with light hold to allow for natural movement of your hair and a product with maximum hold to withstand elements Mother Nature may throw at you (i.e.; wind, rain). Finding that perfect hold will give you perfect results every time.
8. Powerful Blow Dryer
   
   If you want to splurge on one product for amazing hair, we suggest you choose the blow dryer. The more powerful the blow dryer, the better it is for your hair. More power and speed will minimize the time your hair is exposed to damaging heat. Look for a varying temperature gauge, interchangeable nozzles, and an ionic dryer to minimize breakage and frizz.
9. Flat Iron
   
   For those of you who haven't discovered flat irons yet, now is the time. Curly hair can be straightened and an entirely new look can be created in minutes. Look for a flat iron that is ceramic, has a varying temperature gauge and emits ions to reduce frizz. Irons can range in price from $20 to $200 and you generally get what you pay for. Most high-end flat irons come with a lifetime warranty, so we recommend spending a little more to ensure a device that gives you great, long-term results.
10.  Hairbrush
    
    The better the hairbrush, the healthier your hair. Most people don't know that there are different brushes for different hair types. Round brushes are designed to give curl, vented brushes boost volume, and paddle brushes are great for straightening long hair. We recommend a brush with a rubber base and flexible boar's head bristles (avoid plastic bristles) to minimize damage to the hair. If you're still not sure which to choose, ask a professional stylist to help you out.

• Never use soap on your hair. Soap contains a detergent that can strip natural oils from your hair and cause dry scalp.

• A shampoo with a pH (potential hydrogen) balance between 4.5 and 5.5 is recommended to match the balance value of your hair and the sebum it produces. A shampoo with a higher alkaline pH may appear to make hair thicker, but can actually damage the surface of the hair.Rinse your hair with baking soda to get rid of shampoo build-up and styling residues.

• If you are concerned about the health of your hair, you can always adjust your diet to give your hair nutrients from the inside out. This is often more beneficial to the hair than simply buying a nutrient-dense shampoo.

• 3 teaspoons of honey combined with one pint of water as a final rinse will give your hair extra shine.

• You can help tame frizzy hair by rubbing coconut oil on your hands and applying it sparingly onto your hair.

• Hot oil treatments help to condition hair, prevent split ends and give your hair extra shine.

• Make an effort to find products containing essential oils, herbs or vegetable oils. Essential oils help to stimulate hair growth. Lavender and tea tree are naturally antiseptics and help to fight dandruff. Vegetable oils help to moisturize and condition the hair.

• Massage your scalp to help stimulate hair growth (this is called Petrosage). Massaging the head will increase blood flow to the scalp, which in turn nourishes the hair roots and helps the hair growth process.

• Use conditioners. They coat the hair with a synthetic lubricant that replaces the sebum that has been stripped away.

• Wear a hat whenever exposed to direct sunlight. The sun can dry and bleach your hair.

• Rinse your hair with lemon juice to bring back some shine.

• Brush your hair with a paddle brush prior to shampooing to lessen tangling.

• The use of silk pillowcases can prevent your hair from knotting and matting over night.

• Blow-dry your hair right side up (not upside down) to prevent frizzing.

• To fight static, spray some hairspray on your brush after blow-drying and then brush hair from roots to tips.

• To keep volume in your hair, avoid applying conditioner directly to the scalp.

1. Get a massage
   
   Recent studies show that getting a massage helps to increase blood flow to the scalp, which in turn may help to achieve beautiful hair. Most beauty salons offer scalp massages along with shampoo and conditioning treatments. Our advice? Treat yourself and your hair.
2. 2 Birds, 1 Stone
   
   Quit smoking! Research shows that tobacco smoke damages hair. Smoking also decreases the blood supply to the scalp and can prevent the growth of new hair. Want more bad news? Smoking can also cause hair to gray prematurely. For your health and your hair, do your best to quit smoking.
3. Jerk it!
   
   You are what you eat. Get valuable nutrients to your hair from the inside out by adjusting your diet. We recommend raw peanuts/almonds or beef jerky (the number one rated protein snack on the market). With this much protein per serving, you and your hair won't be hungry for long.
4. Try some heat
   
   If you didn't already know, blow dryers can do more than remove moisture from your hair. They can help to activate and intensify conditioning and repairing ingredients found in new heat-responsive products. Try one and let the heat do all of the work.
5. Carve a pumpkin
   
   And then eat it! Dried pumpkin seeds can help to slow down the production of the metabolic testosterone linked to hair loss. So have some fun, eat, and enjoy the benefits.
6. Wrap it up
   
   A cellophane wrap is a salon treatment formulated with Optical Reflector Technology, which infuses the hair with brilliance and shine. Spoil yourself at the salon or buy a cellophane rinse product and try it at home.
7. Eat a cheeseburger
   
   A cheeseburger with the works contains many nutrients that are good for your hair. Iron, B vitamins (meat), zinc, calcium (cheese), the antioxidant lycopene (tomato), biotin (lettuce), and niacin (bun) are all found in that juicy burger you are eating. Have one today and make your stomach and your hair happy!
8. Don't sweat it
   
   Protect your hair from sweat during those rigorous gym workouts by using a headband along your hairline. For longer hair, be sure to put your hair in a ponytail. Finish the workout by blow-drying your hair on the cool setting to dry any remaining perspiration.
9. Start over
   
   Go with an entirely new look...after all, your hair will grow back. Have you had long hair forever? Cut it all off and try a short sophisticated look. Short hair says soft and manageable, yet edgy and strong. It's all about confidence when going for a new look...you can do it!
10. Get some sleep
    
    There are many leave-in treatments available to help repair and moisturize damaged hair. Apply some before bed and enjoy the results when you wake up.

2 in 1 - Shampoo and conditioner combined in one bottle for convenience for people with normal, healthy hair. There are essentially 2 ingredients that have been added to a regular shampoo to make it a 2-in-1 product: silicone and a suspending agent. Silicone makes the formula conditioning, while the suspending agent keeps the silicone from separating out of the formula while it is in the bottle. Once massaged in the hair, the silicone separates out from the rest of the formula and stays behind on hair to provide conditioning.

Acidifiers - Hair products containing some form of acidic ingredient (pH balance of 2.5-3.5). Acidifiers create shine and elasticity without adding extra weight. These products work great on fine, textured hair.

Activator - Chemical ingredients added to hair products to speed up a specific process (i.e., curl activators, heat activators) without damaging the hair.

Active Ingredient - An ingredient of a product which is responsible for the desired action of that product.

Adrenal - This is the gland that helps determine certain types of hair growth.

Aerosol Can - Aerosol spray is the product of liquid under pressure in a can or bottle. The continuous spray is great for covering a large area of hair at one time.

Allergen - A substance that triggers an allergic reaction. Read labels carefully before purchasing hair products to avoid unwanted reactions.

Aloe Vera - A plant from which aloe gel is extracted. Aloe vera is added to many shampoos and conditioners for its moisturizing effects. These products are great for dry and damaged hair.

Alopecia - Medical term for hair loss. Generally referring to hair loss on the scalp.

Amino Acid - A chain of molecules which form a protein. Amino acids are found in hair and hair products and provide a protective coating on each individual strand of hair.

Anagen - One phase of the hair growth cycle, during this stage hair is actively growing.

Balancing Shampoo - A specially formulated shampoo that washes excess sebum from the hair and scalp, while preventing the hair from drying out.

Balm - A styling product applied to dry hair for added texture, definition and shine. Unlike hairspray and gel, hair balm does not harden or dry. It remains pliable for continuous styling all day long. Be careful not to use too much of this product, as this can result in a greasy look. Hair balm is also called glue, paste, pomade or wax.

Biodegradable Products - Products (or containers) capable of being broken down by bacteria and other organisms into stable products that will not harm the environment.

Body - Referring to the volume or fullness of hair. Some hair care products are formulated to give added body to hair.

Botanical Extract - Extracts from a plant or herb. Botanical extracts are added to many hair care products to provide additional scent and rejuvenation.

Castile Soap - A hard, odorless soap made from vegetable or olive oil. Castile soap is the primary ingredient in most homemade shampoo recipes.

Chemical Free - Products containing only natural ingredients (i.e., essential oils, botanical extracts). These products are great for people who may have allergies to synthetic ingredients (i.e., detergents, foaming agents).

Clarifying Shampoo - A shampoo product formulated to deep clean the hair by removing product residue (from sprays, gel, mousse) from the hair shaft.

Color Protection - Category of products formulated to extend the life of hair color by reducing fading.

Color Safe - Category of products safe for color-treated hair.

Color-Treated Products - Shampoos and conditioners formulated to extend the life of color-treated hair. These products contain gentle cleaners that help protect and preserve the color.

Conditoner - A hair product applied after shampooing which moisturizes and detangles the hair.

Damaged Hair - Unhealthy hair that is dry, frizzy or has noticeably split ends. Damage can be caused by an improper diet, texture of hair or the excessive use of styling products (i.e. color treatments, gel, spray, wax). Damage can be reversed with products such as hot oil treatments and deep conditioners.

Dandruff - Excessive shedding of dead skin cells from the scalp. Small amounts of flaking is quite common, but some individuals experience large amounts of flaking which may also be accompanied by scalp redness and irritation. If dandruff shampoos are unsuccessful, consider consulting a dermatologist.

De-tanglers - Products containing special conditioning agents which work at the cuticle layer of the hair to prevent tangles from developing. Some detanglers work instantly, while others work best after being massaged into the hair for a few minutes.

Deep Penetrating Treatment - A protein and vitamin rich conditioner meant for occasional use to moisturize dry, damaged hair.

Density - Number of hairs per square inch on the head (i.e., the denser the hair, the thicker the hair).

Dry Shampoo - A powder mix applied directly to dry hair and then combed out. Dry shampoos work by absorbing oils from the hair and scalp. Cornstarch, oatmeal and talcum powder are great examples of an effective dry shampoo.

Elasticity - The hair's ability to stretch and return to its original shape without breakage.

Essential Fatty Acids - EFAs - Essential acids are needed for hair growth. EFAs also help to preserve the resilience and flexibility hair. EFAs are found in many hair care products, as well as in foods such as fish, nuts and olives.

Essential Oils - Concentrated oils that have been extracted from plants through distillation (separation through boiling). Essential oils are found in many hair care products and work to stimulate hair growth, as well as provide fragrances to the products.

Finishing Spray - A hairspray with medium hold used on a finished style to maintain shape and hold.

Fringe - The shaped cutting of the front part of the hair which covers the forehead. More commonly referred to as "bangs."

Frizz - Dry, brittle hair due to lack of moisture. Hot oil treatments, regular conditioning and shampoos containing natural humectants will help to control frizzy hair.

Gel - A water-based styling product used for sculpting, hold and shine.

Glycerin - A natural humectant which absorbs moisture. As an ingredient in hair products, it softens and swells the hair shaft, allowing it to retain water.

Gray Hair - Hair that has lost its pigment. While the color looks gray, the hair shaft is actually transparent once it loses its pigment.

Hair Cortex - Inner-most part of the hair shaft. The cortex gives hair special qualities such as curl and elasticity.

Hair Cuticles - Outer-most part of the hair shaft. The cuticle provides a barrier around the hair shaft, protecting it from all forms of damage.

Hair Follicles - A tubular enfolding just below the surface of the skin containing the root of the hair.

Hair Loss Products - Shampoos and conditioners specially formulated to maintain a nutrient-rich environment capable of stimulating hair growth.

Hair Shaft - Part of the hair that can be seen above the scalp.

Hair Tonic - A petroleum-based styling product. The popularity of hair tonics has decreased with the development of pomades, waxes and pastes.

Haircare - The act of shampooing, conditioning and cutting hair regularly in order to maintain healthy looking hair.

Hairspray - A styling product containing elastesse ("liquid elastic") which is used to hold hair styles for a long period of time. Hairsprays range from light hold to strong or maximum hold.

Highlighting Shampoo - Shampoos containing hair color enhancements from vegetable dyes. Highlighting shampoos tone the hair and work to highlight or add depth to hair color.

Hot Oil Treatment - A process to help condition and treat damaged hair by heating up oil and applying directly to the hair. Hot oils temporarily repair damage brought on by styling products, blow drying and curling/straightening irons.

Humectant - A substance which retains moisture. Humectants are added to hair products to moisturize and prevent drying.

Humidity Performance - Term used for the extent to which a styling product can protect hair from environmental humidity.

Ionic Technology - Process where water molecules are broken down by ions into smaller droplets, allowing the hair to absorb moisture more easily. Ionic technology is often used in flat irons and straightening irons.

Jojoba Oil - Liquid wax that is extracted from jojoba seeds. These oils are very similar to human sebum and are added to hair care products as a moisturizer.

Keratin - A fibrous protein found in hair. The layer of keratin found on each strand prevents hair from cracking and splitting.

Lavender - An oil or extract found in many shampoos and conditioners. Lavender stimulates hair growth, replenishes the hair and scalp, balances oil production and provides a soothing scent to the product.

Leave-in Conditioner - A conditioner which does not need to be rinsed out of the hair after application. These products work great to moisturize and control frizz.

Moisturizing - The process of retaining liquid in the hair to prevent it from drying out. Many shampoos and conditioners are formulated with ingredients (i.e. humectants, extracts, oils) to specifically promote moisturization.

Mousse - A styling product dispensed in an aerosol foam spray. Mousse adds volume, controls frizz and provides moderate styling control.

Natural Ingredients - Ingredients extracted from plants, earth minerals or animal products, as opposed to ingredients which are synthetically produced.

Nettles - An herb rich in Vitamins A and C which can stimulate hair growth.

Organic Shampoo - Shampoos containing only natural, non-synthetic ingredients.

Panthenol - A derivative of Vitamin B5. In hair products, it works to coat and seal the hair, making the strands look shiny.

Perm/Permanent - A chemical treatment used to make hair wavy or curly for an extended period of time (i.e., several months).

Petrosage - A scalp massaging technique used to stimulate blood flow to promote healthy hair and scalp.

pH Balance - Potential Hydrogen - measures the acidity or basicity of a solution. Solutions with a pH level less than 7 are acidic and those with a pH level greater than 7 are basic. Acids will harden the hair while basics will expand and soften the hair. Because of this, many shampoos and conditioners are pH balanced (pH level 4-6) to match the natural pH level of the hair and skin.

Pomade - A styling product applied to dry hair for added texture, definition and shine. Unlike hairspray and gel, pomade does not harden or dry. It remains pliable for continuous styling all day long. Be careful not to use too much of this product, as this can result in a greasy look. Pomade is also called balm, glue, paste or wax.

Relaxer - A cream or lotion used to straighten hair. Hair relaxers usually contain a strong alkali to chemically straighten curly or wavy hair.

Root - The area of hair at the base of the hair follicle, just below the scalp.

Root Lifter - Hair product applied to the root area of the hair (i.e., scalp) to add extra lift/volume.

Rosemary - An herb used in some hair care products to stimulate hair growth and prevent dandruff.

Scalp - The skin on the head from which hair grows. The scalp is greatly supplied with blood vessels.

Scrunching - Technique used to enhance existing waves and curls. To scrunch hair, place a small amount of mousse or gel in to the palm of the hand and rub together. Gather a section of hair at the tips and scrunch upwards toward the scalp (like crumpling up a piece of paper). Hold for a few seconds and then release. As a finisher, use a medium hold hairspray to maintain the curls all day long.

Sebum - Natural oil secreted from the sebaceous glands in the skin. Sebum moisturizes hair and skin and protects it from drying out.

Shampoo - Any of various liquids or creams specially formulated to cleanse the hair and scalp.

Silicone - Conditioning agent found in many 2-in-1 products, serums and sprays.

Split End - Splitting of the hair at the end of the strand due to stress from excessive heat or chemical exposure from hair products. The only way to fix or avoid split ends is to have hair trimmed regularly.

Strengthening Shampoo - Shampoo formulated with fortifying agents to strengthen hair and protect it from breakage.

Stripping - Process of removing unwanted hair color using various types of bleaching agents. Because hair stripping is hard on the hair, it is recommended to deeply condition the hair after this process is performed.

Styling - The act of creating a specific hairstyle or look.

Styling Foam - Gaseous bubbles in a liquid or solid form coming from an aerosol can that dissolve when applied to the hair. Foam products are used for styling, frizz control and shine.

Tea Tree Oil - Oil extracted from the Melaleuca tree. Tea tree oils are found in some hair products and have been shown to reduce the symptoms of dandruff.

Texture - Referring to a specific type of hair: fine, medium or coarse.

Thermal Protector - Sprays specially formulated with heat absorbing polymers to protect the hair from damage. Thermal protectors are applied to the hair prior to using blow dryers and other heat-activated styling tools to prevent heat damage.

Volumizing Shampoo - Shampoos containing substantial amounts of protein in them for added lift, thickness and volume.

Wax - A styling product applied to dry hair for added texture, definition and shine. Unlike hairspray and gel, hair wax does not harden or dry. It remains pliable for continuous styling all day long. Be careful not to use too much of this product, as this can result in a greasy look. Hair wax is also called balm, glue, paste or pomade.