The Basics for Hair Care
Using The Best Products and Tools 

There is a tool for every job that can make life easier for you even in the world of hair care. However, there are so many products for your hair that it is not an easy task to decide whether or not you have the right tools for your beauty regiment. Since each person's hair is different as well as what they expect from their hair, what works for you might not work for someone else.  So if you are looking for a little help as you seek to give your hair the best care, listed below are some of the basics that can make the job less difficult.

Brushes and combs 

When your hair is wet, you should never use a brush of any kind on it, especially if you have tangles. Brushes will grab at your hair causing it to tear or break paving the way for split  ends and other damage.  Only a wide toothed comb should be used in this instance.  Your hair brush is a very important part of your hair care beauty routine, and the varieties vary depending on what you are trying to achieve.

• Bristled round brushes are often used for curly or wavy hair that is to be blow dried straight.
• A paddle brush is best for every day styling and is especially suited for people with long hair.
• A vented brush is your best choice if you are in a hurry to dry your hair.  They have a vented head that allows the heated air from your blow dryer to pass through the brush to dry the hair.

Hair dryers, curling irons, and straightening tools

Hair dryers can severely damage your hair if you are not careful about the way you use them.  The air flow should be constantly moving, rather then centering on one location.  Hair dryers usually have attachments like diffusers that will distribute the heat in a wider area to avoid damaging your hair.  There are also hair dryers that use negative ion technology to cut the drying time in half and with less damage.

Curling irons and straightening tools also have the power to cause great damage your hair.  Choose these tools wisely by selecting ones that have different temperature control levels as well as automatic shutoff mechanisms in case they are left plugged in.  For an optimal performing curling iron or straightening tool, go with those that are made with the comparatively new ceramic technology.  Ceramic is less likely to burn your hair, and it will even provide some conditioning as it heats your hair into shape.

Shampoos

Your scalp should dictate what type of shampoo you use.  If you have dandruff, you would need something specific for that condition.  Oily or dry hair also dictates what type of shampoo to use.  Shampooing your hair to gets rid of the dirt and other pollutants that you have picked up in the course of your day.  It is best to avoid any shampoos that contain alcohol in the ingredients.  Alcohol has a tendency to dry out your hair.

Conditioners

For some time, there has been debate as to whether or not you need to condition your hair.  As a general rule, you do need to use a conditioner unless you have super fine hair that looks lifeless when you use a conditioner. Hair care products, brushing, drying, curling and straightening your hair can be damaging, not to mention colors or perms.  A conditioner can replenish and protect your hair from these damaging elements.  To avoid oily or dull looking hair, only apply conditioner to the length of your hair, avoiding putting it on your scalp.

Hair sprays and other styling products

A few decades ago, hair sprays had the power to eat through a hole in the ozone layer.  These days, they are more environmentally friendly without harsh chemicals.  The hair spray of today can protect against humid conditions and the sun’s harmful UV rays.  There are a variety of formulas depending the styles you want.

Mousses, gel and shine serums are great for those people who have problems getting a smooth finish without compromising the hair's bounce and body.  If you have fine hair, you will find that mousses are light and work best for your hair.  With thicker heads of hair, gels are the answer.  Shine serums are for people who have dull looking hair, even when it is clean.  Shine serums can also sometimes perform double-duty to control fizz.

It is always a good thing to talk with your stylist about what products would best suit your hair.  Ask questions each time they use a different product for your hair to achieve a certain look.  Professional hair stylists are the best guides you can consult as you wade through the confusing maze of hair care tools.