The Haircare bunch: Treatments to keep your locks looking luscious during lockdown

Long, short, dark, light, straight and curly, every woman’s locks are different – and so is her haircare routine.

But whether you are fighting frizz or looking to be a brilliant bottle blonde, it pays to use the right products for your style.

Here, Pam O’Brien, from Salon Trusted, shares her expert advice on everything from shampoo to budget brands.

Say no to parabens

All shampoos are made equal, right? Wrong! According to Pam, the quality of ingredients is what separates salon suds from high street haircare.

She explained: “Most shampoos have the same ingredients, so it really just depends on the quality.

“However, one of the main ingredients I will always avoid is parabens. They are used as a preservative to increase the product’s shelf-life, but they can irritate the scalp and skin.

“The Matrix Biolage range (from £12.90) is a great example of paraben-free haircare, and is gentle on the scalp without compromising excellent results.”

Stay on brand

Pam explained: “It’s best to stick to the same brand when it comes to looking after your hair, as products are created together to give optimum results.

“Identifying your hair type will also help you find products that are designed for your specific haircare needs.”

Oil or conditioner

Leave-in hair oils have become increasingly popular recently, especially for those suffering from dehyrated tresses. But Pam warns not to ditch your in-shower conditioner.

“Applying oil to the scalp can nourish the hair from root to tip, whereas conditioner seals hair cuticles opened by shampoo during washing,” she explained.

“Adding conditioner to the scalp can increase dandruff and scalp irritation, so it’s all about finding the right products for your hair.

“But I recommend using conditioner first then layering with oil to style or finish, using a product like Total Results Mega Sleek Varnish Serum (£11).”

Forget flyaways

Pam said: “For volume and fuller-looking hair, I would recommend the Biolage Volume Bloom range (from £12.90) paired with the Full Lift Volumizer spray. Then to tame flyaway ends, use the brand’s Gelee styler (£17.50) – it really is the perfect package!”