HAIR BASICS

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Normal Hair
If your hair is "normal," you may choose to shampoo daily, although this isn't necessary. Use a shampoo formulated for normal hair, and use a separate conditioner about every fourth shampooing.

Oily Hair
To keep oily hair looking great, shampoo every day. Avoid shampoos that have any conditioner in them; they will leave a greasy residue in oily hair.

Dry Hair
Choose a shampoo especially designed for dry hair, preferably one with a conditioning agent in it. You'll notice that many "dry" hair shampoos are also for damaged hair. This is because dry hair tends to break and split easily. Wash hair infrequently because soaps and detergents strip hair of essential natural oils. Special conditioning is vital to keep dry, flyaway hair under control and manageable.

Here's a good once-a-month treatment: Put olive oil, baby oil, or conditioner (start with the size of a quarter; add more if necessary) into the palms of your hands. Run your fingers down and through your hair, starting at the scalp. Wrap your hair in a towel or plastic wrap and leave in for about an hour or longer for extremely damaged hair. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and lemon juice.

Braids and French Braids

Once the basics are mastered, most people find their own way to braid comfortably. All braiding consists of is crossing over hair, tightening, taking up the next section of hair and continuing. (See bellow) Use coated rubber bands, which are easier on your hair.

French braids are particularly elegant, and although the process looks complicated, it's really quite simple. (See bellow) As you braid, gather additional strands and add them to the main braid—this results in graceful draping on each side. The look of the drape will vary considering how thin or thick the hair strands are.

Braids, plain or french, are the perfect hairstyle while you're looking waiting for hair to grow out. It's also good for young girl's hair because it will stay neat all day and make the evening combing out process less painful.

Hair Care Tips

•Mix vinegar and warm water to use as a rinse. This gets rid of excess soap residue and keeps hair extra shiny. Lemon juice adds golden highlights to hair.

•Always treat wet hair gently. It is weak in this state and can stretch and snap easily, which creates split ends and fly-away hair. Use wide-toothed combs to minimize breakage.

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