6 Shiny-Hair Saboteurs

Photo by: David Cook

The saboteur: Shine-spray OD.
 The molecules inside silicone and argan oil-two common shine boosters-are unlikely to penetrate hair and can sit on top of it instead. "Eventually, those molecules form thin, water-repellent layers," says Andre Puleo, a senior project scientist at Unilever. In other words, they're like a rain jacket-deflecting the moisture that causes frizz, but also every other source of hydration. "Too much of... more 

Photo by: David Cook

The saboteur: Shine-spray OD.
 The molecules inside silicone and argan oil-two common shine boosters-are unlikely to penetrate hair and can sit on top of it instead. "Eventually, those molecules form thin, water-repellent layers," says Andre Puleo, a senior project scientist at Unilever. In other words, they're like a rain jacket-deflecting the moisture that causes frizz, but also every other source of hydration. "Too much of the stuff can totally dry out your hair," says Dove celebrity stylist Mark Townsend.

The savior: Portion control.
 "I don't care how long or thick your hair is, a dime-size amount of serum is all it takes to bolster shine," says Townsend, who recommends almond and coconut oils as nondrying alternatives to argan oil. Those with fine hair should use a lightweight leave-in conditioner, such as Pantene Pro-V Aqua Light Weightless Conditioning Shake, instead of a glossing product, to boost shine without dragging hair down.

less