Do I Condition…or Gloss?

WRITTEN BY Tammy Dalton, Modern Salon and Spa
PHOTOGRAPHY BY Mike Carroll and Modern Salon and Spa

It’s that time of year again when we start feeling the winter blues. Our skin feels dull, our hair feels dull and we just need something to help bring us back to life. This doesn’t mean having to drastically change haircuts or even the color of our hair. It’s the small things that can sometimes make a big difference!

The next time you venture out to the salon for your hair appointment, ask your stylist about adding a conditioning treatment or gloss with your service. In my opinion both of these are so underutilized! They both have great benefits in different ways and can be enjoyed by everybody willing to give them a chance.

Ok, so what are the differences, you’re probably wondering. Conditioning treatments are exactly that—it is a deep conditioner that can only be received as an “in salon” service. Yes, there are masks you can purchase and use at home, but the treatments you receive in the salon are stronger and more effective. This is why they aren’t an option to use at home. Overusing them and having too much moisture can actually be a negative thing, leaving the hair lifeless and heavy. But receiving a conditioning treatment when it is needed can bring back the life the winter air has stripped away!

Another option to bring the life back is to enjoy the benefits of a gloss. A gloss is a clear demi-permanent color (which means it gradually fades off the hair the more you wash it) that primarily adds shine. We all want our hair to be shiny, and this is an easy way to achieve it without actually changing the color of the hair. I have some clients who never color but get glosses for the shine aspect and to add texture which gives them a little volume. The texture benefit is really only seen by people with fine hair. If your hair is medium to coarse you will only see the benefit of beautiful shiny hair!

Both of these options are great because they only add about 10 to 20 minutes on to your normal service time depending on what color and product line your stylist uses. Ask your stylist which one they would recommend because they will know exactly which one your hair really needs. These are easy ways to help your hair feel and look better. Enjoy!