How to get lustrous, shiny hair

Use a clarifying shampoo

Build-up from your styling products could be causing your hair to look dull. Make it shiny again by using a clarifying shampoo for a week straight, and then once a week going forward. Two clarifying shampoos that we love: Pure & Basic Citrus Natural Clarifying Shampoo ($5 for 12 oz) and Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo ($11 for 12 oz). You can find them at your local drugstore or from many online retailers.

Mix up a vinegar rinse

Mix one part vinegar with four parts carbonated water. Soak dry hair entirely with the mixture. Leave on for 20 minutes, then shampoo and rinse. Repeat weekly for shiny hair.

Avoid alcohol-based products

Alcohol-based hair products dry out your hair. If you need a shine boost, use a silicone-based shine serum or spray. It will seal the hair's cuticle, reduce heat damage and improve shine. Don't use serums daily, however, because of the build-up.

Don't brush wet hair

Hair is fragile when its wet. If you brush it, it can cause breakage and frizzies. Instead, comb your wet hair with a wide-tooth comb. Also check out these other tips to fix frizzy hair.

Apply aloe vera gel

After you shampoo your hair, apply 100% aloe vera gel throughout your hair, then let it air dry. Comb through your hair to remove the excess gel. Repeat weekly for best results.

Get a gloss or glaze

When you get your hair colored, talk to your salon about hair gloss or glaze. These treatements penetrate your hair follicle and can give your hair a semipermanent polish and shine.

Eat right

A balanced diet that is high in protein and green leafy vegetables is good for your hair. Try to avoid processed foods and those high in sugar. Vitamins E and C are also key to shiny, healthy hair.

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