Welcome to hair school

It happens to everyone. Despite leaving the hair salon with a fantastic vibrant colour, silky smooth strands and hair styled to perfection, within days it’s drooped back to . . . awful.

What is the magic touch that your hairdresser has but, no matter how hard you try, you can never accomplish?

We’ve had enough of bad-hair days at Mind+Body and we’re asking the experts to let us in on some trade secrets — plus a couple of foolproof how-to guides.

SECRET TIP

Try a free treatment, says Justin Zeiser, senior colour technician at Fatty Arbuckles Hair Artistry. Before you jump into the pool or sea, wet your hair with fresh water, he advises. “Your hair is like a sponge, so already having wet hair can reduce the amount of salty or chlorinated water your hair absorbs, ” Mr Zeiser explains.

Do as Nanna did, suggests Renee Patselis-Lyon, owner at Head Office Salon.

Before you go to bed, plait your hair, she says. “This is especially good when you’ve just shampooed and the hair is still damp, ” Ms Patselis-Lyon says. “When the plait is taken out, the end result is ultra-cool boho hair that’s chic for summer.” The other bonus is a plait prevents your hair looking a sight, but will make it easier to style in the morning — great if you’re in a rush.

Go online for help, recommends Barney Gleeson, creative director at Lee Preston Hairdressing. Before you throw your hair straightener out of the window, ask the internet for some help. There are some great “how to” tutorials online, perfect for beginners, and sassy tips to turn your hair disaster into a triumph. Mr Gleeson recommends visiting hairromance.com for extra ideas on hair styling — blogger Christina provides frequent tutorials on taming your hair.

THE PRODUCTS I RECOMMEND

Barney Gleeson KMS California’s Free Shape Hot Flex spray or creme for when you heat-style your hair; KMS Tame Frizz products. Stockist information: kmscalifornia.com.

Justin Zeiser QABA Bionda Bella for blonde hair; QABA Coconut Treat to moisturise dry hair. Stockist information: qaba.com.au

Renee Patselis-Lyon Kevin Murphy’s Hair Resort spray for the “beach hair” look.

Miracle hair treatment by Eleven. Stockist information: kevinmurphy.com.au and elevenaustralia.com.

SUMMER STYLES TO TRY

For ice cool style: Go the Ponytail.

“If you have length in your hair, the ponytail can be a life saver in the warmer months, ” Barney Gleeson says. “There are so many different styles you can play with — try a smooth, low ponytail at the nape of your neck with a centre part.”

For short hair: Go the quiff.

“Soft textured quiffs are a beautiful short summer style, ” Mr Gleeson says.

For effortless beauty: Go the braid.

“The beauty of the braid is that the weave keeps the hair in place, while looking soft and relaxed, ” Mr Gleeson says. “There are so many types of braids and they’re gorgeous with a natural texture.”