Cocktails aren't just for happy hour anymore. The practice of mixing complementary hair products together to create a desired look is commonly referred to as "cocktailing" in the hair industry. "Cocktailing" and layering styling products will produce different results than when used alone. No two heads of hair are exactly alike so why confine yourself to directions printed on a bottle?
Get creative and play with different mixtures of gels, sprays and creams. If you love your gel, but need something to bulk up your hair too, go ahead and use that volumizing foam. Play around with different combinations, but pay attention to the ingredients in each product. Some ingredients don't play well with others.
Cocktailing DO's
DO take a chance and mix things up. Trial and error will help you find the right combination for your specific hair needs and type.
DO consider your hair length, texture and thickness when choosing products. Determine if your hair needs volume, shine, moisture or damage control.
DO know what style you want. Knowing what end result you are looking for will help you choose products from your shampoo all the way to a finishing spray.
DO use a heat protectant when styling with hair dryers, curling irons or flat irons. Some products provide both heat protection as well as styling benefits.
DO remember less is more. For liquid products, start with a dime size amount for shoulder length and shorter hair. For longer lengths try a quarter sized amount to start. You can always add more, but it's hard to undo an overload of product.
DO read the directions. It's good to know what the product is intended for. You don't have to follow the directions, but they will give you a good starting point.
DO know your chemistry 101. We all know oil and water don't mix so pay attention to the ingredients in a product before you apply. If the products separate or get clumpy it may be they don't interact well. Silicone and oil products can get goopy when mixed with water based ones.
Be aware of your chemical treatments as well. If your hair is colored or highlighted, use products that nurture and protect your tresses from extra stress. Avoid alcohol based products if your hair is damaged, dry or very curly. Alcohol can dry the hair out even more and cause more damage and frizz.
Go on, get creative and mix up that great hair cocktail that works best for you. A great hair day is just a cocktail away.
