Clients say to me all the time "I can never get my hair to look the way that you do". I know there is a complement in that statement but I cringe when I hear that because I want the client to be able to duplicate at home what I have done for them at the salon. The reason most clients can not get the shape and style from their hair is product build up. Yes, gunk, used up old products that are not completely shampooed out. To remove this build up I use a clarifying or detoxing shampoo. I work the shampoo evenly through the entire head of hair before I begin to "shampoo". I press the palms of my hands firmly but comfortably against each side of the head and use a circular motion until I reach the center of the back of the head. At the front I use the pads of my fingers to replicate this circular motion stimulating the scalp and hair follicles. By using this technique I am cleansing the hair of residue and build up at the scalp and mid shaft and causing the hair to stand on end. This scrubbing action is what breaks down the old product and stimulates the scalp for fresh, clean hair that is ready to be styled. I apply an appropriate conditioner that will complement the individual needs of the hair. I rinse well from the scalp and mid shaft yet I leave a trace amount of conditioner in the ends for protection. Careful selection of a styling product for the blow dry is essential. A heavy product can weigh the hair down and a light product may not have enough support to maintain the style. Sometimes cocktailing 2 or more products for the desired look works well. A thorough blow dry with a bristled brush works best. Forget the vented style brushes, they just dry the hair in a hurry leaving you with dry, frizzy, unmanageable hair. A good round bristle brush or paddle brush will smooth the cuticle of the hair for shine and create lift for style and shape. To finish you can apply a dry styling product such as a paste or wax to define the hair and give it a more natural look. I recommend using a clarifying shampoo at least every other time if not every time where heavy styling products are used on a daily basis. You can learn more about your hair at www.beautykazoo.com