5-minute hair fixes to make you look younger

Great ideas for hair that will really revamp your look. By Yanar Alkayat

Beat bad hair days! If you need to puff up flat hair, fight the fuzz or mask dirty roots, these instant hair emergency remedies are all you need and will take off years too.

 

Mask growing roots

Not had time for a root touch-up and you're dashing out for an important appointment? Simply put on a headscarf and tie it in a pretty knot to the side. Take style notes from Julie Christie who was recently photographed wearing a very attractive red number. See Julie's look here.

Topshop printed silk scarf, £22

www.topshop.com

Fix oily hair

Sometimes washing hair every day can be a bit of a drag - that's where trusted dry hair shampoo comes in. This little one from James Brown (Kate Moss's stylist) is perfect size for handbag or desk - simply spray gently at the roots and fluff up hair with your fingertips. It will soak up excess oil and keep you going for another 24 hours.

James Brown London Mini Hair Reviving Dry Shampoo, £1.99 www.jamesbrownlondon.com 

 

Freshen-up your curls

If you have curly hair and your crowning glory is lying shapeless and droopy, then try an instant curl reviver. Rub a little styling lotion and water in your hand and apply it to the curls. Then wrap the curls around your fingers and give them a quick blast with the hair dryer. The water-lotion-heat combination boost the curl again.

Paul Mitchell Round Trip Styling Lotion, £10.99

www.paul-mitchell.co.uk; 08456590012

 

Fight the frizz

Frizzy hair is a tell-tell sign of ageing because the more moisture hair needs, the more it will soak up in the day, causing it to frizz. As mature hair is dryer, it will benefit from more hydration. Seal ends with a serum that will keep frizz-causing moisture out. Run a tiny bit in between hands and pat lightly over ends. This one from celeb-loved brand Real Hair is silicone-free, so no gunky build-up and loved by Elle Macpherson too!

The Real Hair Weightless Serum, £17

www.realhair.co.uk

 

Bring back shine

Cuticle damage from chemical treatments and over-styling are your anti-shine culprits because they prevent hair from reflecting light. A weekly intensive conditioner will smooth the surface so hair looks shinier. For thick, coarse hair, try applying olive oil to the length of hair and then wrapping it up in a hair towel to keep it warm. An intensive mask will also combat dryness and infuse it with health-giving soya and protein.

Charles Worthington Protein Fortifying Masque, £5.49

www.boots.com

 

Styling supplies

For unruly hair that simply won't do as it's told, you need a stash of styling tools to keep tresses under control. That should include Kirby grips, elastics or a pretty slide. For a simple makeover, spritz hair with dry shampoo (if your hair is oily) or styling spray (if you need some hold) and gather hair from the hairline, right above your temples. Scoop up to the crown of the head and fix with slide. Pouf it up or keep it sleek.

 

Alternatively, try a one-sided scoop by parting hair onto one side, and pinning the other side back with a diamante comb or slide. This has a slightly retro feel, especially if you have waved hair.

Tropical flower comb, £12

www.monsoon.co.uk

 

If all else fails...

Sometimes, nothing will help the badness of a bad hair day! So, if that's the case then there's just one thing left to do - cover up with a stylish hat. Find one that suits your style, whether it's a floppy, structured, classic or fun one. If your hair is long, gather into a low-slung side pony for added style points.

Grosgain bow & buckle felt cloche, £22

www.monsoon.co.uk 

 

Anti-ageing hair special

 

Drop a decade - change your hairstyle; read all of our inspiring hair features full of top tips and expert advice, and see our video how-to masterclasses

 

What are the 10 must-have products for younger-looking hair? Find out here