The way to achieve shiny, strong hair? Pay attention to the protective layer
Just like your skin, your hair has its own shield of armour to defend it from the elements. Here's how to protect your hair using shampoo and conditioner.
The way to achieve shiny, strong hair? Pay attention to the protective layer
Just like your skin, your hair has its own shield of armour to defend it from the elements. Here's how to protect your hair using shampoo and conditioner.
No matter how many luxury oils, creams, and sprays you’ve got in your arsenal to help up the shine factor of your strands, the true secret to gorgeous hair is protection. It’s why hairstylists are constantly singing the praises of pre-hot tools heat protectants, and urging you to rinse your hair with cold water at the end of every wash. And while these are important steps for keeping your hair healthy, what you may not realize is that your strands actually have a built-in protective layer of their own, and true defense against damage relies on keeping it in-tact.
Think about it like this: You’ve likely heard the phrase “microbiome” as it applies to your skin, which is essentially an ecosystem made up of an invisible layer of microbes that acts as an extension of your immune system and helps ward off infection. Well, just as your skin has this shield of armor around it, your hair also has a sheet of protection. “The protective layer of our skin can be likened to the protective layer of our hair in terms of function,” explains dermatologist Whitney Bowe, MD, author of The Beauty of Dirty Skin. “Healthy human hair is coated by seven layers of cuticle cells. The outermost layer is called the epicuticle and it helps to protect the hair from damage.” This is the layer that all of those products are working to keep healthy, in order to ensure that the strand underneath keeps doing its thing.
“When our hair’s protective layer is compromised or missing altogether, our hair loses its capacity to keep water and other harmful abrasive agents from hair-care products out,” says Dr. Bowe. “This all results in the damage, dullness, and breakage. Additionally, an alkaline pH can actually increase the negative electrical charge of our hair fiber surface which will increase friction between fibers. This can actually lead to cuticle damage and fiber breakage, which translates into dull, damaged hair. Optimizing the pH of our hair-care products can, therefore, also benefit the overall health of our hair.”
Because of this, it’s important to invest in the right products to keep that barrier functioning properly. “Product choices make a difference when it comes to protecting your hair’s cuticle layers including the epicuticle, pH, and overall health and appearance,” says Dr. Bowe, noting that the more suds and bubbles in your shampoo, the more damage you’re actually doing to your hair. “The detergents that give you those foamy bubbles are the same detergents that are damaging the hair shaft. Detergent is actually an overachiever when it comes to cleansing, stripping your hair and scalp of the healthy oils and natural protective barrier while irritating your scalp and prompting your skin to produce even more oil to compensate for its loss.”
She suggests Aquis Prime’s four-piece system, which is specially designed with the hair barrier in mind. “We need gentle products that protect our skin’s natural barrier. The same concept applies when it comes to hair care. We want replace our harsh cleansers with gentle, clean products formulated to cleanse our hair without damaging the fragile cuticle—the outermost layer of the hair,” says Dr. Bowe. “When your hair cuticle is smooth and uniform, your hair looks shiny. When light reflects off of the smooth surface, your eye registers that reflection as shiny and healthy hair.”
And one other thing: While your strands don’t technically have an actual microbiome of their own, your scalp and follicles do, and you’ll want to take steps to properly care for those, too. “Avoid harsh cleansers and “detoxifying scalp scrubs” as these are likely to damage the good bacteria and upset the balance of the scalp. Look for naturally based products without harsh cleansers such as sulfates and clogging ingredients such as silicones,” says Dr. Dominic Burg, chief scientist and hair biologist at Evolis. “Also look for products with essential oils and botanical antioxidant ingredients, gentle moisturizers, and a balanced pH.”
Just as the pH of your hair matters, so too does the pH of your skin. And, apparently, your vagina.
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Real talk: your hairbrush is probably overdue for a cleaning. Between dead skin cells, oils, and leftover product, it’s a breeding ground for grime that can mess with your scalp. But how often should you be cleaning it? Spoiler alert: more often than you think. Here’s everything you need to know to keep your brush—and your hair—fresh and clean, including when it’s time to trade your trusty brush in for a newer model.
Lindsay Zubritsky, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist specializing in medical dermatology at Premier Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center in Ocean Springs, Mississippi.
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How often to clean your hairbrush
As a general rule, you should clean your hairbrush every one to two weeks, but it really depends on a few things, says Lindsey Marie Zubritsky, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Pittsburg, PA.
Clean your hairbrush more often if:
You use heavy styling products
You have long hair
You deal with dandruff or an oily scalp
How to clean your hairbrush
The method for cleaning a hairbrush depends on the type, but no matter the brush, always start by pulling out the hair with tweezers, scissors, or just your hands, Dr. Zubritsky says.
If you have a brush with synthetic plastic bristles (which are easiest to clean, BTW), follow these steps, per Dr. Zubritsky:
Put some shampoo, dish soap, or body wash in a large bowl of water and soak your brush for 15 minutes
Rinse thoroughly afterwards, shake or squeeze the brush to remove excess water, and then allow to air dry
For extra cleaning, you can spray the brush with isopropyl alcohol for disinfecting.
If you have a brush with natural bristles and/or wooden handles, you need to handle them with a little more care. After removing all the hair from the bristles, follow these steps, per Dr. Zubritsky:
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Add a gentle, mild shampoo or soap to a large bowl of water.
Only dip the bristles in the water (keeping the wooden handles dry).
Lather up the bristles (either with your hands or a toothbrush). You really want to give these natural bristles a thorough scrub since they have more nooks and crannies.
Rinse thoroughly afterwards, shake or squeeze the brush to remove excess water, and then allow to air dry.
What happens if I don’t clean my hairbrush?
If you’ve ever let a bunch of hair accumulate in your brush, you probably noticed it doesn’t work as well. But that’s not the only problem. A dirty hairbrush can also have consequences for your scalp.
1. It can clog hair follicles
Hairbrushes often collect dead skin cells, oils, and product buildup, Dr. Zubritsky says. This combination can clog pores and harm your scalp, leading to issues like scalp acne or folliculitis (i.e., when your hair follicles are infected or inflamed), she says.
2. It can lead to dandruff
“Your hairbrush is a breeding ground for bacteria and fungus, including Malassezia (a yeast known to trigger dandruff),” Dr. Zubritsky says. Even if you’re using anti-dandruff shampoo, yeast can still build up on your brush, and every time you use it, you’re basically putting that gunk right back on your scalp, she says.
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3. It can irritate or damage your scalp
“Nothing good comes from using a dirty hairbrush, especially if you have a sensitive scalp,” Dr. Zubritsky says. “Dirt, debris, bacteria, old product, and dead skin cells can be transferred back to you scalp through your brush, leading to irritation and sensitivity issues.”
When to replace your hairbrush
We know–it can be hard to let go of your go-to hairbrush. But the health of your scalp depends on it. In general, it’s a good idea to replace your brush every six months. Here are some signs that your brush needs an upgrade, per Dr. Zubrtisky:
The bristles or handles are damaged, bent, cracked, or missing
Your brush isn’t working as well (when your brush isn’t working right, it creates more friction and traction on your scalp and hair, which can lead to damage)
Your brush has a persistent odor (despite regular cleaning)
Your hair appears more oily or greasy
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One of the best parts of being a beauty lover is that you can reinvent yourself anytime. Feeling bold? Swipe on some red lipstick. Channeling your inner grunge with an elevated twist? Treat yourself to a designer vampy nail polish. With 2025 right around the corner, there’s no better time to transform (or refresh) your look and step into a new era with a brand-new hair color.
is a celebrity hairstylist and the founder of Rita Hazan Salon in New York City
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So, what’s on the horizon for next year? Our predictions point to major celebrity-inspired moments, with everything from bold reds to classic natural hues taking center stage. “Hair color is as much about artistry as it is about personalization, and next year’s trends reflect a mix of bold statements and timeless elegance,” says celebrity hairstylist Castillo Bataille. “Warm, dimensional tones like copper and rich brunettes will remain timeless, as they flatter a wide range of skin tones and styles.”
Of course, we can’t forget food-inspired colors—a perennial favorite in the world of hair color trends. “Hair color has always been named after some favorite foods—caramel, chocolate, butter blonde, etc.,” explains Schwarzkopf Global Color Expert Jonathan Colombini. “And this coming year is no exception.” Don’t just take our word for it either—for 2025, Pantone announced Mocha Mousse, a rich espresso brown swirled with a touch of creamy froth, as the year’s defining shade.
Pros are also predicting that blondes will get a refresh next year. “People are learning to find which shades of blonde best suit their skin tone and features—but also considering the health of their hair,“Jackie Seabrooke, a celebrity hairstylist based in New York City, says. As a result, expect to see a shift toward more intentional, customized blondes that prioritize tone and texture.
1. Mocha Mousse
Espresso brown isn’t going anywhere, but add an extra splash of milk, and you get Pantone’s 2025 Color of the Year: Mocha mousse. Described by Pantone as “a soft brown whose warming glow awakens the inherent radiance of individual skin tones across a wide variety of undertones,” this shade offers a fresh, modern twist on a classic brunette. Think: soft and rich rather than inky and solid. “Mocha mousse is making its name due to its soft and creamy tonal value,” Colombini explains. It’s the kind of shade that grows gracefully, making it ideal for those who want to embrace a low-maintenance color. “Mocha mousse speaks to a desire for balance and simplicity—it’s timeless but never boring,” Bataille adds.
Photo credit: Getty Images / Arnold Jerocki
Take Lisa from Blackpink, for example, whose cool brown hair has just the right amount of subtle shine by way of babylights, which perfectly capture the mocha mousse vibe,
Photo credit: Getty Images / Stefanie Keenan
Jessica Alba’s take on the trend is slightly different, with bolder pieces of cool brown paired with her thicker hand-painted highlights. Ultimately, her color blends together perfectly like a freshly poured latte.
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2. Black cherry red
If you thought black cherry beauty was just a phase, think again. According to Pinterest, the obsession with cherry red will be front and center for 2025. Searches for “dark cherry red” are up 235 percent, while “cherry vibe” has spiked over 300 percent. “Vibrant shades of red—like cherry cola or fiery crimson—are bold and attention-grabbing,” says Bataille. The rich tone has been spotted on stars like Dua Lipa and Megan Fox, proving its versatility for long, flowing looks and sleek, modern cuts. To keep the striking color vibrant and prevent fading, experts recommend an at-home gloss treatment like Pureology’s Color Fanatic Top Coat + Tone Hair Gloss ($36) and color-safe shampoo.
Photo credit: Getty Images / Mindy Small
Dua Lipa’s take on cherry red mixes burgundy-red tones with the singer’s trademark black strands to create a look that’s equal parts subtle and bold.
Photo credit: Getty Images / Dimitrios Kambouris
Yin Chang took a more all-over approach to cherry red, with the vibrant shade starting at her roots. If you want to try a similar look without the commitment, you can use a color-depositing mask for vibrant color that washes out over time. However, keep in mind that these typically appear much more vibrant on blonde and lightly colored hair (whereas it’ll show more like a tint on darker colors).
3. Soft Shadow Roots
One of the most frequently mentioned celebrities by our experts? Miss Espresso herself. “Sabrina Carpenter is having a huge impact right now,” says celebrity colorist and salon founder Rita Hazan. “Her hair color and style are fun, sexy, and natural all at the same time.” The smooth, gradual transition from root to tip creates a polished yet effortless look that stays fresh for longer, making it the perfect choice for a statement-making, low-maintenance blonde. This shade strikes the ideal balance between lived-in ease and refined sophistication. It’s a timeless look that will be undeniably on-trend for 2025.
Margot Robbie’s soft shadow roots is a great option if you don’t want to worry about touch ups between salon appointments. There’s just enough root to make growing out a breeze, but her highlights still melt seamlessly, creating a natural-looking color.
Photo credit: Getty Images / Dimitrios Kambouris
Carpenter’s hair is a brighter-all over blonde with a subtle brown root peeking out that still adds an effortless element to her look.
4. Copper Hair
“Copper is all about making a statement. It’s vibrant, eye-catching, and full of personality,” says Bataille. True copper blends warm chestnut brown with hints of gold—without any purple undertones. Achieving this shade is relatively straightforward for lighter hair, as it only requires a color-depositing process. “For darker hair, you’ll likely need to lift the base to create that bold, fiery glow,” he explains. Bataille emphasizes that customization is key in copper hues, as the wrong undertone can clash with your skin tone, highlighting redness or making the skin appear dull. Since copper tones are prone to fading, using color-safe shampoos and conditioners is essential to keep the shade fresh and radiant.
Lindsay Lohan’s copper is super glossy. For a similar look at home, add a gloss to your routine to keep you color just as vibrant
5. Lacquer Black
Or should we say Brat Black? “Lacquer black is all about blinding shine and depth,” says Diana Mildice, a colorist at Maxine Salon in Chicago. This ultra-glossy shade, seen on celebrities like Charlie XCX and Katy Perry, is achieved by asking for a semi-permanent color paired with a mirror-like gloss treatment. “[One solid color] gives off more richness, depth, and shine than the faded, multi-tonal look,” celebrity colorist Meri Kate O’Connor previously told Well + Good. The result is a bold, high-impact color that feels sleek, sophisticated, and cool. Best of all, it’s easy to maintain at home with color-depositing conditioners and semi-permanent hair-coloring products that keep the shine and depth intact between salon visits.
Photo credit: Getty Images / Dave Benett
Rihanna’s laquer black hair (and soft shoulder-length waves) makes a strong case for solid-color hair in 2025.
Photo credit: Getty Images / Matt Winkelmeyer
Charlie XCX’s color is slightly less jet black, but still a glossy, tonal look nonetheless that’ll look good at any event at any time of year.
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Final takeaway
As we look ahead to 2025, one thing is clear: hair color is all about self-expression, artistry, and embracing what makes you feel confident. Whether you’re drawn to cherry red’s fiery allure, copper’s timeless elegance, or mocha mousse’s subtle sophistication, there’s a shade for every style and personality.
Great color begins in the salon, but maintaining its vibrancy and integrity requires the right at-home products. From statement-making brights to low-maintenance classics, next year’s color trends offer endless possibilities to reinvent your look. So, if you’ve been toying with the idea of a bold (or subtle) change this upcoming year, consider this your friendly push to go for it.
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