The 10 hair commandments

#1: Thou shalt manage thy mane"If your hair is damaged, dry or colour-treated, it is best to use products formulated to repair and hydrate, adding much-needed strength. If your hair is oily, I suggest a deep-cleansing shampoo and a light conditioner to keep it looking its best."

#2: Thou shalt not steal the moisture from thy hair Are you a victim of washing your hair every day? You're not alone. Daily washing steals the natural oils from the hair cuticle and can leave your tresses weak, limp and difficult to work with. "I suggest washing hair every two to three days and for extra protection, finish with a cool-to-cold rinse to help seal the hair cuticle and impart natural shine."

#3: Thou shalt worship nourishing products A mild shampoo is best for hair, especially in the warmer months when hair is exposed to harsh conditions such as sun, salt and chlorine. It is vital to following washing with a nourishing conditioner.

#4: Thou shalt invest in at-home treatments "I recommend investing in an intensive repair treatment. Repair masks penetrate deep into the hair cuticle, offering a surge of moisture, replenishing the condition of your hair once again."

#5: Thou shalt use heating tools with caution Are you wedded to your hair straightener and blow dryer? Created specifically to prevent heat damage, thermal protecting products are a must. "These products create a fine layer around the cuticle of your hair, preventing the heat generated by the appliance from penetrating your cuticle, which will leave it dry, dull and damaged."

#6: Thou shalt have patience with knots "Frustrating knots need to be tended to with care to hinder breakage. I suggest brushing hair before washing it and then when wet, use a wide tooth comb to ease the knots. For fine, dry or fragile hair it is best to brush with a conditioner in to hinder breakage."

#7: Thou shalt let it hang loose Wearing your tresses in a tight bun or braid can cause breakage and baldness, so let it hang loose on occasions.

#8: Thou shalt protect hair from the sun As summer approaches, harsh summer rays, salt water and chlorine all contribute to the degradation of the hair follicle. Always use moisturising sprays with SPF which shield the hair from UV. Once a week use a cleansing shampoo as well as a nourishing treatment.

#9: Thou shalt be religious about salon visits Regular trims and salon treatments will keep hair in optimum condition. "I suggest you visit your salon every six to eight weeks."

#10: Thou shalt be the envy of your friends This is a given if you follow the 10 commandments, the last being to always maintain a style that suits your colouring, lifestyle and facial structure.

Try supporting Tauranga's local students and get a bargain while you do so...

Atrium Hair Design, Bay of Plenty Polytech (Windermere Campus)

Click the image to go to the information page on their website, you can access their price lists here.  Also look at the beauty salon if you make your hair appointment on a Friday - have a day of complete pampering and indulgence on a beer budget!

Hair to Train is in downtown Tauranga, at 9 Anson Street.

Click on the image to go to their Salon page, outlining the services they provide and the costs.  There is also a map showing how to find them on their contact page.

The Hairdressing Academy is also in downtown Tauranga, on the corner of Devonport Road and Elizabeth Street, so really easy to find. 

Like the Polytech, you can also take advantage of the beauty training salon and have a day of complete indulgence.  You will need to phone them for details about their services and costs; their contact details are available by licking the image.