Fringe Advice: Deep Conditioning

If you're anything like me, you've spent at least a few days on a plane this last month, or cozying up to some extra warmth like a fireplace or radiator. Or how about all that extra time you've spent blowdrying your hair because it's too cold outside to let your hair air dry? If you're incredibly lucky maybe you've even seen some ski slopes and have enjoyed some snow. All of these winter activities have one thing in common: drying out your hair. This is what today's Fringe Advice is all about.

It's time for some winter deep conditioning.

But Nicole, you say, I'm using conditioner every time I wash my hair. That's good [it's what you're supposed to be doing, even if you have oily hair], but the winter climes for most of us mean bringing out the big guns. I'm talking hair masks, people.

But Nicole, you say, I don't have extra time for all these shenanigans. Do you have five minutes once a week? We all have five minutes to make our hair shinier, softer, easier to comb, and more luxurious looking. Yes. 

So here's my favorites, in no particular order:

Kerastase Age Recharge: don't let the name fool you, this isn't just for aging hair. This is a mask used to refortify your hair, building it up from inside. Stronger hair absorbs moisture more readily, therefore stronger hair means more hydrated hair.

TIGI S Factor Serious Conditioner: this one has a great minty scent and intense moisture from sunflower seed oil. Comes also in a tub if you're looking for a bigger size, and the price point can't be beat.

Davines NouNou Pak: a step up from the NouNou conditioner, this nourishing mask repairs, moisturizes and protects, all in one container.

Kerastase Masquintense for Thick Hair: the minute you apply Masquintense to your hair, you notice a difference. This has the ultimate moisture delivery, and comes in a formulation for fine hair as well.

Now that we know what to use, here's how you use it.

1. Shampoo your hair using your favorite nourishing/hydrating/strenthening shampoo.
2. Rinse shampoo out, squeezing out excess water. Use a small towel if you've got it handy near the shower/tub.
3. Apply the mask beginning with the ends of the hair. Work the product up the hair until you reach the scalp. Hair is healthiest at the scalp, it doesn't need nearly as much conditioning as the ends do.
4. Comb through with an extra wide tooth comb.
5. Pin your hair up if it's long enough using a hair clip. Put a shower cap on if you've got one.
6. Let the mask soak in while you soak in the tub, or do whatever else you need to do in the shower, for five minutes. I like to take this time to apply a nice facial scrub or shave my legs.
7. Rinse and fall in love with your newly silky hair!

Easy, yes? I know this is going to produce the best head of hair you've had in years, so let's not waste any time. Get to masking!