© Karwai Tang/Getty Images
Brad Pitt’s slicked back hair
If Brad Pitt has now cut his locks, the American actor wore his hair quite long not so long ago. He liked to give them volume and space to express themselves or sometimes flatten them, as in this photo. Hot guy.
© Daniele Venturelli/Getty Images
How to style medium hair
1. Moisturize your hair
Swelling hair is your worst enemy. And more often than not, it’s because you’re not using the right product on the right part of your hair, says Melissa DeZarate. “You’re probably not applying enough moisturizing products, such as styling creams, to the middle of your hair and the ends. You need to weigh the hair down a bit to prevent it from becoming too voluminous.” But don’t be heavy-handed with the roots, as they are normally already well hydrated due to being close to the scalp (as long as you don’t use too much shampoo). “Product buildup can cause greasy, sticky roots, as if you haven’t washed your hair,” continues Melissa DeZarate.
2. Don’t overdo it
If you want medium or long hair, it is essential to use lighter styling products. Compared to short cuts, there is less emphasis on fit because gravity makes things easier. So while hair of this length requires more care, the styling step is normally simplified. “Start by spraying a volume spray or styling spray on wet or towel-dried hair,” explains the expert. “Comb or brush your hair and, while it is still damp, apply a mint of styling cream. You can add more as you go, but start with a small amount to determine what your hair can tolerate. Then style your hair to your preference and let it air dry for minimal maintenance.
3. Use a hairdryer in winter (or when you’re in a hurry)
If you can stay at home while your hair dries, that is ideal and you can avoid using the hair dryer. There is one exception, says Melissa DeZarate: very cold days. “During the winter months, your hair is more likely to become brittle and dry due to the lack of humidity in the air,” she continues. Be sure to use a diffuser tip on the end of your hairdryer, as this creates an easy-to-manage airflow and dries hair evenly, rather than from roots to ends. According to Melissa DeZarate, it is highly recommended to protect your hair with a heat protectant spray or cream before drying, to coat the hair and lock in moisture. If possible, use an ionic hair dryer.
“Set the device on the lowest speed but at a high temperature to ‘harden’ your hair. Let them cool before styling them, so you don’t have to touch them during the day. Once your hair is dry, shake it out for a more casual, low-maintenance style.” You can use this technique every day of the year, especially when you’re in a hurry. But if you use a blow dryer every day, you run the risk of developing frizz, split ends, breakage, and more if you don’t maintain a good hair care routine.
How to care for your medium length hair
Styling alone is not enough.
1. Find the right balance between shampoo and conditioner
According to Jessica Ortiz, you should wash your hair two to three times a week, although this frequency may change if you exercise/sweat a lot or if there are other factors that require more frequent shampooing. “Apply conditioner after every shampoo and, in between washes, opt for the co-washing technique, where you only use conditioner to rinse out styling products or sweat,” she continues. Some brands also offer special co-washing conditioners that rinse easily and provide a good balance between two full wash routines.
Find the balance that works for you: it’s not good to wash your hair too often as it risks becoming dry and brittle, but it shouldn’t be greasy either. Try to limit yourself to shampooing every two days at first, and then spread out the washes a bit more. Shampooing every three days can be a goal, especially if you can use the co-washing technique on the days in between.
2. Change your routine with the seasons
Jessica Ortiz recommends changing your hair care routines seasonally: “During the winter months, choose shampoos and conditioners that are rich in natural oils and saturated with moisturizing properties,” she begins. “During the summer months, when the weather is humid and sunny, it is best to opt for a smoothing shampoo and conditioner to prevent frizz.”