The Science Behind Shiny Hair

There’s a method behind shiny hair, and it’s one we’ve managed to decode. To take your hair to new levels of radiance, it’s important to understand the process involved.

There are two types of reflection that occur when light hits the hair – specular and diffuse. Specular reflection is symmetrical and creates a mirror-like shine, whereas diffuse reflection scatters light which results in less intensity. The less concentrated the reflection, the duller the effect. The overall condition of the hair fibre determines its visibility – leaving damaged hair with more diffuse reflection and less shine as a result. When hair is healthy and nourished, the cuticles remain closed, smooth and able to reflect light - creating silky, shiny hair.

The Golden Ratio: The Key To Glossy Hair

First, a lesson in light. The key to how to make hair shiny is in the ratio. When the ratio of specular reflection is higher, this is what we call the Golden Ratio. To find this ideal balance of shine and avoid dull hair, there are a few ingredients and external factors to keep note of.

Enemies of shine: Dirt and sebum are natural rivals of shine. Both attribute to dull hair, causing light to be absorbed rather than reflected. Dirt is deposited on the hair in the form of dust or product residue, while sebum is the oil produced by the scalp. This can cloud the surface of hair fibres, reducing the hair’s capacity for shine. 

Friends of shine: Look for ingredients which encourage hair shine: Marula oil and Camellia oil. Marula oil is extracted from the hard kernel of fruit from the Marula tree and softens the hair resulting in a surface that is better able to reflect light. While camellia oil is taken directly from the seeds of the beautiful Camellia oleifera flower and is known for its nourishing properties.

One way to achieve shiny hair, is by adopting Kerastase Elixir Ultime Original Hair Oil.

1. Wash hair with a nourishing shampoo

With dirt and sebum being the key barriers to shiny hair, a shampoo that cleanses thoroughly is important. The Nutritive Bain Satin Shampoo for Dry Hair works to remove impurities and pollution particles and provides homogenous nourishment from root to tip, leaving it visibly shinier. 

2. Use a lipid-infused conditioner

Infused with lipids, iris root extract and glucids, the Nutritive Lait Vital Conditioner seals the hair fibre, helping to magnify hair’s shine. It smooths, softens and strengthens hair while preserving a light texture. 

3. Introduce a hair oil into your routine

Using a hair oil is the best way to achieve long-lasting shiny hair.Elixir Ultime Original Hair Oil is perfect for all hair types and has a host of nourishing properties. Infused with Marula Oil and Camellia Oil, this formula strengthens hair and helps to restore the hair fibre. Its heat protectant properties also help to combat the damage that comes with heat styling. Introducing a hair oil into your routine will help to smooth hair, allowing it to better reflect light - resulting in intense shine.

4. Use a hair gloss treatment

Hair Gloss treatments like the Chroma Absolu Soin Acide Chroma Gloss can be an easy way to promote intense shine between salon visits. Hair gloss works to coat and seal the hair follicle for less frizz and increased shine. Formulated with Lactic Acid and Centella Asiatica , Kerastase's hair gloss treatment combines cuticle caring benefits of a gloss and the caring benefits of the scalp like a vinegar. To use, simply apply to wet hair after using a shampoo, and follow with a conditioner.

5. Turn down the heat

Applying too much heat to hair, whether it be via the shower or heat styling tools, can cause damage to hair. Damaged hair can cause breakage, frizz and appear dull - the opposite of glossy hair! To help achieve shiny hair, consider washing hair in cold water, as well as using a heat protectant to avoid heat damage when straightening.

6. Don't forget the scalp!

The scalp is frequently overlooked, yet its condition plays a vital role in the overall well-being of your hair. By maintaining the proper hydration and balance of your scalp, you provide an optimal environment for glossy hair to grow, becoming soft, lustrous, and healthy. Incorporating scalp care treatments such as the Nutritive Scalp Food Hydrating Scalp Serum can assist in nourishing your hair from the roots to the tips. Enriched with essential vitamins, this potent serum provides an instant surge of moisture to dry scalps, establishing a solid foundation for new, healthy hair growth.

7. Focus on the ends

To achieve a shiny, glossy hair it's important to address dry ends. Dry ends not only contribute to hair looking lacklustre but can also lead to breakage and split ends. By giving special care and nourishment to your dry ends, you can breathe new life into them, restoring a healthy and vibrant bounce to your locks. For an effective solution, try the Nutritive Fibre Food Hair Serum for Dry Ends. This hair serum is specifically formulated to deliver intense moisture and essential nutrients to your parched and brittle ends. The result? Healthy, shiny hair.