My Wash and Blow Dry Essentials

Wash and Blow Dry Essentials - Politics of Pretty

Wash and Blow Dry Essentials - Politics of Pretty

Wash and Blow Dry Essentials - Politics of Pretty

People always ask if my red hair is my natural hue. I wish. But I always make it a point to say that I do have natural red highlights! What I do love to brag about is how I’m able to preserve my red tresses using R+Co Gemstone Color Shampoo and Conditioner (c/o Neiman Marcus). This luxe duo is perfect for anyone with color-treated hair. I apply a quarter-size amount of the shampoo and work to a lather, which is infused with Hibiscus extract (softens and conditions), Pea extract (protects discoloration), Rice Extract (smoothes and maintains moisture), and Golden Root Extract (combats thermal stress). Its partner-in-crime conditioner has all the same benefits of the shampoo plus a light airy fragrance that leaves my fiancé constantly wanting to sniff my hair (weird, but somewhat romantic right?). I only apply a dime-size amount of conditioner (a little goes a long way) and focus on my ends and comb through my wet hair for even distribution. Much of my blow dry routine is dictated by how much time I have. If I’m in the mood to get all dolled up, I follow through with R+Co Chiffon Styling Mousse, a lightweight mousse for volume, body and shine. Lately I’ve been lusting natural soft curls (I have naturally straight hair) and my new GHD Curve Soft Curl Iron (1 1/4 inch) is so easy to use and heats up in a jiffy. If I’m in a rush or don’t feel like drying my hair, I reach for L’Oreal Blow Dry It Thermal Smoother Cream and Quick Dry Primer Spray (c/o L’Oreal Paris). While I have yet to find a drugstore anti-frizz product that eliminates frizz, this cream helps with managing it. And for just under $4, L’Oreal’s Primer Spray cuts my drying time in half while shielding against any heat damage from my dryer. I rarely have time to primp during the weekdays so I use this spray religiously.

Do you have a holy grail hair product? I’d love to hear about your recent purchases in the comments section!

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Photography by Kate Ann