20 essential tips for your best hair ever

The type of brush that's best for your hair really depends on your hair type. If it's curly, consider a Denman brush that can be used to create perfect spirals, and fine-haired folks should consider using a brush with flexible bristles to prevent pulling out hair unnecessarily. 

Your hair is super stretchy when it's wet, and vigorous brushing can cause hair to break off mid-shaft. Use a wide-toothed comb, or brush specifically designed for wet hair, to avoid damage. 

Heat is highly damaging to hair, as anyone with a blow dryer or curling iron addiction knows. Consider allowing your hair to air-dry occasionally, and use hot tools like curling irons and straightening irons on the lowest possible heat setting. 

If you are going to use heat on your hair, invest in a product that will help protect the delicate strands from being damaged by high temperatures. Heat protectant sprays are available in a wide variety of price points, from drugstore classics to high-end salon options, and can make a major difference in your styling routine. 

Hair colors and bleach contain chemicals that can be damaging to hair, but there are options with much less impact. If you're looking for vivid colors, try vegetable-based dyes like Manic Panic for temporary color that will actually add a boost of conditioning. Henna is also a great choice for those who want to tint their hair in natural, earthy tones. 

Bond builders, which help improve the chemical bonds in your hair, have been all the rage in recent years thanks to cult-favorite brands like Olaplex. If you've got damage caused by heat, hair color, or too many ponytails, consider adding a bond-building product to your routine for longer, stronger hair. 

It's weird to think about, but the type of pillowcase you sleep on can have significant impacts on your hair. Cotton pillowcases can be rough and create tangling, while smooth silk pillowcases allow hair to glide without snagging. 

Ponytails and messy buns are endlessly convenient, but tying your hair back too often — or too tight — can result in damage or hair loss. Try to make sure your ponytails are as loose as possible, and let your hair down every once in a while to keep those buns from causing massive breakage. 

If you have to wear your hair up, changing your hair tie can make a major difference. Typical cloth-wrapped rubber bands are notorious for pulling out hair, while scrunchies made from velvet and silk are much less likely to pull. 

If you've experienced minor hair loss, supplementation is a good way to bring back what you've lost. Talk with your doctor about adding a biotin supplement or prenatal vitamins to your routine to restore hair health — and benefit your nails and skin while you're at it. 

If your ends are looking ratty, the best option can't be found in a bottle. Regular trims will keep your ends looking fresh, and may also encourage hair to grow more quickly. 

Many folks wash their hair every day, and that can be seriously damaging. Consider swapping up your routine to wash every other day, or even every 3-4 days to preserve the scalp's natural oils. 

If your locks feel a little crispy, consider investing in a leave-in conditioner that can add moisture and strength without weighing hair down. 

Even the best hair routine needs a little boost every once in a while, and masks are a great way to add a hefty dose of moisture to your hair without a ton of effort. You can do a mask in the shower, or allow it to sit on your hair for a couple of hours for maximum effect. 

Tap water contains all sorts of minerals that can make hair look dull, and a shower filter is a cheap solution to the problem. Priced at around $40 and up, these filters are easy to install and can make a major difference in the appearance of hair and skin. 

If you've been using a lot of heavy conditioners or lots of product, it's likely that your scalp has some build-up. Grab a clarifying shampoo to remove that build-up, and make hair shinier and more voluminous at the same time. 

Studies indicate that foods packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, like walnuts and salmon, can have a positive impact on skin and hair health. The same goes for protein, which is largely what hair is made up of. 

Everyone has a (hair) type. Whether your locks are fine and straight or thick and curly, figuring out your hair type is an essential step in establishing the perfect hair routine. Consult with a stylist to determine which products and styles are best for your hair without causing tons of damage. 

In addition to feeling great, scalp massages can also boost circulation, which is a great way to improve your overall scalp health. Use moisturizing hair oils for a DIY massage, or enlist a friend or significant other to provide a deep, extra-stimulating massage. 

Washing your hair in super-hot water can be drying, but most folks can't stand the thought of a freezing cold shower. Make a compromise by rinsing your hair at the end with cool water for shinier hair that just looks healthier.