The hair is among the first things that other people notice in us. Know how to properly take care of your hair to leave that lasting impression to others.

Shiny, healthy hair never goes out of style. Whether your locks are straight, long, curly, or cropped, keeping your crowning glory in top condition is a must.

Caring for your hair, however, need not be expensive or complicated. By sticking to the basics and maintaining a simple routine, you will have lovely hair in no time and with only minimal spending!

Below are some tips on how to properly take care of your hair:

1. Get a flattering haircut. Don’t be afraid to spend money on a hairstyle that works for you. Getting a haircut that you are happy with will spare you from spending your money on styling products. Do some research before heading to the salon – look through magazines or pictures to find a cut that matches the shape of your face and, if possible, bring a snapshot of your desired style to show your hairdresser.

2. Know your hair and scalp type. Before purchasing hair care products, know exactly what it is that your hair and scalp need.

There are 4 basic hair and scalp types – dry, normal, oily and treated. A dry scalp tends to be itchy and flaky, while dry hair tends to be dull and frizzy. Moisturizing shampoo and frequent (possible daily) use of a conditioning product are needed.

Oily hair, on the other hand, tends to be limp and volume-less, and could also mean a flaky scalp. Use products that are specially made for oily hair. Try to shampoo daily to reduce build-up, but use a conditioning product only every other day at the most and concentrate on the tips of your hair rather than on the roots.

Finally, dyed or treated hair needs the most care of all due to the damaging chemicals found in most hair dyes. Get hair products tailor-made for color-treated hair and take frequent trips to the salon for protein- or vitamin-rich hair treatments.

3. Less is more. The less chemicals you put on your hair and the less styling you do, the healthier it will become. Frequent use of styling products such as mousse, hairspray, creams and dyes can cause build-up which will leave your hair dull and lifeless. Regular use of hairdryers and irons can also sap your hair of its natural sheen and moisture, leaving your hair brittle and dry. Try to live with a shampoo-conditioner routine for everyday use and save those special products and styling tools for special occasions.