What Are Hairstyling Creams?

Unlike the more lightweight hair serums or heavier hair oils, hairstyling creams sit somewhere between the two. Designed to be used on damp hair pre-styling (or even on dry lengths, depending on the formula), they work to hydrate, smooth, define curls, add shine and offer heat protection as you style. Thanks to their number of benefits, they're a great addition to your haircare routine to streamline your wash day without having to reach for several different products. They can also help to make your style last for longer if you're using a hair straightener or a curling wand, or some can also be used on dry hair to refresh your style, de-frizz or add shine and softness in between shampoos.

However, finding a good hairstyling cream for your hair type and concerns can prove tricky, especially with the sheer number of products out there. So, I've called upon the Who What Wear UK editorial team to share their favourite hairstyling creams below, so you can find the best one for your hair texture and hairstyling needs. We've tried hundreds of them between us, so these are the only ones that are truly deserving of a spot in your routine.

The Best Hairstyling Creams

• Best Overall: Hershesons Almost Everything Cream
• Best for Smoothing: Ouai Anti Frizz Crème
• Best for Curls: Cantu Shea Butter Coconut Curling Cream
• Best for Air-Drying: JVN Hair Complete Air-Dry Cream
• Best for Lasting Hold: Gisou Honey Milk 5-in-1 Styling Cream

1. Hershesons Everything Cream

Hershesons Almost Everything Cream is a beauty team favourite for multiple reasons. Firstly, as the name suggests, it can be used in so many ways, whether you want to smooth frizz and flyaways, define curls, add a piecey texture to dry hair or create a slicked-back bun. It does it all. "It's the hairstyling cream I use on my fine straight hair," says Who What Wear UK beauty director, Shannon Lawlor. "It doesn't weigh anything down, and I love that I can use it for absolutely anything and everything, from slicked styles to adding hydration on the ends or creating waves."

2. Ouai Anti Frizz Crème

I have coarse, frizzy hair that is often exacerbated during humid or rainy weather, and this is one of the few hairstyling creams that helps to keep my hair looking and feeling smooth. It hydrates my somewhat wavy hair enough without feeling heavy and helps my hair stay sleek for a couple of days, but it can also be used on dry hair if you need to top up your style in between hair washes. Like all Ouai products, the scent is incredible. This one has its iconic Melrose Place scent, which is a soft rosy musk that wafts from your hair every time your hair swishes.

3. Color Wow One Minute Transformation Styling Cream

4. Cantu Shea Butter Coconut Curling Cream

"My hair needs a lot of extra moisture to feel like it's been properly cared for, and I've always used Cantu for its nourishing oils and buttery soft creams to lock that in," says Who What Wear UK fashion editor, Remy Farrell. "When I'm between protective styles, I like to give my natural hair a chance to breathe and recuperate, so I'll deep wash, condition and finish with curling cream to style it. Now I have a daughter with a slightly different hair texture but a very impressive head of curls that tend to get a little dry, so I use the Cantu for Kids Curling Cream (£6) daily to help detangle and finish her hair in five minutes."

5. JVN Hair Complete Air Dry Cream

JVN's air-dry cream has become a bit of a modern icon, and for good reason. On those days when you don't want to blowdry your hair, this air-drying cream offers the perfect amount of hold, definition and smoothness without feeling crunchy in your hair. I find that it never fails to enhance my loose waves, softly defining the lengths whilst remaining soft and flexible to the touch. It's a great summer essential for heatwaves and holidays. Our deputy beauty editor, Grace Lindsay, is also a fan of it for her wavy hair.

6. Oribe Imperial Blowout Transformative Styling Crème

Oribe's incredible formulas need little introduction, but this hair styling cream is one of the best if you have the budget to splurge, and comes highly recommended by our editorial writer, Brittany Davy. It replicates the glossy, bouncy effect you get from blowdries at high-end salons, leaving your lengths looking and feeling glossy and volumised. The secret is down to the unique cream-to-oil-to-powder texture, which simultaneously hydrates, glosses and volumises your hair as you blowdry, helping to lock in your style with lasting hold. Spenny? Yes. Worth it? 100%.

7. Living Proof Style Lab Air-Dry Styler

"I often use the Living Proof Air-Dry Styler on days when I'm too lazy to get my hair tools out. It's not so much of a cream in the typical sense, but more of a thick, milky liquid that leaves my waves feeling naturally tousled and smoothed, without the frizz," says SEO writer Ava Gilchrist. "A little goes a long way, and you have to shake well before use, but it instantly makes me look more put-together than if I let my hair dry on its own."

8. Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser's Invisible Oil Heat/UV Protective Primer

If you find that most hairstyling creams are too heavy, then this lightweight, milky cream comes in a mist format that's easy to distribute through your hair without weighing your lengths down. "I will say I’m a little OTT when it comes to skin and haircare products—more is always good! Though there are a few I move around in rotation, the one product that I will never replace is the Bumble and Bumble Invisible Oil Primer," says junior branded content editor Humaa Hussain. "It has seriously kept my hair from heat damage (I’ve been straightening it almost every day since I was 12, so I can only imagine what state it would have been in otherwise). I just saturate my freshly washed hair before blowdrying, and voilà."

9. Gisou Honey Milk 5-In-1 Styling Cream

A newer hairstyling cream I've added to my routine is this one from Gisou, which I've been using to prep my hair when I want a bouncy blowdry to last several days. I love a multi-purpose hairstyling cream that does the job of five, and this one literally does it all; it increases shine, offers heat protection, smooths frizziness, hydrates and offers long-lasting hold. And I can attest that it excels at all of them, leaving my hair feeling glossy, soft and bouncy after styling. The honey scent also smells delicious and has me sniffing my hair throughout the day.

How We Tested

Our editorial and beauty teams have tested hundreds of hairstyling creams between us, so we've tested the very best ones on the market. Our editorial team have different hair types and hair care concerns, so we've been able to identify the best ones for both your hair texture and your hair's needs in your routine. Many of these hairstyling creams have been permanent favourites in our routines for years, and we have also tested new hairstyling creams to see which ones make the cut for us to recommend.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

Although I don't dye my curly hair, I've watched pretty much all of the women in my life go through this to some degree, and something they always have on deck is a high-quality root touch-up product. If you're unfamiliar, these formulas function exactly how they sound. When your roots are growing out, the right product will blend that new growth in seamlessly with the rest of your hair.

Outside of the appearance of your hair, there's the added benefit of being able to extend your time between salon appointments, which also means you're saving money. Still, the market is saturated, making it difficult to determine which brands actually deliver the results you want. To make your search easier, I went ahead and chatted with a hairstylist to find the seven best root touch-up products worth adding to your cart right now. Happy shopping!

The Best Root Touch-Ups, at a Glance

• Best Overall: Madison Reed Root Perfection Root Touch Up Permanent Hair Color Kit
• Runner-Up: Clairol Nice'n Easy Root Touch-Up Permanent Hair Color
• Best Multipurpose: DPHue Gloss+ Toning
• Best Splurge: Color Wow Root Coverup Powder
• Best Ammonia-Free: Clairol Natural Instincts Root Touch-Up Permanent Hair Dye

The Best Root Touch-Ups in 2026

Best Overall: Madison Reed Root Perfection Root Touch Up Permanent Hair Color Kit

Runner-Up: Clairol Nice'n Easy Root Touch-Up Permanent Hair Color

Best Multipurpose: DPHue Gloss+ Toning

Best Splurge: Color Wow Root Coverup Powder

Best Budget: L'Oréal Magic Root Permanent Hair Color

Best Ammonia-Free: Clairol Natural Instincts Root Touch-Up Permanent Hair Dye

Best for Travel: Bumble and Bumble Color Stick Root Coverup

How We Chose

As with all of our buying guides at Who What Wear, we compile our edits based on original testing and expert recommendations. To find the best root touch-up products, we leaned heavily on industry insiders, firsthand testing, and our knowledge as beauty experts. We also considered several factors, including shade range, formula type, and customer reviews. We're aware of how important these factors are for a wide range of needs and preferences, so we made sure to list out all the helpful details.

Why Trust Who What Wear

At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Since 2006, our editors have tested thousands of products—including skincare, makeup, haircare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.

Who What Wear has been a digital fashion, beauty, and lifestyle publication and community where people can discover the latest brands, trends, and must-have products to help define and evolve their personal style. Think of Who What Wear as your most trusted style and shopping resource.

To ensure I enter September with the liquid lengths of my dreams, I consulted celebrity hairstylist Xavier Velasquez for a personal checklist. Ahead, find the top three tips I'm committing to… starting now. If you too want to kick off fall with the most luxurious-looking hair of your life, I suggest you do the same. Consider it a collective challenge.

1. Slot in Weekly Reparative Treatments

Here's the thing about "liquid" hair: Healthy, thriving strands better reflect light. So while you can use as many shiny sprays as you please, know that the result won't last unless you focus on repair. "The ultimate 'liquid' finish happens at the cuticle level," Velasquez agrees. Don't get me wrong; shine sprays are great! They add a nice, luminous coat to your strands, much like a lip gloss provides temporary sparkle, but the effect is just that—temporary.

To ensure long-term silkiness, try slotting in a bond-repairing or deep-conditioning treatment at least once a week. "Look for formulas that smooth and seal the cuticle to create a healthier, more reflective surface," Velasquez suggests. Bonus points if you select a shine-boosting treatment that simultaneously repairs from within. And for those with color-treated strands, make sure you seek out color-safe formulas and steer clear of any clarifying agents or alcohols to avoid stripping the pigment.

My Top Favorite Formulas

2. Rinse With Cold Water

It sounds simple, but a cold-water rinse works wonders for instant silkiness. Don't worry—that doesn't mean you must take a freezing shower. Simply turn the faucet to cold after rinsing out your conditioner, right before you're ready to hop out. "I always recommend rinsing your hair with cold water at the end of washing to seal the cuticle, which locks in smoothness and maximizes shine," Velasquez shares.

A quick, cold-water soak has some skincare benefits too (not to mention a calming effect on the body), so think of it like the easiest beauty hack to ever exist. I personally like to detangle during this step, using either a wide-tooth comb or my trusty Tangle Teezer brush. A showerhead filter is also great for preventing mineral buildup on the hair shaft, which often makes strands appear duller.

My In-Shower Staples

3. Trim the Ends

"The first thing that I'd recommend is a trim," Velasquez declares. You might not think it'll do much for shine, but take it from the pro: Dead, damaged ends can make your whole mane look lackluster. "Split ends don’t repair themselves," he adds. "When left untreated, they’ll continue to travel up the hair shaft leaving your hair looking dull, frizzy, and lifeless." Contrary to what you might think, regular haircuts also help with length too; again, split ends can travel up the hair shaft and break off, thus hindering growth.

At the end of the day, all the repairing hair masks in the world won't revive ends in dire need of a trim. It's much better to snip them off and start anew, so those hydrating, shine-boosting formulas can actually do their jobs. "It’s one of the most effective ways to revive dull hair in time for the fall season," Velasquez assures. By the time September rolls around, you'll be sporting the shiniest, silkiest strands.

Shop More Shine-Inducing Hair Products

After testing more than 20 hydrating shampoos, hair oils, strand serums, leave-in conditioners, and drying methods, I can finally share what made my texture sing.

Identifying Your Hair Type

After working in beauty for more than four years, I've learned to use the hair-typing system established by Oprah's hairstylist, Andre Walker, as a basic framework for characterizing texture. This system separates hair types into categories labeled by the numbers 1–4 and letters a–c. The smaller the number, the straighter and finer the hair, and the more progressive the letter, the tighter the texture.

According to Walker's system, wavy hair is category 2. Type 2a has the finest weight and loosest curls, 2b falls between fine and medium with a bit more frizz and S-shaped waves, and 2c is thicker with more defined S-shaped waves from roots to ends. After many hairstyling sessions and four years of writing about beauty, I've identified my type as 2b and consulted the pros to bring my texture to life.

"An easy way to tell if you have any wave in your hair is to do an air-dry test," says celebrity hairstylist Ashley Streicher. "After washing your hair, towel-dry and don't brush your hair flat. You can brush/comb it in the shower with conditioner if needed, but once out of the towel, find your part and let it air-dry completely." If waves or curls begin to take shape, congratulations—you have texture to embrace.

Guides like Walker's hair-typing system are a great visual for deciphering your specific type, though Streicher also recommends consulting a professional if you want another opinion. "I think it's really most important to find out if you have wavy (2a, b, or c), curly (3a, b, or c), or coily (4a, b, or c)," says she. "Those three different hair types would need different types of products for styling efficacy."

Speaking of styling efficacy, here are the exact expert-backed steps and products I used to embrace, enhance, and define my natural waves. It's safe to say my hot tools are getting lonely these days.

My 4-Step Wavy-Hair Routine

1. Wash Hair With Hydrating Shampoo

Wavy hair can range from fine to medium-thick in texture, which means that it's prone to frizz and flatness. To keep your mane feeling natural and airy, Streicher suggests opting for lightweight hydrating shampoos that smooth frizz and boost volume. "If you need to, comb through your hair while still in the shower while it's being rinsed," she suggests. I do this step—thumbing through my wet waves for even product dispersion and detangling—while applying and rinsing out my conditioner. But let this be the last time you comb your hair, as additional brushing can straighten out your bends.

Shop Shampoo for Wavy Hair

2. Use a Leave-In Conditioner

After rinsing out a similarly light, hydrating conditioner, the real action begins. After patting yourself dry, lean over your tub to let your hair fall forward, making it easy to twist up in a hair wrap. Streicher recommends letting your hair sit like this for five minutes before moving on to any next steps.

"When you release your hair, find your parting and finger-comb through your waves gently, so as to not disturb them or any volume," she chides. From this point on, the hairstylist forbids you to comb or brush your hair again. Instead, apply a leave-in conditioner that will smooth your strands, define the texture, and further seal the cuticle.

"Squeeze the product into your hair, slowly making your way to the roots," she instructs. I do this by scrunching sections of my hair from below, letting my waves pool in the palm of my hand before shaping the hair inside. "Be gentle," she adds. All there's left to do is air-dry your waves, so keep your hands off and let them dry down your back.

Shop Leave-In Conditioner for Wavy Hair

3. Use a Diffuser (If Necessary)

Let's face it—we don't always have time to get air-dried curls before jetting to our next commitment. On days when I want to achieve the look of natural, air-dried waves without the 30 minutes it takes for my mane to do the work, I'll use a diffuser to maximize time. Celebrity hairstylist Bobby Eliot taught me not only to diffuse my strands from below but also to press the diffuser to the sides of the head and capture the length from the side, creating scrunched, defined texture.

Shop Diffusers for Wavy Hair

4. Use a Light Hair Oil

Right before my hair is completely dry, I use a lightweight hair oil to smooth any frizz and pesky flyaways. "Wavy hair thrives with lightweight styling products that enhance your natural wave but don't weigh it down," Streicher explains. It's for this reason (and the fact that I don't want to comb through and ruin my waves) that I often opt for fine mists like Chris McMillan's Lightweight Glassy Smooth Hair Oil or watery serums that I can scrunch into waves, like Rōz's Santa Lucia Styling Oil. See more of my go-tos below.

Shop Hair Oil for Wavy Hair

How to Revive Second-Day Waves

While nothing feels as fabulous as those washday waves, you can easily revive your texture if it's starting to fall flat or lose its bounce on the second or third day. Below, see my favorite texture-resurrecting mists, frizz-smoothing butters, and hair wavers to touch up in between washes.

From my preteen years through college, I would religiously straighten my curly hair. But outside of my salon appointments, I wasn’t using heat on my hair—I always air-dried it. So needless to say, I was genuinely floored when I learned that I could use a diffuser to dry my curls without messing with my natural pattern.

In my early 20s, I decided to stop straightening my hair altogether, but I still limited how much heat I used. To be fair, I spent so many years damaging my hair that now I only use a diffuser on my hair when I go in for my curly cuts. Outside of that, I'm always air-drying my hair, which means using the right products to get the best results is crucial for me. Although I have my own top picks that I'm willing to share, I also wanted to know which products the best hairstylists in the biz loved too. Curious to know what they had to say? See their insights ahead.

Best Mousse: The Doux Mousse Def Texture Foam Curl Enhance

Best Gel: Pattern by Tracee Ellis Ross Curl Gel Crème

Best Spray: R+Co Rockaway Salt Spray

Best Anti-Frizz Cream: Ouai Anti-Frizz Hair Styling Cream

Best Budget: Odele Air Dry Styler for Light Moisture, Definition + Shine

Best Multipurpose: Brazil Edition Leave in Hair Treatment

Best Anti-frizz Gel: Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Heat & Humidity Anti-Frizz Strong Hold Gel

Is Air-Drying Better Than Heat-Drying?

The jury is still out on this debate. On one hand, leaving hair wet for a prolonged period can cause it to lose elasticity, making it prone to breakage. At the same time, Simmonds points out that air-drying carries zero risk of heat damage. "The best way to air-dry successfully is by understanding which products and in which order they need to be layered," he says. "To avoid frizz, once you've set it, keep it hands off."

How We Chose

As with all of our buying guides at Who What Wear, we compile our edits based on original testing and expert recommendations. To find the best products for air-drying hair, we leaned heavily on firsthand testing and our knowledge as beauty experts. We also considered several factors, including formula type, key ingredients, size, and customer reviews. We're aware of how important these factors are for a wide range of needs and preferences, so we made sure to list out all the helpful details.

Why Trust Who What Wear

At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Since 2006, our editors have tested thousands of products—including skincare, makeup, haircare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.

Who What Wear has been a digital fashion, beauty, and lifestyle publication and community where people can discover the latest brands, trends, and must-have products to help define and evolve their personal style. Think of Who What Wear as your most trusted style and shopping resource.

Now, I still sport slick-backs on a weekly basis, and I've pretty much mastered how to achieve a sleek look that lasts all day. Like many other people, I'll opt for this style whenever it feels right. Sometimes, it's for formal events. Other times, I just want to feel put together with minimal effort, or I want my hair out of my face until the next washday.

In my opinion, it's a foolproof style, but I genuinely believe that having the right hair products dictates the final result more than anything else. So to save you the hassle of searching through thousands of options on the market, I'm sharing the best slick-back products out there with the help of educator and founder of Mint Well Head Spa Kimberly Michelle. Keep scrolling for our top picks.

See the Best Products for Slick-Backs in 2026

Apply Leave-In Conditioner

Leave-in conditioner is optional, but it's a great place to start if you need to detangle your hair. "I start with smooth, fully detangled hair and work on it dry or slightly damp if the hair has texture," says Michelle. I've been using Pattern's leave-in for over five years and swear by it for removing knots and styling. For a lighter product, consider trying Innersense's Sweet Spirit Leave In Conditioner spray.

Add Gel

Gel is main product that you'll need for your slick-back. I prefer to use Aunt Jackie's Flaxseed Don't Shrink Curling Gel but those with more textured hair may benefit from the Eco Style Olive Oil Gel (which I also tested and loved). Meanwhile, the Kenra Professional's Styling Gel 17 Strong Hold Hair Gel works well on other hair types like straight, wavy, and fine hair.

"I apply my holding product in sections, working from the nape up to the crown, then the sides, and finishing with the front," says Michelle. "I also adjust the amount of product based on the hair’s texture and density." She notes that finer hair usually needs less product, while thicker or more textured hair may benefit from working in smaller sections.

Brush It In

To direct the hair into one secured position, Michelle suggests using a smoothing brush. Boar-bristle or combo brushes tend to be a popular choice, which is why I'm a big fan of the Bounce Curl Volume Edgelift Brush. It smoothes my hair out when I want to do a bun, but it also has small ridges on each side that I can use when I want to wear my hair down and define my curls. It's one of those multipurpose products I can't live without. If you're willing to splurge, La Bonne Brosse's Small Brush No2 is also a great pick for anyone with straight, wavy, or fine hair.

Secure It With a Hair Tie

This step goes without saying, but having a sturdy hair tie is a must. To prevent excess breakage, I love using satin scrunchies like the ones below. I also do what I can to make sure I'm not tying my hair back too tightly. "The biggest thing is avoiding excessive tension," says Michelle. "A great slick-back should look sleek because of your technique and product placement, not because the hair is pulled too tightly."

Style Your Edges

This step is optional, but if you decide to style your edges, consider investing it a styling tool like the Fenty Beauty The Sidestick 3-in-1 Edge Styling Tool to use with your go-to gel. "[The Fenty tool] is great for detail work because you have a brush, comb, and precision tip in one tool," says Michelle. "It gives you a lot of control when refining the hairline and shorter hairs."

Because baby hairs tend to be more fragile, you can also try a formula that's gentle but still provides hold like the Ruka Hair Hold Me Down Edge Control Gel. "One of my favorite tricks is tying a silk or satin scarf around the hairline and crown for about five to 10 minutes while the style sets," says Michelle. "It helps lay down any remaining flyaways and creates an even smoother finish."

Final Touches

I don't know who needs to hear this, but finishing sprays and wax sticks are the MVPs of slick-backs. They take seconds to apply, and the sticks are especially helpful for on-the-go touch-ups. The Got2b Glued Wax Stick and Not Your Mother's Wax Stick have an especially strong hold, making them great options for textured hair.

If you prefer a slightly gentler hold that also softens hair, I suggest the Oribe Smoothing Wax Stick. It's a bit more expensive than some other options out there, but believe me when I say it's absolutely worth it. I prefer it when I've already put a lot of product in my hair throughout the week and want to avoid buildup.

And although I personally don't use finish spray Michelle is a huge fan of the Kenra Platinum Finishing Spray 26. "I finish with this because it gives a strong, long-lasting hold while also adding a beautiful polished shine, which is perfect for a sleek style."

“People usually go from bright, sun-kissed tones to something richer,” she says. “Softer blondes turn buttery, and brunettes get a little more chocolaty and dimensional. Fall feels cozier, and people want their hair to match that vibe.”

While some people have a very clear idea of what they want to request during their next salon appointment, others might not be so sure. And if you were dreading the thought of spending hours hunting for inspo images across social media, you’re in luck. I saved you some time by chatting with Richards and Leslie Shores, a color specialist at Eric Marshall Salon in Nashville, to find out which hair colors will actually be trending this fall. See the full trend report.

1. Bright Cinnamon

This bright cinnamon color on Jessica Chastain is one of the more popular shades for fall. "This has warm, spicy brown tones with a hint of copper running through this look," says Richards. "It’s perfect for fall because it literally looks like autumn in hair form." She notes that this rich tone can be flattering on most skin tones and suggests using a color-depositing conditioner in warm brown or copper to keep this tone looking glossy and vibrant.

2. Soft Maple Blonde


Sydney Sweeney stunned on the red carpet for the Euphoria premiere with this soft maple blonde look. Richards best describes it as "a creamy blonde with golden-beige undertones that feels a little more grounded than summer platinum." She notes that it works beautifully in fall light and won't look harsh as the weather transitions into winter later on. "A purple shampoo used lightly (not overdone) keeps it from going brassy," she adds.

3. Espresso Melt

In case you missed it, Zendaya recently appeared with loose waves and major volume at the Spider-Man: Brand New Day UK premiere. "This shade is a deep, dark brown with subtle lighter babylights added for dimension so it doesn’t fall flat," says Richards. "It’s perfect for fall because it feels moody and low-maintenance while still looking intentional." To bring the look back to life, she recommends using a shine oil or gloss spray.

4. Spiced Auburn

Emma Stone has always been known for her rich auburn hair, and as it turns out, the look is perfect for fall. "This is a red-brown blend that leans warm without being too bold or bright," says Richards. "It’s basically like fall leaves but make it hair, and it photographs insanely well in natural light." For the best results, she suggests using a sulfate-free shampoo for color-treated hair specifically. You can also follow up with a hair mask to replenish moisture while maintaining color such as the Revlon ColorSilk After Color Mask.

5. Velvet Brunette

When you think of fall, materials like velvet, suede, and leather might come to mind, which is why Shores thinks this brunette shade will be everywhere. "Richening up brunette and adding deep tones to the hair like this chocolate tone adds a velvety texture to the hair," she says. "It reflects the light like no other."

6. Golden-Hour Goddess

When Tate McRae showed up at this year's Met Gala, people could not stop talking about how radiant she looked. Turns out that could've had something to do with her hair color. "As the natural sunlight begins to shift to more golden tones, I like to see hair that also changes with the light," says Shores. "Big golden balayge highlights can really pop on a blonde or brunette."

How to Maintain Your Hair Color This Fall

To keep your hair looking its best after coloring, here are some key tips from our pros:

Use a color-safe shampoo: "Color-treated shampoo or sulfate-free shampoo is great if you can only shampoo one to three times per week," says Shores. "If you get oily, use a good dry shampoo or even a colored dry shampoo as an alternative."

Don't skip conditioner and masks: If you were thinking about skipping conditioner or masks, think again. "Deep conditioning and treatments are essential," says Shores. "Healthy hair holds the color longer."

Heat protectant is a must: In short, the less damage, the better your hair looks. "Minimize heat styling, and whenever possible, air drying your hair is the best option for brittle hair," explains Shores. "If you do need to use a blow-dryer, prepare with a heat protectant and use a low temperature setting."

Get a gloss: This step is optional but Richards notes that a quick gloss or toner refresh every so often will keep hair looking fresh instead of faded.

Since giving dedicated book fans the physical manifestation of the womanizing collegiate hockey star Garrett Graham—one half of the lead couple in Off Campus season 1, accompanied by Ella Bright as Hannah Wells—Cameli's career has shifted into high gear. With the show's massive success (Amazon Prime Video reported a record-breaking viewership of 36 million streams within its first 12 days, according to Variety) came magazine spreads, first pitches at Chicago White Sox games, and now beauty campaigns. Remember those umber, scene-stealing curls we talked about earlier? Yeah, they landed their own Tresemmé deal.

Ahead, Cameli fills Who What Wear in on life after the show's splashy debut, the shrouded happenings of season 2, his future career goals, and his simple routine for those signature curls.

I've seen pictures of you in your high school football jersey with some not-curly hair—how and when did you learn to embrace your natural texture?

I didn't have a natural curl until later in high school—maybe around 18. I started growing it out more. It started getting wavy, and then I would cut it down and grow it out, and it just kept getting curlier.

Growing up, my hair was poker straight, so there was a whole period of time that I suddenly had curly hair and could not figure it out for the life of me, which is why I'm really happy to have Tresemmé on my side today. They make it so easy, so I don't really have to think about it. I just go in with their three new products in the Bouncy Curls line, and it takes no time at all. I can just go about my day. But I've struggled—learning the curly-hair [routine] later in life with no help was difficult.

We just spoke with your costar Stephen Kalyn (Dean Di Laurentis) about season 2. How is filming going so far?

It's great! We're having so much fun. We're all very busy, and we're just really proud of the show. We're working on episodes 3 and 4 right now, and these scripts are really impressive. It's just nice to be back with everybody—the cast, the crew, and our creators. It's been a blast. We love shooting the show.

Kalyn told me that you once called him on a day off just to tell him about your high school football experience.

Oh, I call him randomly every single day, and he calls me too! We talk all the time; we just get along so well. He's from the suburbs of Toronto. I'm from the suburbs of Chicago. We have similar trajectories and stories. We're the same age, we started acting at the same time, and obviously, this show happened to us together. But yeah, I gave a 30-minute soliloquy about my high school football team. He was like, "Okay," and honestly, I've heard him talk about hockey and his hockey teams for hours on end, so whatever!

That's how friendship works! How does this season—both the filming process and show itself—feel different than season 1?

It doesn't really feel all that different. It's almost the same crew, so it was kind of like we took a break and came back home, you know?

Obviously, we're aware of the attention the show has gotten, but that doesn't really affect us while we're working, so the days on set feel very familiar. It almost feels like no time passed at all between season 1 and season 2, which has been really nice. I'd say the biggest difference is that when we're shooting on location, there are more [fans] around.

If you could describe season 2 in three words, what would they be?

Ensemble, love, and friendship. I haven't had time to think of a good three yet, but those three are definitely in there—lemme tell ya.

They definitely count. It must have been nice to jump back into filming after such a crazy press run of a summer.

It was. It was so nice to have work and to be all together right after the press run and the release of the show. We got to come back into our bubble. For me—and I think for them too—having work is a real privilege.

How does it feel to have your career explode the way it did this summer—to not only be in such a famous role but to also land campaigns with brands like Tresemmé?

It's been really interesting. I think a lot of actors hope for the audience that we've garnered now. I feel really honored to have new fans of my work. I'm really grateful for the opportunity that it's presented me—when it comes to my next jobs, when it comes to partnering with Tresemmé and their great line of Bouncy Curls products, and getting to talk about my hair. It's really nice, and it's been an adjustment, but it's been cool. [But] my day-to-day is pretty much the same. All the things I'm seeing with my eyes are no different.

Since you've been acting for a minute now, is there a beauty hack that you learned on set that changed the way you get ready?

Eye patches go a long way for me. I'm a tired boy most of the time, so letting those soak in is totally cool. When it comes to my hair, turning my head upside down and scrunching is essential to getting those curls right. You've got to do your hair upside down a lot of the time.

And if I want my hair to look good, I usually have to use a diffuser somewhere in the process. If I want to completely air-dry my curls, they end up looking incredible, but that takes so much time. Once you get the Defining Cream in there and put a little mousse in, give it that shape, then go in with the diffuser, and set it and forget it, it's great.

I know you're busy shooting Off Campus until early fall, but do you have any other upcoming projects that you can share with us?

I do, but not [ones] that I can share. There's some really fun stuff that I'm looking at with my team right now, and hopefully, we'll get season 3 for Off Campus. In the time between, I'm really looking forward to going to work and shooting some features. There's some fun stuff I can't say, but I'm really just excited to be on set more. I want to spend all my time on set—literally all my time. So hopefully, that's what I'll get to do.

I'm curious—do you guys see the TikTok edits? Are you sending funny comments to each other? Can you laugh at everything?

We definitely can laugh at it. I'm not on TikTok. I'm not on the internet, really, unless it's, like, woodworking videos on YouTube. But there are a lot of pink-helmet videos that go around that we really enjoy. People have really given the pink helmet the life that it's deserved online. I've seen some of the edits of the show, and a lot of them are extremely impressive, [even] just from an editing standpoint. I've seen plenty of it. It's all fun, weird, and cool. It's just wild, honestly.

There's been a lot happening this summer. Between the World Cup, your breakout show, and filming, there's a lot to obsess over. What are you obsessed with right now?

I'm so predictable: It's Chicago White Sox baseball. The Cubs and the Sox are both doing really well right now. There's a lot of good baseball happening on the South Side. I'm obsessed with driving my car. I bought this 1994 Toyota Land Cruiser from Japan. It's this little diesel engine with four-wheel drive, and I love driving it so much. Vancouver is a gorgeous place to drive around, and I'm also obsessed with getting eight hours of sleep whenever possible.

I hear you guys are up early doing hockey practices!

Yeah, we do a lot of boot camps. We are in the throes of filming right now, so when we're shooting, we're on the ice for 12 to 16 hours, which ends up really hurting your feet but being good practice.

The shooting schedule, on top of other fun stuff we have going on outside the show, keeps us pretty busy, so when I know I have a night when I can get eight hours of sleep, I get so excited. I'll have, like, 100 dreams and try to write them all down in the morning.

Speaking of dreams, your life is opening up in big ways these days. What are some new personal and career goals that you've set for yourself?

I really want to wear multiple hats at some point as a filmmaker. I never really knew when the next step toward directing would be, and right now, I'm realizing that if that's going to happen, it won't be in a way that I foresee. … I really just want to go to work as an actor, build out a diverse body of work, play unpredictable characters, and work in different genres and arenas, so right now, my vision is honestly the same as it's always been. I want to do things that are different from the others that I've done.

I've done a decent amount of comedy television now, and I've done some genre films, some drama. I've played in this YA space a couple of times, and I really just want to protect the vision of doing different things and work with cool filmmakers that I like. It's a pretty broad goal, but my goal is just to work. I really love being on set, so that's where I want to be.

Shop the Tresemmé Bouncy Curls Collection

As a beauty editor, I spend about 80% of my workday surfing the internet for the next best product on the market, which means that I'm in the business of finding the top deals at any sale. Lucky for you, I spent hours evaluating which early access beauty deals in Nordstrom's never-ending inventory are actually worth snagging before the sale opens to the public on July 18. If you're a card member, you can access this sale as early as today, July 14 (at Icon status); Ambassadors can shop July 15, and Influencers can shop July 17—with the sale drawing to a close on August 9.

While it may sound like you have quite some time to shop this sale, heed my warning from before—with deals this good, none of these products will stay in stock for long. Below, the 15 deals I'd beeline for in the early access beauty section of Nordstrom's 125th Anniversary Sale, from iconic Le Labo perfumes (you know the one!) to covetable Dyson hair dryers and more.

The 15 Top Beauty Deals to Shop Early at Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale

But let’s be real; not all braid styles are created equally. And as tempting as it can be to try the latest trending styles, in the long run, these can cause more harm than good to your natural hair. Well, never fear, as I’m here to bring you the best protective braid styles to opt for in summer 2026.

What Braid Styles Are the Least Damaging?

I’m not trying to brag, but as a beauty writer who’s tried a lot of different braid hairstyles over the years, I have a pretty good idea of which braid styles actually protect the hair and which ones to avoid due to the high manipulation needed to install them.
The trick? Opt for low manipulation styles that don’t cause too much stress on the scalp. Knotless braids and feed-in cornrows are regarded by professional braiders as the safest braids to choose, due to the fact that they create less tension on the scalp.

However, it’s important to note that most braid styles can be safely worn so long as you go to a trusted hair professional who knows how to install braids with low manipulation to reduce the chances of breakage, minimise hair tangling, and promote hair growth.

Best Protective Braid Styles for Summer

1. Knotless Box Braids

Knotless box braids are regarded by hair professionals as one of the gentlest protective styles on Afro hair due to the fact that the installation technique creates less tension on the scalp compared to traditional box braids. This helps to reduce the risk of breakage and hair loss. Not to mention that opting for knotless braids in the summer helps to minimise daily heat and manipulation, which helps to retain length and protect the hair from heat-related damage. From personal experience, they also make it much easier to keep my scalp healthy because of how simple it is to clean and moisturise the exposed sections on my head.

2. Feed-In Cornrows

Feed-in cornrows are a protective hairstyle that combines chicness with effective hair protection. Rather than starting with a large amount of braiding extensions, the hairstylist will gradually add hair to each braid, creating a more natural appearance while reducing tension at the hairline and on the scalp. This limits the amount of stress applied to delicate edges and, therefore, lowers the risk of breakage. But the best part? This style is versatile and can be worn in many patterns while still protecting your natural hair underneath.

3. Boho Braids

Boho braids look elegant at any time of the year, but they especially come into their own in the summer. Most of your natural hair will be braided and tucked away, protecting it from daily manipulation, friction, and environmental damage. My only note would be to make sure that the curly extensions are kept well detangled to avoid pulling and tugging of the hair, which can cause further damage.

4. Fulani Braids

Fulani braids are one of my favourite hairstyles to opt for in summer, due to how versatile they are. Not to mention that because most of the natural hair is braided close to the scalp, it's less exposed to environmental stressors and reduces daily manipulation. Not a big fan of extensions? Well, never fear, as this style can also be installed with or without extensions. Regardless of this, it's important to ensure that the braids don’t feel too tight to avoid thinning of the hairline.

5. Marley Twists

Not a fan of braids? Well, Marley twists are a protective style that will give you a fuller, more natural-looking finish. By twisting the hair rather than braiding it, this hairstyle reduces the tension on the scalp, minimising breakage and split ends. They also feel extremely lightweight and can be tweaked to create a myriad of different hairstyles.

6. French Curl Braids

My personal favourite style, French curl braids, combines your typical knotless braided sections with elegant curled ends, creating a chic protective hairstyle that's equally as stylish as it is practical. Most of the natural hair is securely braided, reducing the chances of exposure to friction, weather, and manipulation that can lead to breakage. Much like with boho braids, I always try to keep my curly ends detangled and well looked after to prevent them from knotting and tugging on my scalp.

7. Non-Extension Braids

Braids created without extensions are one of the most effective and easiest protective styling options for Afro hair. Because only your natural hair is used, there is no added weight tugging on the scalp, which reduces the risk of damage. Plus, they're often more comfortable for long-term wear, making them perfect for those with sensitive scalps.

Best Products for Protective Braid Styles

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Over the years, our editors have tested thousands of products—including haircare, makeup, skincare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they're affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how, and what we'd truly recommend to our closest friends and family members.

What’s also become really clear is that most people don’t notice thinning overnight. It’s gradual and often shows up months after an initial trigger. As Hollie Rose Clarke, stylist ambassador for Living Proof, explains: “Usually it’s not just one thing, it's part of our holistic health and wellness. Hair health is often a reflection of what’s going on internally as well as externally, and hair thinning normally begins four to six months after the trigger." That delay is what makes it so confusing—you’re often trying to fix something that started long before you noticed it. Between genetics, stress, diet shifts, hormonal changes, illness and even build-up from hard water or products, there are a lot of potential culprits. And in reality, it’s often a combination rather than a single cause.

What causes hair thinning?

Hair thinning can be triggered by a wide range of factors, and most people experience more than one at once. As dermatologist Dr Jason Thomson, consultant dermatologist and head of medical at Hair + Me, explains: “Pattern hair loss, also known as androgenic alopecia, is the most common cause of hair loss affecting both men and women. It is typically a gradual process influenced by both genetic and hormonal factors.” On top of this, stress can push hair follicles into the shedding phase, often showing up a few months later as increased hair fall. Diet, sleep, illness, seasonal changes and even rapid weight loss can also disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to temporary shedding known as telogen effluvium.

When should you seek help from a professional?

It’s normal to shed hair daily, but there’s a point where it shifts from normal to noticeable. Thomson notes that warning signs include “more hair on the pillow or in the shower, a significant amount of hair on the brush, hair feeling less dense, a widening part, or increased scalp visibility when wet.” He adds that if multiple symptoms persist for more than three months, it’s worth seeking a consultation to understand the underlying cause. Similarly, Clarke advises that if shedding is “excessive and lasting longer than a few months, or you’re seeing your scalp show through more or have developed patchy areas, it’s time to see a trichologist.”

What lifestyle changes can you make to help make hair thicker?

This is one of those areas where consistency genuinely makes a difference, but it takes time. Clarke explains that “consistency is key for healthy hair growth and does require patience and perseverance,” with improvements often seen after three to four months. Supporting hair from the inside out is essential—Thomson highlights the importance of “a healthy diet with enough protein and micronutrients such as iron, zinc and vitamin D.” Beyond nutrition, managing stress levels, prioritising sleep and avoiding excessive heat styling can all help reduce unnecessary shedding. Simple additions like scalp massage, using a clarifying shampoo to remove build-up, or even considering water filters or hair supplements can all contribute to a healthier scalp environment.

What products and ingredients can help make hair thicker?

When it comes to products, it’s less about quick fixes and more about creating the right conditions for the hair you already have. Clarke recommends topical scalp treatments such as Living Proof Scalp Density Serum, which is clinically proven to reduce shedding and improve density over time. She also highlights ingredients and tools like red light therapy and PRP as beneficial options for some people. Thomson adds that while shampoos can’t treat the underlying cause of pattern hair loss, they can support scalp health, particularly when they're boosted with ingredients like niacinamide, caffeine and ketoconazole. For medically driven hair loss, prescription treatments such as minoxidil or finasteride may be recommended under specialist care.

How can you style hair to make it look thicker?

Styling can make an immediate visual difference, even while you’re working on longer-term changes. Clarke suggests rough drying with a root-lifting spray, moving the hair side to side to build lift at the root. She also recommends using a flexible hairspray as both a heat protectant and a hold, then finishing with a dry volume spray for added fullness that can be reactivated throughout the day. A blunt haircut can also instantly create the illusion of thicker ends, while strategic colour placement and highlights add depth and dimension. Ultimately, it’s about building volume through both technique and product, rather than relying on one miracle step.

The Best Hair Thickening Products

1. Best Overall Hair Thickening Product: Hair + Me
2. Best Hair Thickening Serum: Living Proof Scalp Care Density Serum
3. Best Hair Thickening Supplement: Vida Glow Hairology
4. Best Styling Product for Hair Thickening: Living Proof Full Dry Volume & Texture Spray
5. Best Hair Thickening Shampoo: Waterman's Grow Me Hair Growth Shampoo

1. Hair + Me

2. Living Proof Scalp Care Density Serum

3. Vida Glow Hairology

4. Living Proof Full Dry Volume and Texture Spray

5. Waterman's Grow Me Hair Growth Shampoo

6. Current Body LED Hair Growth Helmet

7. Rhute Density + Repair Scalp Serum

8. Vichy Dercos Anti-Hair Loss Aminixel Clinical Regen Serum

9. GLOWWA Hair Food Mens

10. Shark Flexstyle Limited Edition Orchid Sunrise 4-In-1 Air Styler & Hair Dryer

11. Dove Density & Growth Mask

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

“Hair lighteners work by using alkaline agents and persulfates to open the hair cuticle, while hydrogen peroxide breaks down the natural melanin (pigment) inside the hair," says celebrity stylist Mario Solis. "As the pigment is lifted, the hair becomes lighter.” He adds that the amount of lift depends on the hair’s natural color, previous color history, product choice, developer strength, and proper application.

Of course the hair lighteners that people used back then have evolved over time with better formulas. Plus, more brands have started offering these kinds of products, making them more available. In other words, you might be able to skip on your next hair appointment for something more affordable that you can use time and time again. To find out which hair lighteners provide vibrant results, I asked the pros for their recommendations. Read on for their top picks.

The Best Hair Lighteners, at a Glance

• Best Overall: Sun In Hair Lightener Shine Enhancing Spray
• Runner-Up: Oribe Bright Blonde Sun Lightening Hair Mist
• Best for Damaged Hair: Schwarzkopf Remingo Blondme Lightener 9+
• Best for Brunettes: Hally Lighten Up Hair Lightening Mist
• Best Powder: Matrix Light Master Lightening Powder Light Master

The Best Hair Lighteners in 2026

Best Overall: Sun In Hair Lightener Shine Enhancing Spray

Runner-Up: Oribe Bright Blonde Sun Lightening Hair Mist

Best for Damaged Hair: Schwarzkopf Remingo Blondme Lightener 9+

Best for Highlights: Madison Reed Light Works Balayage Highlighting Kit

Best Splurge: L3VEL3 LIT Hair Lightening Kit

Best-Smelling: Sun Bum Premium Hair Lightener

Best for Brunettes: Hally Lighten Up Hair Lightening Mist

Best Powder: Matrix Light Master Lightening Powder Light Master

Best for Pros: Wella Blondor Multi Blonde Powder Lightener

How We Chose

As with all of our buying guides at Who What Wear, we compile our edits based on original testing and expert recommendations. To find the best hair lighteners for this roundup, we leaned heavily on expert insight and our knowledge as beauty experts. We also considered several factors, including key ingredients and time frame for results. We're aware of how important these factors are for a wide range of needs and preferences, so we made sure to list out all the helpful details. Of course, customer reviews were also kept in mind when creating this list.

Meet the Experts

• Jacob Schmidt is a senior colorist at Ollin Salon NYC by Johnny Ramirez.
• Kimberly Michelle is an educator and founder of Mint Well Head Spa.
• Mario Solis is a celebrity stylist and Bellami educator.

Why Trust Who What Wear

At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Since 2006, our editors have tested thousands of products—including skincare, makeup, haircare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.

Who What Wear has been a digital fashion, beauty, and lifestyle publication and community where people can discover the latest brands, trends, and must-have products to help define and evolve their personal style. Think of Who What Wear as your most trusted style and shopping resource.

As I later learned, clarifying shampoo plays a big role in maintaining scalp health, and there are some cases where not using one can impact your hairstyle for the worse. Take a silk press, for example. Before getting one, using a clarifying shampoo is an absolute must.

"A clarifying shampoo is essential before a silk press because it removes buildup from oils, styling products, hard water minerals, and environmental pollutants that can weigh the hair down and interfere with smoothness," explains Paul Mitchell artistic director Paula Peralta. "While a regular shampoo cleans the hair, it often isn't strong enough to fully remove residue, which can impact the longevity, shine, and movement of the finished silk press."

Naturally, I wanted to know which specific formulas stood out to experts, so here are the seven best clarifying shampoos that will make your silk press last.

The Best Clarifying Shampoos for Silk Presses at a Glance

• Best Overall: K18 Biomimetic Hairscience Peptide Prep Clarifying Detox Shampoo
• Best Strengthening: Ouai Detox Clarifying Shampoo With Apple Cider Vinegar
• Best Budget: Kristin Ess Hair Deep Clean Clarifying Shampoo
• Best for Color-Treated Hair: Olaplex No. 4c Bond Maintenance Deep Clean Clarifying Shampoo
• Best for Curls and Coils: Pattern Cleansing Shampoo

The Best Clarifying Shampoos for Silk Presses in 2026

Best Overall: K18 Biomimetic Hairscience Peptide Prep Clarifying Detox Shampoo

Best Strengthening: Ouai Detox Clarifying Shampoo With Apple Cider Vinegar

Best Budget: Kristin Ess Hair Deep Clean Clarifying Shampoo

Best for Color-Treated Hair: Olaplex No. 4c Bond Maintenance Deep Clean Clarifying Shampoo

Best for Curls and Coils: Pattern Cleansing Shampoo

Best Specialized Formula: Paul Mitchell Shampoo Three Chlorine Removing Cleanser

Best Detox: Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Detox Foaming Scalp Scrub

What's the best way to use a clarifying shampoo?

If you're prepping for a silk press, make sure you're using your clarifying shampoo correctly for the best results. "Focus on massaging the shampoo into your scalp and roots, then work it through the ends of your hair to remove any oils, product buildup, or residue," says Nolan. "Depending on how much buildup is present, it may be helpful to shampoo twice to ensure your hair is as clean as possible." She notes that this first step is crucial in allowing the rest of the silk-press process to work seamlessly.

How We Chose

As with all of our buying guides at Who What Wear, we compile our edits based on original testing and expert recommendations. To find the best clarifying shampoos for a silk press, we leaned heavily on expert insight and our knowledge as beauty experts. We also considered several factors, including key ingredients and size. We're aware of how important these factors are for a wide range of needs and preferences, so we made sure to list out all the helpful details. Of course, customer reviews were also kept in mind when creating this list.

Meet the Experts

• Stanley Nolan is a cosmetologist and beauty education specialist at Ogle School Stafford.
• Paula Peralta is a celebrity hairstylist and artistic director at Paul Mitchell.

Why Trust Who What Wear

At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Since 2006, our editors have tested thousands of products—including skincare, makeup, haircare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.

Who What Wear has been a digital fashion, beauty, and lifestyle publication and community where people can discover the latest brands, trends, and must-have products to help define and evolve their personal style. Think of Who What Wear as your most trusted style and shopping resource.

This year, it seems as if the internet has agreed to obsess over all things banana. The classic summer fruit has a sweet, sun-kissed appeal, and top beauty brands are capitalizing on it. A slew of new products has recently hit the market, and more are on their way (*wink, wink*).

The data reflects the trend. According to Annabelle Taurua, beauty expert at Fresha, searches for banana perfumes and banana skincare are high. She says banana is gaining popularity as a broader flavor trend in food and drink. "Banana has also been gaining popularity as a broader flavor trend in food and drinks," she says. "Similar to matcha's popularity in coffee shops, 'banana bread' is a trending flavor for 2026. Over time, this lends itself to beauty. But why is this? Bananas are familiar and have a strong sensory appeal. Its versatility is key when formulating products such as lip- and haircare, where both flavor and scent play a big role." Ahead, see 13 banana beauty products worth buying to get in on this playful summer trend.

Such was the case when I noticed "Biscoff bronde" highlights on my feed. After gawking at the warm, glossy color, I immediately felt the urge to text my colorist, but first, I decided to reach out to the source—Sydney-based hairstylist Emma Russell of Studio Muse Hair Salon—for every single detail. It turns out Biscoff bronde is arguably the healthiest color trend for existing brunettes, so I don't necessarily have to nix my summer hair goals. Scroll ahead for everything you need to know, including maintenance tips and exactly what to ask for at the salon.

What is Biscoff bronde?

Bronde generally refers to a cross between blonde and brunette, but according to Russell, Biscoff bronde is even richer and more candlelit without heading into redhead territory. "It's warmer than a classic teddy bronde but cooler, softer, and more natural than a cowboy copper," she explains. Made for brunettes, "the color is only a few shades lighter than the natural base, so it feels low contrast and effortless," she adds.

You know how a Biscoff cookie has that yummy, caramelized hue? That's exactly what Russell aimed to capture with this hair trend. In fact, she even came up with the concept while handing out Biscoff cookies to clients in the salon. Art imitates life, as they say. "We were trying to think of a tone people could instantly visualize and relate to, and the biscuit was literally right in front of us. The Biscoff color matched the vibe perfectly," she shares.

The best part about Biscoff bronde is that it doesn't require much maintenance, as the transition is soft and seamless thanks to that low-contrast blend, and there's no heavy bleaching involved. This is great news for someone who is laser-focused on resuscitating their strands this summer. "Clients want color that feels expensive and dimensional without being overly bright or high-maintenance," Russell adds. As hair color trends lean toward warm, natural-looking tones this summer, Biscoff bronde is poised to skyrocket in popularity.

More Biscoff Bronde Inspiration

According to Russell, early 2000s Jessica Alba is the ultimate Biscoff bronde reference. Notice how you can't tell exactly where her highlights begin? That's the hallmark of the low-contrast look.

She also crowns Tate McRae as a modern-day reference, pointing out her "soft, warm bronde feel."

I adore this look on Victoria Monét's long, mermaid-like tresses.

Curls naturally have more dimension, which makes Biscoff bronde highlights appear even richer.

Beyoncé's early 2000s looks also have a permanent place on my beauty mood board.

What to Ask for at the Salon

The hair trend has certainly made the rounds on social media (Russell's original video has 500,000 views and counting!), but let's be honest. It's not like you can saunter over to your colorist and simply ask for Biscoff bronde. Instead, Russell has a few suggestions depending on your natural base hue.

"For darker bases like brunettes, I'd usually recommend a level seven highlight tone, while lighter bases can sit more around a level eight or nine. If someone has naturally very dark brown or black hair, I'd also suggest softly breaking the base color to create more cohesion and reduce contrast between the highlights and natural hair," she shares. She creates balayage highlights with a high-lift tint, which is a specific type of dye that lifts color multiple levels without traditional bleaching agents. However, it only works on hair that's never been colored. If you have highlights already, you may want to wait until those grow out and apply the high-lift tint only on the roots.

How to Maintain Biscoff Bronde

Biscoff bronde is relatively easy to maintain—especially if you go the no-bleach route—but that being said, color-treated hair will always require a bit of TLC. "Summer usually means more sun, swimming, and heat exposure, so depending on lifestyle, the tone may need refreshing a little more often than usual," says Russell. "I generally recommend a gloss refresh every eight to 12 weeks to keep the color looking rich, glossy, and fresh while maintaining that soft warmth."

At-home upkeep is also crucial, be it an in-shower gloss, pigment-depositing hair mask, or color-safe shampoo. Find every essential just ahead, along with editor-loved styling products to keep your Biscoff bronde hair looking deliciously vibrant.

I usually stick to the same old hair color, simply asking my hairstylist to refresh my grown-out roots and blend away any harsh lines with a toner-gloss combo. Not this year, though. Blame it on all of the blonde-hair inspo I collect on Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest, but lately, I've been craving something different—something bright, stylish, and sun-kissed. So I did what any good beauty editor would do. I turned to an expert and asked celebrity hairstylist Bradley Leake to share the top three blonde color trends for summer 2026. Keep scrolling to get the download, from "halo highlights" to soft, Scandinavian blonde.

Halo Highlights

Leake says halo highlights will be a major trend for summer 2026. In fact, he says he's seeing them "everywhere" right now. As the name suggests, this trend involves "strategic brightness focused around the hairline, crown, and top layers to create a natural 'halo' of light around the face." While it's not a new technique by any means, people on Instagram and TikTok are popularizing it because it makes the face a strong, visual focal point and creates a "lit from within" effect on the hair.

"It gives blondes a brighter, more dimensional look without needing a full heavy highlight," he says. "Clients love it because it grows out softer, feels lower-maintenance, and still gives that expensive bright blonde effect without the upkeep." To reiterate, that means two things. First, the hair remains healthier by not being overprocessed—remember, it's all about strategic highlighting, not allover bleach. Second, you can stretch out your color appointments because you're not saturating every section of hair; you're "concentrating brightness where light naturally hits."

I'm about as low-maintenance as it gets when it comes to my hair, so this is a tempting trend to embrace. And since it's versatile, you can make it as bold or as subtle as you like. I tend to veer toward the latter for a natural, sun-kissed look.

The Celeb Inspo

Expensive Honey Blonde

I've always been a fan of honey blonde, especially Sofia Richie Grainge's and Bella Hadid's takes, so it feels like Leake is speaking directly to my soul when he says this is going to be the blonde of summer. "Think expensive, glossy, rich honey tones with dimension—not flat yellow-blonde. It’s softer around the face, brighter through the ends, and has that 'you just got back from Europe' feel."

Leake says this trend is a response to the cool-toned colors that were so popular over the last few years. "I think people are moving away from overly icy blondes with so much contrast and wanting hair that feels healthier, shinier, and more natural in sunlight."

Here's the thing, though. The perfect honey blonde is deceptively difficult to pin down. Leake says most people make the mistake of asking their hairstylist for "warm blonde." That, he says, can go wrong very fast. "Instead, ask for a neutral golden blonde with soft honey dimension and bring reference photos in natural lighting. The key to a really beautiful honey blonde is balance—you want warmth but still brightness and softness."

Leake says placement matters just as much as tone. "A softer root, pops of brightness around the face, and ribbons of dimension throughout keep it looking elevated instead of brassy," he says. "Glossing is huge too. The right gloss is what gives honey blonde that expensive reflective finish and proper tone."

The Celeb Inspo

Scandinavian Soft Blonde

ICYMI, the so-called Scandi hairline was a massive trend circa 2022 and 2023. It involved bleaching the baby hairs at the front of the scalp to brighten the hairline. Well, Leake says the Scandi aesthetic is back and even bigger for summer 2026. This time, though, it's not just about the hairline; it's about luxurious allover color.

"This trend is very soft, creamy, almost filtered-looking blonde. Super-blended roots, airy brightness, and a healthier finish instead of overly processed platinum. The big shift happening right now is that people still want brightness, but they want movement, softness, and shine. Hair health is becoming part of the aesthetic—which I personally love. Going blonde is an investment, and the proper haircare to maintain your blonde locks at home is key."

The Celeb Inspo

Shop Expert-Recommended Blonde Haircare Products

Celebrity hairstylist Cesar Deleon Ramirez shares that his clients are ditching over-styled “platinum hair” this summer in search of something warmer. “They’re looking for that ‘expensive,’ healthy-looking blonde,” he explains. “We’re talking softer, richer, more dimensional tones.” He paints a picture of sunlight peeking through golden strands and gentle washes of morning light rather than “fresh from the salon” color. “Ashy blondes had some major moments in the past; however, we’re leaning into the honey, buttery, champagne blondes in 2026,” he states. Prepare to ask all your friends if you should go blonde after this.

What Is Sunrise Blonde?

Think of how your hair looks in early morning light: the subtle radiance of the rising sun setting your strands aglow. It’s imperfect, it moves as you run your fingers through it, and it’s utterly dimensional—highlighting some layers and casting shadows across others. This result is a blended look courtesy of strategically placed highlights (and maybe even some lowlights, if you’re naturally quite blonde) to create that “sunlit” effect: a symphony of warm honey tones and buttery golds, with whispers of champagne blonde.

“Clients still want brightness, but with lower-maintenance grow-out and more shine overall,” celebrity hairstylist Glen Oropeza explains. Dimensional dye jobs like this one mask outgrowth beautifully between appointments, which is ideal for busy summer schedules with little time for routine salon visits. “There’s also a stronger focus on hair health, with clients prioritizing products and routines that protect their blonde from heat, UV exposure, and brassiness during the summer months,” he adds. A hair trend that not only looks fresh and timely but also puts health on the forefront? Sign us up.

How to Maintain Sunrise Blonde

I’m slowly but surely learning that blondes may actually have more fun, but what’s not fun is the salon upkeep, pricey dye jobs, and color threats summer poses at every turn. (Chlorine! Too much sun! Salt water! I could go on.) Thankfully, the pros have tips, tricks, and product recommendations that will keep your blonde looking its best throughout the summer.

Use Leave-In Conditioner

Summer is made for long beach hangs, poolside lounges, and dives into crystalline water. These activities all pose potential threats to your color-treated hair, but that doesn’t mean you can’t indulge—you just have to adjust your strategy. “It is essential we protect that beautiful color from any UV damage, salt water, and chlorine,” says Ramirez. “The last thing we want is dry or green (yes, chlorine will turn your blonde green) hair.” His recommendation? Kérastase’s Blond Absolu Blonde Guard Hydrating Wonder Shield Leave-In Spray, a leave-in conditioner that protects the hair from unwanted consequences.

Placement Matters

From the first visit to all of the subsequent touch-ups, the stylists recommend asking for a “lived-in blonde” to encourage natural-looking outgrowth. “I suggest asking your stylist for dimensional placement, like blended babylights or soft root shadows, to create a brighter yet lower-maintenance blonde,” says Oropeza.

Keep It Hydrated

“Healthy, hydrated hair will always make blonde [hair] look more elevated and glossy,” Oropeza adds. To ensure that your strands are as quenched as possible, it’s important to use the right products inside and outside of the shower. In addition to the Blond Absolu Wonder Shield Leave-In Spray, consider adding a hydrating, blonde-boosting shampoo like Kérastase’s Blond Absolu Lumiere Hydrating Illuminating Shampoo and then Kérastase’s Blond Absolu Anti-Brass Purple Shampoo—a purple shampoo that strengthens, brightens, and hydrates—along with a complementary conditioner like Blond Absolu Cicaflash Hair Strengthening Conditioner.

Sunrise Blonde Inspiration

Beyoncé's signature color is practically always sunrise blonde, with her roots kept deeper and the length—this time, cropped shorter in a chic bob—lightened to a honey shade.

Bella Hadid goes back to her natural blonde every once in a while, and the supermodel has re-embraced her golden locks with this lived-in blonde moment at Cannes. I saved this snap as soon as I saw it.

If Ciara's blended blonde highlights don't make you want to book an appointment before your next beach trip, I don't know what will.

There's something about a butter-blonde, sun-lightened hue with lived-in roots that looks so effortlessly cool.

Literally glowing.

This look—with the dimensional roots, face-framing gold streaks, and champagne babylights—is stamped onto my brain right now.

That couldn't be more true for summer's biggest hair trends. Celebrity hairstylists and colorists agree that there's an emphasis on all things natural, relaxed, and lived-in right now, and this holds regardless of hair type, color, or length. (I think it's influenced by wellness culture and how people are zeroed in on their health—hair health included, but that's up for debate.) Take it from Isabella Mastrippolito, colorist at Benjamin Salon in West Hollywood. "Across the board, there's a continued push toward lived-in, dimensional color—soft, subtle ribbons of lighter pieces woven through the hair so everything blends easily and grows out without harsh lines. It mimics natural lighting from a long summer outdoors and keeps the overall look soft, easy, and low maintenance.”

There's also an emphasis on "micro-identity," as people reference specific eras and aesthetics from years past, turning them into new, signature looks. "About six in 10 American teens use TikTok daily, and we're pulling from late '90s and Y2K aesthetics, indie sleaze and 2014 Tumblr, '70s texture and shaggy hair, '90s supermodel glam, early clean-girl minimalism, and punk and alternative influences," says Liz Lorenzo Shears, another stylist at Benjamin Salon in West Hollywood. These influences may be nostalgic, but they feel extremely relevant for summer 2026, especially when they exude a relaxed, effortless aura.

Ahead, see the 10 top hair trends set to define summer 2026, according to experts.

Hair Color Trends

Golden-Hour Blonde

Blonde is always particularly popular in the summer, but right now, "golden-hour blonde" is stealing the show. "For blonde, everything is going softer and more beach-washed," Mastrippolito says. "It’s warm beige and light golden tones that look naturally lifted after time in the ocean and sun. It feels effortless and expensive, with a focus on seamless grow-out and color that doesn't look overly maintained."

Meri Kate O'Connor, a Benjamin Salon Celebrity Colorist, agrees, saying balayage is the best technique to use. "For this look, golden ribbons are painted throughout the hair to create warm, sun-kissed dimension. Balayage naturally mimics the way the sun lightens hair (keeping it brighter around the face and on the ends), resulting in a multidimensional highlight that's warm and glowing while still maintaining depth and contrast. The technique also means a softer, more natural grow-out. Think Tate McRae and Gigi Hadid."

Butter Blonde

Butter blonde is just as trendy right now. "This golden blonde is mixed with lighter, brighter, near-white tones that are super shiny and soft," O'Connor says. "Gold reflects light, which gives the hair that luminous, polished finish. It's warm, effortless, and endlessly flattering. Think Margot Robbie and Sydney Sweeney."

Renée Valerie Radoiu, vice president, R+Color Education and R+Color Collective member, agrees. "Butter blonde is the golden refresh blondes crave between seasons. Warmer, brighter, and softly luminous, it can complement cooler skin tones while bringing a healthier glow back to hair that may feel a little faded after summer. Pro tip: Ask your colorist for a golden-gloss toner like R+Color Hypermatic 10 Minute Demi-Permanent Liquid Hair Color in Midas G9 at your next blonding appointment for that buttery finish."

Chase Kusero, cofounder of IGK Hair Care, says the emphasis on buttery tones points to a bigger trend. "Bright icy blondes are giving way to warmer, softer blondes that look naturally sunlit. Think creamy champagne, golden undertones, and expensive-looking dimension. Clients are gravitating toward color that grows out beautifully with less maintenance. To maximize longevity, use IGK Mixed Feelings Leave-In Blonde Toning Drops ($29) at home to maintain brightness while preventing brassiness."

Teddy Bear Bronde

Bronde (a combo of blonde and brown) is a natural choice for those of us who want lived-in color that grows out seamlessly and doesn't require endless salon appointments. "This is the perfect soft highlighted color for anyone looking for a blend of blonde and brunette without an obvious highlighted look," O'Connor says. "Blonde highlights are seamlessly blended into the hair and toned to a honey-beige that complements the natural base while adding warmth and shine. It's effortless, lived-in, and beautiful at every stage of the grow-out. Think Hailey Bieber."

Glossy Brunette

This season, the trendiest brunette hair color is any shade, as long as it's rich, glossy, and luminous. Yep, we're back to talking about hair health, folks. "Brunettes are leaning rich and glossy," Mastrippolito says. "The overall effect is healthy, reflective hair that catches sunlight in a really natural way, enhancing the depth of the base color rather than changing it dramatically.”

Don't be afraid to go rich and warm, rather than cool. Kusero says to ask for "caramel ribbons and soft dimension." It's not about dramatic contrast; rather, it's about a subtle and reflective finish. "This is the kind of color that catches light really beautifully. Keeping this color glossy is essential; IGK Paid In Full High-Gloss Intense Repair Treatment ($38) enhances shine and deeply nourishes hair."

Radoiu agrees. "Rich, glossy, absolutely not flat brunette is the mood right now. Think warmth, dimension, and chocolate tones that elevate the hair in a way that feels polished, luxe, and expensive."

Haircut Trends

The Bixie

Celebs love the bixie. In fact, it might be one of the biggest hair trends of the entire year, much less the summer. Zendaya, Jessie Buckley, and Gracie Abrams are all proponents of the ultra-chic haircut. "This cut is a hybrid between a bob and a pixie," says Leo Izquierdo, cofounder of IGK Hair Care. "It’s shorter and playful but softer than a traditional pixie, with longer pieces around the face and textured layers throughout."

Bonus points if you style it in a relaxed way that highlights your natural texture. It exudes effortlessness and will help preserve the health of your hair (no heat styling necessary). Plus, it gives off a chic South of France vibe.

The Soft Shag

Adam Federico is R+Co's vice president of technical education. He says the soft shag, or the "Sachel," is another low-effort, high-impact option for summer 2026. "The shag continues to evolve, and this summer it’s becoming more wearable. I’m seeing a lot of interest in what people call the 'Sachel,' which sits somewhere between a shag and the Rachel-inspired layered cut. It has face-framing pieces, soft texture, and movement through the lengths, but it’s not overly choppy or hard to grow out."

"I think it’s trending because it gives the hair a bit more personality. It makes natural texture feel intentional, and it has that undone, lived-in energy people love in summer. I would pair this with R+Co Sail Soft Wave Spray ($36) for airy movement without crunch. For second-day texture, R+Co Bleu Ultra Dry Texture Spray ($49) gives the hair lift and a little grit in the best way."

Curly Face-Framing Lob

Cataanda James is a trichologist and Dippity-Do curly hair expert. She says the curly 'fro and the curly face-framing lob are major hair trends for summer '26—the best one for you all depends on your curl pattern. "[It's] all about naturalism," she says. "Curl patterns 3B to 4C, sans heavy product application and forced definition, effortlessly form into an Afro because that is the personality of higher curl patterns. Curls defy gravity organically, and the true essence of the curly 'fro is its natural, upward flow forming a round, voluminous halo with authentic shape memory."

"On 2A to 3A curl patterns, it's all about strategic cutting, geographical angles, and style technique. Since looser curl patterns experience more of a downward pull and less lift, creating this look entails a global, 90-degree angled cut. Starting at the crown, the hair is held out from the scalp at 90 degrees and blunt cut at each point, ensuring not to lose your guide. You're essentially cutting the hair to form a complete circle, which is clearly visible when flipping the head upside down. This is where styling and technique come into play."

James says both haircuts are trending because they're the most effortless style for curly hair types. Effortless is IN. "This is the personality of curls and rather than being in a constant curl battle, the curlies are embracing it and flaunting their authenticity from head to toe. Ironically, in most cases, depending on the length, the curly 'fro is to the 3B to 4C curlies what the curly, face-framing lob is to the 2A to 3A girlies."

Hair Accessory Trends

Head Scarves

All nine celeb hairstylists and colorists say headscarves are the number one hair accessory trend for summer 2026. Yep, every single one. "Scarves are the editorial hair accessory of the moment," Lorenzo Shears says. "Designers are pushing them hard on runways right now. Silk scarves tied over hair, woven into braids, wrapped around buns, or worn Jackie O.– and Grace Kelly–style, tied under the chin. It's effortlessly chic."

Edgar Parra, senior stylist at Benjamin Salon in New York and West Hollywood, says silk scarves are particularly trendy. "Silk scarves are having a moment, but they’re being worn in a much more relaxed way, loosely tied into ponytails or wrapped into undone buns so they feel soft and unforced rather than styled," he says.

Silk scarves aren't just chic; they're practical. That's according to James, who says, "The biggest curly hair accessory of summer 2026 is the standard, square-size silk or satin scarf. It's protective to your curls, has no friction, and doubles as a headband, headwrap, hair tie, ponytail holder, scrunchie, and all the things! It's versatile, comes in a variety of colors and prints, and is easy to tote. Scarves are the ultimate accessory to your curls, and when styled properly, they can help you camouflage curls that have started to frizz or fray, or curls that have surpassed washday far too long. Designer labels or not, the scarf is the main character to adorn your curls all summer 2026!"