Hairdressers across Ireland pulled their shutters down as we went into Level Five lockdown again at the start of the year.

While it might be tempting to break out the box dyes, this might be a great opportunity to give your hair a much-needed break.

There are plenty of ways you can look after your tresses without breaking the bank by following these simple tips:

DOs

• Do lay off the heated tools while we are in isolation. It’s a nice break for your hair. Style your hair into buns and ponytails and put down the straightener.
• Do use a good hair mask. Pop it in for the whole day if you’re WFH (Working from home). Make sure you comb it through thoroughly. Don’t have a mask? Leave your conditioner in longer!
• Do use professional shampoos, conditioners and styling products. For extension-wearers we recommend products specifically for extensions or products that are sulphate free.
• Do ask your salon to pop you on a waiting list for bookings when they re-open.
• Do plait/braid your hair whilst resting or sleeping, especially if you wear extensions. This will give you beautiful heat-free waves when you wake up!
• Do brush your extensions daily! We recommend 2-3 times and brush row by row over the bond or tape.
• For Great Lengths bonded extension-wearers - Do separate your bonds daily. Separate with your fingers to prevent matting. You may need to do more regularly if your extensions are due out during this isolation period.
• Do invest in a silk pillowcase. This will help you get longer from your wash and minimise the bed-head look in the mornings!

DON’T’s

• Don’t ever try to cut your own hair – even your fringe. It’s never a good idea!
• Don’t try and dye your own hair. Box dyes and professional dyes work in different ways and you could end up creating much more work for your stylist in the long run.
• Don’t wash your hair every day. Leave a few days between washes and give your hair a break from styling.
• Don’t forget to wash your brushes. Remove the loose hair, soak them in some washing-up liquid and leave them out to air dry.
• Most importantly for extension wearers - Don’t try and remove your hair extensions at home. This will do more harm than good. Leave it to the professionals! Practice daily maintenance and your extensions should last a few more weeks with no damage to your natural hair.
• Finally, don’t be afraid to contact your stylist for advice.

Louise Jenkins of Great Lengths said: “As we head into another lockdown it’s important not to get hung up on the little things. We have enough to worry about at the moment so don’t let your hair stress you out.

"At Great Lengths, we have put together some super helpful hints and tips for you to help manage your hair and hair extensions while we wait for salons to reopen again."