Glass hair that sparkles and shines. This is how to achieve it

It all started with the blunt, immaculately polished bob cut (think Kim Kardashian circa 2018), but now the glass-hair trend encompasses all hair lengths.

This look is time-consuming and requires dedication. As well as being poker straight, glassy hair needs to be smooth to the touch with zero frizz and flyaways. The ends should be blunt-edged, so regular trimming is essential. Chocolate and black locks will always shine more than blonde hair because of the way light refracts on darker hair.

Healthy hair is at the core of this movement, so use a hydrating shampoo and conditioner plus regular hair masking to keep your locks in peak condition. Go for a mask formulated with nourishing ingredients such as natural botanical oils and plant extracts that hydrate, repair and strengthen hair.

Use a hydrating shampoo and conditioner plus regular hair masking to keep your locks in peak condition.Credit: Getty Images

Begin by washing your hair with a hydrating shampoo such as Gisou Honey Infused Hair Wash ($55), and follow with the paired conditioner ($56). After rinsing, gently towel-dry your hair to remove excess moisture.

Before reaching for any heat-styling tools, apply a hair-protecting serum such as Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil ($54) to damp hair. As well as providing heat protection, this acts like a primer, eliminating frizz, boosting shine and reducing styling time. Comb it through damp hair with a wide-toothed comb to remove any tangles and ensure the primer is distributed evenly. Then, using a round brush and blow-dryer, section your hair out and focus on directing hot air down the hair shaft to encourage the cuticles to lie flat. Finish with a shot of cold air to close the cuticles.

Then bring out the big gun, the Cloud Nine 2-in-1 Contouring Iron Pro ($499), to get that mirror finish. Divide your hair into small sections using hair clips, then clamp your pre-heated iron at the roots of each section and slowly move it down to the ends. Finally, apply a small amount of Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil ($90) to the palms of your hands and run it down the mid-lengths and ends of your hair.

To maintain that sleek finish until your next blow-dry, use your hair iron for quick touch-ups, concentrating on the top layer and any areas that might have lost their smoothness.

ASK STEPH

How do I slow the fading of my dyed hair?
The first thing you should do is ease up on heat styling because this can cause damage as well as fading. When you do use a heat-styling tool, always apply a product such as Bondi Boost Heat Protect Spray ($33).

Send questions via Instagram, @mrssdarling.

Make the most of your health, relationships, fitness and nutrition with our Live Well newsletter. Get it in your inbox every Monday.