Jamal Hammadi, Sunsilk Shine & Strength co-creator and stylist to the stars, believes natural hair products create natural glow for that superstar look and feel. So when your big break comes along, whether it’s a job interview or a trip abroad, you can ditch sweaty palms and let your inner light shine bright with a few of Jamal’s shine secrets. Because when you feel like a superstar, you are one….check out some awesome tips from Jamal below:

 Secret #1. Keep It Real

Oils are a natural part of our hair’s make-up, so they’re the obvious nourishing ingredient to infuse hair with radiant shine. Products with natural ingredients such as argan, almond and camellia oil are extremely beneficial for the growth of healthy hair. Tea tree oil can also help maintain the balance of your hair’s natural oils.

 TIP: For fabulously soft hair, this recipe is a great and natural DIY alternative: blend egg white, cucumber and a few spoons of coconut oil in a mixer, apply on hair and leave for 40 minutes, then wash out. You’ll love how soft your hair feels!

Secret #2. Keep It Simple

Less is more! Go back to basics as much as possible – avoid hair gels and limit how much you use hair spray. Be careful not to over-colour when dying, as this can rob hair of its natural shine and texture. Using a hot iron to straighten is also better than chemical straightening, which can weaken hair due to chemicals used in the process.

TIP: If you brush your hair before sleep, use a wooden comb to untangle knots rather than a normal plastic one, as these lead to hair breakage. Wooden combs can activate the hair’s natural oil secretion, which lends moisture to the hair. And remember to be gentle when drying your hair after cleaning – rough treatment damages cuticles and roots.

Secret #3. It’s All About Moisture

Moisture is so important for bouncy, thick and shiny hair. But everything we do to our hair depletes moisture: using the wrong shampoo, blow-drying, colouring or straightening.

TIP: Just remember, lack of moisture is curable – you can replenish your natural hair texture with moisturisers and nutrients. You should also rinse with cold water after washing, because this seals the hair cuticles, locking in moisture and shine. And don’t forget to oil your hair every now and then, ensuring to oil the ends as well – argan oil is perfect.

Secret #4. Shea Butter for Sheer Beauty

One of my favourite natural ingredients is shea butter. It provides the perfect amount of nutrients to add that natural sheen. It also protects your hair from the sun and contains vitamins A and E, which are beneficial for dry and sun exposed skin and hair.

TIP: Vitamin A smoothes and has hydrating properties, while vitamin E is vital for luscious shine and is found in foods such as avocados, berries and nuts. It improves scalp circulation and helps decrease greyness.

 Secret #5. Love Your Body, Love The Look

Each strand has to be healthy from the inside to glow with its full brilliance. To achieve this, you need to nourish each hair individually. But you also need a positive attitude and a well-balanced diet!

TIP: Fish and fish oils are key for healthy hair. You can keep your locks nourished with lots of water, vegetables and foods rich in fatty acids such as salmon and beans – and make sure you up your iron intake. You should eat lots of good proteins and vegetables. Iron will give hair a fantastic shine!

I would certainly like Jamal to be my stylist for my next big event 🙂