Healthier, Shinier Hair May Be As Close As Your Next Meal...

The Foods you eat can directly effect the condition of your hair. According to Vartan, master stylist and owner of Vartali Salon in New York City, eating a well-rounded diet and drinking at least eight glasses of water a day can dramatically improve the health of your hair.

One of the most common questions asked in any salon is how to make hair shinier. "When clients complain that their hair is dull and lifeless, I always ask them what they eat. Often they tell me they are following some fad diet or skipping meals. If you do not get enough protein, vitamins and water your hair and skin are the first places to show the deficiency," said Vartan.

Even hair that is dull from over-processing and excessive blow drying can be helped nutritionally. "If you are getting the proper nutrition, hair will be stronger and better able to withstand styling demands in the first place," he added.

In addition to proper nutrition, there are several steps that consumers can take to improve the condition of their hair. The following are Vartali's Top Ten Tips For Healthier Hair:

1. Drink eight or more full glasses of water per day. Water rids the system of toxins and keeps your hair hydrated.
2. Eat a balanced diet. Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
3. Alternate shampoo every few days to prevent buildup.
4. Go to your salon for deep conditioning treatments.
5. If you must blow dry hair, use medium setting.
6. Rinse hair with an ounce of vinegar once each week to remove styling product residue.
7. Do not wash hair in very hot water.
8. Rinse hair with cool water after washing and conditioning to seal the cuticle and promote a smoother texture.
9. Less is more. Do not over use styling products which can dull hair.
10. Avoid styling products with high alcohol content.