How to get out of a hair rut

Sporting the same hairstyle in every passport photo? It’s time to make a change. And if the thought of switching your shade or cutting your luxe lengths into a lob has your palms glistening, fear not. Little things like updating your product to trying a topknot can up the wow factor. Here’s how to get out of that hair rut for good.

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You’re still getting the “Rachel” haircut.

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Even Jennifer Aniston occasionally switches up her hair.

“We’ve moved away from structured and overly styled to more relaxed and cool,” states Redken Australia artist Paloma Rose Garcia. “Hair that sits from mid neck to at least three centimetres above the chest, a few long layers, textured ends and a cheekbone-length drop fringe, invokes that soft, grown-out feeling.”

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You’ve been ombre obsessed since SJP was single in the city.

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Bottom-heavy colour is passé; balayage, where colour cascades down the length of the hair, looks subtle and sun-kissed. “It needs to look seamless and expensive, so use it as a tool to accentuate what you already have,” advises Michael Kelly, national colour educator for Oscar Oscar Salons.

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Sea salt spray is your go-to for texture.

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Hair powders, such as Redken Powder Grip 03 Mattifying Hair Powder, offer just as much texture as sea salt spray, plus hold, volume and density. “For an undone look with a modern edge, sprinkle a little powder onto dry hair after heat styling, then tong or blowdry until it’s sleek,” says Garcia.

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You count on conditioner to keep your hair hydrated.

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Conditioner alone won’t cut it. “A nourishing mask improves manageability and makes hair instantly look and feel luxurious,” explains Garcia. “Leave the mask on for 20 minutes once a week, or replace your conditioner with a mask and leave in for five minutes every time you wash.” Try Toni & Guy Nourish Reconstruction Mask.

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Your ponytail takes you from the gym to the school pick-up.

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You’re probably wearing a pony because it’s easy, but a topknot takes the same amount of time and looks effortlessly chic. “It’s the quintessential summer look,” adds Garcia. “Place your pony a little higher on the crown, apply smoothing serum to the tail and wrap it around for a relaxed topknot.” Try ghd Style Smooth & Finish Serum.

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You know the precise colour combination to ask for at the salon.

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Nothing makes a bigger, look-at-me impact than a brand-new hair colour. “Bronde, which merges brunette and blonde, is a great segue into something different, and perfect for those wanting to move away from balayage, or for blondes wanting to dip their toes into darker shades,” explains Kelly. Ask for cool toffee and rich honey highlights at the roots, and flowing pastel-caramel balayaged lengths.