How to get more texture

What to do if you're sick of your hair looking limp and lifeless.

Bored of your hair? Try adding more texture through layering. To give the lowdown on exactly what to ask for at the hair salon, and which products to use once you are back home, we asked Jonathan Long, director of Lockonego in London and Clairol Nice 'n Easy Colour Advisor, for his expert advice.

"So many of our clients, both men and women, are looking for more textured hair styles which they can easily maintain once they leave the salon. Short hair cuts are generally the easiest to create it with as you can manipulate it with a good holding product like a soft moulding wax - something like WICKED Wax by UNITE is great," he said. "Simply apply the product to your hair and roughen up the ends with your fingers for an instant coarseness in shorter, croppy styles."

Jonathan admits that longer hair can be slightly trickier and the finish depends on the thickness of the strands. Those with finer hair should ask their stylist for blended layers and thicker hair should opt for choppier sections created by a point cutting technique.

"The best way to add sharp, define texture to the haircut is to re-cut it again once the hair has been blow-dried and depending on your face shape, cut choppy layers around the face to add real definition," he continued.

"The best products to use on longer hair are a texturising or sea salt spray for textured waves. I would recommend Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray to spritz on to and work with a simple scrunching technique."

To take the style to the next level, use the diffuser on the end of your dryer and blast with medium heat. If you're looking for softer texture and wave, use a curling iron, ensuring to switch the direction of each curl and simply brush out the ringlets - this creates the desired look without the use of any heavy goods.

"I always start by applying styling products onto wet hair; something like Natural Volume Styling Mousse from the Wella Professional range is particularly great for fine hair as it doesn't weigh it down," Jonathan explained. "For second day hair or to re-texture it for an evening do try Wella SP Style Refine Texture - finish with a quick blast of cold air from the hairdryer and manipulate it simply with your fingertips."

Jonathan advises people not to be afraid of being rough with their hair.

"Ensure you use enough styling products to make the consistency last, smooth over the top of your hair with a soft bristle brush if needed," he said.

"Just before you go out, simply flip your head upside down and blast with the dryer - you can also reapply your chosen spray from underneath, this will add volume right at the root and lift from the base of the hair but will avoid your top roots looking greasy."