Hair's the Scoop

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Everyone has their non-negotiable "splurge" when times are tough, and hair care is most certainly one of mine. I may not frequent the salon as much as I'd like, but I still go for trims and color every so often, and take the opportunity to ask my stylist how I can prolong the time between visits (without making a mess of their work).

If anything, the past year has helped me to perfect my blowdrying and styling skills, and forced me to really take the time to ensure that I'm spending my money on products that are worth their sticker price. And also, to read instructions carefully in the name of conservation.

But ask me to trade in my trusted stylist, colorist, and go-to products, and you'll have a very bitter blogger. I'd rather rinse less often— or even take on a 3rd job— than sacrifice the things that help my hair look its best. I'm crazy that way.

According to a recent report, however, my fellow addicts and I are in the minority. A new study has found that 66% of people are claiming a significant reduction in their hair care spending.

Have you cut back on products, treatments and salon services since the economic crisis began? If so, to what degree?

...One of three fabulous Aveda gift baskets, valued at over $85 each!

Simply leave a comment on any Hair's the Scoop post before 11:59 pm EST on May 18, 2009, and you'll automatically be entered to win.

Click here to view all of the products included in the prize, and here for a full listing of rules and regulations.

Best of luck! x

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5 eco-friendly hair care products that have me hooked:

Aveda Shampure Shampoo
Made with a mix of 25 pure flower and plant essences, this gentle cleanser is suitable for all hair types. And, as with all Aveda products, Shampure is housed in responsible packaging and eligible for their "Recycle Caps" program.

Suki Revitalizing Conditioner
An all-natural, vegan rinse that works to soften, strengthen, and detangle your strands without weighing them down.

Aesop Rose Hair & Scalp Moisturizing Masque
Used weekly, this nourishing botanical treatment boosts both body and shine. Excellent for all hair types.

Ojon Shine & Protect Glossing Mist
A lightweight glossing mist
that intensifies color brilliance, helps to eliminate flyaways and combat humidity, offers protection from thermal styling, and boasts a UV-inhibiting antioxidant complex.

Klorane Gentle Dry Shampoo With Oat Extract
Use this cult classic to cleanse, remove excess product, or as a midday pick-me-up for tired tresses.

Now that I've shown you mine....
Which gloriously "green" products top your list??

When it comes to hair, spring is the season of renewal. After all, it's an awkward time for your tresses. Winter can leave locks looking dehydrated, dull and damaged from excessive heat styling. And ahead lies summer, with its sun, surf, and humidity.

To restore and protect your hair's natural radiance, look no further than Kerastase Masquintense. It's the perfect transitional treatment, boosting vitality, shine and lightness in (normal to fine) hair that's dry, sensitized, and/or color-treated.

Highly recommended.

Kerastase Masquintense, $58. Available online at Kerastase-USA.com.

EXCLUSIVE OFFER: Enter promo code VIP30 at checkout, and you'll receive a 30% discount on a selection of products and free shipping. Hurry though, this offer is only valid through April 10, 2009.

Source: Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images

Who says you can't have full and touchable tresses? This volumizing spray gel proves that anything is possible— with a little help.

Never stiffening nor mattifying, Pantene's lightweight, vitamin-infused formula provides hair with a lustrous sheen, while also working to support each strand from root-to-tip. Its continuous and flexible hold helps to keep your locks looking healthy, soft, and full of body through whatever the day (and night) might bring.

A must for those with fine, curly, or short hair.

Pantene Pro-V Root Lifter Spray Gel, $2.99. Available at Walgreens.com.