Hair's the Scoop

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In honor of Earth Day, I've asked celebrity stylist David Babaii to share his top tips for eco-friendly styling:

Step Away from the Styling Tools
Achieve curls & texture without the use of heated styling tools.

If you have long hair:
After shampooing spray your entire head with a wave-enhancing hair product (like David Babaii for WildAid Bohemian Beach Spray) and scrunch and/or twist sections, then allow to air dry. Once dry, if added texture or volume is desired flip your head over and back, give it a quick shake. Then, to set it all in place, lightly spray your hair with a flexible- hold hairspray.

For short hair:
Towel dry wet hair thoroughly to begin the foundation. Then, spray your entire head with a wave-enhancing product and allow to air dry. Once dry, apply a molding paste and texturize your hair until you're happy with the look.

Cleanse with Care

Conserve water and energy by altering the way you wash your tresses.

In order to avoid excess oil or buildup (and save on water use), use a bit of baby powder throughout the hair as a dry shampoo. It will help lift your locks and fragrance them with a fresh scent. Alternatively, you can use a damp cotton pad and dab it around the hairline and roots to eliminate any excess oil. You can also mist the pad with a light, oil-free fragrance, or squeeze a few drops from a fresh lemon, for added effect.

When you do wash your hair, do so in the evening. It saves time and energy, and can add volume and texture to your look.

For tousled, textured looks:
When hair is slightly damp, create multiple sections and braid your hair tying the ends with an elastic band (depending on how much texture you want, make the braids loose, for less texture, or tight, for more). Next, spray the braids with a wave-enhancing spray and just sleep on it. When you awake, simply undo the braids, give your head a little shake, and add in some additional product to achieve the desired texture and volume.

Alternatively, you can also place all of your hair in a messy ponytail (twisting sections tight or loose to achieve various textures). Then simply spray your hair with a wave-enhancing product and go to bed. In the morning, undo the ponytail and you'll have an effortless, eco-chic look.

For sleek, straight styles:
For super straight hair, it’s is all about accessories. Play around with different head bands, hair pins, and clips to achieve a fun and playful look.

Alternatively, you can tie your hair in a sleek low pony tail. After tying it up, take small strands of hair and pin them on top of and underneath the pony tail to achieve the illusion of having volume. A simple half-updo can also tame straight, slept-on tresses.

Think Outside the Box
Use basic household items as styling aids.

For example:
- A new and unused toothbrush is a great styling tool; it can be used to back-brush close to the scalp to add volume, or even sweep away pesky flyaways.
- An old soda pop can help set your style and/or assist in achieving large, lopped curls.
- Used dryer sheets are a great way to freshen and fragrance your hair, and guard against static.
- Wrapping ribbon, old scarves and costume jewelry, are all cost-effective ways to add variety to your look and reduce household waste.

Have any eco-chic styling tips of your own? Do share!