Grayer. Darker. Lighter. Straighter. Curlier. Losing luster. Gaining frizz. And growing longer, longer, longer… As we continue to shelter in place to help limit the spread of Coronavirus, Zoom video meetings are proof of one thing: our hair has seen better days.

So we asked Michelle Parkes, celebrity hairstylist and owner of Core Salon of Randolph, NJ, for some guidance and tips to make our stay-home hair feel and look better.

“It’s not just about our hair feeling and looking better,” says Parkes. “When we feel good about our hair, we feel better about ourselves. More confident. Even happier. And even though we can’t get out to salons right now, there are very some easy ways to turn up the at-home glam.”

Tip #1: Make a deep conditioning cocktail!

If your hair is feeling a little dry, amp up the moisture in your conditioner by adding the penetration power of a therapeutic oil like Cococare’s 100% Coconut Oil or 100% Moroccan Argan Oil. Mix it into your favorite conditioner, apply as you normally would, and leave on a little longer so it can penetrate the hair, you can even leave it on overnight for optimal results. How much of each you put in the mixture depends on the texture and length of your hair – try different amounts until you get the healthy-looking hair results you want. “I’m a big fan of conditioner cocktails for a quick hit of moisture. You can also just use the oil on dry hair for a moisture infusion and to help with frizz,” notes Parkes. “And for really deep conditioning, try slathering it onto your dry hair at night. Once your hair looks wet, like you just got out of the shower, wrap it or put it up and go to sleep. You’ll be amazed at the results when you wash your hair in the morning.” Bonus: these oils are great hand moisturizers too. Just rub the oil into your hands to help replace the moisture we’re losing through our increased hand-washing frequency.

Tip #2: Experiment with New Styles!

“If you have the time like many of us do right now, why not try something new,” suggests Parkes. While cutting your hair is probably best left to the pros, she recommends adding some curl with an iron or some hot rollers. “Styles don’t have to be difficult, and many hairstylists are creating tutorials to help their clients during this time. So check out your salon’s website or social media – or just search online.” Parkes adds, “A lot of sets will look good for a few days, so investing the time to learn a new style will actually save you time. Plus, you’ll have a new look to use long after we are past this challenging time.”

Tip #3: Finish and Refresh!

“One of the biggest complaints I’m hearing from my clients is that their hair just isn’t shiny right now,” Parkes shares. “Hair shine sprays are literally created to help boost that shine, and to be used on dry hair.” Cococare’s Coconut Oil Hair Shine and Argan Oil Hair Shine sprays actually help restore radiance and reduce frizz for all hair types. “So once you’ve styled your hair, finish it with a shine spray – and you can use it throughout the day (or on day 2, day 3…) to refresh your hair and your mood. But remember: a little goes a long way and if you spray on too much, you may end up looking greasy.”

Tip #4: Try “Hairoma” Therapy!

“We’re all extra-stressed right now, so why not choose hair product scents that can positively influence our moods?” asks Parkes. Scents like coconut can conjure up thoughts of tropical escapes, while argan evokes a spicier mystique. Which one is right for you is a matter of personal preference. Her hairoma hack: “Once you find what you like, you can also layer scents! If you like the smell of coconut, try using a coconut shampoo, conditioner, and hair shine spray to help the smell last longer.”

Tip #5: Don’t Use Groceries for Hair Care

Yes, we’re ending our list of “to-dos for your stay home do” with a don’t. Many people say using mayonnaise or beer in your hair will have miraculous results. “I think that’s a myth. I did try beer in my hair many years ago, but it dried it out,” admits Parkes. In this time when grocery shopping is more difficult than usual, save the food and beverages for eating and drinking. “Oh, one more thing: stay away from spray-on hair lighteners!” she advises. “They never stop lightening and can be very drying on the hair, so you may find that your blonde locks turn into an orange mess, and your stylist won’t be able to fix it for you until non-essential businesses are permitted to reopen.”

While we all can’t wait to get back into the salon, these expert tips can help turn Stay-Home Hair into the envy of your next Zoom meeting. So experiment, find what works for you, and avoid overpaying! Cococare’s mantra, #StickWithWhatMatters, reflects our commitment to making high-nutrient haircare accessible to all.