Hair. We curl it, we cut it, we fry it and dye it. We're constantly abusing our tresses in pursuit of the next hair high - whether it's a funky color, a new trend for the new year or a style that involves plenty of heat, our poor hair just needs some serious TLC. Proper care will prevent all of these frizzy or flat issues that we oh-so-loathe. But, enough with the hair hate already - it's time to show your hair who's boss!


Damage Control

Everyone complains about how damaged their hair is, and you know you do too. Whether it's from constantly coloring your 'do, or the 400-degree flat iron you run through your mane daily, some damage and split ends are bound to happen. Heal and seal the cuticle by regularly treating your tresses with the right hair mask and oil treatments. Just use them for 15 minutes once a week and your hair will feel as good as new! Leave-in conditioners will also keep your hair feeling silky, along with heat-protectant sprays and most importantly - regular trims! If you haven't had a mini snip in over three months, it's time to schedule an appointment.

Forget the frizz! Nothing is more annoying than an air-dry gone wrong or the midday ball of frizziness. Prevent these hair faux pas by running a pump of smoothing serum through your hair while it's still damp. Look for an anti-frizz and anti-humidity formula for all day protection and keep a small sample of serum in your purse for emergencies!

You've spent all day trying to achieve the perfect blowout, or even more intricate, the perfect braided updo and it's already starting to go limp. Did you forget your hairspray? A blast of the right hairspray for your hair type will give your locks the boost it needs to look big and beautiful for hours on end.

Start with a strong foundation by blowdrying your curls the right way. Set the diffuser to low speed, use high heat and only dry about 80 percent of it or you'll end up with major frizz. Since your hair type is thirsty for hydration, use a smoothing cream to control and tame your spirals. A blast of dry shampoo at your roots is also the perfect solution to extending your 'do in between washes.

So, your sleek pony doesn't come out as a thick mane - that's OK! There are plenty of options out there to make it appear as if you have the hair of your dreams. Start off by using a thickening shampoo to plump up your strands and use a volumizing mousse near your roots while hair is still damp. Once you've styled your hair, give your roots a blast of texturizing spray and violá - big, bad hair!

Years of damaging acts basically suck the shine straight out of your hair. Replenish your glow by using a shine serum or spray - just don't overdo it or you'll end up with greasy hair! A vitamin-rich diet and the right styling tools will get your back to healthy hair in no time.

Are you the boss of your hair? Tell us about it in the comments below!

Photo: Natalie Faye