4 Hair styling mistakes and how to fix them

But don’t fret — we’re taking a look at some of the biggest hair mistakes women make and how to get on the right track when it comes to styling your hair.

Mistake #1: Dull, dry fall hair that’s left unrepaired

“One of the biggest issues people face when fall comes around is dryness and dull color from processed heat and summer sun exposure,” explains Mayo. “And contrary to popular belief, sulfates aren’t the only culprit when it comes to color fading — oxidation and UV rays can strip color from hair, leaving it damaged, brittle and weak.” To help repair hair and extend color endurance, we must first address and repair damage to the hair cuticle so color has something to adhere to. Repair your hair first this fall before coloring to acheive the best result and then protect it!

Our pick to make your color last:L’Oréal Professionnel INOAColor Care Masque (lpsalons.com, $33)

Mistake #2: Too much or too little product

“One of the biggest mistakes people make when it comes to their hair is overusing or underusing their hair products,” says Mayo. Overusing products may leave hair limp and greasy, while underusing may leave hair fluffy and frizzy with flyaways. To prevent this, ask your stylist for advice on how much product you should be using for your specific hair type and length.

Our pick to tame frizzy tresses:Smooth ‘N Shine Olive & Tea Tree RevivOil Penetrating Treatment Oil (drugstore.com, $6)

Mistake #3: Not sectioning hair when styling

Women on the go often rush when it comes to styling and don’t take the time to properly section their hair into manageable parts before starting. “The funny thing is, in the end, they’ll end up spending more time than they had planned in order to fix their original style, further damaging hair with curling irons and flat irons to fix the fuzz and frizz,” says Mayo. He also advises that you ask your stylist what size brush is most appropriate for your hair. You may be surprised to learn that you’ve been using the wrong brush the whole time! Did you hear that, ladies? Section, section, section!

Our pick to repair heat damaged hair: Beautifying Elixir’s Damage Cure Clay Masque (beautifyingelixirs.com, $39)

Mistake #4: Styling with damp hair

Many women air dry their hair and then use a curling iron or hair straightener to achieve their desired look. “This is fine, but be certain that your hair is 100 percent dry before using either of these tools, otherwise hair will fall flat within moments or get frizzy,” Mayo explains. To power dry your hair before using the styling tools, place the nozzle on the dryer to ensure an even airflow. Then, blow dry from the top of your hair to the bottom, always pointing the dryer downwards with the cuticle of your hair to ensure that your hair stays smooth and frizz free. When the hair is 100 percent dry, proceed with a curling iron or a straightener.

Our styler pick:ghd Style & Finish kit (sephora.com, $225)