Hair 101: What NOT to Do

For some, hair is the quintessential accessory; the defining touch that can make or break the entire appearance. For others, hair is a burden; simply something that grows from the head, and nary a thought it spent on what to do with it or how to take proper care of it.

Chances are, if you're on this site, you're leaning more toward the former category than the latter. However, there are a few important things to remember when it comes to your hair.

Most importantly, don't take your hair too seriously. This is a common mistake among those who value their appearance, and frankly, it's just hair! The reliable thing about it is that it always grows back, and if the cut/color/or style is bad enough, it can always be fixed. Gee, even if you shave your head a la Britney Spears, you can still invest in a fabulous wig to get you through the growing out phase. Ultimately, never spend too much time, too many tears, or too much agony over a bad style.

Almost equally as important, don't disregard your hair totally. Hair is the finishing touch on the perfect outfit, the stunning accessory that can make or break your outward aesthetic on a big day, the feature that draws the attention of a stranger on a first impression. Always make sure to keep your hair healthy, clean and neatly trimmed. Greasy hair, dried-out frizz or split ends can all give the impression that your hair is of little importance to you, and that's probably not a good vibe you want to be putting out there.

Don't be afraid to try new things. While it's important to know what looks best on you, and what will give the proper impression, but if you're stuck in a style-rut now, you might never have the courage to experiment. Stay up to date while avoid overly trendy styles, and always be looking for the next cut, color, or style that might bring out the best in your appearance.

Finally, don't try things that are so wacky that you'll be setting yourself up for some heavy-duty explaining. If you hold a high power corporate position, it's best to keep your hair appropriate for the job, as you would with your wardrobe. If you're at the bottom of the totem pole, trying to make headway in your career, best to keep your hairstyle conservative and adopt the same adage that they recommend for your clothes: style your hair for the job you want, not the job you have. If you're an actress, model, TV personality or high-profile in any sense, you'll want to consult with your manager, PR person or news director before making any drastic changes.