The Expert Edit features interviews with specialists about the products they swear by in their chosen field. For the latest installment, we spoke to celebrity hairstylist Chris Appleton about his favorite haircare products.
Celebrity hairstylist Chris Appleton has been the reason for several of the internet’s viral hair trends. From the iconic “wet hair look,” often seen on Kim Kardashian, to Jennifer Lopez‘s perfectly voluminous blowout, you’ve probably seen Appleton’s work on major red carpets.
“From a young age, I was captivated by how a great hairstyle could boost someone’s confidence and completely change their appearance.”
But before he became the go-to hairstylist for A-listers like Dua Lipa and Sofía Vergara and a Lifestyle Contributor for the “The Drew Barrymore Show,” he was just passionate about the transformative power of hair. “From a young age, I was captivated by how a great hairstyle could boost someone’s confidence and completely change their appearance. It was like an art form to me, a way to express creativity and make people feel their best. That passion drove me to pursue a career in hairstyling,” he tells PS. Appleton feels fulfilled seeing the joy and confidence in his clients. “It’s about more than just changing someone’s hair; it’s about helping them see themselves in a new light.”
He often shares styling tips and hacks on his TikTok so followers can achieve his iconic styles at home, but when we chatted with him, we took the opportunity to dive even deeper. Ahead, Appleton gives us top hair tips and even debunks popular hair myths. A common misconception he wants to address is that washing your hair every day is bad. “The truth is, it depends on your hair type and lifestyle. For some, daily washing is necessary, especially if you have an active lifestyle or oily hair,” he says, recommending using gentle, sulfate-free products that won’t strip your hair of its natural oils.
Appleton also shared hacks for keeping hair healthy during the summer. “Use a leave-in conditioner or a hydrating hair mask once a week to maintain moisture. When you’re at the pool or beach, rinse your hair with fresh water before swimming to prevent it from soaking up too much chlorine or saltwater. I always recommend protective hairstyles, like braids or a bun, to minimize damage and reduce frizz caused by humidity.” He also notes that the hair and scalp can be susceptible to sun damage and that it’s imperative to use a UV protectant spray.
For general haircare tips, Appleton recommends getting regular trims and deep conditioning treatments, investing in high-quality products that suit your hair type and needs, and keeping a heat protectant on hand. “My haircare philosophy is that healthy hair starts from within, so maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated are key,” he says. “Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly those that promote hair health like biotin, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids, is crucial. Regular exercise boosts circulation, which helps in delivering essential nutrients to your scalp.” He also notes the importance of managing stress and getting enough sleep – both impact overall health, which affects hair quality.
Ahead, he shares some of his favorite hair products with us, including his go-to hair tool, hair oil, and more.
Experts Featured in This Article
Chris Appleton is a celebrity hairstylist, a contributor to the “Today” show and a Lifestyle Contributor for “The Drew Barrymore Show.”
