With Gillette’s latest series of adverts reminding us that ‘winter hates our faces’ perhaps we should also be thinking of the stress that the season has on the health of our hair.

Winter means arctic conditions combated by blazing offices and the winter essential: the woolly hat. Then there are the many Christmas parties that dictate that we backcomb, tug, pull, contort, curl, straighten, dye and spray gunk into our hair to achieve the look. All this leaves our hair a little worse for wear and probably cursing the invention of tongs.

However, there is a way to help your hair survive this season and below are a few simple tips:

1.Whether you’re drying your hair, curling or straightening it, a good way to protect your hair from heat damage is to use a heat protection spray.

2. Backcombing can seriously damage your hair if done frequently. Give your hair a breather, put down the brush and try a volumising spray and non-heated rollers to give your hair that extra lift.

3. A winter essential is definitely a good conditioner to make sure that your hair stays well nourished.

4. It may seem obvious but give your hair a break. Not going out? Let your locks dry naturally

5.Finally, make regular hair appointments to get rid of those inevitable split ends and keep your hair looking healthy.

Short hair makes a statement, looks bold and is the hairstyle of the moment, however as the party season approaches, many of us look into the mirror longing for our long locks. While extensions are recommended for those suffering from their loss in length, for women searching for a look for a one-off event or perhaps more importantly that perfect outfit, Jessica Simpson’s 'Wrap-Around Hairdo' offers a great solution. A simple (and long) ponytail shouts glamour and this is what it offers.

As suggested in the name, the piece wraps around your own pony tail to create a glamorous Hollywood-esque look. Not sure whether to keep it straight or go for a more textured look? Take it to your salon and get your hairdresser to style you.

Have fun at the Christmas party.

Visit: www.hairextensions.com

Emma Watson dazzled and shocked at the latest Harry Potter premiere as she unveiled her new short ‘pixie’ hair cut. This trend, which is sweeping celeb land with early followers such as Hayden Panettiere, has now hit the high street with many of us enjoying this bold new look.

A word of caution; this look is not for the faint hearted, so before going to the salon think carefully about length and texture. To make sure you get the look that suits you perfectly, discuss it with your stylist and bring in visual aids.

Benefits: this is a style that is very easy to upkeep and for a more edgier version, style with wax.

More importantly, embrace the change and enjoy your new head-turning look.

Towel dry your hair and French plait loosely. Mist with volumizing spray and leave to dry. Once dry un-plait, fix with styling spray and (if your hair is thick) a touch of hairspray. Result? Jessica Alba's style with minimal effort.