Hair
18 Products That Changed Our Lives
As magazine editors, lots of products—from makeup and hair tools, to cleaning supplies and organizational products, to gardening gadgets and even toilet paper (yes, toilet paper!)—make their way across our desks. Some fall flat, others generate temporary buzz, and a select few become staples in our lives. And when we realized that some of these products have become items we simply cannot live without, we knew it was time to share the wealth with our loyal readers. Here, we present you with our editors’ all-time favorite items.
The Best Multipurpose Beauty Products
These MVPs tackle two (or more) things at once―so you don’t have to.
The Beauty Products Every Woman Should Own
Why waste time browsing the aisles when our beauty editors have done the legwork for you? Over Real Simple's 15 years, thousands of cosmetics have come through our doors—these 23 stand the test of time. Each product—from shampoo to lipstick—has been crowned road-test winner at least once.
Do You Really Need Shampoo?
A new, suds-free approach to washing, called “co-washing,” might just eliminate shampoo—and put an end to your bad hair days.
6 Great Unisex Products You Might Just Fight Over
While we may borrow from the boys to get dressed (button-downs, cardigans), guys often borrow from us girls to get groomed. Luckily, these six products are made to share.
How to Create a Crown Braid
Braids aren’t going anywhere, so we are breaking down the easiest way to pull off a pretty crown braid (they look hard, we know, but it’s easier than you think). Plus, why buy a headband, when you can make one using your own hair?
Why Everyone Should Get a Blind Haircut at Least Once
Hair, for many women (including myself), acts as a security blanket. Tell me you’re going to cut an inch, and I hesitate; tell me you’re going to cut more than five inches, and I would bolt from the salon chair. That’s where the blind haircut comes in. Admittedly, I am (was) very attached to the length of my hair (that touched my butt). But then Dove celebrity hairstylist, Mark Townsend, got his hands on it and worked his magic.
How to Create a Braided Top Knot
Tired of throwing your hair into a typical top knot when you want it out of your face? Switch it up with this braided, half-up version that’s polished enough for the office but fun enough for a night out. Good news: It works on one- or two-day-old hair, plus it’s easier to do than it sounds and looks.
How to Curl Your Hair With a Flat Iron
Here, how to master those laidback beachy waves by using your flatiron—and without spending a ton of time in front of the mirror.