Salon straight talk: you can avoid a hair nightmare by following this advice from the pros themselves on how to communicate with your stylist to get the exact cut or color you want

Shape, Jan, 2005 by Jenna McCarthy

CONDITIONERS

3. Physique Volumizing Conditioner ($7; at drugstores) is lightweight enough that even people with fine hair can use it daily.

4. Curl.life by Matrix ($10; matrix.com for salon locations) uses vegetable starch and wheat proteins to condition and strengthen hair that's permed or naturally curly.

STYLING AIDS

5. Tressa Texturizing Paste ($13; tressa.com for salon locations) eliminates frizz and adds control--perfect for short hairstyles or to create a piecey look.

6. John Frieda Frizz-Ease Hair Serum ($10; at drugstores) stops frizz and adds shine to any hair type.

MUST-HAVE TOOLS

7. Hair Art Ionic 1875W Hair Dryer ($49; beauty.com) has two speed settings, and its ceramic heating element helps protect hair from damage.

8. Conair Glass Plate Straightener ($25; at drugstores) has a specially designed edge to keep hair from snagging.

9. Kiehl's Large hairbrush ($52.50; kiehls.com for store locations) makes straight blowouts faster and easier.

10. Revlon 1 1/2 Inch Perfect Heat Professional Styling Iron ($20; at drugstores) is ceramic-coated to reduce heat damage and heats up in 60 seconds.

--Leigh Arndt

Jenna McCarthy is a writer in Santa Barbara, Calif., who has returned to her "blondish" roots.