The Best Celebrity Red Carpet Hair Secrets That I Swear By

3 min read

I’ve never walked a red carpet because, like most people, I am decidedly not a celebrity. But I have covered red carpets extensively in my career as a journalist. I’ve been on the sidelines of the film festival carpet while in Cannes. I’ve stood across from an award show step-and-repeat with a microphone in my sweaty hand, asking silly questions to cool people. And I’ve interviewed dozens of the world’s top hairstylists about their techniques for achieving a movie-premiere-ready look, so I can share their expert secrets here on Bazaar.

Even if you’ll never walk a red carpet, there are plenty of tricks of the trade that can be used for getting your hair looking like an A-lister’s for your sister’s wedding, high school reunion, or fancy gala fundraiser. Honestly, some of these red-carpet hair hacks are the same ones I use for a random day at the office, like using products that are specifically formulated to address signs of hair aging (lack of thickness and volume, dullness, dryness, and frizz). Because even when there aren’t flashing cameras following your every move, a great hair day can kind of make you feel like there are.

If I have an event coming up, the way I plan to style my hair can completely change my shampoo schedule. Wearing it up? I start with my hair slightly dirty so it has grip for all the bobby pins I’ll need to use. Wearing it down? I’ve learned it’s best that my hair is freshly washed so it has optimal volume.

A great pre-event shampoo is Kérastase Chronologiste Bain Régénérant, which gives hair instant volume and a visibly thicker look (perfect for photos). It contains hyaluronic acid and abyssine and is specifically formulated for hair weakened by signs of aging, like a lack of fullness or shine. It also hydrates, strengthens, and boosts volume. For even more smoothing power and improved manageability, follow with the Chronologiste collection’s Masque Intense Régénérant. The formula is lightweight so it’s suitable for fine hair, while still providing deep moisture. The duo gives you a head start in the styling process, which I appreciate.

There are overnight serums and masks for your skin—but did you know they exist for hair, too? Work the Kérastase Chronologiste Overnight Youth Serum through the ends of your hair the evening before a big event, and come morning, you’ll find your hair looking shinier, smoother, and healthier. I love keeping the bottle on my bedside table next to my hand cream so I remember to use it regularly. Pair it with a silk pillowcase (for less damage to hair than cotton), and you’ll be redefining the meaning of beauty sleep.

Shop Red-Carpet-Ready Hair Essentials From KérastaseKérastase Chronologiste Bain RégénérantKérastase Chronologiste Masque Intense RégénérantKérastase Chronologiste Overnight Youth Serum

Celebrity hairstylists have told me time and time again that the one mistake most people make is not using enough heat protectant—or any at all. Anyone who styles their hair, famous or not, should work a heat-protecting product through their hair before touching it with a dryer, curler, or iron if achieving a healthy, glossy, and shiny look is the goal. The Kérastase Chronologiste Overnight Youth Serum is also outfitted with 450°F heat protection so you don’t even need to add another step to your routine.

Hairspray is your friend. Embrace it, own it. I am always a bit mystified by people who get their hair professionally styled and then refuse styling products. Do you not want it to last? The bounciest blowouts start with mousse and end with hairspray. Texture spray is the backbone of any great updo. If you’re scared of that stiff, shellacked look, try lighter formulas that are more buildable. And don’t be afraid to brush through your hair to give it a more natural effect without compromising the hold.