Find a style that doesn't require a straightener

"Don't use heat-styling tools daily. Flat irons, curling irons and even blow drying can damage the hair shaft. Damaged hair is not able to retain colour the way that healthy hair can," says colourist Marie Robinson.

"I almost never blow-dry my hair or use hot tools," she adds. "I usually apply Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray, go to bed with damp hair, and wake up with waves."

Use a cotton bud to get rid of flyaway strands

You might experience Sapphire Lewis, salon manager of Bleach London, describes as "weird sleep patterns". We've all been there when we wake up in the morning to discover our hair has defied all rules of styling and is sticking up in different directions. Luckily, Paul Edmonds has a sneaky tip to help you deal with the problem, that doesn't involve using damaging heating products.

The stylist says, "If you haven't got time to wash your hair, damp a cotton wool ball and dab at your hair to get rid of errant root lift stick outs."

Tame volume with products

A shorter cut maximises natural volume, so the key is in finding products to add texture and hold. Aaron Carlo, lead stylist on X Factor with Tresemme says, "It's so important for short hair to have structure so getting the right product to style it is essential. Texturising products serve this purpose perfectly on shorter styles".

Paul Edmonds says, "Maintenance of your look through styling products is also key. Dry matte paste products for shorter hair gives hold and texture whilst for slightly longer hair types a mousse or soft paste can give you a flexible hold."

...but look after your scalp

Don’t forget to take care of your scalp. Andrew Jose adds, "You should give your scalp the same attention as you give the skin on your face. Product and debris can build up on your scalp if not washed out thoroughly and dryness and irritation can occur. Adding an exfoliating scalp treatment to your short hair care routine can serve as a facial for the hair and stimulate the scalp."

3. Trim your hair every three to six weeks

The golden rules of caring for short hair, from long bobs to pixie crops