Hot, sticky summer days can leave clients' locks limp and lifeless. John Gialluisi, Creative Director, and Anthony Muti, Style Director at Mario Tricoci Hair Salons & Day Spas offer great snippets of advice for helping clients work with their tresses to beat the heat:

Perfect Pony
Clients can't expect to get a great ponytail if hair is limp and tired. It starts with a good foundation of hair with body and luster to achieve that bounce. Wash and dry hair paying particular attention to lifting hair at the roots with a natural bristle brush to create volume.

• A perky pony starts at the base of the crown. To help your clients find it, have them cup their hand over their head with  fingers pointing toward the face. The palm should cradle the crown.

• Brush and smooth hair off of the face in upward strokes, gathering it tightly with the other hand. Secure with a sturdy, no-pull band and use a strong hold spritz to keep shorter pieces in place.

• Ready to let it down? Having hair in great shape beforehand can reduce the appearance of the kinky ponytail bump when they're ready to shake locks loose.

Quick Buns

A modern bun or chignon gives hair a pulled together look when pinned up and can deliver some soft, sexy waves when it comes down. Have clients start by using a product that brings some lift along the hairline before tying hair back.

• Show them how to comb hair back with one hand and bring it together at the base of the crown with the other, gripping it tightly.

• Once hair is gathered, start twisting it with the free hand and begin wrapping the spiral around itself. Remove the hand holding the base so it can support the forming bun then tuck the end piece tightly into the chignon.

• Offer clients an array of supporting tools from basic bobby pins to stylish sticks to maintain the bun. Have them hold one hand over the center while they build support by weaving in sticks and clips or pushing pins through edge of the bun toward the center of the knot.

Fancy Fringe

We're seeing them in the magazines, in movies and on the runway; bangs are big and a great way to create a fresh look for the season. But a feisty fringe isn't for everyone.

• The shape of your client's face will greatly impact a fringed addition. A longer, oval-shaped visage usually works best. And those who wear glasses every day may opt for a different look than those who don't with a short fringe or side swept look that works with frames.

• Keep a stack of fashion and celebrity magazines on hand so your client can show you exactly what they're thinking. Do they want Reese Witherspoon's look or Katie Holmes'? The visual will help you understand their expectations and make suggestions based on their face shape, hair and overall style.

• Maintenance is essential. Consider offering complimentary fringe trims for your guests in between appointments. It's a great way to ensure client loyalty and keep you as their go-to hair expert.