During a recent photo shoot, a photographer said that my hair is “like a deflating balloon.” Was that a compliment? I think not. My hair is long, dark and straight as could be, and volume is like gold to me since it’s hard to come by. For this reason, I’m constantly picking the brain of every savvy hairstylist who crosses my path. Below, find some of the very best tips I’ve learned so far this year. Try them, love them.

1. Get Va-va-volume. A root lifter is one of those often-overlooked yet amazing hair must-haves. It comes in spray or mousse form (personally I la-la-love the spray kinds). Simply spray a bit of the product on wet hair, focusing on the crown and aiming at the roots. Blow-dry with a paddle brush or round brush as usual, and voila! Want more lift? Check out these tips for volume

2. Speak up! When it comes to finding a new haircut, use your stylist as a resource and not the decision-maker. Don’t be shy about what you want. For example, voice specifications like, “I want to be able to make a ponytail” or “I don’t want any layers.”

3. Be a hot mess. “The most asked about trend for spring is ‘semi-dressed hair,’” says Carmine Minardi, co-owner of Minardi Salon in New York City. “Blow-dry your hair using just your fingers, giving your hair a ‘messy,’ tousled look.” To tame frizzies, use a straightening iron on a low heat setting and don’t flatten your strands completely. Check out more of my favorite hairstyles for spring

4. Eat well. A healthy diet isn't just good for your body, it also has an effect on your hair. Eat a balanced diet featuring plenty of green, leafy vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean protein and good fats, and get gorgeous, healthy hair from the inside out!