Beauty: The hair doctor's clinic; Highlights and lowlights are like little rays of sunshine streaking through the hair, injecting brightness into any style. But being in the spotlight isn't for everyone - here's how to dazzle, without dying a death.

The highs and lows Don't be confused - highlights are shades of blonde (honey, gold and ash), while lowlights are shades of brown (caramel, red, plum or darker tones). Lowlights are best for longish hair, as short styles can look spotty rather than streaked.

Get personalised The beauty of high and lowlights is that they can be customised to flatter your face shape and personality. Think Kate Winslet with her golden mix, Zoe Ball with her icy tones and Jennifer Lopez, whose sultry looks are enhanced with both high and lowlights.

The latest colour trends The hottest shades for blondes at the moment are natural toned-down beiges, while brunettes are going richer. Fine highlights give a more natural look, and thicker highlights, or `slices', give a more striking, high-fashion effect. They're also great for curly hair, defining selected curls. One of the most flattering finishes is a sunkissed look with highlights or lowlights just around the face.

Glossed up Processed hair can look dry and dull if you don't condition regularly. Try my Urgent Repair Moisture Mask, pounds 5.95. Also check out shampoo ranges that keep the colour vibrant, such as Boots Camomile Fair, Horsechestnut Brown or Henna Red, pounds 1.49 each. With care, your high or lowlights should sparkle and glow through to your next hair appointment in six to eight weeks.

hair angst

Blow-drying is a nightmare - my hair flies all over the place. Any tips? Umberto says Rough-dry hair, clip the top layers up and start on the underneath. Wrap a section of hair round a large round brush and direct the hairdryer down on to it. Once it's dry, move to another section. Finish with a dab of serum on the ends. Products to try are Bumble & bumble Thickening Spray, pounds 4.60; or Kiehl's Creme With Silk Groom, pounds 15.50.