Get the right cut

While a new look can seem expensive, investing in a great cut is a smart idea. "Your haircut is the most important thing when it comes to cost - I believe you should get at least eight or nine weeks from a cut," says David Keogh, stylist for John Frieda. "Make sure you ask for a good trim, and tell your hairdresser you want something you can easily maintain and style." And remember: an angular crop, blunt bob or heavy fringe needs more frequent salon visits to keep it looking slick. Extend time between hair appointments by opting for a longer, layered style that will grow out softly without looking unkempt.

Tend to your ends

Straggly, split strands highlight the fact you're overdue for a haircut. So, if you can keep them under control, you'll need fewer visits to your hairdresser. Treat your hair gently when you style and never brush it when it's wet - untangle it with a wide-toothed comb such as Lady Jayne Shower Comb, $2.99. Damaged ends can be even more obvious if your hair is long, so consider products specially formulated to care for lengthy styles, like the new Clairol Herbal Essences Long Term Relationship range, including the Split End Protector Mask, $7.99. And, if all else fails, the application of a serum like Avon Advance Techniques Daily Results Dry Ends Serum, $12.99, will smooth strands that are obviously in need of a trim.

Work with what you've got

Stop fighting your natural texture. Singeing curls into silky-smooth submission, or curling straight strands every day, means you'll use a lot of product, not to mention the damage you can cause your style, which may need to be fixed professionally. Give your lengths a rest and let them go native a few times a week.

Upsize your buys

"Buying shampoo and conditioner from the supermarket is a great way to get quality products at a reasonable price," notes Keogh. Just be sure you choose a formulation that suits your hair texture. And consider buying in bulk from the salon - those extra-large bottles may seem expensive, but they work out to be better value in the long run as you won't have to shop for products as often. For a bargain buy, try the whopping 900ml TRESemmé Salon Silk Shampoo and Conditioner, $11.99 each.

Invest Wisely

While you can definitely save money on the basics, sometimes you need to part with a little extra to get the right choices for your lengths. Always shop for products specific to your hair type and you'll notice an immediate difference in your hair, and invest a little extra in good-quality heat-styling tools. "After the cut, a great hairdryer is really important," advises Keogh. We like VS Sassoon Expert Lightweight 2000, $39.95. A good hairspray, such as KMS California Hairstay Maximum Hold Spray, $18.95, is also a styling essential for hold without stickiness.

Add Volume

Switching your look can go a long way to concealing a grown-out cut or due-for-a-colour roots. Create body with a little mousse, such as Schwarzkopf Professional Silhouette Mousse Flexible Hold, $13.45, and some velcro rollers or a curling iron - the wavy texture is more forgiving than dead-straight hair. And don't think a ponytail is the answer - it will only serve to highlight the fact you haven't seen your colourist in a while. Instead, leave your hair loose and create an uneven part to disguise regrowth.

Be clever with colour

Instead of forking out for a full head of foils next time you're salon bound, consider your options. If you just want to refresh your hue, try a T-section, where only the areas around your face and part line are highlighted. It will cost about half as much and take half the time - perfect for those on a tight schedule. Keep in mind that the further you depart from your natural shade, the more maintenance your new look will need, and the more time you'll be spending with your colourist. Avoid obvious regrowth and fading by opting for a believable look. Alternatively, consider a DIY dye job - especially if you usually choose a semipermanent shade at the salon. L'Oréal Paris Excell10' Permanent Colourant, $17.95, is slightly translucent, so your natural highlights will still be visible for a more realistic result.

Maintain your shade

Put off your colour appointment for another couple of weeks by tending to regrowth at home. Try Clairol Nice'n Easy Root Touch-up, $12.59, to disguise telltale dark or light patches. Or, if your shade is simply looking lacklustre, try a pigmented treatment. John Frieda Luminous Color Glaze, $19.99, works in a similar way to an in-salon colour gloss, and will add shine and refresh your hue.

Style Smarter

"Try not to use too many electrical styling tools as they tend to damage hair, meaning you'll need to visit the hairdresser more regularly for trims," says Keogh. "If you do heat-style, use products that will protect against damage." Before you pick up your straightening iron, apply a heat-protection spray or balm that will guard against damage from high temperatures. We like PPS Hot Iron Spray Straight, $19.95.

Treat Yourself

Weekly hair treatments will make all the difference to most hair types, especially if your lengths are dry, damaged, frizzy or coloured. They impart much-needed moisture, making your mane more manageable. When time is of the essence, choose a fast-working formula that will infuse your hair with benefits in moments. Try Garnier Fructis Instant Melt-in Mask Color Last, $10.85, if your hair is coloured, or Pantene Pro-V 3 Minute Miracle Treatment, $7.99, to soothe and repair.