Want to get the most out of your professional primping during these economic times? Well, stretch your dollars by stretching the weeks between your salon visits. Renowned Italian hairstylist, Riccardo Maggiore of Riccardo Maggiore Salon in New York City, suggests trying these at-home maintenance tricks. 

Haircut: Visit an experienced stylist and get a precise cut. If you have short hair, which often requires monthly appointments, go with a style that grows out well. After a haircut, keep your ends hydrated by using a daily leave-in conditioner. If ends look frizzy some days, work in a small amount of shine-enhancing oil to smooth them.

Blow out: if your hair tends to naturally get oily, use a shampoo that will help to control and remove excess oil. To boost limp hair, spray a volumizing spray at the roots, and then use a blow-dryer for lift. Tame stray hairs with a flat iron or curl them with a curling iron.

Hair color: To keep your shade luminous longer, use shampoos and conditioners formulated for colored-treated hair. Also, consider using a gloss treatment that will coat and protect your hair, and help in preventing any existing color from fading

Riccardo Maggiore Salon was featured in the 2008 Sex and the City movie. Located at 136 East 57th St., 3rd Floor. www.riccardomaggiore.com