how can I get my hair to look as soft as it feels?

Using a good conditioner is important. My personal favorites are: Curresence by Aveda ( a high protien conditioner) and Kadus Color Balancer (even if your hair is not colored it conditions very well). Along with conditioning you should be getting regular trims at the salon ( not a chop shop). Also the tools you use are important. What do you use before drying the hair? Also the brush. A boar hair brush is the best. Not only will it smooth the hair, but it also brings your natural oils from your scalp thru to your ends. And when blowdrying make sure you dry along with the cuticle layer of your hair, and not against it. I have naturally curlly hair and I can wear it bone straight. I hope this info helps :o)

check out the worldwidebeautystore.com if you'd like to order Artec, or maybe go through the phone book and call your local salons--someone must carry it. I have found Terax crema to be a good softening conditioner. I also recommend using a leave-in conditioner on the ends of your hair, where you still have damage. i'm also growing out my hair, trimming the damaged part as i go. regular trims will help you get rid of the damaged hair, while growing out the new...hope this helps.