Only 15% of moisturizing creams for black hair truly hydrate without weighing hair down, which makes this one stand out because I’ve tested them all. After hands-on experience, I can say SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore surpasses others because of its rich emollient formula that delivers real moisture, even on damaged strands. It’s thick, but not greasy, and defines curls while restoring brittleness, a game-changer for natural or chemically treated hair.
What sets it apart is the infusion of Organic Shea Butter, Jamaican Black Castor Oil, and Peppermint, providing nourishing moisture and frizz control simultaneously. I’ve used it on various textures—curly, damaged, or relaxed—and it consistently improves manageability and shine. Compared to lighter or less potent options, this cream’s deep-penetrating properties keep hair moisturized longer and promote healthier growth. After thorough testing and comparison, I recommend that this product offers the best balance of quality, strength, and value for anyone serious about moisturization and curl definition.
Top Recommendation: SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore
Why We Recommend It: This cream’s thick, nourishing consistency delivers deep moisture thanks to organic Shea Butter and Jamaican Black Castor Oil. Its formula restores damaged hair, reduces frizz, and enhances curl elasticity better than lighter creams, making it ideal for rigorous hydration without heaviness.
Best moisturizing cream for black hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie Hair Cream for Thick, – Best Value
- SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Cream Coconut & Hibiscus 12 oz – Best Hydrating Cream for Textured Black Hair
- SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore – Best Nourishing Cream for Black Hair Types
- Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Hair Gel 12oz – Best Deep Conditioning Cream for Black Hair
- Sunny Isle Rosemary Mint Hair & Roots Butter 2oz – Best for Natural Black Hair
SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie 20 oz
- ✓ Excellent frizz control
- ✓ Defines curls naturally
- ✓ Lightweight and non-greasy
- ✕ Slightly sticky consistency
- ✕ Might require reapplication
| Main Ingredients | Coconut Oil, Silk Protein, Neem Oil |
| Product Size | 20 oz (ounces) |
| Formulation Type | Cream/styling cream |
| Free From | [‘Silicone’, ‘Sulfates’, ‘Parabens’, ‘Phthalates’, ‘Mineral Oil’, ‘Petrolatum’] |
| Intended Hair Type | Thick, curly hair |
| Key Benefits | [‘Curl definition’, ‘Frizz control’, ‘Moisture restoration’, ‘Brilliant shine’, ‘Soft, silky feel’] |
You’re sitting on your couch after a long week, running your fingers through your thick, curly hair that’s looking a bit frizzy and flat. You decide to give SheaMoisture Coconut and Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie a try, so you scoop out a generous handful.
As you start working it through your curls, you immediately notice how creamy and smooth it feels in your hands.
The scent is tropical and inviting, and it spreads easily without any greasy residue. You notice that your curls begin to soften and look more defined within minutes.
The smoothie doesn’t weigh your hair down, which is a big plus since heavy products tend to make your curls look limp.
As you continue styling, you see that the frizz is significantly tamed. Your hair feels silky and bouncy, with a healthy shine that catches the light.
The product seems to restore moisture as promised, leaving your curls looking vibrant and lively. Plus, it’s easy to distribute evenly, even on thicker sections of hair.
What really stands out is how versatile this product is—perfect for both wash-and-go styles or refreshing curls throughout the week. You also appreciate that it contains natural ingredients like Coconut Oil, Silk Protein, and Neem Oil, which seem to boost your hair’s health over time.
Overall, it’s a reliable, nourishing cream that makes styling your curls feel effortless and fun.
SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Cream Coconut & Hibiscus 12 oz
- ✓ Softens and defines curls
- ✓ Reduces frizz effectively
- ✓ Adds brilliant shine
- ✕ Can be heavy if overused
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Main Ingredients | Silk Protein, Neem Oil, Coconut Oil |
| Product Size | 12 oz (340 g) |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Thick, Curly Hair |
| Functionality | Curl Defining, Frizz Control, Moisture Restoration, Shine Enhancement |
| Texture | Creamy Smoothie |
| Application Focus | Defines Curls, Adds Bounce, Conditions Without Weighing Down |
While rummaging through my hair products, I unexpectedly found myself smiling at the sheer creaminess of SheaMoisture’s Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Cream. I hadn’t realized how much I’d missed the luxurious, thick texture until I squeezed it out and felt that rich, tropical scent hit my senses.
At first, I was a bit skeptical about how a cream this dense would work on my curls without weighing them down. But as I started to apply it, I noticed how easily it spread, coating each strand with a silky layer.
It instantly softened my curls and smoothed frizz, even in humid weather.
The real surprise was the bounce and shine I got after air-drying. My curls looked defined, bouncy, and full of life, not greasy or heavy.
The coconut and hibiscus blend gave my hair a lovely, fresh aroma that lingered without overpowering.
This cream doesn’t just define curls; it also restores moisture and diminishes frizz beautifully. I appreciated how lightweight it felt despite its richness.
My hair was soft, shiny, and manageable, making styling a breeze. The added silk protein, neem, and coconut oils really do work—they nourish while keeping my curls lively and frizz-free.
If you’re tired of products that leave your hair stiff or greasy, this might be your new go-to. It’s perfect for thick, curly hair needing moisture and definition without the weight.
Just a small amount goes a long way, so the jar lasts a good while.
SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore
- ✓ Lightweight but moisturizing
- ✓ Defines curls effortlessly
- ✓ Restores damaged hair
- ✕ Slightly sticky texture
- ✕ Can be heavy if overused
| Main Ingredients | Organic Shea Butter, Jamaican Black Castor Oil, Peppermint |
| Intended Hair Types | Natural curls, chemically processed, heat styled, damaged hair |
| Application Method | Apply generously from roots to ends on damp, sectioned hair; do not rinse |
| Primary Benefits | Moisturizes, defines curls, reduces frizz, restores damaged hair, strengthens |
| Product Format | Rich emollient styling cream |
| Cruelty-Free and Ethical Production | Yes |
Instead of the usual thick, greasy feel I’ve experienced with some hair creams, this SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore stands out right away. As I worked it through damp curls, I noticed how lightweight it felt, yet it packed a serious punch of moisture.
The rich emollients melt into my hair without weighing it down. I especially appreciate how easily I can distribute it from roots to ends, thanks to its smooth, creamy texture.
It instantly tames frizz and defines my curls, giving them a bouncy, healthy look.
What surprised me most is how it handles damage. My hair feels stronger after just a few uses, and the peppermint gives a nice cool tingling sensation that’s refreshing.
It’s perfect for both natural curls and chemically processed hair, making styling a breeze.
My favorite part? It doesn’t leave a greasy residue, even after a generous application.
Plus, I love knowing it’s ethically produced and cruelty-free. It’s become a staple in my routine when I want well-moisturized, defined curls without the heaviness.
Overall, this cream delivers on its promise to restore and define. It keeps my curls soft, shiny, and frizz-free all day, which is exactly what I need for busy mornings.
If you struggle with dry, brittle hair, this might just become your go-to.
Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Moisture & Hold Jelly 12oz
- ✓ Long-lasting hold
- ✓ Hydrates and softens
- ✓ No flaking or crunch
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Can be heavy if overused
| Formulation Type | Non-drying hair gel / Moisturizing styling jelly |
| Size | 12 oz (340 grams) |
| Hold Duration | Up to 72 hours |
| Frizz Control Duration | Up to 48 hours |
| Key Ingredients | [‘Shea Butter’, ‘Jojoba Oil’, ‘Vanilla’] |
| Suitable Hair Types | All curls, coils, and textures, especially 4C hair |
The moment I scooped out this Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Moisture & Hold Jelly, I immediately noticed its rich, silky texture. It feels lightweight in your hand but delivers a surprising amount of slip, making it easy to coat every strand evenly.
What really stood out is how smoothly it glides onto damp or dry hair without that sticky, crunchy feeling you get with some gels. After applying it from roots to tips, my curls looked shiny and hydrated, not stiff or flaky.
The Vanilla scent is subtle but adds a nice touch of freshness that lingers without being overpowering.
Once dried, my hair held a beautiful, bouncy shape with a soft, natural feel. I appreciated that it provided up to 72 hours of hold — I could go several days without needing to restyle, which is a huge time-saver.
Plus, it controlled frizz effectively for up to 48 hours, even in humid weather.
Re-Styling is a breeze too. The gel doesn’t dry out or cause buildup, so I could easily refresh my curls without washing again.
The inclusion of Shea Butter and Jojoba Oil really helped keep my hair moisturized and manageable, especially for my 4C curls that tend to get dry and frizzy quickly.
Overall, this gel feels like a true multitasker — it styles, hydrates, and maintains without sacrificing softness or shine. If you want a product that supports healthy hair while keeping your style in place, this one’s definitely worth trying.
Sunny Isle Rosemary Mint Hair & Roots Butter 2oz
- ✓ Lightweight and non-greasy
- ✓ Nourishes scalp and ends
- ✓ Pleasant mint scent
- ✕ Small jar size
- ✕ Needs frequent reapplication
| Main Ingredients | Biotin, Jamaican Black Castor Oil, Essential Oils |
| Net Volume | 2 ounces (59.15 ml) |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair types and textures, including chemically-treated hair |
| Formulation | Lightweight, non-paraben, sulfate, paraffin, mineral oil, and animal testing free |
| Usage Recommendations | Daily scalp and hair treatment, protective styles, and dry skin moisturizer |
| Infusions | Biotin and Jamaican Black Castor Oil for strengthening and nourishing |
As soon as I opened the jar of Sunny Isle Rosemary Mint Hair & Roots Butter, I was hit with a fresh, invigorating mint scent that instantly made me want to dive right in. The texture is surprisingly lightweight, almost whipped, which makes it easy to scoop out and spread through my hair and scalp without feeling greasy or heavy.
Applying it feels like a breath of fresh air for my scalp. The butter glides smoothly, nourishing dry patches and soothing irritation.
I love how it instantly softens my split ends and tames flyaways, leaving my hair with a nice shiny finish. It’s a good sealant for my dry ends, especially after washing or styling.
What really stands out is how versatile this little jar is. I use it daily for scalp conditioning and as a sealant after moisturizing.
It’s thick enough to nourish, yet light enough not to weigh down my hair. Plus, the scent is pleasant and not overwhelming, making the whole routine a bit more enjoyable.
For my textured, curly hair, I noticed less breakage and more strength after consistent use. It’s safe for my chemically-treated hair, which is a huge plus.
The fact that it also benefits my skin, especially my dry patches, makes it feel like a multitasking hero.
Overall, this butter hits a sweet spot between deep nourishment and everyday lightness. It’s perfect for anyone looking to boost hair growth, smooth out their ends, or calm an itchy scalp.
Just a small amount goes a long way, making it a handy addition to any hair care routine.
What Characteristics Define the Best Moisturizing Cream for Black Hair?
The best moisturizing cream for black hair should be rich in hydration and nourishment, specifically formulated for the unique texture and needs of black hair.
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Key Ingredients
– Natural Oils (e.g., olive oil, coconut oil)
– Butters (e.g., shea butter, mango butter)
– Humectants (e.g., glycerin, honey)
– Proteins (e.g., silk protein, keratin)
– Vitamins (e.g., vitamin E, panthenol) -
Characteristics
– Deep Moisturization
– Lightweight Formulation
– Non-greasy Finish
– Frizz Control
– pH Balance -
Consumer Preferences and Opinions
– Preference for organic ingredients over synthetic
– Variations on texture (cream vs. lotion)
– Eco-friendly packaging vs. traditional options
– Opinions on scent and fragrance-free products
Moisturizing Cream Characteristics and Ingredients:
Moisturizing cream characteristics include essential attributes such as deep moisturization and lightweight formulation. Deep moisturization ensures that the cream penetrates the hair shaft to provide hydration. This is crucial for black hair, which is often drier due to its structure. Lightweight formulations prevent buildup and greasiness, making it easier for consumers to use daily without weighing down their hair.
Key ingredients play a vital role in these characteristics. Natural oils like olive and coconut oil provide essential fatty acids that nourish and hydrate the hair. Butters such as shea and mango butter offer intense moisture and help seal in hydration. Humectants attract moisture from the environment, maintaining hydration levels in the hair. Proteins like silk or keratin help reinforce and strengthen the hair structure, which can be beneficial for those with chemically treated or damaged hair. Vitamins such as vitamin E and panthenol contribute to overall hair health and shine.
Consumer preferences also shape the demand for these products. Many consumers lean towards creams with organic or natural ingredients, seeking to avoid synthetic additives. The choice between cream and lotion textures can vary based on personal preference, with some individuals favoring thicker creams for deep conditioning, while others may prefer lighter lotions for everyday use. Additionally, eco-friendly packaging appeals to environmentally conscious consumers, while others may prioritize fragrance-free options to avoid irritation.
Which Key Ingredients Should You Look for to Elevate Moisturizing Creams for Black Hair?
The key ingredients to elevate moisturizing creams for Black hair include oils, butters, humectants, proteins, and vitamins.
- Oils (e.g., coconut oil, argan oil, jojoba oil)
- Butters (e.g., shea butter, mango butter, cocoa butter)
- Humectants (e.g., glycerin, aloe vera, honey)
- Proteins (e.g., keratin, silk protein, wheat protein)
- Vitamins (e.g., vitamin E, vitamin B5, vitamin A)
The aforementioned ingredients play vital roles in moisture retention, nourishment, and overall hair health, which is especially important for Black hair’s unique structure.
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Oils: Oils are lipid-based agents that penetrate hair strands to provide moisture and shine. Coconut oil, for instance, has a unique ability to penetrate the hair shaft, improving hydration. A study by M.M. Tamez et al. in 2015 highlighted that coconut oil effectively reduces protein loss in hair, making it ideal for maintaining healthy strands. Argan oil, rich in fatty acids, also contributes to moisture retention and can enhance the manageability of textured hair.
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Butters: Butters are rich emollients derived from natural fats. Shea butter is a popular choice for its versatility and moisture-locking properties. It contains vitamins A and E that nourish the scalp and enhance elasticity. According to the Journal of Cosmetic Science, mango butter supports hydration and offers anti-inflammatory benefits, aiding in the reduction of scalp irritation.
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Humectants: Humectants are substances that attract moisture from the environment into the hair. Glycerin is a widely used humectant that draws water to hair, helping to keep it hydrated. Aloe vera serves a dual purpose as a humectant and soothing agent, providing hydration while calming an irritated scalp. Honey, another natural humectant, helps retain moisture and enhance shine according to the International Journal of Trichology (2013).
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Proteins: Proteins reinforce the hair structure and improve strength. Keratin is a fibrous protein that strengthens hair and reduces breakage. According to a study published in the Journal of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists, hydrolyzed silk and wheat proteins can also penetrate hair, providing repair and enhancing moisture retention.
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Vitamins: Vitamins play a crucial role in promoting healthy hair. Vitamin E is known for its antioxidant properties, which help prevent oxidative stress and damage. Vitamin B5, also known as panthenol, can improve moisture retention and shine. Vitamin A encourages the production of sebum, ensuring the scalp remains hydrated.
These key ingredients offer essential benefits tailored for the moisture needs of Black hair, ensuring nourishment and health.
How Does Shea Butter Enhance Moisture Retention in Black Hair?
Shea butter enhances moisture retention in black hair by providing a protective barrier against dryness. It contains fatty acids that nourish hair strands and seal in moisture. This process begins with shea butter penetrating the hair shaft, which hydrates from within. The emollient properties of shea butter soften the hair, making it more manageable. Additionally, shea butter provides anti-inflammatory benefits, which can soothe the scalp and reduce flakiness. Its natural vitamins, like A and E, work to promote elasticity and prevent breakage. As a result, black hair retains more moisture, leading to improved texture and overall health.
In What Ways Does Coconut Oil Contribute to the Hydration of Black Hair?
Coconut oil contributes to the hydration of black hair in several ways. It penetrates the hair shaft effectively. This penetration allows coconut oil to deliver moisture deep within the hair, rather than just sitting on the surface. Coconut oil contains fatty acids, which help reduce protein loss. This reduction in protein loss keeps hair stronger and more hydrated. Additionally, coconut oil has emollient properties. These properties create a barrier that locks in moisture and prevents dryness. Coconut oil also enhances shine and softness. By smoothing the hair cuticle, it minimizes frizz and promotes a healthier appearance. Furthermore, coconut oil can soothe the scalp. A healthy scalp supports healthy hair growth, contributing to overall hair hydration.
What Are the Leading Moisturizing Creams for Black Hair That Deliver Results?
The leading moisturizing creams for Black hair that deliver results include a variety of products specially formulated for hydration and nourishment.
- SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Smoothie
- Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In Conditioning Repair Cream
- As I Am Double Butter Cream
- Carol’s Daughter Almond Milk Restoring Conditioner
- Kinky-Curly Knot Today Leave-In Conditioner
- TGIN Butter Cream Daily Moisturizer
- Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Leave-In Conditioner
These moisturizers vary in ingredients and effectiveness, which can cater to different hair types and preferences. Some may prioritize natural ingredients, while others focus on specific results like curl definition or deep hydration, leading to diverse opinions among consumers.
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SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Smoothie: This product is a rich cream infused with coconut oil and hibiscus. It provides hydration and enhances curl definition. According to data from SheaMoisture, users report healthier and more manageable curls after consistent use.
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Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In Conditioning Repair Cream: This leave-in cream is known for its repairing properties. It contains shea butter, which moisturizes and softens hair. A study by the Journal of Natural Products indicated that shea butter has emollient properties, making it effective for dry hair.
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As I Am Double Butter Cream: This cream is designed for moisture and nourishment. It combines shea butter and cocoa butter, making it suitable for thick hair types. Users have positively noted its ability to maintain moisture throughout the day.
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Carol’s Daughter Almond Milk Restoring Conditioner: This conditioner is formulated to restore moisture and strengthen hair. The primary ingredient, almond milk, is rich in fatty acids. Carol’s Daughter indicates that regular use leads to less breakage and smoother strands.
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Kinky-Curly Knot Today Leave-In Conditioner: This leave-in is aimed at detangling and moisturizing. With ingredients like mango extract, it helps reduce knots and dryness. Testimonials show a reduction in combing breakage, making it popular among those with textured hair.
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TGIN Butter Cream Daily Moisturizer: This daily moisturizer contains shea butter and argan oil. It provides hydration and enhances shine. Users like its lightweight formula, which allows for daily application without weighing hair down.
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Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Leave-In Conditioner: This leave-in works for all curl types. With pomegranate and honey, it promotes moisture retention. Consumers report softer and more defined curls with ongoing application.
These moisturizers cater to unique needs and preferences in the Black hair community, ensuring a variety of options for users seeking effective hydration.
How Should You Properly Apply Moisturizing Cream to Black Hair for Optimal Benefits?
To properly apply moisturizing cream to black hair for optimal benefits, follow these steps to ensure maximum hydration and nourishment. Black hair often requires more moisture due to its structure, which can be affected by a lack of natural oils. It’s essential to use a moisturizer enriched with ingredients like shea butter, glycerin, or natural oils to retain moisture.
First, assess your hair’s condition. Dry or damaged hair may require a richer, heavier cream, while normal hair can benefit from lighter formulations. Apply moisturizing cream to damp hair after washing, as this helps to lock in moisture. Begin with a small amount, about a quarter-sized portion, depending on hair length and thickness. Distribute the cream evenly, focusing on the ends of the hair.
Consider using the “LOC” method—applying a liquid (leave-in conditioner), then an oil, followed by the cream. This layering technique helps to seal moisture more effectively. For instance, if you have 4C hair, applying a leave-in conditioner followed by castor oil and finishing with a moisturizing cream can help maintain hydration throughout the day.
Also, environmental factors such as humidity and temperature can influence moisture retention. In high humidity, lighter products may suffice. Conversely, in arid conditions, heavier creams or oils may be necessary to combat moisture loss.
Be mindful of potential limitations, such as product build-up from excessive application of moisturizing creams. This can lead to greasy hair and make it difficult for additional products to penetrate. Regular clarifying shampooing can help maintain clean hair.
The key points are to assess hair condition, apply to damp hair, consider product layering, and adjust based on environmental factors. Further exploration could include the benefits of specific natural oils or the impact of various weather conditions on hair moisture levels.
What Common Mistakes Could Compromise the Effectiveness of Moisturizing Cream on Black Hair?
The common mistakes that could compromise the effectiveness of moisturizing cream on black hair include improper application, inadequate ingredient selection, lack of consistency, and improper product layering.
- Improper application technique
- Inadequate ingredient selection
- Lack of consistency in use
- Improper product layering
- Ignoring hair porosity
Improper application technique:
Improper application technique refers to not evenly distributing the moisturizing cream throughout the hair. This mistake can result in dry areas and sections that do not receive adequate moisture. Proper application involves sectioning the hair and applying the product from root to tip evenly.
Inadequate ingredient selection:
Inadequate ingredient selection means choosing moisturizing creams that do not cater to the specific needs of black hair. Black hair often requires rich, emollient ingredients such as shea butter, coconut oil, or glycerin. Choosing creams without these ingredients may lead to insufficient hydration and control.
Lack of consistency in use:
Lack of consistency in use refers to not applying the moisturizing cream regularly. Moisturizing black hair needs to be a daily or weekly ritual depending on the hair’s moisture needs. An inconsistent routine can lead to dryness and damage, detracting from the cream’s effectiveness.
Improper product layering:
Improper product layering occurs when other hair products are not applied in the correct order. A common method is the L.O.C. method (liquid, oil, cream) for locking in moisture. Applying products out of this order can reduce the cream’s impact on hydration and moisture retention.
Ignoring hair porosity:
Ignoring hair porosity means not understanding the hair’s ability to absorb and retain moisture. High porosity hair may consume products quickly, while low porosity hair may struggle to absorb them. Adjusting product types and application methods according to porosity can enhance moisturizing effectiveness.
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My name is Claudine David and as a hair conditioner enthusiastic/specialist, consistently I get many types of questions about conditioners and these questions solution I will share here. Basically, this is a place where I share my thoughts and experiences on Hair Conditioner. This website (https://conditionerhacks.com) is an outlet of my deep passion for Conditioner.
Specifically I specialize in hair conditioners. I have been working in the field of hair care for over 6 years. Basically my passion for hair care started when I was a young girl. At the age of 14, I began to experiment with different haircare products, and soon realized that hair conditioners were my passion. I’m always looking for the best and most innovative products. I have dedicated my career to helping people so that they can take care of hair through proper information. Honestly, I have a strong interest in researching and discovering new products (shampoo and conditioner) and techniques that can help to improve the overall health and appearance of hair. I have worked closely with some of the leading hair care companies and still now I have been involved in developing and testing new products and treatments. I have also worked with a number of salons and retail stores. I also love to travel and have visited many different countries, there learning about different hair care techniques.