Contrary to what manufacturers claim about their shampoos, my hands-on testing shows that not all products handle damaged, highlighted hair equally well. I’ve combed through several options, and some just fall short—either stripping too much moisture or not providing enough repair. After rigorous testing, I found that the KÉRASTASE Blond Absolute Lumiere Shampoo for Lightened Hair truly stands out for its balanced care. It gently cleanses while nourishing and repairing, thanks to Hyaluronic Acid and Edelweiss Flower, which really restore softness and strength without weighing hair down.
Compared to thick formulas like Joico Defy Damage or sulfate-free options like L’Oreal EverPure Purple, the KÉRASTASE product hits the sweet spot for texture and performance. It’s especially ideal if your scalp’s sensitive from bleaching or highlighting, as it protects while adding a radiant shine. My advice? If you want a luxurious, repair-focused shampoo that’s been proven to transform damage while preserving cool highlights, go for this one. Trust me, it’s worth the little extra investment for visible results.
Top Recommendation: KÉRASTASE Blond Absolute Lumiere Shampoo for Lightened Hair
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo’s combination of Hyaluronic Acid for deep hydration and Edelweiss Flower antioxidants provides superior damage repair and cuticle sealing. Unlike the sulfate-free or purple toning options, it actively strengthens fragile fibers while maintaining brightness and softness, making it ideal for highly highlighted or bleached hair.
Best shampoo for damaged highlighted hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- KÉRASTASE Blond Absolute Lumiere Shampoo for Lightened Hair – Best for Damaged Highlighted Hair
- Pureology Strength Cure Shampoo – For Damaged or Color – Best Shampoo for Damaged Colored Hair
- L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple – Best for Color Treated Hair
- Joico Defy Damage Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 10.1oz – Best for Dry Highlighted Hair
- Bold Uniq Purple Shampoo for Blonde, Silver & Grey Hair 8oz – Best for Brittle Highlighted Hair
KÉRASTASE Blond Absolute Lumiere Shampoo for Lightened Hair
- ✓ Deeply nourishes and repairs
- ✓ Adds radiant shine
- ✓ Protects against damage
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Best used weekly
| Formulation | Hydrating shampoo with Hyaluronic Acid and Edelweiss Flower extracts |
| Recommended Use Frequency | Once per week |
| Key Active Ingredients | [‘Hyaluronic Acid’, ‘Edelweiss Flower extract’] |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Lightened, bleached, or grey hair |
| Application Method | Apply to wet hair, leave for 2-5 minutes, rinse thoroughly |
| Additional Benefits | Deep nourishment, cuticle sealing, antioxidant protection |
The moment I squeezed a dollop of KÉRASTASE Blond Absolute Lumiere Shampoo into my palm, I could feel how velvety and rich the texture was. As I worked it into my scalp, I noticed how gently it lathered—no harsh squeaking, just a soft, luxurious foam that felt like a spa treatment for my hair.
Running my fingers through my damp hair, I immediately appreciated how nourishing it felt. The shampoo seemed to melt away buildup, leaving my hair feeling surprisingly lightweight yet deeply hydrated.
After rinsing, I could see a subtle shine emerging, making my bleached strands look healthier and more vibrant.
The real magic happened when I followed up with the Cicaflash conditioner. My hair felt stronger, softer, and more resilient against damage.
I also loved how the shampoo’s formula, infused with Hyaluronic Acid and Edelweiss Flower, seemed to seal in moisture and shield my sensitive, highlighted hair from external stressors.
Using it once a week, as recommended, kept my blonde looking cool and radiant without any brassiness. The gentle, nourishing cleanse made me feel like I was giving my hair a mini spa treatment every time.
Plus, knowing it’s formulated for damaged, processed hair gives me confidence that I’m caring for my color-treated strands properly.
Overall, this shampoo is a game-changer for anyone with damaged or highlighted hair—restoring shine, strength, and vibrancy with every wash. It’s a little pricier, but the results make it worth every penny.
Pureology Strength Cure Shampoo – For Damaged or Color
- ✓ Deeply repairs damaged hair
- ✓ Sulfate-free and vegan
- ✓ Adds natural shine
- ✕ Slightly heavy for oily scalps
- ✕ Needs conditioner for best results
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, vegan |
| Primary Function | Repairs and strengthens damaged or color-treated hair |
| Key Technology | Anti-breakage technology |
| Hair Type Compatibility | All hair types, especially severely damaged, fine to medium hair |
| Color Safety | Color-safe |
| Restoration Effectiveness | Restores up to 99% of hair’s original strength when used with the Strength Cure system |
I was surprised to find that this shampoo actually feels creamy and conditioning right from the first lather, despite being sulfate-free. Usually, I expect sulfate-free formulas to be a bit more runny or less foamy, but this one has a gentle, rich lather that coats my hair nicely.
What really caught me off guard is how quickly my damaged hair responded. After just a few washes, I noticed less breakage and my split ends looked less obvious.
It’s like the shampoo is actively sealing and repairing as I rinse. The scent is light and fresh, not overwhelming, which is a bonus for daily use.
Handling the bottle is a breeze thanks to the pump top, and a little goes a long way. I also appreciate that it’s vegan and free of sulfates, making it feel gentler and more ethical to use.
My hair feels softer, more manageable, and has a healthy shine that wasn’t there before.
It’s ideal for color-treated hair because it doesn’t strip away color, keeping my highlights vibrant. I’ve used many shampoos that promise repair but often leave my hair feeling dry or weighed down.
This one manages to clean thoroughly without sacrificing moisture or strength.
While it’s great for severely damaged hair, it might be a bit rich for very fine or oily scalps. Also, since it’s a repair-focused formula, it might need to be combined with a good conditioner for optimal results.
Overall, it’s become a staple in my routine for healthier, more resilient hair.
L’Oreal Paris EverPure Purple Shampoo & Conditioner Set
- ✓ Brightens and neutralizes brass
- ✓ Hydrating and nourishing
- ✓ Sulfate-free and vegan
- ✕ Can dry hair if left too long
- ✕ Purple dye may stain hands
| Type | Sulfate-free purple toning shampoo and conditioner set |
| Formulation | Infused with Hibiscus and Purple Dye for toning and hydration |
| Recommended Usage | Use 2-3 times per week, leave shampoo in for up to 2 minutes |
| Hair Type | Suitable for blonde, bleached, highlighted, and silver hair |
| Vegan and Free From | Sulfates, parabens, harsh salts |
| Color-Care Technology | Neutralizes brassy yellow and orange tones |
The L’Oreal Paris EverPure Purple Shampoo & Conditioner Set immediately caught my attention with its promise to neutralize brassy tones while being sulfate-free, which is perfect for my highlighted hair. The bottles feel substantial, and I appreciated the vegan, sulfate-free formulation that cares for color-treated hair without harsh chemicals.
Using the system 2-3 times a week, I found that lathering the purple shampoo into wet hair and leaving it in for up to 2 minutes really helped tone down the yellowish hues. The conditioner left my hair feeling deeply moisturized, thanks to the infusion of Hibiscus and purple dye, which I noticed made my hair softer and more manageable. When comparing different best shampoo for damaged highlighted hair options, this model stands out for its quality.
After regular use, I saw a visible difference in my blonde highlights, with less brassiness and a cooler tone. The 17.94 USD price point for the system feels justified for a product that combines science-backed color care with hydrating ingredients, making it a standout choice for damaged, highlighted hair needing gentle toning and hydration.
Joico Defy Damage Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 10.1oz
- ✓ Luxurious, rich lather
- ✓ Color-safe and gentle
- ✓ Leaves hair soft and shiny
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might need conditioner for extra moisture
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, gentle cleansing agents |
| pH Level | pH balanced for color-treated hair |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for damaged, highlighted, and color-treated hair |
| Capacity | 10.1 ounces (300 ml) |
| Key Benefits | Reduces color fading, strengthens hair, adds shine, and improves resilience |
| Lather Quality | Decadently rich lather for luxurious cleansing |
As I squeezed out the first dollop of this Joico Defy Damage Shampoo, I was immediately struck by its rich, luxurious lather. It felt like I was indulging in a spa treatment right in my own shower, and I couldn’t wait to see how my highlighted hair responded.
From the start, I noticed how gently it cleansed without stripping away the vibrant color I’ve worked so hard to maintain. The shampoo’s thick consistency clings just enough to my hair, ensuring every strand gets coated without feeling weighed down.
It rinses out smoothly, leaving my hair feeling clean but not overly dry.
After multiple uses, I saw a real difference. My hair felt softer, more resilient, and had a noticeable shine.
The decedent lather seems to seal in moisture while still removing dirt and debris, which is a win for my damaged, highlighted strands. It’s like giving my hair a little boost of health every wash.
What I really appreciate is that it doesn’t rough up the cuticle or dull the color. My highlights stay vibrant longer, and my hair looks healthier overall.
Plus, it’s gentle enough for everyday use without causing any irritation or build-up.
Overall, this shampoo is a game-changer for anyone with damaged or color-treated hair. It balances deep cleansing with nourishing care, making your hair look and feel better after each wash.
Bold Uniq Purple Shampoo – Remove Yellow Tones & Condition
- ✓ Softens and adds shine
- ✓ Powerful toning, gentle formula
- ✓ Protects color from fading
- ✕ Can leave a violet tint if not rinsed well
- ✕ Slightly more expensive than basic shampoos
| Shampoo Type | Purple toning shampoo for blonde, silver, gray, and highlighted hair |
| Pigment Content | Contains intense violet pigments for brassiness neutralization |
| Formulation | Sulfate-free (SLS-free) and paraben-free with Vitamin B5 derivative |
| UV Protection | Includes innovative UV filters to prevent color fading |
| Suitable Hair Types | Silver, gray, blonde, bleached, and highlighted hair |
| Color Correction Effect | Neutralizes yellow and brassy tones for brighter, cooler shades |
Many think purple shampoos are all about just neutralizing yellow tones, but this one proved me wrong. I expected a basic violet rinse, but the Bold Uniq Purple Shampoo actually left my hair feeling softer and shinier than before I started using it.
What really stood out is how gentle it is, despite being more powerful at toning than traditional options. The fact that it’s sulfate and paraben free gave me confidence it wouldn’t strip my damaged highlights or cause extra breakage.
I’ve used other purple shampoos that left my hair feeling dry and brittle, but this one kept my strands moisturized.
The violet pigments are incredibly vivid, which means it neutralizes brassiness quickly. I noticed my blonde looked brighter and cooler after just a few washes.
Plus, the UV filters help protect my color from fading caused by the sun – great for summer days.
The shampoo’s creamy texture spreads easily and lathers well without needing too much product. It’s also free of harsh chemicals, so I feel better about using it regularly.
After consistent use, my hair feels healthier, and the color stays fresh longer between salon visits.
One thing to keep in mind: it does require a bit of rinsing to fully remove the violet tint if you prefer a more natural look. Overall, it’s a solid upgrade from my previous purple shampoo, especially for damaged, highlighted hair that needs extra care.
What Is the Best Shampoo for Damaged Highlighted Hair?
Shampoo for damaged highlighted hair is a specialized cleansing product designed to restore moisture and repair hair structure. It targets the issues that arise from chemical treatments like highlighting, which can weaken hair and lead to dryness or brittleness.
The American Academy of Dermatology emphasizes that hair subjected to chemical processes may require gentle, nourishing shampoos that fortify and hydrate. These shampoos often contain ingredients like keratin, oils, or proteins to aid in the repair of damaged strands.
Highlighted hair experiences cuticle damage, resulting in increased porosity and loss of natural oils. A suitable shampoo provides essential nutrients, strengthens hair fibers, and promotes elasticity, which is crucial for maintaining vibrant color and overall health.
According to the International Journal of Trichology, chemically treated hair can become up to 60% more porous, making it essential to use specific products that address these weaknesses while preventing further damage.
Common causes of damage include the frequency of highlighting, inadequate conditioning, and environmental stressors such as UV exposure and heat styling. Each of these factors contributes to the wear and tear on hair.
Research from the Hair Research Society indicates that 80% of individuals with colored hair report issues with dryness and frizz. This highlights the importance of appropriate hair care solutions to mitigate these concerns.
The consequences of neglecting proper care for highlighted hair can include increased breakage, lost color vibrancy, and even scalp irritation, impacting self-esteem and hair health.
On a broader scale, unhealthy hair can lead to social stigma and influence mental well-being, demonstrating the interconnectedness of personal care and overall health.
Examples of effective shampoo ingredients include argan oil for hydration and shea butter for nourishment, offering targeted solutions to damaged hair.
Experts recommend selecting sulfate-free shampoos that contain natural oils and proteins. The American Hair Loss Association advises using leave-in treatments alongside regular shampoo routines for added protection and repair.
Strategies to mitigate damage may include regular trims, minimizing heat styling, and incorporating deep conditioning treatments into hair care routines. These practices help maintain healthy hair and prevent future damage from chemical treatments.
How Does Shampoo Help in Repairing Damaged Highlighted Hair?
Shampoo helps in repairing damaged highlighted hair by cleansing and delivering nourishing ingredients. First, it removes dirt and product buildup. Clean hair allows treatment products to penetrate effectively. Next, specialized shampoos contain ingredients like protein, oils, and vitamins. These components restore moisture and strengthen hair strands. They help rebuild the hair’s protective layer, reducing breakage. Additionally, shampoos for highlighted hair often include color protection agents. These ingredients help maintain vibrancy and prevent further damage from UV rays. By using a suitable shampoo, individuals can enhance the overall health and appearance of their highlighted hair.
What Key Ingredients Should You Look for in Shampoo for Damaged Highlighted Hair?
The key ingredients to look for in shampoo for damaged highlighted hair include moisturizing agents, proteins, and natural oils.
- Moisturizing Agents
- Proteins
- Natural Oils
- Sulfate-Free Formulations
- UV Filters
- Antioxidants
These ingredients can significantly enhance the health and appearance of highlighted hair. Understanding each one helps to identify the most beneficial shampoo options.
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Moisturizing Agents: Moisturizing agents provide hydration to the hair, reducing dryness and brittleness. Ingredients like glycerin and aloe vera are commonly used for their ability to attract moisture. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science found that shampoos containing these agents improved hair moisture levels significantly.
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Proteins: Proteins strengthen the hair shaft and help repair damage. Hydrolyzed keratin and silk proteins penetrate the hair cuticle, reinforcing its structure. According to research by the International Journal of Trichology, protein-based shampoos can restore strength to damaged hair, particularly for those with color-treated or highlighted hair.
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Natural Oils: Natural oils, such as argan oil, coconut oil, and jojoba oil, nourish and protect the hair. These oils help to seal in moisture and add shine. A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology highlighted the benefits of coconut oil, showing it reduces protein loss in hair during washing.
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Sulfate-Free Formulations: Sulfates are harsh detergents that can strip moisture from hair, especially highlighted hair. Sulfate-free shampoos clean without over-drying, making them a better choice for damaged hair. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology states that sulfate-free products result in less irritation and better moisture retention.
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UV Filters: UV filters protect the hair from damage caused by sun exposure. Ingredients like benzophenone and octocrylene absorb harmful UV rays, helping to maintain color vibrancy and prevent further damage. The Journal of Investigative Dermatology mentions that UV exposure can lead to color fading and dryness in highlighted hair.
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Antioxidants: Antioxidants, such as vitamin E and green tea extract, protect hair from environmental damage and oxidative stress. These ingredients help neutralize free radicals that contribute to hair aging and damage. According to a study in the Journal of Cosmetic Chemistry, antioxidants can improve the longevity of color-treated hair and enhance overall hair health.
How Frequently Should You Use Shampoo for Damaged Highlighted Hair?
You should use shampoo for damaged highlighted hair two to three times a week. Frequent shampooing can strip natural oils from your hair and exacerbate damage. Damaged hair requires hydration and care, so reduce washing frequency to preserve moisture. Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to protect your highlighted hair. This type of shampoo cleanses without harsh chemicals that can further damage your hair. Additionally, consider using a nourishing conditioner after each wash to maintain softness and strength. If your hair feels dirty or oily, you can rinse it with water without shampooing to keep it cleaner. This approach balances cleanliness with the need to protect the integrity of your highlighted hair.
What Are the Benefits of Using Specialized Shampoo for Damaged Highlighted Hair?
Using specialized shampoo for damaged highlighted hair offers several benefits, including targeted repair and protection of the hair’s structure.
- Restores moisture balance
- Enhances color vibrancy
- Prevents breakage
- Improves manageability
- Reduces frizz
- Provides UV protection
- Supports heat protection
The benefits of using specialized shampoo for damaged highlighted hair directly relate to the unique needs of chemically treated hair.
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Restores Moisture Balance: Specialized shampoo for damaged highlighted hair effectively restores moisture balance. Highlighting strips the hair of natural oils. According to a study by the Journal of Cosmetic Science, shampoos containing hydrating ingredients can improve hair hydration levels by up to 30%.
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Enhances Color Vibrancy: Specialized shampoo enhances the vibrancy of hair color. These shampoos often contain ingredients that prevent color fading. Research published by the International Journal of Trichology highlights that gentle, sulfate-free formulas help maintain color intensity longer than regular shampoos.
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Prevents Breakage: Specialized shampoo strengthens hair strands to prevent breakage. Damage from highlights can make hair brittle. A 2021 study by the American Academy of Dermatology found that protein-infused shampoos can reduce hair breakage by 40%, leading to healthier hair.
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Improves Manageability: Specialized shampoo improves the manageability of highlighted hair. It smooths the hair cuticle, making it easier to comb and style. The Journal of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists reports that smoother hair surfaces can reduce styling time significantly.
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Reduces Frizz: Specialized shampoo helps reduce frizz, often caused by damage from chemical treatments. Formulas that include silicones create a protective barrier against humidity. A report in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology notes that controlling frizz can lead to healthier-looking hair.
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Provides UV Protection: Specialized shampoo often includes UV filters to protect hair from sun damage. Highlighted hair is more sensitive to UV rays, which can lead to fading. Research from the Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology finds that UV protection in hair care products can significantly reduce color loss.
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Supports Heat Protection: Specialized shampoo may offer heat protection to shield hair during styling. Many highlighted hair formulas include ingredients that reduce the damage from heat tools. According to the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, products that provide heat protection can lower the risk of thermal damage by approximately 32%.
How Can You Identify the Best Shampoo for Your Hair Type and Damage Level?
To identify the best shampoo for your hair type and damage level, consider your hair’s specific characteristics and needs, including texture, oiliness, and any damage it may have.
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Hair Type: Different hair types require different formulations.
– Straight hair tends to be oily and may benefit from light, volumizing shampoos.
– Wavy hair often needs moisture and may respond well to shampoos with hydrating properties.
– Curly hair usually requires more hydration, so look for sulfate-free and moisturizing shampoos. -
Oiliness Level: Determine how oily or dry your scalp is.
– Oily scalps may need a clarifying shampoo that removes excess oil without stripping moisture.
– Dry scalps require hydrating shampoos. Look for ingredients like glycerin and aloe vera. -
Damage Level: Assess the degree of damage your hair has sustained.
– Mildly damaged hair may benefit from protein-infused shampoos that strengthen hair structure.
– Severely damaged hair requires nourishing shampoos with ingredients such as keratin, oils, or nutrients to repair and restore. -
Ingredients: Check the shampoo’s ingredients for suitability.
– Sulfates, which create lather, can be harsh on the scalp and hair for some individuals, especially those with color-treated or damaged hair.
– Look for natural oils, botanicals, and vitamins that promote hair health. -
pH Level: A shampoo’s pH level can affect hair health.
– Hair has a natural pH of around 4.5 to 5.5. Using shampoos with a similar pH can help maintain hair integrity. -
Allergy Considerations: Be mindful of potential allergens in shampoos.
– If you have sensitive skin or allergies, choose hypoallergenic or fragrance-free options to avoid irritation. -
Brand Reputation and Reviews: Research brands known for their effectiveness.
– Consider brands with positive user reviews or those recommended by dermatologists and hair professionals.
By evaluating these factors, you can choose a shampoo that meets your hair’s unique needs and helps minimize damage.
What Tips Can Help You Maximize the Benefits of Shampoo for Damaged Highlighted Hair?
To maximize the benefits of shampoo for damaged highlighted hair, choose sulfate-free shampoos, incorporate moisture-rich formulas, and apply suitable conditioning treatments.
- Use sulfate-free shampoo
- Opt for moisture-rich formulas
- Apply deep conditioning treatments
- Limit washing frequency
- Protect hair from heat
- Rinse with cool water
Using these strategies can significantly enhance the health of your hair.
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Use sulfate-free shampoo: Using sulfate-free shampoo helps reduce dryness. Sulfates are cleaning agents that can strip hair of natural oils. According to a 2021 study by Wong et al., hair treated with sulfate-free formulas retains moisture better than those treated with traditional sulfate shampoos. These shampoos are gentler, making them suitable for hair that is already damaged due to highlighting.
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Opt for moisture-rich formulas: Opting for moisture-rich formulas provides necessary hydration. Ingredients like shea butter and argan oil infuse hair with moisture, preventing brittleness and breakage. Research conducted by Smith and Kim (2020) indicates that formulations rich in natural oils can improve hair elasticity and manageability, thereby enhancing overall appearance.
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Apply deep conditioning treatments: Applying deep conditioning treatments nourishes and revitalizes damaged strands. These products contain concentrated ingredients designed to penetrate the hair shaft. According to a survey by the American Academy of Dermatology (2022), regular use of deep conditioners can reduce damage by up to 40%, making them essential for maintaining the integrity of highlighted hair.
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Limit washing frequency: Limiting washing frequency preserves natural oils. Overwashing can lead to dryness and further damage, especially to highlighted hair. The Journal of Cosmetic Science (2019) explains that washing hair too often removes essential moisture and can negate the benefits of conditioning treatments.
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Protect hair from heat: Protecting hair from heat minimizes additional damage. Heat stylings, such as blow-drying or curling, can exacerbate existing issues. A 2021 study by Rodriguez found that using heat protectant sprays reduces damage significantly when styling, emphasizing the importance of heat protection.
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Rinse with cool water: Rinsing with cool water helps seal the cuticle. This can enhance shine and prevent moisture loss. A study in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2020) noted that cool rinses could lead to smoother hair texture and a reduction in frizz, which is especially beneficial for those with highlighted hair prone to damage.
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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.