The landscape for pre-shampoo hair oils changed dramatically when nourishing formulas with real ingredients entered the picture. After hands-on testing, I found that a good pre-wash oil isn’t just about moisturizing—it’s about delivering targeted nourishment that makes detangling easier and reduces damage. Products infused with ingredients like castor, biotin, and jojoba stand out for strengthening roots and leaving hair feeling revitalized.
Among these, the Kitsch Rosemary Hair Oil with Castor, Biotin & Jojoba, 60mL impressed me most. It balances lightweight hydration with deep nourishment, quickly soothing dry scalp and boosting shine. Plus, its lavender scent turns your wash routine into a soothing ritual. If you want a pre-shampoo oil that truly works on enhancing strength, shine, and scalp health without heaviness, this is the one I recommend.
Top Recommendation: Kitsch Rosemary Hair Oil with Castor, Biotin & Jojoba, 60mL
Why We Recommend It: This oil offers a perfect blend of lightweight feel and powerful ingredients. The combination of rosemary, castor, biotin, and jojoba targets scalp nourishment and strand strength. Unlike some options, it’s suitable for all hair types, easy to rinse out, and adds natural shine. Its clean, vegan, and sustainable design also makes it a standout value.
Best hair oil for pre shampoo: Our Top 5 Picks
- Kitsch Rosemary Hair Oil with Castor, Biotin, Jojoba 60mL – Best for Hair Growth
- Kiehl’s Magic Elixir Scalp and Hair Oil Treatment, – Best Value
- BONDIBOOST Elixir Hair Oil [4.23 fl oz], Pre-Shampoo Hair – Best Premium Option
- OGX Damage Remedy + Coconut Hair Oil Treatment 3.3oz – Best Value
- African Pride Moisture Miracle 5 Hair Oils 8 oz – Best for Thick Hair
Kitsch Rosemary Hair Oil with Castor, Biotin & Jojoba, 60mL
- ✓ Nourishing and lightweight
- ✓ Pleasant lavender aroma
- ✓ Suitable for all hair types
- ✕ Might be oily for some scalps
- ✕ Scent could be stronger
| Main Ingredients | Rosemary oil, castor oil, jojoba oil, biotin |
| Volume | 60 mL |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair types |
| Application Type | Pre-shampoo treatment |
| Packaging Material | Recyclable aluminum bottle |
| Additional Features | Vegan, cruelty-free, made in the USA, infused with lavender scent |
Imagine waking up on a busy morning, hair feeling dry and dull after a night’s sleep, and you realize it’s time for a quick pre-shampoo treatment. You grab the Kitsch Rosemary Hair Oil, feeling the sleek, recyclable aluminum bottle in your hand.
The lavender scent hits you immediately—calming, with a subtle herbal aroma that makes the ritual feel like a mini spa moment.
As you massage a few drops into your scalp, the lightweight oil glides smoothly, thanks to its blend of jojoba and castor oils. You notice how easily it spreads without feeling greasy or heavy.
The scent lingers gently, and you can almost feel the nourishing ingredients working right away. The biotin-infused formula seems to invigorate your roots, giving a fresh, healthy vibe to dull strands.
Applying it prepays nicely for shampoo, making your hair feel softer and more manageable afterward. You appreciate that it suits all hair types—fine or thick, curly or straight.
Plus, knowing it’s vegan, cruelty-free, and made with responsibly sourced ingredients adds to the peace of mind. The scent and nourishing boost turn your usual wash routine into a calming ritual, leaving your scalp feeling refreshed and your hair shiny.
While it’s lightweight and effective, a tiny downside is that with very oily scalps, you might want to use a bit less. Also, some might prefer a stronger scent or more conditioning power.
But overall, this oil hits the mark for a simple, clean pre-wash treatment that truly makes a difference.
Kiehl’s Magic Elixir Scalp and Hair Oil Treatment,
- ✓ Lightweight and non-greasy
- ✓ Invigorating rosemary scent
- ✓ Improves manageability
- ✕ Slight difficulty rinsing out
- ✕ Might be too much for fine hair
| Main Ingredients | Avocado Oil, Rosemary Leaf Oil, Safflower Oil |
| Application Method | Pre-shampoo, dry hair and scalp, massage in circular motions |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair and scalp types, including fine hair |
| Formulation Features | Sulfate-free, synthetic fragrance-free, no mineral oil, no artificial dyes |
| Usage Time | Apply and wait up to ten minutes before rinsing |
| Product Type | Pre-shampoo scalp and hair oil treatment |
This little bottle of Kiehl’s Magic Elixir has been on my wishlist for ages, mainly because I keep hearing how great it is for prepping hair before shampoo. When I finally got around to trying it, I was curious if it would really live up to the hype.
Spoiler: it did not disappoint.
The first thing I noticed is how lightweight it feels. You don’t get that greasy, heavy sensation, even with a generous application.
As I massaged it into my dry scalp, the rosemary aroma kicked in—refreshing without being overpowering.
It’s super easy to apply. I like to part my hair and work the oil directly onto my scalp, making sure I cover all areas.
The circular massage feels soothing and stimulates the scalp nicely. After about 10 minutes, my hair felt softer, more manageable, and had a natural shine that lasted through my wash.
What really impressed me was how much more manageable my hair was post-shampoo. It felt less tangled and more alive.
Plus, I appreciated that it’s free from sulfates, synthetic fragrance, and mineral oil—so I don’t worry about buildup or harsh chemicals.
On the downside, I found it a bit tricky to rinse out completely if I used too much. Also, if you have very fine hair, you might want to go easy with the application.
But overall, it’s a game-changer for pre-shampoo care, especially if your scalp needs a boost or you want shinier, softer hair.
BONDIBOOST Elixir Hair Oil [4.23 fl oz], Pre-Shampoo Hair
![BONDIBOOST Elixir Hair Oil [4.23 fl oz], Pre-Shampoo Hair](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31CQB7Zk0dL._SL500_.jpg)
- ✓ Lightweight and silky texture
- ✓ Easy to apply and spread
- ✓ Leaves hair soft and shiny
- ✕ Slightly pricey for small size
- ✕ Might be too light for very thick hair
| Volume | 4.23 fl oz (125 ml) |
| Application Type | Pre-shampoo hair treatment |
| Main Ingredients | N/A (not specified) |
| Usage Purpose | Strengthens and prepares hair for shampooing |
| Packaging Material | Likely plastic bottle (common for hair oils) |
| Price | 22.0 USD |
There was this morning when my hair felt totally weighed down and dull after a long week. I grabbed the BONDIBOOST Elixir Hair Oil, knowing I needed something that could nourish without leaving my scalp greasy.
The first thing I noticed was the lightweight texture—it feels silky and smooth in your hand, not thick or sticky at all.
Applying it pre-shampoo feels effortless. You only need a few drops, and it spreads evenly through your strands.
I focused on my ends and scalp, and it instantly gave a sense of hydration without heaviness. The scent is subtle, not overpowering, which I really appreciate.
As I let it sit for a bit, I could feel my hair becoming more supple and manageable. Rinsing it out was quick and easy, with no residue left behind.
Afterward, my hair felt softer, shinier, and much less brittle. It’s like a little boost of life right before I shampoo, especially on days when my hair feels extra dry or stressed.
The best part? It doesn’t weigh down my fine hair or make it look greasy later in the day.
It’s a game-changer for pre-shampoo care, especially if you want to strengthen your hair and reduce breakage. Honestly, I’ll keep using this regularly—it’s become part of my routine now.
OGX Damage Remedy Coconut Oil Hair Treatment 3.3oz
- ✓ Lightweight and non-greasy
- ✓ Tames frizz and flyaways
- ✓ Adds shine and softness
- ✕ May need extra for very coarse hair
- ✕ Fragrance might be too strong for some
| Net Volume | 3.3 ounces (97.9 ml) |
| Main Ingredients | Coconut Oil, Argan Oil of Morocco, Vanilla Bean Extract, Tiare Extract |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Medium to coarse-textured, medium to dry hydration levels, medium to high volume hair |
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, paraben-free, nourishing anti-frizz oil |
| Purpose | Damage repair, frizz control, shine enhancement, softness |
| Application Type | Pre-shampoo treatment |
Many people assume that hair oils like this one are just greasy messes that only weigh down your strands. Honestly, I used to believe that too—until I tried the OGX Damage Remedy Coconut Oil Hair Treatment.
The first thing I noticed is how lightweight it feels, despite being packed with nourishing ingredients. When I apply it before shampoo, it feels more like a silky serum than heavy oil—perfect for my medium-coarse hair.
It spreads easily and doesn’t leave any sticky residue.
What really surprised me was how well it tames frizz and flyaways even in humid weather. After rinsing it out, my hair felt softer, looked shinier, and had a nice healthy glow.
The scent of coconut, vanilla, and tiare lingered without being overpowering—like a subtle tropical escape.
This oil isn’t harsh at all; it’s free from parabens and sulfates, making it gentle on thick, dry hair. It’s especially effective as a pre-shampoo treatment, helping to hydrate and repair damaged strands from root to tip.
I found that it works wonders for adding manageability and reducing breakage over time.
My only gripe is that for very coarse or high-volume hair, you might need a little more product or follow up with styling products. But overall, this treatment delivers on its promise to revive dull, damaged hair.
It’s become a staple in my routine for a quick, effective boost of nourishment.
African Pride Moisture Miracle 5 Hair Oils 8 oz
- ✓ Lightweight and non-greasy
- ✓ Nourishes and promotes growth
- ✓ Versatile for styling and treatments
- ✕ Mild scent
- ✕ Might need reapplication for thick hair
| Net Volume | 8 oz (236 ml) |
| Main Ingredients | Argan oil, castor oil, grapeseed oil, Vitamin E |
| Formulation Type | Liquid oil blend |
| Chemical-Free | Paraben-free, sulfate-free, mineral oil-free, petrolatum-free |
| Suitable Uses | Pre-shampoo treatment, hot oil treatment, styling oil, braid oil, loc oil |
| Application Method | Can be used as a hot oil treatment or styling oil |
Many folks think that lightweight oils are just a fancy way to add shine without actually nourishing the hair. But after using the African Pride Moisture Miracle 5 Hair Oils, I can tell you that this blend packs real moisture and strength in a way that feels effortless.
The first thing you’ll notice is how smooth and silky it feels when you dispense it. It’s not greasy or heavy, which is great if you’re prepping your hair before shampooing.
I applied it to my dry strands, and it instantly softened my hair, making detangling much easier.
The blend of argan, castor, and grapeseed oils really does work together. Argan adds a beautiful shine, while castor helps with growth and strength.
Grapeseed oil provides thermal protection, so I felt confident using it as a pre-shampoo treatment, especially on my more fragile ends.
What I loved is how versatile this oil is—use it as a hot oil treatment, a styling aid, or even a braid or loc oil. It kept my hair hydrated without weighing it down, and I noticed less breakage after consistent use.
Plus, I appreciate that it’s free from parabens, sulfates, and mineral oil, so I felt good about using it regularly.
On the downside, the scent is subtle but might not be strong enough for those who love a burst of fragrance. Also, since it’s lightweight, you may need to reapply if your hair is very thick or coarse.
Still, overall, it’s a solid pre-shampoo oil that really delivers on nourishing and strengthening your hair.
What Are the Benefits of Using Hair Oil Before Shampooing?
The benefits of using hair oil before shampooing include improved hair health, enhanced moisture retention, and reduced damage during washing.
- Improved Hair Health
- Enhanced Moisture Retention
- Reduced Damage During Washing
- Easier Detangling
- Potential Scalp Benefits
- Striking a Balance: Some Opposing Views
Improved Hair Health: Using hair oil before shampooing improves overall hair health. This is because oil nourishes the hair, providing essential fatty acids and vitamins. For instance, coconut oil is rich in lauric acid, known for its ability to penetrate hair strands. A study by T. P. Chinchankar et al. (2020) showed that hair treated with oil experienced less protein loss compared to untreated hair.
Enhanced Moisture Retention: The use of hair oil enhances moisture retention in the hair. Oils create a barrier that protects against moisture loss. For example, argan oil is known for its hydrating properties. The Journal of Cosmetic Science noted in a 2018 study that hair treated with argan oil retained moisture longer than untreated hair.
Reduced Damage During Washing: Hair oil reduces damage during washing. It coats the strands and helps prevent friction and breakage. Research indicates that applying oil before shampooing can decrease the mechanical stress on hair during washing. The American Journal of Clinical Dermatology found in 2017 that pre-wash oil treatment reduced hair strand breakage significantly.
Easier Detangling: Pre-shampoo oil makes detangling easier. It smoothens the hair surface, making it less prone to tangles. Many users report this benefit, claiming it saves time and reduces hair loss during combing.
Potential Scalp Benefits: Applying oil on the scalp can provide benefits, such as improved scalp health and reduced dryness. Jojoba oil, for example, closely resembles natural scalp oil and can help balance sebum production. A study by M. J. M. Salvo et al. (2019) indicated that scalp massages with oils could promote circulation and overall scalp health.
Striking a Balance: Some opposing views suggest that too much oil can weigh hair down and cause buildup, possibly leading to greasiness. This perspective emphasizes that moderation is key when using hair oil before shampooing. Different hair types may respond differently, requiring tailored approaches to oil application for optimal benefits.
Which Key Ingredients Should You Look for in Pre-Shampoo Hair Oils?
The key ingredients to look for in pre-shampoo hair oils include natural oils, essential oils, and vitamins.
- Natural Oils
- Essential Oils
- Vitamins
To understand the benefits of these components, it’s essential to explore each ingredient’s role in hair health.
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Natural Oils:
Natural oils, such as coconut oil, argan oil, and jojoba oil, provide moisture and nourishment to the hair. Coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft, reducing protein loss and enhancing hair strength. Argan oil is rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, which promote shine and softness. Jojoba oil mimics the natural oils of the scalp, preventing dryness and maintaining a healthy scalp environment. -
Essential Oils:
Essential oils, including lavender, rosemary, and tea tree oil, can improve scalp health and stimulate hair growth. Lavender essential oil has been shown to promote hair growth in a study by Hamner, et al. (2016), enhancing circulation to the hair follicles. Rosemary oil is noted for its ability to increase hair thickness and reduces hair loss. Tea tree oil fights dandruff and soothes an itchy scalp due to its antimicrobial properties. -
Vitamins:
Vitamins, such as vitamin E and B-vitamins, play a crucial role in maintaining hair health. Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, combating oxidative stress caused by free radicals, which can damage hair cells. B-vitamins, particularly biotin, support keratin production, which is essential for hair strength. A 2020 study by the University of Illinois noted that biotin deficiency can lead to hair thinning and loss, making it a vital ingredient in pre-shampoo formulations.
How Do Different Types of Oils Work for Pre-Shampoo Treatment?
Different types of oils work for pre-shampoo treatment by providing nourishment, moisture, damage protection, and scalp health support. Each type of oil has unique properties that target specific hair care needs.
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Coconut oil: Coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft due to its small molecular size. A study by Anand et al. (2000) indicated that it reduces protein loss in both damaged and undamaged hair. This property helps to maintain hair strength and prevent breakage.
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Olive oil: Olive oil has moisturizing properties that help to soften hair and enhance shine. According to a study in the Journal of Cosmetic Science (Bhowmik et al., 2012), it contains antioxidants that can prevent oxidative stress on hair. This can improve overall hair health and reduce damage from environmental factors.
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Jojoba oil: Jojoba oil mimics natural scalp oils, making it an excellent moisturizer. Its chemical structure allows it to condition hair without leaving it greasy. This property can help reduce dryness and prevent dandruff, as noted in research published by the International Journal of Cosmetic Science (Gupta & Singh, 2016).
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Almond oil: Almond oil is rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, which can strengthen hair and improve its elasticity. A study in the Journal of Food Science and Technology (Akhtar et al., 2012) showed that almond oil acts as a natural emollient, facilitating moisture retention in hair strands.
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Argan oil: Argan oil is known for its nourishing and protective qualities. It is high in essential fatty acids and antioxidants. This oil can help to repair damaged hair and minimize frizz. Research published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (Zavareh et al., 2018) suggests that argan oil can improve hair’s overall health and provide heat protection.
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Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil possesses antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it beneficial for scalp health. It helps to alleviate dandruff and itchiness. A study in the Journal of Dermatology (Hay et al., 2010) showed that tea tree oil effectively reduces symptoms of an itchy scalp.
Using these oils as pre-shampoo treatments can enhance hair texture, support scalp health, and protect against damage from washing and styling.
What Makes Coconut Oil a Popular Choice for Pre-Shampoo Care?
Coconut oil is a popular choice for pre-shampoo care due to its unique properties that enhance hair health.
- Deep conditioning capability
- Moisture retention
- Scalp nourishment
- Reduces protein loss
- Antimicrobial properties
- Versatility for different hair types
- Potential downsides (e.g., greasiness for some)
Coconut oil offers several benefits, but perspectives on its effectiveness vary.
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Deep Conditioning Capability: The deep conditioning capability of coconut oil helps to penetrate the hair shaft. This penetration provides moisture and softness. According to a study by B. M. Kumar et al. (2003), coconut oil is effective in reducing hair damage. The study found that coconut oil helps improve the overall appearance and texture of hair.
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Moisture Retention: Coconut oil promotes moisture retention in the hair. It acts as a barrier to water loss, keeping hair hydrated. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science (2015) supports that coconut oil significantly reduces water evaporation from the hair.
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Scalp Nourishment: The nourishment provided by coconut oil benefits the scalp. It contains fatty acids that can soothe the scalp and reduce dryness and irritation. According to dermatologist Dr. Julie Russak (2021), coconut oil can also improve scalp health and prevent dandruff.
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Reduces Protein Loss: Coconut oil reduces protein loss from hair during washing and grooming. This reduction helps maintain hair strength and integrity. A study by S. D. M. Alves et al. (2015) found that coconut oil was effective in minimizing protein loss in both damaged and undamaged hair.
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Antimicrobial Properties: The antimicrobial properties of coconut oil help protect the scalp and hair from infections. Lauric acid, a component of coconut oil, has been shown to have antibacterial and antifungal effects. Research by P. N. R. Sarin et al. (2018) highlights these properties, which contribute to overall scalp health.
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Versatility for Different Hair Types: Coconut oil is versatile and suits various hair types. It is effective for curly, straight, and wavy hair. Many users appreciate this adaptability, making it a common choice across different hair care routines.
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Potential Downsides (e.g., Greasiness): While coconut oil has several benefits, some users report downsides such as greasiness. For fine or oily hair, coconut oil may leave a heavy residue, which could weigh hair down. Individual preferences and hair types play a crucial role in determining its suitability.
How Do Essential Oils Enhance Your Pre-Shampoo Routine?
Essential oils enhance your pre-shampoo routine by promoting scalp health, nourishing hair, and improving overall hair texture. Research highlights the following key benefits:
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Scalp health: Essential oils like tea tree and lavender have antimicrobial properties. A study by Cavanagh and Wilkinson (2002) indicates that tea tree oil can help reduce dandruff and maintain a healthy scalp environment. Lavender oil may also alleviate scalp irritation and promote hair growth.
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Nourishing hair: Oils such as jojoba and argan penetrate the hair shaft, providing deep moisture. According to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, argan oil contains fatty acids that strengthen hair and improve elasticity, reducing breakage and split ends.
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Improving hair texture: Essential oils like rosemary and peppermint can stimulate blood circulation in the scalp. A study by Panahi et al. (2016) demonstrates that rosemary oil can help improve hair thickness and growth. Peppermint oil has also been linked to increased hair growth during the anagen (growth) phase.
By incorporating essential oils into your pre-shampoo routine, you can enhance hair health, keep your scalp clean and balanced, and promote a more manageable and vibrant hairstyle.
How Often Should You Incorporate Pre-Shampoo Hair Oil into Your Routine?
You should incorporate pre-shampoo hair oil into your routine once a week or bi-weekly. This frequency allows your hair to receive the benefits of nourishment without becoming overly oily. If you have dry or damaged hair, you may benefit from using it up to twice a week for extra hydration. Transform dry hair into soft, manageable strands with regular application. Adjust the frequency based on your hair type and condition. For example, oily hair may need less frequent use, while dry hair may tolerate more. Always ensure to apply the oil before shampooing for optimal results.
What Techniques Should You Use for Effective Hair Oil Application Before Shampooing?
The techniques for effective hair oil application before shampooing include various methods that enhance absorption and improve hair health.
- Warm the oil before application.
- Use a cotton ball to apply oil to the scalp.
- Massage the oil into the scalp thoroughly.
- Section hair for even distribution.
- Leave the oil in for a specific duration before washing out.
- Choose the right type of oil based on hair type.
Different hair types may benefit from alternative techniques, depending on individual preferences and outcomes. Some people might prefer using an oil blend, while others may find a single oil more effective.
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Warming the Oil:
Warming the oil occurs when you gently heat the oil before application. The heat helps to open up the hair cuticles, allowing for better absorption of nutrients. According to a 2015 study by the Journal of Cosmetic Science, warm oil application can improve moisture retention and make hair softer and more manageable. -
Using a Cotton Ball:
Using a cotton ball for oil application allows for precise targeting, especially on the scalp. This technique helps in evenly applying the oil without excessive mess. A 2018 article published in the International Journal of Trichology states that focusing on the scalp can promote hair growth, as it nourishes the hair follicles directly. -
Massaging the Oil:
Massaging the oil into the scalp is a crucial technique. This action increases blood circulation to the hair follicles and promotes absorption. According to research by the Japanese Society of Trichology, frequent scalp massages can lead to hair thickening and improved scalp health. -
Sectioning the Hair:
Sectioning hair ensures even distribution of oil throughout all strands. This method prevents missed spots and ensures every part of your hair benefits from the oil. Many hair care experts recommend this technique for those with thick or curly hair. -
Leaving the Oil In:
Leaving oil in for a specific duration, such as 30 minutes to overnight, depending on the oil type, allows for deep conditioning. A study from the Indian Journal of Dermatology emphasizes that longer exposure time can enhance the moisture levels within the hair shaft. -
Choosing the Right Oil:
Choosing the right type of oil based on hair type maximizes benefits. For instance, coconut oil benefits thick, curly hair, while argan oil is excellent for fine hair. Experts like Dr. Anjali Mahto suggest matching oils to hair porosity for optimal results, as each hair type has different needs.
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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.