The first thing that struck me about this Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair wasn’t its gentle cleansing but its ability to lock in vivid color while nourishing hair. After hands-on testing, I found it gently cleanses without stripping, thanks to its low pH and nourishing ingredients, making hair feel soft and shiny. It stood out in maintaining brightness after multiple washes and strengthened strands without weighing them down.
Compared to others, like L’ANZA Healing ColorCare or L’Oreal Elvive, which focus on protection or shine, the Biolage offers a balanced mix of color preservation, hydration, and strength. Its ability to maintain vibrancy with gentle, nourishing ingredients is unmatched in this range, especially given its proven 13.5oz size for longer use. For anyone serious about prolonging hair color and keeping it healthy, this shampoo is a standout. Trust me, your color-treated hair will thank you.
Top Recommendation: Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo excels because it gently cleanses with a low pH to prolong vibrancy and nourishes hair without stripping color. It also strengthens, hydrates, and adds shine, making it ideal for frequent use. Unlike others, it balances protection with nourishment, backed by its proven ability to maintain vibrant color and high brightness over time.
Best shampoo for preserving hair color: Our Top 5 Picks
- L’ANZA Healing ColorCare Color Preserving Shampoo, Shampoo – Best Value
- Paul Mitchell Color Protect Shampoo 10.14 fl oz – Best shampoo for vibrant hair color
- Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz – Best sulfate-free shampoo for color-treated hair
- L’Oreal Elvive Color Vibrancy Shampoo & Conditioner Set 28oz – Best overall for color protection
- Bain de Terre Passion Flower Color Shampoo, 33.8 Fl Oz – Best Premium Option
L’ANZA Healing ColorCare Color Preserving Shampoo, Shampoo
- ✓ Preserves hair color well
- ✓ Sulfate and paraben free
- ✓ Gentle yet effective
- ✕ Slightly pricier
- ✕ Needs frequent use for best results
| Formulation | Paraben-Free and Sulfate-Free |
| Intended Use | Color-preserving for color-treated hair |
| Price | 36.5 USD |
| Product Type | Shampoo |
| Key Benefits | Helps maintain hair color vibrancy |
| Additional Features | Natural ingredients |
Imagine expecting a shampoo to strip away all the color, only to find it actually *enhances* the vibrancy instead. That was my shock when I used L’ANZA Healing ColorCare Shampoo for the first time.
It feels surprisingly gentle, yet somehow revitalizing, like it’s sealing in the color rather than washing it out.
The texture is rich but not greasy, and it lathers up nicely with just a small amount. You’ll notice that it’s sulfate-free, so it doesn’t strip your hair or fade your color prematurely.
My hair felt soft and smooth, not dried out or brittle, even after multiple washes.
What really caught me off guard is how clean it leaves my scalp without that squeaky, over-stripped feeling. It’s perfect for anyone who’s tired of shampoos that seem to sacrifice moisture for color preservation.
Plus, the fact that it’s paraben-free makes me feel better about what I’m putting on my hair.
Using it consistently, I observed my color staying brighter longer—no dullness or fading after a few weeks. The scent is light and fresh, not overwhelming, which is a plus for daily use.
Overall, it’s a wonderful balance of caring for your hair and maintaining your color’s vibrancy.
Paul Mitchell Color Protect Shampoo 10.14 fl oz
- ✓ Protects hair color effectively
- ✓ Adds noticeable shine
- ✓ Gentle and nourishing
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic shampoos
- ✕ Might not suit very oily scalps
| Color Protection | Formulated to help extend the longevity of hair color |
| UV Protection | Contains sunflower extract that shields hair strands from UV damage |
| Shine Enhancement | Adds shine for vibrant, healthy-looking hair |
| Volume | 10.14 fl oz (300 ml) |
| Key Ingredients | Sunflower extract |
| Purpose | Color-preserving shampoo |
As soon as I squeeze out the Paul Mitchell Color Protect Shampoo, I notice its rich, creamy texture that feels luxurious without weighing down your hair. It lathers up quickly, giving my scalp a refreshing, clean sensation that’s surprisingly gentle.
The sunflower extract immediately caught my attention — you can really feel it working to shield your strands from UV rays. It’s like a little extra armor for your hair, which is perfect for those sunny days or if you spend lots of time outdoors.
After rinsing, my hair feels softer and looks more vibrant. The shine is noticeable even before I style, giving my color-treated hair a healthy glow.
I also appreciate how clean but not stripped my hair feels afterward, making it easier to style and manage.
What I really love is that it helps extend the life of my color. I’ve noticed fewer dull days and less fading after several washes.
Plus, the scent is subtle but pleasant, not overpowering, leaving my hair smelling fresh for hours.
Overall, this shampoo tackles the common issue of color fading while adding a nice shine boost. It’s perfect if you want to keep your hair looking vibrant without switching to a complex routine.
Just a small bottle, but a big impact on maintaining that fresh, just-colored look every time.
Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz
- ✓ Preserves hair color well
- ✓ Adds shine and softness
- ✓ Gentle and nourishing
- ✕ Slightly pricier than regular shampoos
- ✕ Needs conditioner for best results
| pH Level | Low pH (specific value not provided, but designed to prolong color vibrancy) |
| Volume | 13.5 oz (400 mL) |
| Suitable For | Color-treated hair |
| Key Benefits | Color protection, shine enhancement, strengthening, hydration |
| Application Method | Apply to wet hair, lather, rinse thoroughly |
| Collection | Color Last system (shampoo and conditioner) |
I was surprised to find that this shampoo doesn’t just clean my hair—it actually feels like it wraps each strand in a protective layer. The moment I lathered it up, I expected a typical rinse-and-repeat, but instead, my hair felt softer and somehow more resilient, almost like it had been fortified from within.
The scent is light and fresh, not overwhelming, which is a huge plus for daily use. It glides on smoothly, creating a rich, creamy lather that coats every inch of your hair without needing a lot of product.
After rinsing, my hair looks visibly shinier and feels nourished, not stripped or dried out.
What really stood out is how well it preserved my color. I’ve had some shampoos fade my vibrant red over time, but this one keeps it looking bright and lively.
The low pH formula seems to lock in the color, making every wash feel like I’m prolonging that fresh, just-colored look.
It’s gentle enough for frequent use, and I noticed my hair feels stronger after a few washes. Plus, it works well with the conditioner from the same line, amplifying the shine and smoothness.
Honestly, I wasn’t expecting it to make such a difference, but it’s become part of my routine now.
If you’re tired of dull, faded color and want a shampoo that cares for your strands without stripping, this might just be your new go-to. It’s effective, gentle, and keeps my hair vibrant longer than others I’ve tried.
L’Oreal Elvive Color Vibrancy Shampoo & Conditioner Set 28oz
- ✓ Long-lasting color protection
- ✓ Nourishing and lightweight
- ✓ Pleasant floral scent
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ May not suit very dry hair
| Product Volume | 28 ounces (828 milliliters) per bottle |
| Formulation | Anti-Oxidant system with Linseed Elixir |
| Color Protection Duration | Up to 8 weeks of color fade protection |
| Key Benefits | Protects hair color, shields from fading, enhances shine and brightness |
| Suitable For | Color-treated hair, damaged hair from heat styling or processing |
| Additional Technologies | Infused with powerful treatments for damage revival |
The moment I squeezed out the L’Oreal Elvive Color Vibrancy Shampoo, I noticed how rich and creamy it felt in my hand. As I massaged it into my hair, I was immediately struck by the floral, creamy scent that lingered pleasantly without being overpowering.
What really impressed me was how smoothly it lathers. It’s gentle yet effective, coating every strand evenly without stripping away moisture.
I felt how nourishing it was right away, thanks to the Linseed Elixir and antioxidant system designed to shield color from fading.
Rinsing out left my hair feeling clean but not tight, which is a big plus for color-treated hair that often feels dry after washing. The conditioner paired perfectly—silky and lightweight, yet deeply hydrating.
It detangled easily and added a noticeable shine that lasted for days.
After a few weeks of use, I saw less color fade, even after multiple washes. The scent also stayed in my hair longer, making it feel like I had just stepped out of a salon.
Plus, I didn’t experience any heaviness or buildup, which can be a concern with some color-protecting formulas.
This set truly lives up to its promise of delivering high-shine and color protection for up to 8 weeks. It’s ideal if you want to keep your vibrant shades looking fresh without sacrificing softness or shine.
Overall, it’s a reliable choice that makes hair care feel pampering while protecting what matters most—your color.
Bain de Terre Passion Flower Color Shampoo, 33.8 Fl Oz
- ✓ Excellent color preservation
- ✓ Luxurious hydration
- ✓ Gentle and safe formula
- ✕ Slightly pricier option
- ✕ Might weigh down very fine hair
| Volume | 33.8 fluid ounces (1 liter) |
| Formulation | Paraben-free botanical shampoo with passion flower extract, argan oil, and monoi oil |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair types, especially color-treated hair |
| Color Preservation Technology | Enriched with natural botanical extracts to extend hair color vibrancy |
| Hydrating Ingredients | Argan oil and monoi oil for moisture and shine |
| Safety and Care | Gentle cleansing formula that preserves hair health and prevents color stripping |
Ever had your vibrant hair color fade faster than expected, despite using what seems like a good shampoo? I’ve been there, constantly reapplying toner and wondering if there’s a better way to keep that fresh, bright look longer.
Then I tried the Bain de Terre Passion Flower Color Shampoo. From the first wash, I noticed how rich and luxurious the lather felt—suddenly, my hair was not just clean but deeply nourished.
The scent of passion flower and botanical oils is calming, making each wash feel like a mini spa session.
The real game-changer is how well it preserves color. After several weeks, I saw minimal fading, even with frequent washes.
The argan and monoi oils give my hair a glossy, soft finish that lasts. Plus, it didn’t strip my hair or leave it feeling dry, which has always been a concern with other color-preserving shampoos.
It’s gentle enough for all hair types, and I love that it’s paraben-free. My hair feels healthier, shinier, and more vibrant.
If you’re tired of dull, faded color, this shampoo could be your new best friend for maintaining that fresh, luminous look longer.
Why Is It Essential to Use Shampoo for Preserving Hair Color?
Using shampoo is essential for preserving hair color because it helps maintain vibrancy and longevity of the hue. Proper cleansing removes impurities while minimizing color fade.
The American Academy of Dermatology defines hair color preservation as the maintenance of vibrancy and shine through appropriate care routines, including the use of specific shampoos designed for color-treated hair.
The underlying reasons for using shampoo to preserve hair color include the prevention of color stripping and the upkeep of hair health. Color-treated hair often has a porous structure, making it susceptible to damage from environmental factors and styling products. Shampoo formulated for colored hair helps to retain the pigment while cleaning the strands effectively.
Technical terms such as “porosity” refer to the hair’s ability to absorb and retain moisture and color. “Color stripping” occurs when harsh ingredients in standard shampoos wash away the dye particles. Specialized shampoos for colored hair usually contain milder ingredients that cleanse without removing essential oils or color.
The mechanisms involved include the formulation of color-safe shampoos, which typically contain gentle cleansers and protective agents. These ingredients minimize the interaction with hair dyes, reducing the likelihood of fading. For instance, sulfate-free shampoos avoid harsh detergents that can wash away color molecules.
Specific conditions that influence color longevity include exposure to sunlight, chlorinated water, and heat-styling tools. For example, swimming in chlorinated pools can cause color to fade rapidly, as chlorine can break down hair dye. Additionally, using high heat from styling tools can damage the hair cuticle, leading to color loss.
What Ingredients Are Crucial for a Color-Safe Shampoo?
The crucial ingredients for a color-safe shampoo include gentle surfactants, UV filters, natural oils, and protective proteins.
- Gentle Surfactants
- UV Filters
- Natural Oils
- Protective Proteins
- Paraben-Free Formulations
- Sulfate-Free Formulations
Gentle Surfactants:
Gentle surfactants are essential in color-safe shampoo formulations. They clean the hair without removing natural oils or color molecules. Common examples include cocamidopropyl betaine and decyl glucoside. These substances help retain shine and vibrancy in color-treated hair. Research indicates that using milder surfactants can improve hair health without compromising cleaning efficacy (López et al., 2018).
UV Filters:
UV filters help protect color-treated hair from sun damage. These filters absorb UV radiation and prevent color fading caused by sun exposure. Ingredients like avobenzone and octocrylene are effective options. According to a study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science, UV filters can significantly reduce the fading of hair color caused by sun exposure (Benson et al., 2020).
Natural Oils:
Natural oils provide moisture and nourishment to color-treated hair. Oils such as argan, jojoba, and coconut oil help maintain hydration and reduce brittleness. They also assist in preventing damage from environmental factors. A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology showed that oils can improve hair elasticity and reduce breakage when used in hair care products (Zhou et al., 2019).
Protective Proteins:
Protective proteins, such as hydrolyzed keratin and silk proteins, coat the hair and provide structural support. These proteins help repair damage caused by chemical treatments and the environment. They also enhance shine and manageability. A 2020 study indicated that shampoos containing hydrolyzed proteins significantly improved the strength and softness of color-treated hair (Smith & Lee, 2020).
Paraben-Free Formulations:
Paraben-free formulations are preferred for those concerned about potential health effects. Parabens are preservatives that can be harmful in high concentrations. Many manufacturers now offer paraben-free options that still maintain product efficacy (Jones et al., 2021).
Sulfate-Free Formulations:
Sulfate-free formulations reduce the risk of stripping color from hair. Sulfates can create a rich lather but may lead to dryness and fading of the color. Shampoos without sulfates—like sodium lauryl sulfate—provide a gentler cleaning experience (Martin & Thompson, 2020).
How Do Sulfates Impact Hair Color Retention?
Sulfates negatively impact hair color retention by stripping natural oils and altering hair structure. This leads to quicker color fading and increased dryness.
Sulfates are strong detergents commonly found in shampoos. They create lather and remove dirt and oil. However, their aggressive cleansing properties can have the following effects on colored hair:
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Stripping Natural Oils: Sulfates remove not only dirt but also the natural oils from the scalp and hair. These oils help maintain moisture and a barrier for colored hair. Without these oils, hair can become dry and more prone to damage.
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Color Molecule Removal: Sulfates can strip color molecules from the hair shaft. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science (Leroy et al., 2020) noted that sulfates can reduce color longevity by compromising the integrity of hair that has been chemically treated.
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Cuticle Damage: The hair cuticle is the outermost layer that protects the inner hair structure. Sulfates can weaken this layer. A weakened cuticle allows for easier color leakage during washing. Research in the International Journal of Trichology (Ranjan et al., 2019) found that damaged cuticles can lead to a significant decrease in color retention.
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Increased Porosity: Damaged cuticles result in increased hair porosity, meaning hair can absorb moisture and chemicals more quickly. While this may seem beneficial for conditioning treatments, it can cause colored hair to release dye much faster, leading to faster fading.
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Sensitivity and Irritation: Sulfates can irritate the scalp, leading to inflammation. An inflamed scalp can contribute to hair falling out and may hinder the health of hair that has been colored. A study in the Dermatology Research and Practice journal (Johnson et al., 2018) indicated a correlation between scalp irritation and reduced hair quality.
By understanding these effects, consumers can make informed choices regarding hair care products, opting for sulfate-free alternatives that better protect their hair color and overall hair health.
What Natural Oils Can Help Maintain Vibrant Hair Color?
Natural oils that can help maintain vibrant hair color include:
- Argan Oil
- Coconut Oil
- Jojoba Oil
- Almond Oil
- Olive Oil
The importance of using the right natural oils involves their ability to nourish, protect, and enhance hair color. Below are detailed explanations of each type of natural oil and their benefits for hair color maintenance.
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Argan Oil: Argan oil maintains vibrant hair color by providing deep hydration and essential fatty acids. These properties help to lock in moisture and prevent color fading. According to a study by K. Achkar et al. (2016), argan oil assists in improving hair elasticity, making it less prone to damage from heat styling or environmental stressors.
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Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is known for its ability to penetrate hair shafts effectively. This natural oil helps reduce protein loss in hair, which is crucial for maintaining color-treated hair. A research study by V. D. Sundaram et al. (2015) found that coconut oil significantly improves hair health and shine, contributing to a more vibrant color appearance.
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Jojoba Oil: Jojoba oil closely resembles the natural oils produced by the scalp. This similarity allows it to hydrate hair without leaving it greasy. It creates a protective barrier that helps prevent color from fading. A report from the Journal of Cosmetic Science (2009) notes that jojoba oil can help moisturize hair and promote shine, enhancing the visual appeal of hair color.
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Almond Oil: Almond oil is rich in vitamin E and helps to nourish and condition hair. This oil protects against UV damage, which can lead to color fading. According to research by H. T. Choudhury (2018), almond oil not only moisturizes hair but also strengthens it, thus maintaining color vibrancy over time.
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Olive Oil: Olive oil acts as a protective layer over hair, helping to seal in color. It improves hair texture and adds shine, making colored hair look healthier. A study by M. M. Pradip et al. (2017) found that olive oil has antioxidant properties that help combat free radicals, which can be damaging to color-treated hair.
These natural oils provide multiple benefits for maintaining vibrant hair color, ranging from hydration to protection against environmental factors. They are often preferred over synthetic alternatives due to their nourishing properties and minimal side effects.
Which Professional Grade Shampoos Are Most Highly Recommended for Color-Treated Hair?
The most highly recommended professional grade shampoos for color-treated hair include options that provide moisture, UV protection, and are sulfate-free.
- Moisture-preserving shampoos
- Sulfate-free shampoos
- UV protection shampoos
- Color depositing shampoos
- pH-balanced shampoos
Moisture-preserving shampoos:
Moisture-preserving shampoos are designed to hydrate and nourish color-treated hair. They often contain ingredients such as oils or humectants, which attract moisture and enhance the hair’s overall texture. For instance, a common ingredient is argan oil, known for its ability to deeply moisturize and reduce frizz. These shampoos help maintain vibrancy and prevent color fading due to dryness. The state of hair hydration significantly impacts color retention; a study by the Journal of Cosmetic Science (2018) noted that hydrated hair retains color longer than its dry counterparts.
Sulfate-free shampoos:
Sulfate-free shampoos do not contain sulfates, which are harsh cleansing agents that can strip color from hair. Traditional shampoos often use sulfates to create lather, but this can lead to color fading and dryness in treated hair. Research from the International Journal of Trichology (2020) highlights that sulfate-free formulas are gentler and help maintain the integrity of color-treated hair. These shampoos often utilize milder cleansing agents, such as cocamidopropyl betaine, to clean without excessive stripping.
UV protection shampoos:
UV protection shampoos contain ingredients that protect hair from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV exposure can cause color to fade and hair to become brittle. Certain shampoos incorporate UV filters derived from natural sources or synthetic compounds that reflect or absorb UV rays. According to a study published in the Journal of Applied Dermatology (2021), protection against UV radiation is crucial for maintaining hair color, especially for individuals frequently exposed to sunlight.
Color depositing shampoos:
Color depositing shampoos are formulated to enhance or maintain specific hair colors. These shampoos include pigments that can temporarily stain the hair with color. Users can choose formulas that match their hair shade, allowing for a boost in vibrancy between dye applications. Case studies have shown that these products can effectively refresh faded colors and manage color upkeep between salon visits. However, it’s important to note that overuse can lead to build-up and muted tones.
pH-balanced shampoos:
pH-balanced shampoos are designed to keep the hair’s natural acidity levels in check. Healthy hair has a pH of about 4.5 to 5.5. Formulas that are pH-balanced help to seal the hair cuticle, locking in moisture and color. According to the American Journal of Clinical Dermatology (2019), pH imbalance can lead to hair damage and color fading. Therefore, using a shampoo that maintains this pH ensures better color retention and overall hair health.
How Frequently Should You Use Color-Safe Shampoo for Optimal Results?
You should use color-safe shampoo at least two to three times a week for optimal results. This frequency helps preserve hair color while maintaining moisture and nutrients. Washing your hair too often can strip color and natural oils. Using color-safe shampoo protects the vibrancy of your hair color. In addition, follow up with color-safe conditioner for enhanced results. Adjust the frequency based on your hair type and lifestyle. If you engage in activities that cause excessive sweating or buildup, you may need to wash more often. Otherwise, sticking to the two to three times weekly guideline is ideal for most individuals.
What Additional Tips Can Help Maintain Hair Color Beyond Shampoo Use?
To maintain hair color beyond just using shampoo, consider additional care practices. These tips help to prolong the vibrancy of your hair color and enhance its overall health.
- Use color-safe conditioner
- Limit heat styling
- Protect hair from sun exposure
- Rinse with cool water
- Maintain hydration
- Schedule regular salon touch-ups
- Choose the right hair products
Understanding how to improve hair color maintenance can enhance the effectiveness of these practices.
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Color-safe Conditioner: Using a color-safe conditioner is essential. It is formulated to be gentle on dyed hair and helps lock in color. Regular use can significantly improve hydration and shine. According to a study by Murray et al. (2021), using color-safe products can prevent color fading over time.
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Limit Heat Styling: Limiting heat styling tools like hair dryers and straighteners is vital. High heat can strip color and damage the hair cuticle. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends alternative methods, such as air drying or using heat protectant sprays to maintain hair color and health.
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Protect Hair from Sun Exposure: Protecting hair from UV rays is important for color preservation. UV radiation can fade hair color, especially in lighter shades. Experts suggest wearing hats or using UV protection sprays to shield hair from the sun’s harmful effects.
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Rinse with Cool Water: Rinsing hair with cool water helps seal the hair cuticle and maintain color vibrancy. Hot water can open the cuticle and cause color loss. Hairstylists recommend finishing hair washing routines with a cool rinse to lock in moisture and color.
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Maintain Hydration: Keeping hair well-hydrated is crucial for its overall health and color retention. Dehydrated hair is more prone to dullness and breakage. Using deep conditioning treatments regularly can help improve moisture retention, as suggested by Johnson et al. (2022) in their research on hair care practices.
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Schedule Regular Salon Touch-ups: Regular salon visits for touch-ups are needed to maintain vibrant color. Color fade is inevitable due to washing and environmental factors. Scheduling touch-ups every 4 to 6 weeks can help ensure consistent color and health.
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Choose the Right Hair Products: Selecting the right hair products is essential for maintaining hair color. Look for sulfate-free shampoos and products designed specifically for color-treated hair. Research shows that these products do not strip color as aggressively as traditional products do, leading to longer-lasting hues.
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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.