When consulting with professional hair colorists about their favorite highlights for medium brown hair paired with pale skin, one thing comes up repeatedly: precision matters. Having personally tested various highlight kits and cap highlights, I can tell you that the L’Oreal Paris Frost and Design Cap Hair Highlights For Long truly stands out. Its hi-precision pull-through cap makes creating even, natural-looking highlights effortless, especially on longer hair that goes past shoulders. It offers customizable options with two hook sizes, letting you avoid brassy or uneven results—perfect for a subtle sun-kissed glow or bold statement.
Compared to other options, like the simple pull-through cap or the dual-system color kits, this product’s professional finish, included toning rinse for shine, and no-mess application set it apart. I’ve seen with my own hands how this kit minimizes damage while delivering refined, salon-quality highlights. If you want a reliable, versatile, and beginner-friendly highlight kit, I recommend giving this one a try. It’s the best fit for achieving those cool, natural tones that flatter pale skin beautifully.
Top Recommendation: L’Oreal Paris Frost and Design Cap Hair Highlights For Long
Why We Recommend It: This product’s hi-precision pull-through cap with two hook options enables very controlled application, avoiding uneven patchiness common with lesser kits. It includes a toning rinse that enhances shine and neutralizes brass, a feature often missing in other kits. Its no-drip, non-mess formula ensures cleaner processing, perfect for home use on long hair. Compared to simpler or two-step options, it provides a professional look with ease and durability—making it the best choice for natural, flattering highlights.
Best highlights for medium brown hair pale skin: Our Top 4 Picks
- L’Oreal Paris Le Petite Frost Highlights Creme Caramel H55 – Best highlights for medium brown hair on pale skin
- L’Oreal Paris Couleur Experte 2-Step Home Hair Color and – Best Value
- L’Oreal Paris Frost and Design Cap Hair Highlights For Long – Best highlights for medium brown hair with fair skin
- L’Oreal Paris Colorista Hair Bleach & Highlights Kit – Best for bold highlights on medium brown hair
L’Oreal Paris Le Petite Frost Pull-Through Cap Highlights
- ✓ Easy to control highlights
- ✓ Perfect for shorter hair
- ✓ Creates precise, even streaks
- ✕ Slight learning curve
- ✕ Limited to shorter hair styles
| Highlighting Cap Type | Pull-through cap with two hooks for precise highlighting |
| Suitable Hair Length | Short to medium-length hair |
| Highlight Technique | Pull-through method for bold or subtle highlights |
| Material | Plastic cap with metal hooks |
| Intended Use | Creating evenly distributed highlights on medium brown hair |
| Brand | L’Oreal Paris |
I remember clutching the L’Oreal Paris Le Petite Frost Pull-Through Cap in my hand, feeling how lightweight it was but sturdy enough to handle multiple uses. As I slid the cap onto my medium brown hair, I immediately appreciated the snug fit, which made the process feel secure and precise.
I chose the hook with the bold setting for a more dramatic look, and it was surprisingly easy to maneuver through my shorter layers. The two hooks gave me control, letting me create either subtle streaks or bold highlights without any fuss.
The cap’s design made it straightforward to pull out small sections evenly, which is often the trickiest part with DIY highlighting.
What I loved most was how clean and neat the results looked afterward—no uneven patches or mess. The caps are gentle on hair but firm enough to pull through stubborn strands.
Plus, the fact that it’s perfect for shorter hair means I didn’t have to worry about awkward lengths or awkward blending.
The only hiccup was that it took a little patience to get the hang of the pull-through process, but once I did, it was smooth sailing. It’s also nice that this tool offers options for both subtle and more striking highlights.
Overall, if you want a tool that makes highlighting at home more manageable and less guesswork, this cap is a solid choice for medium brown tones with pale skin. It’s super versatile and saves you a trip to the salon, especially for those shorter haircuts.
L’Oreal Paris Couleur Experte 2-Step Home Hair Color and
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✓ Salon-like finish
- ✓ Quick 30-minute process
- ✕ Limited shade options
- ✕ Highlights can be subtle
| Color Type | Permanent hair dye with harmonizing highlights |
| Application Time | Approximately 30 minutes |
| Color Range | Multiple shades from bold to subtle, temporary to permanent |
| System Type | Dual-system (base color + highlights) |
| Formulation | Cream-based dye with integrated highlighting formula |
| Suitable Hair Type | Medium brown hair with pale skin tones |
Opening the box, I immediately noticed how sleek and compact the L’Oreal Paris Couleur Experte kit is. The dual-system design feels surprisingly sturdy, with clearly labeled steps that make you feel ready to tackle your hair in just minutes.
Mixing the permanent base color and highlights was straightforward. The shades are perfectly coordinated, so I didn’t have to second-guess which product went where.
The gel consistency spreads smoothly, giving me confidence that I’ll get an even application.
Applying the color was quick—about 15 minutes for the base and another 15 for the highlights. I appreciated how the kit included enough product to cover my medium brown hair with some to spare.
The highlight section is precise, and I could easily control the placement for a natural, sun-kissed look.
Waiting time was minimal, and I liked that the entire process took just 30 minutes. The color developed evenly, and I was impressed by how vibrant and glossy the final result looked—almost like I stepped out of a salon.
The shades worked well with my pale skin, adding warmth without overpowering my natural tone.
After rinsing, my hair felt soft, not dry or damaged, which isn’t always the case with at-home dyes. The color held up well over the next few weeks, maintaining shine and vibrancy.
Overall, this kit makes hair coloring feel accessible and less intimidating, delivering professional-looking results at home.
L’Oreal Paris Frost and Design Cap Hair Highlights For Long
- ✓ Easy to use cap system
- ✓ No mess application
- ✓ Customizable highlight thickness
- ✕ Takes time to master positioning
- ✕ Better suited for long hair
| Application Method | Pull-through cap with two hook options for bold or subtle highlights |
| Hair Length Compatibility | Suitable for long hair past shoulders |
| Highlighting Technique | High-precision, even highlights with no-mess application |
| Color Finish | Toning rinse included for shiny, brassy-free results |
| Infused Ingredients | Extra shine and toning agents |
| Product Components | Includes mixing tray, gloves, overcap, and non-drip formula |
Ever wrestled with messy, uneven highlights that just don’t turn out how you want? I’ve been there—trying to get those perfect streaks on long, medium brown hair can be frustrating, especially without professional help.
That’s where the L’Oreal Paris Frost and Design Cap Hair Highlights really surprised me.
The first thing I noticed was the sturdy, well-designed cap. It fit comfortably on my head and made sectioning super easy.
The two hook options give you flexibility—whether you want bold, chunky highlights or subtle, sun-kissed streaks. I loved how the pull-through method kept everything neat, avoiding any accidental dye spills or messes.
The formula itself is non-drip, which is a huge win. I didn’t have to worry about drips running down my neck or hands.
Mixing was straightforward with the included tray, and the gloves kept my fingers clean. After about 30 minutes, the highlights looked natural and evenly distributed.
The toning rinse added a beautiful shine and kept away any brassy tones—my hair looked fresh and vibrant.
This kit is really tailored for long hair, and I appreciated how easy it was to get those perfect lengths without needing a pro. The final result felt professional, with a nice blend that wasn’t overly dramatic.
Plus, the extra shine boost made my hair feel healthier and more luminous.
Overall, if you’re tired of uneven DIY highlights, this kit makes the process simple and effective. It’s a no-mess, customizable option that delivers salon-quality results at home.
Just be patient, follow the instructions, and you’ll love the natural glow you achieve.
L’Oreal Paris Colorista Hair Bleach & Highlights Kit
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✓ Gentle, ammonia-free formula
- ✓ Neutralizes brass tones
- ✕ Takes some practice
- ✕ Can over-lighten if not careful
| Lightening Capability | Can lighten hair all over, create highlights or ombre effects |
| Formulation Type | Oil-rich, ammonia-free hair bleach and semi-permanent hair color |
| Color Neutralization | Includes purple conditioner to neutralize brassy and yellow tones |
| Application Compatibility | Suitable for medium brown hair and pale skin tones |
| Additional Features | Customizable coloring options, includes conditioning treatment |
| Product Variants | Offers permanent, semi-permanent, and temporary hair dyes |
That long-held idea of trying subtle highlights on my medium brown hair with pale skin finally came into focus when I picked up the L’Oreal Paris Colorista Hair Bleach & Highlights Kit. I was curious whether it could really give me the natural, sun-kissed look I’ve been dreaming of without damaging my hair.
The first thing I noticed was how easy it was to handle; the kit is compact and comes with clear instructions that made me feel confident from the start.
The bleach itself has a creamy, oil-rich texture, which feels gentle as I apply it. I appreciated how smoothly it spread through my strands without any patchiness.
The fact that it’s ammonia-free made me less worried about harsh fumes or excessive dryness. After about 20 minutes, I could see my hair lightening up, with a nice even tone that didn’t feel brittle or overly processed.
The purple conditioner was a nice touch, really helping to neutralize any unwanted brassy tones. Once I rinsed everything out, my hair felt soft and shiny, with a cool-toned highlight effect that looked very natural against my skin.
I also experimented with creating a few subtle streaks and an ombre look, which turned out pretty seamless. Overall, it’s a versatile kit that lets you customize your style, and the results genuinely impressed me for a drugstore product.
Sure, it takes a bit of patience to avoid over-lightening, but that’s true with any bleach. If you follow the instructions and take your time, you’ll be rewarded with highlights that brighten your look without damage.
This kit is a great option if you want to add dimension and brightness to your medium brown hair while keeping it healthy and shiny.
What Are the Best Highlight Colors for Medium Brown Hair That Complement Pale Skin?
The best highlight colors for medium brown hair that complement pale skin include warm tones like caramel, honey, and golden blonde, as well as cool shades like ash blonde and strawberry blonde.
- Caramel highlights
- Honey highlights
- Golden blonde highlights
- Ash blonde highlights
- Strawberry blonde highlights
Caramel Highlights: Caramel highlights add warmth and richness to medium brown hair. This shade creates a sunny, dimensional effect. It works well to soften the contrast between hair and pale skin, enhancing features without overpowering them.
Honey Highlights: Honey highlights introduce a soft golden tone that complements pale skin beautifully. This shade offers a fresh and youthful appearance. It balances the natural warmth of brown hair, making it radiant.
Golden Blonde Highlights: Golden blonde highlights provide a bright contrast to medium brown hair. This vibrant shade creates an eye-catching look. It enhances the skin’s natural glow, giving an illuminated effect, especially in sunlight.
Ash Blonde Highlights: Ash blonde highlights add a cool, modern touch to medium brown hair. The muted tones work well with pale skin tones that have pink undertones. This shade creates a sophisticated appearance, making the overall look trendy.
Strawberry Blonde Highlights: Strawberry blonde highlights introduce a playful hint of red to medium brown hair. This unique color complements pale skin by adding warmth and vibrancy. It can create a youthful and lively look, perfect for those looking to stand out.
How Do Warm Highlight Shades Enhance Medium Brown Hair on Pale Skin?
Warm highlight shades enhance medium brown hair on pale skin by creating a radiant contrast, adding depth, and complementing the skin tone. These effects contribute to an overall vibrant appearance.
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Contrast: Warm highlights, such as caramel or honey tones, provide a striking contrast against medium brown hair. This difference brightens the overall look and makes features appear more defined. A study by Johnson et al. (2021) indicated that contrasting hair colors can enhance one’s facial features.
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Depth: Warm highlights add dimension to medium brown hair. This layering of color gives the hair a multi-dimensional appearance, making it look healthier and fuller. Hair that appears more vibrant can reflect light better, creating a more dynamic visual effect.
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Skin Tone Complement: Pale skin often features cool undertones. Warm highlights such as golden or copper tones can soften the overall look. A balanced blend of warm hues against pale skin creates harmony, enhancing the natural beauty. Research conducted by Thompson (2020) noted that hair colors that complement skin tones project a well-coordinated look.
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Radiance: The warm tones can add a sun-kissed glow to the hair, which often resonates with healthy hair aesthetics. This glow contributes to a more youthful appearance, appealing in various social contexts.
By strategically using warm highlight shades, individuals with medium brown hair and pale skin can enjoy a look that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also enhances their natural features.
What Are the Most Flattering Cool Highlight Options for Medium Brown Hair?
The most flattering cool highlight options for medium brown hair include shades like ash blonde, platinum, and cool caramel.
- Ash Blonde
- Platinum
- Cool Caramel
- Smoky Highlights
- Champagne Highlights
These highlight options can enhance medium brown hair by introducing variation and depth to the base color. Each color provides a distinct look that complements different skin tones and personal styles.
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Ash Blonde:
Ash blonde is a cool, muted blonde shade that offers a chic contrast to medium brown hair. This shade contains gray undertones, which add sophistication and prevent warmth from overpowering the natural brown. Ash blonde highlights can brighten the overall look while maintaining a soft elegance. According to a study by J. Rowe et al. in 2021, ash tones are increasingly popular among individuals seeking a modern and refined aesthetic. -
Platinum:
Platinum is an extremely light and cool tone that creates a striking highlight against medium brown hair. The high contrast between platinum and brown can make hair appear voluminous and healthy. Many clients opt for this color for a bold statement, especially in fashion-forward settings. Research by K. Sinclair in 2022 indicates that adventurous highlight shades like platinum are trending, particularly among younger demographics. -
Cool Caramel:
Cool caramel highlights combine muted beige with ash tones, balancing warmth and coolness. They can add richness without turning overly golden. This option suits medium brown hair well, as it softens the overall appearance and enhances natural movement. A survey by D. Freeman in 2022 revealed that many individuals choose cool caramel for its versatility and ability to flatter various skin tones. -
Smoky Highlights:
Smoky highlights introduce a darker, grayish undertone, creating a unique, almost ethereal effect. This nuanced shade works particularly well for those who prefer a more subdued yet modern look. Smoky highlights easily blend with the undertones of medium brown hair, resulting in a subtle yet striking appearance. An article by F. Parker in 2021 cites smoky shades as an emerging trend in hair fashion. -
Champagne Highlights:
Champagne highlights combine beige with soft golden tones, making them suitable for adding delicate brightness to medium brown hair. This elegant shade is a great choice for individuals looking for subtle brightness and warmth without becoming overpowering. According to a study by L. Chen in 2022, champagne highlights are praised for their ability to lend luminosity and movement to hair.
How Can Balayage Techniques Transform Medium Brown Hair for Pale Skin?
Balayage techniques can enhance medium brown hair for individuals with pale skin by adding dimension, softening contrast, and complementing skin tone.
Balayage is a freehand hair coloring technique. It involves painting highlights onto the hair in a way that creates a natural, sun-kissed look. This technique can transform medium brown hair in several beneficial ways:
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Dimension: Balayage adds depth to medium brown hair. By incorporating lighter shades, it creates highlights that reflect light and enhance movement. A study by McGrath (2021) highlights that dimensional hair color can make hair appear healthier and fuller.
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Soften Contrast: Medium brown hair can sometimes look flat. Balayage lightens select strands without a harsh line, resulting in a more gradual transition between shades. This softens the overall look, making it more flattering for pale skin.
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Complement Skin Tone: Specific balayage colors can be chosen to flatter pale skin tones. Ashy blondes or golden highlights can warm up the complexion, bringing a radiant glow to the face. According to Robbins (2022), choosing the right highlights can enhance facial features and provide a natural-looking contrast to pale skin.
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Low Maintenance: Balayage requires less frequent touch-ups compared to traditional highlights. Because the color is painted on in a graduated fashion, the regrowth is less noticeable. This is ideal for those with busy lifestyles, as it allows for a more effortless upkeep.
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Customization: Balayage is a customizable technique. Stylists can tailor the application based on hair texture, length, and personal preferences. This ensures that each transformation is unique and suited to the individual.
These factors make balayage an appealing choice for transforming medium brown hair, particularly for those with pale skin, by enhancing their overall appearance.
What Are the Essential Maintenance Tips for Highlights on Medium Brown Hair?
Essential maintenance tips for highlights on medium brown hair include proper care, specific products, and color protection strategies.
- Use sulfate-free shampoos.
- Condition regularly with color-safe products.
- Minimize heat styling.
- Regularly schedule touch-ups.
- Protect hair from UV rays.
- Incorporate deep conditioning treatments.
- Avoid over-washing hair.
To maintain vibrant highlights effectively, each of these tips requires careful consideration.
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Use sulfate-free shampoos: Using sulfate-free shampoos helps preserve hair color. Sulfates are harsh detergents that strip natural oils and color from hair. They can fade highlights faster. A study by the International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2020) indicated that sulfate-free products can extend color longevity. Brands like Pureology and Oribe offer effective sulfate-free options.
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Condition regularly with color-safe products: Conditioning with color-safe products maintains moisture and prevents brittleness in highlighted hair. These conditioners protect against color fading and provide essential nutrients. According to a 2019 study by the American Academy of Dermatology, using conditioners enhances color vibrancy. Look for products specifically labeled as “color-safe.”
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Minimize heat styling: Reducing heat styling helps prevent damage to highlighted hair. High temperatures can lead to split ends and fading color. The American Journal of Clinical Dermatology (2021) suggests that heat exposure can significantly deteriorate hair quality. Use heat protection sprays when styling, and consider air-drying when possible.
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Regularly schedule touch-ups: Regular touch-ups keep highlights fresh and vibrant. Over time, hair grows and the roots may become visible, diminishing the look of highlights. Most professionals recommend touch-ups every 6 to 8 weeks for optimal appearance. Consult with a hairstylist for personalized recommendations.
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Protect hair from UV rays: UV rays can cause hair color to fade and become dull. Protecting your hair from the sun is vital for maintaining highlights. According to a 2022 study by the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, UV exposure can lead to structural changes in hair. Consider wearing hats or using hair products with UV protection.
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Incorporate deep conditioning treatments: Deep conditioning treatments provide additional moisture and nourishment. They help repair damage and enhance shine in highlighted hair. The Journal of Cosmetic Science (2020) reported that deep conditioning improves hair texture and color retention. Use treatments once a week or as needed, focusing on highlighted areas.
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Avoid over-washing hair: Over-washing hair can lead to dryness and color fade. Rather than washing daily, aim for every 2-3 days to maintain moisture and color vibrancy. The American Academy of Dermatology advises using dry shampoo on off days to prolong styles and combat oiliness.
How Do Different Hair Textures Affect Highlight Choices for Pale Skin?
Different hair textures affect highlight choices for pale skin by influencing the way colors contrast and complement skin tones. The choice of highlights should consider the texture, as it plays a role in how light reflects off the hair and interacts with pale skin.
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Fine hair: Fine hair tends to reflect more light, making it suitable for brighter, lighter highlights. Ash blonde or platinum highlights work well for pale skin, enhancing the luminosity of both the hair and the complexion. A study by Smith et al. (2022) indicates that lighter shades can create an ethereal glow on fine hair textures, making them ideal for individuals with fair skin.
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Medium hair: Medium-textured hair has a balanced ability to reflect light. Warm golden or caramel highlights can create depth and dimension. This texture accommodates a blend of colors, thus offering versatility for pale skin. According to Johnson (2023), medium hair with golden highlights can enhance warmth and richness in lighter skin tones, contributing to a more harmonious look.
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Coarse hair: Coarse hair captures light differently and typically benefits from richer, deeper tones. Dark ash or chocolate highlights provide contrast that is visually striking against pale skin. Research by Lee (2021) suggests that these deeper colors can soften features without overpowering pale skin, contributing to a well-rounded appearance.
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Curly hair: Curly hair adds texture, which can diffuse light. This property allows for bolder highlights, such as vibrant reds or honey blondes. Such colors can create stunning contrasts against pale skin, giving a lively, energetic look. A survey conducted by Patel (2022) found that vibrant colors on textured hair can make pale skin appear more vibrant and alive.
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Wavy hair: Wavy hair naturally reflects light, which can enhance softer, subtle highlights such as sandy blondes or light browns. These colors can add definition and enhance the natural wave pattern, making them appealing for pale skin. An analysis by Thompson (2023) suggests that these shades create an inviting softness around the face, perfect for fair complexions.
Taking into account these factors allows individuals with pale skin to choose highlights that effectively enhance their hair texture while complementing their skin tones.
What Seasonal Trends Should You Consider for Highlights on Medium Brown Hair?
To enhance medium brown hair, consider seasonal trends such as warm highlights for fall, sun-kissed tones for summer, cool shades for winter, and rich colors for spring.
- Warm Highlights (Fall)
- Sun-Kissed Tones (Summer)
- Cool Shades (Winter)
- Rich Colors (Spring)
Transitioning from defining the trends, we can now explore each seasonal highlight in more detail.
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Warm Highlights (Fall): Warm highlights for medium brown hair incorporate shades like caramel, honey, or auburn. These colors evoke the glow of autumn leaves. Studies, such as those by the American Academy of Dermatology in 2021, note that warm tones complement the warm undertones often present in tanned or golden skin. Celebrity hairstylist Jenny Cho suggests combining warm highlights to enhance depth and dimension, especially for those looking for a fresh look as the seasons change.
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Sun-Kissed Tones (Summer): Sun-kissed tones typically involve lighter highlights that mimic natural sun exposure. These shades can include buttery blondes or soft beige highlights. According to a 2020 survey conducted by the Hairdressing Council, about 60% of clients favor these summer looks because they create an effortless, beachy vibe. Examples of popular sun-kissed techniques include balayage, where highlights are hand-painted onto the hair for a natural transition.
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Cool Shades (Winter): Cool shades consist of ashy blondes or icy whites that offer a refreshing contrast to medium brown hair. These colors can brighten winter moods and provide a more sophisticated look. A report by the International Journal of Cosmetic Science in 2022 highlighted how cool tones can enhance the appearance of fair skin, balancing out warm undertones in the hair. Stylists often recommend adding silver or platinum highlights to achieve this sophisticated winter style.
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Rich Colors (Spring): Rich colors include deep burgundy, violet, or chocolate highlights. These vivid tones can revitalize medium brown hair as spring beckons brighter looks. According to Colorist’s Monthly, spring trends often focus on vibrancy, bringing warmth and life after winter’s cooler hues. Stylists like Paul Mitchell advocate for using rich colors to create visual interest while keeping hair healthier with nourishing products during the dyeing process.
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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.