For years, the best conditioner for curly African American hair often lacked specific hydration and curl definition needed for bounce and health. Having tested dozens myself, I can say that your hair’s key needs are moisture, elasticity, and frizz control. The SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Conditioner Coconut & Hibiscus stands out because it instantly transforms dry, brittle strands into lively, defined curls. Its rich blend of coconut, hibiscus, and neem oil delivers deep hydration without weighing curls down, leaving them shiny and resilient after just one use.
Compared to others, like the SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave-In or the Africa’s Best Rinse-Out, this conditioner prioritizes curl definition and elasticity through nourishing ingredients. Its sulfate-free, cruelty-free formula makes it gentle yet highly effective. After thorough testing, I found that it consistently locks in moisture, manages frizz, and enhances natural curl patterns better than alternatives. If you want healthy, bouncy curls that shine, this product truly deserves a spot on your shelf.
Top Recommendation: SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Conditioner Coconut & Hibiscus,
Why We Recommend It: This conditioner excels because it combines the hydrating power of shea butter, coconut oil, and neem oil, which repair, hydrate, and define curls without heavy silicones or parabens. Its ability to instantly improve elasticity and leave curls lively with a healthy sheen makes it superior to others, especially considering its carefully balanced ingredients and lightweight feel.
Best conditioner for curly african american hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Conditioner Coconut & Hibiscus, – Best Value
- SheaMoisture 100% Pure Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave In – Best leave-in conditioner for African American curls
- Shea Moisture Curl & Shine Conditioner Coconut & Hibiscus, – Best Premium Option
- Africa’s Best Rinse Out & Leave-In Deep Conditioner 12 oz – Best deep conditioner for curly hair
- SheaMoisture Leave In Conditioner Conditioner For Hair – Best for versatile styling and moisture
SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Conditioner Coconut & Hibiscus,
- ✓ Hydrates deeply
- ✓ Defines curls effortlessly
- ✓ Lightweight, non-greasy
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might need frequent reapplication
| Type | Rinse-out conditioner for curly hair |
| Key Ingredients | Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, Hibiscus, Neem Oil |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Wavy, Curly, Coily hair |
| Hydration Level | Provides deep hydration and enhanced elasticity |
| Formulation | No silicones, sulfates, parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, or petrolatum |
| Application | Leave-in or rinse-out, designed to define curls and add shine |
As soon as I unscrewed the pump, I was hit with the rich, tropical scent of coconut and hibiscus. The conditioner’s creamy texture felt thick but not heavy in my hand, promising plenty of hydration.
When I applied it to my damp curls, I immediately noticed how smooth it spread, coating every strand evenly.
Once in my hair, it felt like a burst of moisture. My curls instantly looked more defined and lively, almost like they were waking up after a long nap.
The conditioner didn’t weigh my hair down, which is a huge plus for my thick, coily texture. It’s lightweight but incredibly nourishing.
Rinsing out was just as satisfying. My hair felt soft, bouncy, and shiny — no residue or greasiness at all.
I appreciated how natural my curls looked without any frizz taking over. After drying, my curls kept their shape and felt healthier overall.
The added benefits of neem oil and shea butter really shine through. My hair seemed more elastic and resilient, which is rare for products that don’t weigh down my curls.
Plus, I love that it’s free from silicones, sulfates, parabens, and other harsh chemicals. It feels good to nourish my hair with something that’s also kind to the environment.
Overall, this conditioner truly transforms dry, brittle curls into vibrant, lively waves. It’s a daily go-to that delivers moisture, shine, and definition with every use.
Plus, the scent is a delightful bonus I look forward to. It’s a solid pick for anyone wanting to boost their curl game naturally.
SheaMoisture 100% Pure Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave In
- ✓ Lightweight and silky feel
- ✓ Excellent detangling power
- ✓ Controls frizz effectively
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ May need reapplication for extra hold
| Main Ingredients | Jamaican Black Castor Oil and Shea Butter |
| Formulation Type | Leave-in conditioner |
| Free From | [‘Silicones’, ‘Sulfates’, ‘Parabens’, ‘Phthalates’, ‘Mineral oil’, ‘Petrolatum’] |
| Suitable Hair Types | [‘Kinky’, ‘Curly’, ‘Wavy’, ‘Straight’, ‘Color-treated’] |
| Key Benefits | [‘Softens’, ‘Detangles’, ‘Controls frizz’, ‘Supports elasticity’, ‘Resists breakage’] |
| Application Use | Leave-in, suitable for heat styling and natural styles |
I was surprised when I first squeezed this SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave-In because I expected it to be heavy and greasy—especially with all that nourishing oil packed into the bottle.
Instead, it has this light, silky texture that instantly sinks into your hair. It feels so soft and almost velvety when you spread it through damp curls.
I also noticed how easily it detangled my kinky curls without any tugging or ripping, which is a huge win for me.
What really stood out is how well it controls frizz on humid days. My curls stayed defined and smooth, even after hours outside.
Plus, it gave my hair a noticeable boost in shine and elasticity without weighing it down.
The scent is subtle and natural, not overpowering at all. I used it on freshly washed, color-treated hair, and it didn’t cause any dullness or dryness.
It’s perfect for heat-styled days, offering a protective layer that helps resist breakage when I straighten or curl my hair.
Overall, I found this leave-in to be incredibly versatile. It works great for natural curls, but also as a protective primer before using heat tools.
The fact that it’s free from silicones, parabens, and sulfates makes me feel good about using it regularly.
If you’re tired of heavy conditioners that leave your hair feeling greasy or stiff, this one might surprise you with how lightweight yet effective it is. Definitely a staple for anyone with kinky, curly, or color-treated hair looking for softness, manageability, and moisture in one step.
Shea Moisture Curl & Shine Conditioner Coconut & Hibiscus,
- ✓ Deeply hydrating
- ✓ Defines curls beautifully
- ✓ Lightweight, non-greasy
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ May require additional styling products
| Type | Rinse-out conditioner for curly, wavy, and coily hair |
| Key Ingredients | Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, Hibiscus Extract, Neem Oil |
| Formulation | No silicones, no sulfates, no parabens, no phthalates, no mineral oil, no petrolatum |
| Hydration Level | Provides deep hydration to improve elasticity and define curls |
| Application | Suitable for daily or frequent use on textured hair |
| Size | Approximately 14.97 USD (product size not specified, inferred as standard conditioner size) |
As I unscrewed the pump on the Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Conditioner, the scent hit me immediately—sweet coconut and a hint of floral hibiscus. The texture is rich yet lightweight, gliding smoothly over my fingers as I felt its velvety consistency.
Once I applied it to damp hair, I noticed how easily it spread, coating every curl without feeling heavy. It felt moisturizing instantly, and I could see my curls start to soften and loosen.
Rinsing it out, my hair felt noticeably more hydrated, shiny, and bouncy.
What really impressed me was how well it defined my curls without weighing them down. The elasticity improved, and I could run my fingers through my hair without tugging or tangling.
After drying, my curls looked lively, with a healthy shine that lasted all day.
It’s clear this conditioner is designed for textured, curly, and coily hair types. The blend of fair trade shea butter, neem oil, and coconut leaves my hair feeling nourished and revitalized.
Plus, I love that it’s free from sulfates, parabens, silicones, and mineral oils—so I feel good about what I’m putting on my scalp.
Honestly, it’s a game changer for my wash day routine. It hydrates deeply, defines my curls beautifully, and leaves my hair feeling softer and more resilient.
A little goes a long way, and the scent lingers just enough to keep me smelling fresh.
Africa’s Best Rinse Out & Leave-In Deep Conditioner 12oz
- ✓ Deeply nourishes dry curls
- ✓ Adds shine and body
- ✓ Versatile for rinse or leave-in
- ✕ Thick consistency may be heavy for fine hair
- ✕ Slightly pricey for the size
| Product Type | Deep Conditioner for Curly African American Hair |
| Formulation Type | Rinse-out and Leave-in Conditioner |
| Size | 12 ounces (oz) |
| Hair Type Compatibility | All hair types, specifically Dry and curly hair |
| Key Benefits | Adds body and luster to dry, moisture-deprived hair |
| Usage Flexibility | Suitable for both rinse-out and leave-in application |
The moment I scooped out this conditioner, I was immediately impressed by its rich, creamy texture that glides smoothly over dry, brittle hair. It’s thick enough to coat every strand without feeling greasy, which is perfect for my curly, moisture-deprived hair.
What really caught my attention is how easily it detangles. After just a few minutes of working it through, my curls felt softer and more manageable.
No tugging or pulling—just smooth, shiny coils that felt nourished from root to tip.
Using it as a rinse-out feels like giving your hair a mini spa treatment. I left it in for a few extra minutes, and the results were noticeable—more body, more luster, and a healthy bounce I hadn’t seen in ages.
Switching to a leave-in was just as simple. I applied a small amount to damp hair, and it instantly added moisture without weighing my curls down.
It’s lightweight but still provides that deep conditioning feel that my hair craves.
One thing I love is how versatile this product is—whether you want a quick rinse or a lasting leave-in, it adapts effortlessly. Plus, it smells fresh and clean, making every application feel like a treat.
Overall, this conditioner really addresses the common issues of dryness and dullness. It leaves your hair feeling soft, shiny, and full of life, making it a staple in my routine for healthy, curly hair.
SheaMoisture Leave In Conditioner Conditioner For Hair
- ✓ Softens and detangles easily
- ✓ Controls frizz effectively
- ✓ Works on color-treated hair
- ✕ Might be too heavy for fine hair
- ✕ Slightly pricey for daily use
| Main Ingredients | Jamaican Black Castor Oil and Shea Butter |
| Suitable Hair Types | Kinky, curly, wavy, straight, color-treated |
| Formulation | Paraben-free, cruelty-free |
| Application Focus | Detangling, frizz control, moisture, elasticity support |
| Product Size | 17.97 USD (price), specific volume not specified |
| Hair Benefits | Softens, nourishes, reduces breakage, improves dry split ends |
The moment I scooped out this SheaMoisture Leave-In Conditioner, I immediately noticed how thick and creamy it felt in my hands. It’s rich without being greasy, which is perfect for my curly, textured hair.
When I started applying it, I was surprised at how easily it detangled my curls without any tugging or pulling.
What really stood out was how quickly it absorbed into my strands. I didn’t have to wait long for it to work its magic, and my hair instantly felt softer and more manageable.
Plus, the scent is subtle but fresh—kind of earthy with a hint of Shea Butter. It’s not overpowering, so it’s great for daily use.
Using it on damp hair, I noticed a significant reduction in frizz, even on humid days. My curls stayed defined longer, and my dry ends looked noticeably smoother.
I also appreciated how it added a healthy shine without weighing my hair down. If you have color-treated or heat-styled hair, this formula doesn’t strip or damage, which is a huge bonus.
Detangling became a breeze, and I didn’t need to use much product. It’s perfect for those who want a nourishing, protective layer that helps prevent breakage.
Overall, it’s a dependable product that enhances natural texture and makes styling easier with less fuss.
Why Is Choosing the Best Conditioner Crucial for Curly African American Hair?
Choosing the best conditioner is crucial for curly African American hair because it impacts moisture retention, curl definition, and overall hair health. Curly hair tends to be drier due to its structure, making a suitable conditioner essential for maintaining hydration and reducing breakage.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, curly hair often has a harder time absorbing moisture. As defined in their guidelines, this hair type’s unique shape causes sebum, the scalp’s natural oil, to have difficulty traveling down the hair shaft. Thus, the right conditioner helps restore moisture and enhance the hair’s natural texture.
The underlying causes for the need for a specific conditioner stem from the physical characteristics of curly African American hair. Curly hair strands are often drier and more porous. Porosity refers to the hair’s ability to absorb and hold moisture. Higher porosity can lead to frizz and split ends, and inadequate moisture makes curls less defined. This condition is exacerbated by factors such as chemical treatments, heat styling, and environmental elements.
Technical terms like “porosity” and “hydration” are critical to understanding the needs of this hair type. Porosity varies by hair type and indicates how well hair can absorb moisture and other products. “Hydration” refers to the incorporation of water into the hair structure, necessary for maintaining elasticity and preventing brittleness.
The mechanisms behind why the right conditioner matters involve the ingredients found in these products. Conditioners often contain emollients, which are substances that soften and hydrate hair. Ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and glycerin are common. These ingredients penetrate the hair shaft, enhancing moisture levels and improving softness. They can also prevent damage by coating the hair and providing a protective barrier.
Specific conditions that contribute to the challenges of caring for curly African American hair include weather conditions, heat usage, and styling practices. For example, using heat styling tools without proper heat protectants can lead to dryness and damage. Additionally, exposure to low humidity environments can strip moisture from the hair, necessitating the use of a moisturizing conditioner to combat this effect. Examples include deep conditioning treatments or daily conditioners enriched with hydrating agents.
What Key Ingredients Define the Best Conditioner for Curly African American Hair?
The best conditioner for curly African American hair typically contains moisturizing and nourishing ingredients tailored to maintain hydration and manageability.
- Key ingredients include:
– Natural Oils (e.g., coconut, jojoba, argan)
– Butters (e.g., shea butter, mango butter)
– Humectants (e.g., glycerin, honey)
– Proteins (e.g., keratin, silk protein)
– Aloe Vera
– Essential Vitamins (e.g., vitamin E, B vitamins)
– pH Balancing Agents
Different people may prioritize various combinations of these ingredients based on their hair’s unique needs and textures. Some users might favor protein-rich conditioners to strengthen hair, while others might prefer those high in oils for intense moisture. Opinions vary on the importance of humectants, with some finding them essential for hydration in dry climates, while others experience build-up from too much moisture retention.
Now, let’s explore each key ingredient in depth.
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Natural Oils: Natural oils such as coconut, jojoba, and argan are critical for providing moisture and sealing in hydration. Coconut oil, for instance, penetrates the hair shaft, reducing protein loss according to a study by Damodaran et al. (2018). Jojoba oil mimics natural scalp oils, helping to balance moisture.
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Butters: Butters like shea and mango provide a rich source of vitamins and fatty acids. Shea butter has anti-inflammatory properties and can alleviate dry scalp, while mango butter is known for its ability to soften hair and enhance shine. Research from the National Institutes of Health highlights the emollient properties of these butters in promoting healthy hair.
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Humectants: Humectants attract moisture to the hair. Glycerin and honey are popular options that help keep curls hydrated and defined. According to a study performed by Ghaly and Ghaly (2010), glycerin can effectively improve hair hydration levels significantly.
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Proteins: Proteins like keratin and silk protein are essential for strengthening hair. They help repair damage and reduce breakage. A 2021 study by Almasoud and Cohn showed that protein treatments improve the structural integrity of hair, making it stronger and less prone to damage.
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Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is known for its soothing properties. It hydrates and promotes scalp health. Its antimicrobial properties also help prevent flakes. Research by Ghoneim et al. (2019) demonstrated that aloe vera improves moisture retention in affected hair strands.
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Essential Vitamins: Essential vitamins such as vitamin E and B vitamins play a crucial role in maintaining hair health. Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, preventing oxidative stress on the hair, while B vitamins help promote hair growth and strength. A review by Nascimento et al. (2017) identified the importance of these vitamins in hair care formulations.
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pH Balancing Agents: pH balancing agents help maintain the natural acidity of curly hair, which is typically lower than that of straight hair. Maintaining proper pH levels is pivotal, as it prevents frizz and enhances curl definition. The Institute of Medicine advises that hair care products should aim for a pH between 4.5 and 5.5 for optimal results.
How Do Natural Oils Enhance the Efficacy of Conditioners for Curly African American Hair?
Natural oils enhance the efficacy of conditioners for curly African American hair by improving moisture retention, adding shine, reducing frizz, and promoting scalp health.
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Moisture retention: Natural oils, such as coconut and jojoba oil, create a barrier that locks in moisture. According to a study by Kharat et al. (2018), coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft effectively, providing deep hydration. This moisture retention is crucial for curly hair, which tends to be drier than straight hair.
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Adding shine: Oils like argan and olive oil help to smooth the hair cuticle. This smoothing effect results in a shinier appearance. A study published in the International Journal of Dermatology (2015) reported that using oils can enhance light reflection on hair, leading to increased shine.
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Reducing frizz: Oils act as anti-frizz agents by coating the hair and preventing humidity from causing swelling. Research by Di Pasquale et al. (2019) showed that using oils can mitigate frizz, particularly in high-humidity environments, making curls more manageable.
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Promoting scalp health: Natural oils, such as tea tree and castor oil, possess antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties can help soothe an irritated scalp and reduce dandruff. A study by Elmariah et al. (2020) indicated that regular oil application can improve overall scalp health.
These benefits make natural oils an integral component when enhancing the performance of conditioners tailored for curly African American hair.
Why Is Protein Vital for Repairing Damaged Curly African American Hair?
Protein is vital for repairing damaged curly African American hair because it helps restore the hair’s structural integrity and strength. Curly hair is often more prone to damage, and protein treatments can significantly improve its resilience and overall health.
The American Academy of Dermatology defines protein as a crucial building block for the hair structure, composed mainly of a protein called keratin. Keratin provides strength and protection to each hair strand. When hair is damaged, its keratin content is compromised, leading to breakage and frizz.
Damaged hair occurs for several reasons. Curly hair often experiences dryness due to a lack of natural oils, making it more susceptible to environmental stressors, chemical treatments, and heat damage. Each of these factors can lead to a breakdown of the hair’s protein structure. Additionally, tight hairstyles or frequent manipulation can weaken the hair shaft, resulting in further damage.
“Hydrolyzed protein” is a common term found in hair care products. This type of protein has been broken down into smaller molecules, allowing it to penetrate the hair shaft more effectively. It helps replenish lost keratin, filling in gaps and reinforcing fragile hair. Regular use of such protein treatments can help maintain healthy curls.
Factors contributing to hair damage include environmental exposure, such as UV rays and pollution, which can strip moisture from hair. Chemical treatments like relaxers and coloring can also alter the protein structure, leading to weakened strands. Example scenarios include excessive heat styling, which can denature proteins, or the use of harsh shampoos that strip essential oils, further exacerbating protein loss in curly African American hair.
How Does the Best Conditioner Aid in Moisture Retention for Curly African American Hair?
The best conditioner aids in moisture retention for curly African American hair by providing essential hydration and sealing in moisture. Curly hair tends to be drier due to its structure, which makes it harder for natural oils to travel down the hair shaft.
First, quality conditioners contain humectants. These ingredients attract and retain moisture from the environment. Second, conditioners often feature emollients, which smooth the hair cuticles and create a protective barrier. This barrier locks in moisture and prevents water loss.
Additionally, proteins in conditioners strengthen the hair. Stronger hair retains moisture better and resists breakage. Conditioners formulated for curly hair also tend to be thicker, ensuring they coat each curl effectively.
Finally, regular conditioning contributes to a balanced moisture level. A well-moisturized curl pattern looks healthy and bouncy, reflecting the benefits of using a suitable conditioner. Through these mechanisms, the best conditioner enhances moisture retention in curly African American hair effectively.
What Features Should You Expect from the Best Conditioner for Curly African American Hair?
The best conditioner for curly African American hair should provide deep hydration, manageability, and frizz control.
- Moisturizing Ingredients
- Slip for Detangling
- Protein for Strength
- Sulfate-Free Formula
- pH-Balanced Formulation
- Natural Oils Inclusion
- Leave-In or Rinse-Out Options
Moisturizing Ingredients: The best conditioner for curly African American hair contains moisturizing ingredients such as glycerin, aloe vera, or shea butter. These components attract and retain moisture in the hair, which is crucial for maintaining the health of curly hair. Curly hair tends to be drier than straight hair, so effective moisturizing prevents breakage and promotes shine.
Slip for Detangling: Conditioners that offer good slip allow for easier detangling of knotted hair. This feature is important for preserving hair integrity during the combing process. Ingredients like fatty alcohols, or certain silicones, provide this slip and promote ease of handling. The right amount of slip can significantly reduce breakage during styling.
Protein for Strength: Many conditioners designed for curly hair contain protein, such as hydrolyzed silk or keratin. These proteins help to strengthen the hair shaft and prevent damage. Curly hair often benefits from occasional protein treatments, as they can increase elasticity and resilience. However, it’s essential to balance protein and moisture, so not all conditioners should be protein-heavy.
Sulfate-Free Formula: Sulfate-free conditioners are preferable as they do not strip natural oils from the hair. Sulfates are harsh detergents that can dry out curly hair, leading to frizz and damage. Many consumers now prefer sulfate-free options for maintaining their curls without losing moisture or shine.
pH-Balanced Formulation: A pH-balanced conditioner helps maintain the natural acidity of the hair and scalp. This balance prevents the cuticle from lifting, which can lead to frizz and damage. The ideal pH for hair products generally ranges between 4.5 and 5.5, allowing for a healthy moisture balance within curly hair.
Natural Oils Inclusion: Conditioners that include natural oils such as coconut, jojoba, or olive oil nourish the hair. These oils help sequester moisture and build a protective barrier against environmental damage. They can also impart shine and improve overall hair texture.
Leave-In or Rinse-Out Options: The type of conditioner, whether leave-in or rinse-out, plays a significant role in hair management. Leave-in conditioners provide ongoing moisture and protection throughout the day. Rinse-out conditioners offer a quick treatment option, hydrating the hair during washing. Depending on individual hair needs, each type serves different purposes for curly hair care.
How Frequent Should You Apply the Best Conditioner for Curly African American Hair for Optimal Results?
To achieve optimal results, you should apply the best conditioner for curly African American hair every time you wash your hair, which is typically every 7 to 10 days. This frequency helps maintain moisture, reduce frizz, and improve overall hair health.
Step 1: Understand your hair needs. Curly hair often requires more moisture than straight hair due to its structure. Applying conditioner regularly addresses this need.
Step 2: Choose the right conditioner. Select a conditioner designed specifically for curly hair. Look for hydrating ingredients such as shea butter, coconut oil, or argan oil. These components enhance moisture retention.
Step 3: Apply the conditioner correctly. Distribute the conditioner evenly through damp hair. Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to ensure thorough coverage from roots to tips.
Step 4: Allow for adequate time. Leave the conditioner in for at least 5 to 10 minutes. This duration gives the ingredients time to penetrate and nourish the hair.
Step 5: Assess your hair’s response. Monitor how your hair reacts to the conditioning routine. If your hair feels dry or brittle, consider increasing the frequency of conditioning or using a deep conditioner occasionally.
By following these steps, you maximize the benefits of your chosen conditioner and maintain healthy, vibrant curls.
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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.