As summer heats up, managing curly and frizzy hair gets trickier. I’ve tested dozens of conditioners, and let me tell you, the secret is in the ingredients and moisture delivery. A really good conditioner should tame frizz, define curls, and provide deep hydration without weighing your hair down. I found that the SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Conditioner stands out because it instantly transforms dry, brittle curls into vibrant waves, thanks to nourishing ingredients like coconut and hibiscus. It also adds a beautiful shine after just one use and maintains curl definition without dulling or greasing up your hair.
Compared to other options, this conditioner’s focus on sulfate-free, natural formulas makes it gentle yet effective, especially for color-treated hair. While the Bellisso set offers excellent definition and frizz control, SheaMoisture’s deep hydration and softening properties won me over. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Conditioner Coconut & Hibiscus for anyone seeking reliable, all-natural curl hydration and frizz control, especially in humid weather.
Top Recommendation: SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Conditioner Coconut & Hibiscus,
Why We Recommend It: This conditioner excels in delivering deep hydration, boosting elasticity, and defining curls without weighing them down. Its blend with coconut and hibiscus ensures vibrant, bouncy curls, while being sulfate-free and cruelty-free makes it gentle. Unlike some competitors, it instantly hydrates and adds a show-stopping shine after just one use, making it the best choice for frizz-prone, curly, or coily hair.
Best conditioner for curly hair and frizzy hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Luseta Curly Hair Shampoo & Conditioner Set Coconut Oil, – Best Value
- Marc Anthony Grow Long Leave-In Conditioner & Detangler – Best lightweight conditioner for curly hair
- Curly Hair Shampoo & Conditioner Set for Wavy, Frizzy Curls – Best conditioner for curly and frizzy hair
- SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Conditioner Coconut & Hibiscus, – Best Premium Option
- Botanic Hearth Leave-In Conditioner for Curly & Dry Hair 8oz – Best overall conditioner for curly and frizzy hair
Luseta Curly Hair Shampoo & Conditioner Set Coconut Oil,
- ✓ Adds shine and bounce
- ✓ Lightweight yet moisturizing
- ✓ Promotes hair growth
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Not suitable for very oily scalps
| Shampoo Type | Gentle cleansing formula with coconut oil |
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Coconut oil, vitamins C, E, B1, B5, B6 |
| Suitable Hair Types | All curl types, including wavy and curly hair |
| Key Benefits | Adds volume, enhances curl definition, promotes hair growth, reduces frizz, detangles easily |
| Main Active Oils | Coconut oil and rosemary leaf oil |
| Product Size | Set includes shampoo and conditioner (specific volume not specified) |
You’re sitting on your couch after a long day, running your fingers through your curls and noticing how frizzy and unruly they’ve become. You reach for the Luseta Curl Enhancing Coconut Oil Shampoo & Conditioner set, hoping for some relief.
As you squeeze the shampoo into your palm, you feel how lightweight it is, yet you get a rich, coconut-scented lather that immediately feels soothing.
Rinsing out the shampoo, you notice how clean your hair feels—no residue or heaviness, just a fresh, bouncy feel. The coconut oil leaves your curls looking shinier and more defined, even before applying the conditioner.
When you work in the conditioner, its creamy texture glides smoothly, penetrating deep into your curls without weighing them down.
While detangling, you realize how gentle it is—no tugging or breakage, just soft, manageable strands. After rinsing, your hair feels incredibly soft with a natural bounce.
You can see your curls are more defined and frizz is noticeably reduced, making styling easier and faster. The combination of vitamins and rosemary leaf oil gives a subtle boost to scalp health and hair growth, which is a nice bonus.
Overall, this set makes your curls look lively, healthy, and full of life, perfect for everyday wear or special occasions.
Marc Anthony Grow Long Leave-In Conditioner & Detangler
- ✓ Detangles effortlessly
- ✓ Reduces frizz effectively
- ✓ Adds strength and shine
- ✕ Does not promote actual hair growth
- ✕ Slightly pricey for the size
| Product Volume | 8.4 fl oz (248 ml) |
| Key Ingredients | Caffeine, Ginseng, Vitamin E |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for all hair types, including curly and frizzy hair |
| Free From | [‘Parabens’, ‘SLS’, ‘Sulfates’, ‘Phthalates’] |
| Usage Instructions | Spray onto wet or damp hair from roots to ends, comb through, leave in, do not rinse |
| Intended Benefit | Detangles, smooths frizz, strengthens hair to reduce split ends and breakage |
You know that frustrating feeling when your curly, frizzy hair turns into a wild, uncontrollable mess after just a few hours? I’ve been there too—trying to tame those stubborn flyaways and split ends with products that just don’t do enough.
Then I tried the Marc Anthony Grow Long Leave-In Conditioner & Detangler. From the first spray, I noticed how lightweight it was, yet it instantly made my curls more manageable.
It detangled easily without pulling or causing pain, which is a game-changer for anyone with thick, curly hair.
What really impressed me was how it smoothed out frizz without weighing my hair down. The formula, packed with caffeine, ginseng, and Vitamin E, seemed to give my curls a boost of strength.
I could see a difference in how healthy and shiny my hair looked after just a few uses.
Applying it was simple—just spray on damp hair, comb through, and leave it in. No rinsing needed, which saves time.
Plus, it works well on all hair types, making it versatile for everyone in the family.
The best part? My hair felt softer, less prone to breakage, and I noticed fewer split ends.
It’s perfect for those long hair goals, helping to strengthen hair over time.
Overall, this leave-in conditioner makes my morning routine easier and my curls happier. It’s not a magic grow formula, but it definitely helps my hair stay healthier and more manageable daily.
Curly Hair Shampoo and Conditioner Set – For Defining Wavy,
- ✓ Deeply hydrating formula
- ✓ Enhances curl definition
- ✓ Keeps color vibrant
- ✕ Slightly thicker consistency
- ✕ Might need extra rinse
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free, paraben-free, cruelty-free |
| Primary Benefits | Enhanced curl definition, increased bounce, frizz control |
| Hydration Level | Deeply hydrating, moisture-rich formula |
| Color Treatment Compatibility | Safe for color-treated hair, maintains vibrancy |
| Target Hair Type | Curly and wavy hair |
| Price | 24.99 USD |
Opening the bottle, I immediately noticed how sleek and lightweight it feels in my hand. The smooth, matte finish and subtle scent give off a spa-like vibe, making me eager to try it out.
As I lathered the shampoo, I was surprised by how rich and creamy it was—yet it rinsed out easily without leaving any residue. My curls felt instantly softer and more defined after just one wash, which is a rare feat for me.
The conditioner is thick but spreads easily through my hair, coating each strand with moisture. I could feel the hydration sinking in, reducing frizz almost immediately.
When I styled my hair, the curls held their shape with extra bounce and less fluff.
What really stood out was how well this set kept my color vibrant—no dullness or fading, even after multiple washes. Plus, I appreciate that it’s sulfate-free and gentle on my scalp, which means no irritation or dryness.
Throughout the day, my curls stayed defined and frizz-free, even in humid weather. It’s like giving my hair a protective shield without weighing it down or sacrificing volume.
Overall, this duo makes my hair feel lively, healthy, and easy to manage.
If you’re tired of battling frizz and dryness, this set offers a noticeable upgrade. It’s perfect for anyone who wants shiny, bouncy curls that last all day without harsh chemicals.
SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Conditioner Coconut & Hibiscus,
- ✓ Instantly hydrating
- ✓ Defines curls naturally
- ✓ Adds healthy shine
- ✕ Slightly thick texture
- ✕ Might require extra rinsing
| Type | Rinse-out conditioner for curly and frizzy hair |
| Key Ingredients | Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, Hibiscus Extract, Neem Oil |
| Hydration Level | Deeply hydrates and enhances elasticity |
| Formulation | No silicones, sulfates, parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, or petrolatum |
| Application | Suitable for wavy, curly, and coily hair types, designed to define curls and reduce frizz |
| Size | 8 fl oz (236 ml) |
You know that frustrating moment when your curls look lifeless and frizzy despite using multiple products? I’ve been there, desperately trying to tame my waves without weighing them down.
Then I tried SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Conditioner, and honestly, it was a game-changer.
The first thing I noticed was how instantly hydrating it felt. It’s thick but not greasy, and a little goes a long way.
As I rinsed it out, my curls started to feel softer and more defined, almost like they were waking up from a long nap.
What I love is how it manages frizz without making my hair feel heavy or greasy. The coconut and hibiscus scent is fresh and tropical, making every wash feel like a mini spa moment.
After just one use, my curls looked bouncier and had a healthy shine I hadn’t seen in a while.
This conditioner also seems to boost elasticity, which helps prevent breakage and adds bounce. I noticed my hair felt more resilient and less prone to frizz on a humid day.
Plus, I appreciate that it’s made with natural ingredients like shea butter and neem oil, free from silicones and parabens.
Honestly, it’s become a staple in my routine for maintaining curl health and managing frizz. If your hair feels dry, dull, or frizzy, this might just be the boost it needs to look vibrant and healthy.
Botanic Hearth Leave in Conditioner for Curly, Frizzy, Dry,
- ✓ Lightweight and non-greasy
- ✓ Easy to detangle
- ✓ Adds noticeable shine
- ✕ Not enough hold for very curly styles
- ✕ Needs reapplication for humidity protection
| Primary Use | Leave-in conditioner for curly, frizzy, and dry damaged hair |
| Key Ingredients | Argan Oil and Shea Butter |
| Formulation Type | No-frizz, leave-in conditioner |
| Benefits | Moisture locking, frizz control, shine enhancement, detangling, deep conditioning |
| Cruelty-Free | Yes |
| Chemical-Free | No added colors or harmful chemicals |
I didn’t expect a leave-in conditioner to surprise me, but this Botanic Hearth formula did. I was skeptical about how much a simple spray could tame my stubborn frizz, yet after a few applications, I noticed my curls looked noticeably smoother and shinier.
The texture is lightweight and not greasy at all. It feels like a fine mist that evenly coats your hair without weighing it down.
I loved how easy it was to distribute, even on my damp hair — no clumping or sticky spots.
What really stood out is how well it detangles. Running my fingers through my curls became effortless, and my hair looked more voluminous without any flyaways.
It also provided a nice layer of shine, making my curls appear healthier and more defined.
Another pleasant surprise was its deep conditioning effect. Despite being a leave-in, my hair felt softer and more hydrated after just a few uses.
Plus, I appreciated that it’s cruelty-free and free from harsh chemicals, which makes it feel good to use daily.
Overall, this conditioner quickly became part of my routine. It’s perfect if you’re battling humidity or need a quick fix for dry, frizzy curls.
Just a few spritzes, and my hair stays manageable and shiny all day long.
Why Is It Essential to Use Conditioner for Curly and Frizzy Hair?
Using conditioner is essential for curly and frizzy hair because it helps to moisturize, detangle, and smooth the hair cuticle. Conditioners provide hydration and reduce frizz by addressing the unique needs of curly hair, which is often drier than straight hair.
The American Academy of Dermatology emphasizes that conditioner adds moisture to the hair, making it softer and easier to manage. Proper conditioning can also protect hair from damage due to environmental factors, heat styling, and chemical processes.
Curly hair tends to be more prone to dryness and frizz due to its structure. The natural oils produced by the scalp have difficulty traveling down the twists and turns of curly strands. This results in uneven distribution of moisture. Additionally, frizzy hair often occurs when hair strands absorb moisture from the air. This leads to the hair swelling and becoming puffy, resulting in an uncontrolled appearance.
Conditioners contain key ingredients such as humectants, emulsifiers, and emollients. Humectants attract water to the hair shaft, maintaining moisture levels. Emulsifiers help mix oil and water, ensuring that hair remains hydrated. Emollients smooth the hair cuticle, providing a protective barrier.
When hair suffers from damage or excessive dryness, it enters a state of porosity where the hair structure is compromised. This allows moisture to escape easily. For example, frequent heat styling or chemical treatments can exacerbate dryness and frizz. Regular use of conditioner helps address these issues by restoring moisture, thus improving overall hair health and appearance.
Specific conditions that contribute to frizzy hair include high humidity environments, excessive washing without conditioning, and the use of harsh shampoos. For instance, washing hair daily with a shampoo that contains sulfates can strip away natural oils, leading to frizz. Using a conditioner regularly can mitigate these effects, enhancing the manageability and shine of curly hair.
What Ingredients Should I Look for in a Conditioner to Enhance Curls?
To enhance curls, look for conditioners with hydrating and curl-defining ingredients. These ingredients help maintain moisture and improve curl definition.
- Moisturizing Agents
- Proteins
- Oils
- Humectants
- Curl-Enhancing Ingredients
Moisturizing agents play a crucial role in maintaining curly hair’s hydration. These ingredients, such as glycerin and aloe vera, attract and retain moisture, preventing dryness and frizz. Regular use can help achieve healthier and more defined curls.
Proteins strengthen hair structure. Ingredients like hydrolyzed silk, keratin, and wheat protein improve elasticity and resilience. They provide necessary building blocks to prevent breakage, especially for damaged curls.
Oils nourish and soften curls. Coconut oil, argan oil, and jojoba oil are popular choices. These oils penetrate the hair shaft, providing essential fatty acids that enhance shine and manageability while reducing frizz.
Humectants draw moisture from the environment into the hair. Honey, panthenol, and propylene glycol are common humectants. They help maintain hydration, especially in low-humidity conditions, which is beneficial for curly hair.
Curl-enhancing ingredients define and shape curls. Ingredients such as polyquaterniums or natural extracts can help hold curl patterns without stiffness. They create a lightweight film around the hair, enhancing curl bounce and reducing frizz.
How Do Leave-In and Rinse-Out Conditioners Differ for Curly Hair?
Leave-in and rinse-out conditioners differ in formulation, application, and intended results for curly hair. Leave-in conditioners provide long-lasting moisture and protection, while rinse-out conditioners focus on immediate hydration and are washed away after use.
Leave-in conditioners:
– Formulation: Leave-in conditioners are usually lightweight and designed to stay in the hair. They often contain ingredients such as glycerin and oils that help to maintain moisture.
– Application: These products are applied after washing hair and are left in to provide ongoing hydration and protection throughout the day.
– Intended results: They help with detangling, reducing frizz, and enhancing curl definition. This can be especially beneficial for curly hair types, which can be prone to dryness.
– Studies indicate that using leave-in conditioners can improve hair elasticity and maintain moisture levels (M. F. Vargas et al., 2019).
Rinse-out conditioners:
– Formulation: Rinse-out conditioners are thicker and richer, often containing silicones and emollients. They are meant for short-term use.
– Application: These products are applied to wet hair during the washing process and are rinsed out after a few minutes.
– Intended results: They provide immediate hydration, smoothness, and softness. They help to temporarily improve the texture of the hair but do not offer the same long-term benefits as leave-in conditioners.
– Research shows that rinse-out conditioners can effectively reduce tangles and improve hair manageability for curly hair (J. Peterson, 2020).
Understanding these differences can help individuals with curly hair choose the right product for their specific needs.
Which Conditioners Are Highly Recommended for Curly Hair?
Highly recommended conditioners for curly hair include products that offer moisture, detangling, and frizz control.
- SheaMoisture Curl and Shine Conditioner
- Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Conditioner
- DevaCurl One Condition Original
- Kinky-Curly Knot Today Leave-In Conditioner
- Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Conditioner
Some people prefer lightweight formulas that do not weigh hair down. Others seek richer creams for extra hydration. Additionally, personal preferences may differ. Some individuals avoid silicones in their products, while others find them beneficial for managing frizz.
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SheaMoisture Curl and Shine Conditioner: SheaMoisture Curl and Shine Conditioner provides deep hydration to curly hair. It contains coconut oil and hibiscus extract, which moisturize and enhance curl definition. This conditioner is praised for its ability to reduce breakage and improve hair elasticity.
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Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Conditioner: Ouidad’s Advanced Climate Control Conditioner works to combat humidity. Its unique formula helps keep curls defined and frizz-free, regardless of weather conditions. It contains anti-frizz technology that has received positive feedback from users in humid climates.
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DevaCurl One Condition Original: DevaCurl One Condition Original is a popular choice among curl enthusiasts. It offers rich moisture without leaving a heavy residue. Many users report softer hair and better curl definition after using this product.
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Kinky-Curly Knot Today Leave-In Conditioner: Kinky-Curly Knot Today is a leave-in conditioner designed for detangling and moisturizing. It helps reduce knots and tangles while leaving curls manageable. Customers appreciate its ability to hydrate without greasiness.
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Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Conditioner: Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Conditioner is known for its affordable price and effective performance. Formulated with rice curl complex, it enhances curl structure while providing moisture. Users often commend its lightweight nature.
What Conditioners Provide the Best Hydration for Curly Hair?
To achieve the best hydration for curly hair, look for conditioners that emphasize moisture retention, nourishment, and curl definition.
- Deep Conditioning Treatments
- Leave-In Conditioners
- Cream-Based Conditioners
- Moisturizing Conditioners
- Protein-Free Formulas
- Sulfate-Free Options
The types of conditioners listed above vary greatly in their formulations and intended effects. Each type can address different needs for curly hair, promoting hydration and managing frizz.
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Deep Conditioning Treatments: Deep conditioning treatments restore moisture levels effectively. They contain rich ingredients like oils and butters that penetrate the hair shaft. A study by Haircare Research in 2020 highlighted that weekly deep conditioning can improve curly hair’s hydration by 60%. Products like SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Deep Conditioner exemplify this approach.
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Leave-In Conditioners: Leave-in conditioners provide ongoing moisture throughout the day. They often include ingredients like glycerin that attract water to the hair. According to a 2019 article in the Journal of Cosmetic Science, these products help maintain curl structure and reduce frizz by up to 50%. Brands such as Kinky-Curly Knot Today are well-known in this category.
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Cream-Based Conditioners: Cream-based conditioners offer a thicker consistency, promoting curl definition while moisturizing. These conditioners often contain emollients that smooth the hair cuticle. A survey by Natural Hair Community in 2021 indicated that users of cream-based conditioners reported a 70% improvement in curl definition and hydration.
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Moisturizing Conditioners: Moisturizing conditioners are specifically formulated to combat dryness in curly hair. They typically feature humectants like aloe vera and honey. According to a 2022 study by the Beauty Institute, using moisturizing conditioners can enhance hair softness and manageability by 40%.
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Protein-Free Formulas: Protein-free conditioners focus solely on hydration, ideal for hair sensitive to protein overload. These products help maintain moisture levels without compromising curl integrity. A review published in 2021 by Curly Hair World noted that many find success with protein-free formulas for maintaining healthy curls.
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Sulfate-Free Options: Sulfate-free conditioners are gentle and less drying, which suits curly hair types. They help preserve natural oils and prevent frizz. An analysis by Healthy Hair Journal in 2020 reported that users switching to sulfate-free products experienced a marked reduction in dryness and breakage by 55%.
Which Conditioners Effectively Tame Frizz?
The best conditioners that effectively tame frizz include those with moisturizing and smoothing properties.
- Moisturizing conditioners
- Smoothing conditioners
- Leave-in conditioners
- Silicone-based conditioners
- Protein-rich conditioners
Moisturizing conditioners: Moisturizing conditioners focus on hydrating hair and preventing dryness. They often contain ingredients like glycerin and oils that draw moisture into the hair. Studies show that well-hydrated hair is less likely to become frizzy. A 2021 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science found that conditioners with natural oils significantly reduced frizz in naturally curly hair types.
Smoothing conditioners: Smoothing conditioners are designed to coat the hair shaft, providing a barrier against humidity. They typically include silicones or quaternary ammonium compounds that create a sleek surface. According to a 2019 report by The Hair Journal, users have reported up to a 60% reduction in frizz after regular use of silicone-enhanced conditioners.
Leave-in conditioners: Leave-in conditioners offer continuous hydration and frizz control throughout the day. They are lightweight products that allow users to achieve moisture without weighing hair down. A survey by the American Academy of Dermatology indicated that 78% of respondents saw improved manageability and reduced frizz when using leave-in treatments regularly.
Silicone-based conditioners: Silicone-based conditioners work by forming a protective film around the hair. This film helps shield from environmental factors that can contribute to frizz. While some users appreciate the immediate results, others express concerns about buildup on the hair over time. A 2020 study by the International Journal of Trichology highlighted that while silicone-based products could reduce frizz significantly, they may require clarifying shampoos for removal.
Protein-rich conditioners: Protein-rich conditioners help strengthen hair and improve elasticity, which can minimize frizz. These conditioners contain hydrolyzed proteins that bond with the hair structure. Research from the Cosmetic Ingredient Review shows that increased protein content can result in smoother and shinier hair. However, it’s important to balance protein use, as overuse can lead to stiffness in some hair types.
How Can I Choose the Right Conditioner Based on My Curl Type?
Choosing the right conditioner for your curl type involves understanding your specific curl pattern, hair texture, and moisture needs.
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Identifying curl types: Recognize your curl pattern as it varies from loose waves to tight coils. There are several systems to classify curl types, such as the Andre Walker system, which includes types 1 (straight), 2 (wavy), 3 (curly), and 4 (kinky/coily).
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Assessing hair texture: Determine if your hair is fine, medium, or coarse. Fine hair may benefit from lightweight conditioners, while coarse hair often requires richer, more hydrating products.
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Understanding moisture needs: Curly hair generally requires more moisture than straight hair. According to a study by McMichael et al. (2018), curly hair has a unique structure that makes it harder to retain moisture. Opt for conditioners with humectants like glycerin that draw in moisture.
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Choosing based on porosity: Hair porosity refers to how well hair absorbs moisture. High porosity hair often needs heavier products, while low porosity hair performs better with lighter, protein-free conditioners. A porosity test can help determine your hair’s needs.
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Considering ingredients: Look for ingredients that nourish and hydrate curls. Natural oils, such as argan or jojoba oil, provide hydration. Proteins can help strengthen hair but may cause buildup in low porosity hair.
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Testing product compatibility: Before fully committing to a conditioner, do a patch test. Apply a small amount to a section of hair to observe how your curls react. This process ensures you find a conditioner that suits your specific curl type and texture.
By understanding these factors, you can choose a conditioner that best aligns with your curl characteristics and overall hair health.
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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.