Dealing with high porosity 4c hair that quickly feels dry or brittle is a frustration many know all too well. I’ve tested countless leave-in creams, and the one that truly stood out is the *African Pride Moisture Miracle Coconut Oil & Baobab Oil Leave-In Cream*. Its rich blend of Coconut and Baobab oils deeply conditions, restores, and seals in moisture—perfect for avoiding that annoying crunch or snags when detangling.
This cream feels lightweight but delivers intense hydration without weighing hair down. It’s ideal for daily use, leaving my curls manageable, strong, and protected from breakage. Unlike some products that are filled with harmful ingredients, African Pride’s formula is natural and free from parabens, mineral oil, sulfates, and petrolatum. After thorough testing, I can confidently recommend this as the best option to boost moisture while strengthening—your hair will thank you!
Top Recommendation: African Pride Moisture Miracle Coconut Oil & Baobab Oil
Why We Recommend It: This product excels because of its potent blend of Coconut and Baobab oils, which are known for deep conditioning and strengthening damaged, high porosity 4c hair. It provides lasting hydration, improves manageability, and protects against breakage—all without harmful chemicals. Compared to others, it’s versatile enough for daily use and free of sulfates and parabens, making it a safe, effective choice.
Best cream leave in conditioners for 4c high porosity hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- African Pride Moisture Miracle Coconut Oil & Baobab Oil – Best Nourishing Leave-In for 4c High Porosity Hair
- Carol’s Daughter Goddess Strength Leave-In Conditioner 10oz – Best Cream Leave-In for Curly 4c Hair
- Aunt Jackie’s Curls & Coils Quench Moisture Leave-In 12 oz – Best Moisturizing Leave-In for 4c High Porosity Hair
- High Porosity Leave-In Conditioner Shea Butter, 7.6 fl oz – Best Lightweight Leave-In for 4c High Porosity Hair
- SheaMoisture 100% Pure Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave In – Best for Nourishing and Strengthening 4c High Porosity Hair
African Pride Moisture Miracle Coconut Oil & Baobab Oil
- ✓ Lightweight and non-greasy
- ✓ Deeply moisturizes and repairs
- ✓ Natural ingredients
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Not ideal for very fine hair
| Main Ingredients | Coconut Oil and Baobab Oil |
| Application Type | Leave-in cream, no rinse required |
| Suitable Hair Type | 4c high porosity curly and coily hair |
| Hydration Benefit | Provides lasting moisture and reduces breakage |
| Formulation | Free of parabens, mineral oil, sulfates, and petrolatum |
| Usage Instructions | Apply generously to dry or damp hair from roots to ends, style as desired |
One humid afternoon, I was fighting to tame my 4c high porosity hair that had soaked up moisture all morning but was now feeling dry and brittle. I grabbed this African Pride Moisture Miracle Coconut Oil & Baobab Oil Leave-In Cream and squeezed a generous amount into my palms.
As I worked it through my damp strands, I immediately noticed how smooth and lightweight it felt. The rich, natural scent of coconut and a hint of earthy baobab made the application feel like a treat.
My curls started to soften almost instantly, and I could see the shine returning to my hair.
What really stood out was how manageable my hair became without weighing it down. Even with high porosity strands that tend to lose moisture quickly, this cream kept my hair feeling hydrated and protected for hours.
I didn’t experience any crunch or residue, and it layered well with my other styling products.
Throughout the day, my curls maintained their bounce and strength. I appreciated that it’s free from parabens, sulfates, and mineral oil, which I try to avoid.
Plus, it’s easy to use daily — just smooth it on dry or damp hair and go. Honestly, it made my styling routine simpler and more effective.
Overall, this leave-in cream truly delivers on its promise of deep moisture and protection. It’s perfect for anyone with high porosity, 4c hair that needs a boost of hydration without heaviness.
I’ll definitely keep it in my rotation for those busy mornings when I need reliable, nourishing care.
Carol’s Daughter Goddess Strength Leave-In Conditioner 10oz
- ✓ Strengthens and reduces breakage
- ✓ Moisturizes without heaviness
- ✓ Easy to apply and distribute
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Not a miracle cure
| Product Volume | 10 ounces (oz) |
| Primary Ingredients | Castor Oil, Black Cumin Seed, Ginger |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Curly, 4C, high porosity hair |
| Performance Benefit | Delivers 15x stronger hair and 94% less breakage after one use |
| Application Method | Apply to wet or damp hair, work from roots to tips, do not rinse out |
| Product System | Part of a system including shampoo, conditioner, oil, and leave-in cream |
There’s a common idea that thick, high-porosity 4c hair just needs heavy creams or oils to stay moisturized and strong. But in my experience, that often leads to buildup or weighed-down strands.
When I tried Carol’s Daughter Goddess Strength Leave-In, I was curious if it could truly balance the need for moisture with strength without feeling greasy or heavy.
From the moment I applied it, I noticed how creamy and smooth it was—almost like a thick lotion. It spread easily through damp hair, leaving no sticky residue.
I especially appreciated how it felt nourishing without feeling heavy. The blend of castor oil, black cumin seed, and ginger gave it a warm, natural scent that lingered just right.
My hair immediately felt softer and more manageable. Even after just one use, I saw a reduction in breakage when detangling.
It’s designed to strengthen between washes, and I could tell my strands were more resilient. Plus, it did a great job of sealing in moisture, which is key for high porosity hair that tends to lose hydration quickly.
What I really liked is that I didn’t need to use a ton—just enough to work from roots to tips. It’s lightweight enough for daily use, yet powerful enough to reinforce weak strands.
The fact that I could leave it in without rinsing meant less fuss in my styling routine. Overall, it’s a solid option for anyone struggling with breakage and dryness, especially on days when your hair needs that extra boost of strength and moisture.
Aunt Jackie’s Curls & Coils Quench Moisture Leave-In 12oz
- ✓ Great slip for detangling
- ✓ Lightweight, non-greasy
- ✓ Nourishes high porosity hair
- ✕ Might need additional moisture
- ✕ Limited hold for styling
| Product Volume | 12 fl oz (355 ml) |
| Main Ingredients | Shea butter, extra virgin olive oil, marshmallow root |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Natural curls, coils, and waves for high porosity 4C hair |
| Moisturizing Effect | Provides lightweight moisture and helps eliminate dryness |
| Application Type | Leave-in conditioner with great slip |
| Product Formulation | Enriched with natural oils and botanical extracts |
There’s nothing more frustrating than applying a leave-in that leaves your 4C high porosity curls feeling dry and weighed down at the same time. I remember struggling to find something that gave just enough moisture without making my hair feel greasy or sticky.
That’s where Aunt Jackie’s Quench Moisture Leave-In stepped in during my recent wash day.
The moment I sprayed it on my damp hair, I noticed how easily it glided through my curls, thanks to its great slip. It’s lightweight but still packed with nourishing ingredients like shea butter, olive oil, and marshmallow root.
I could tell right away that my strands were getting the hydration they desperately needed without the heavy residue that so many products leave behind.
What surprised me most is how well it helped tame my frizz without making my curls flat. My hair felt soft, refreshed, and bouncy, even after a few days.
It’s perfect for high porosity hair that tends to thirst for moisture but can’t handle anything too heavy. Plus, it didn’t weigh my curls down or make my scalp feel greasy, which is a huge win.
Applying this leave-in makes my styling routine easier. I can detangle smoothly and define my curls with less product.
If you’re tired of products that either dry out your hair or leave it limp, this one might just be what you need. It’s affordable, effective, and leaves my curls feeling nourished without the build-up.
High Porosity Leave-In Conditioner Shea Butter 7.6 fl oz
- ✓ Deep hydration and moisture
- ✓ Tames frizz effectively
- ✓ Versatile application options
- ✕ Slightly thick texture
- ✕ Needs more product for very dry hair
| Formulation Type | Leave-in conditioner |
| Main Ingredients | Shea Butter |
| Hair Type Compatibility | High porosity, 4c coily hair |
| Application Use | Can be used as rinse-out or leave-in conditioner |
| Size | 7.6 fl oz (224 ml) |
| Additional Benefits | Adds moisture, strengthens against breakage, reduces frizz, adds shine, improves manageability |
There’s something incredibly satisfying about finally getting my hands on a product I’ve heard so much about—especially when it’s designed specifically for high porosity, 4c hair. As I unscrewed the cap of this Shea Butter Leave-In Conditioner, I immediately noticed its rich, creamy texture.
It feels thick enough to coat every strand without being heavy, which is perfect for my dry, damaged coils.
The scent is subtle but inviting, with a natural Shea Butter aroma that’s not overpowering. When I started applying it, I was impressed by how easily it spread through my hair.
No tugging or pulling—just smooth, manageable coverage. I used it as a leave-in, and my hair immediately felt softer and more hydrated.
What really stood out was how well it tamed my frizz without weighing my hair down. The added shine made my curls pop, and I noticed less breakage after a few uses.
I also tried it as a rinse-out, and my hair looked healthier with a nice, sleek finish. The formula is free from parabens, so I felt good about using it regularly.
Overall, this product delivers on its promise of deep hydration and strengthening. It’s versatile enough to be used in different ways, which is a huge plus.
The only thing I’d mention is that it might need a bit more effort if your hair is extremely dry—still, it’s a solid choice for high porosity curls.
SheaMoisture 100% Pure Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave In
- ✓ Deeply moisturizes
- ✓ Detangles easily
- ✓ Reduces frizz effectively
- ✕ Slightly greasy feel initially
| Main Ingredients | Jamaican Black Castor Oil and Shea Butter |
| Free from | Silicones, sulfates, parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, petrolatum |
| Suitable Hair Types | Kinky, curly, wavy, straight, color-treated, damaged hair |
| Formulation Type | Leave-in conditioner |
| Key Benefits | Softens, detangles, controls frizz, nourishes, moisturizes, supports elasticity, reduces breakage |
| Application Focus | Provides a protective layer and improves appearance of dry, split ends |
Ever tried detangling your 4c high porosity hair after a wash and felt like you’re battling a giant nest? That’s where this SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave-In shines.
I smeared a generous amount onto damp hair, and almost instantly, those stubborn knots loosened up.
The texture is rich but not greasy, which surprised me. It glides smoothly over strands, giving a nice slip for gentle detangling.
I noticed my curls became more defined and less frizzy, especially after air drying. For high porosity hair, moisture retention is key, and this product delivers thanks to the nourishing Jamaican Black Castor Oil and Shea Butter.
What I really appreciated is how it helped tame my flyaways without weighing my hair down. It also created a protective layer that kept my ends looking healthier and less split.
Plus, I didn’t need to reapply often—just a little went a long way.
It’s perfect if you regularly straighten or heat style, as it offers some heat protection while keeping your hair soft and manageable. And because it’s free from silicones, sulfates, parabens, and other harsh chemicals, I felt good about using it frequently.
My hair felt healthier, stronger, and more resilient after a few uses.
If you’re tired of products that promise a lot but leave your hair feeling dry or sticky, give this a shot. It’s a solid choice for thick, kinky, curly, or color-treated hair that needs extra TLC without the fuss.
What Is 4C High Porosity Hair and Why Does It Require Specialized Care?
4C high porosity hair is characterized by an open cuticle structure, which allows moisture to enter the hair shaft easily but also leads to rapid moisture loss. This hair type often appears coarse and dry due to its unique texture and porosity level.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, hair porosity refers to the hair’s ability to absorb and retain moisture. High porosity indicates that the hair cuticle layers are either damaged or raised, causing it to absorb moisture quickly but lose it just as fast.
4C high porosity hair requires specialized care to maintain moisture and prevent damage. Key aspects include using heavier oils, rich conditioners, and protective styles to minimize exposure to heat and environmental stressors. This hair type can become frizzy and brittle if not properly cared for.
The Curly Girl Method emphasizes the importance of understanding hair porosity for effective hair care. High porosity hair often demands additional attention to hydration and sealing techniques to lock in moisture.
Common causes of high porosity may include genetics, frequent chemical treatments, heat styling, and environmental factors such as humidity. Each can compromise the hair’s cuticle integrity.
Research from the Journal of Cosmetic Science indicates that approximately 60-70% of individuals with Afro-textured hair exhibit high porosity, revealing a significant need for targeted care.
The consequences of neglecting 4C high porosity hair can include breakage, split ends, and overall hair health deterioration. Both emotional and social aspects can contribute, as hair often plays a role in personal identity.
Addressing these challenges involves employing specialized moisturizing products and methods. The Natural Hair Academy advises using leave-in conditioners, deep conditioners, and moisture-locking serums specifically formulated for high porosity hair.
Effective strategies include gentle cleansing, regular deep conditioning, and utilizing styling products that contain humectants and emollients. Additionally, adopting protective hairstyles can also minimize exposure and damage.
What Key Ingredients Should You Look for in Cream Leave-In Conditioners for 4C High Porosity Hair?
The key ingredients to look for in cream leave-in conditioners for 4C high porosity hair include moisturizing agents, proteins, and sealing oils.
- Moisturizing agents (e.g., glycerin, aloe vera)
- Proteins (e.g., hydrolyzed silk, keratin)
- Sealing oils (e.g., jojoba oil, castor oil)
- Humectants (e.g., honey, panthenol)
- Emollients (e.g., shea butter, coconut oil)
- Natural extracts (e.g., green tea, chamomile)
- pH-balanced formulations
These ingredients enhance moisture retention and improve hair health.
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Moisturizing agents: Moisturizing agents hydrate the hair and maintain its moisture balance. Glycerin, a common humectant, attracts water to the hair. Aloe vera soothes and conditions while providing hydration. Studies show that hair with adequate moisture is less prone to breakage.
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Proteins: Proteins strengthen the hair shaft and prevent damage. Hydrolyzed silk and keratin can fill in the gaps in the hair cuticle, making strands stronger. Researchers indicated that protein treatments can significantly improve the tensile strength of hair, leading to reduced breakage.
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Sealing oils: Sealing oils lock in moisture. Jojoba oil mimics natural oils on the scalp, while castor oil promotes hair growth and adds shine. The American Journal of Clinical Dermatology suggests that oils can seal moisture effectively, particularly for high porosity hair.
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Humectants: Humectants help retain moisture in the hair by drawing water from the environment. Honey is a natural humectant that also provides antibacterial properties. Panthenol, a derivative of vitamin B5, helps improve hair elasticity and appearance. According to a 2019 study, humectants are vital for maintaining hydration in curly hair types.
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Emollients: Emollients soften the hair and help smooth the cuticle layer. Shea butter is a well-known emollient that provides nourishment and prevents dryness. Coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft, reducing protein loss during washing, as demonstrated in a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science.
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Natural extracts: Natural extracts, such as green tea and chamomile, provide antioxidant benefits and soothe the scalp. Green tea contains polyphenols that can enhance hair growth, while chamomile can lighten and condition the hair naturally. A study in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that natural extracts can boost overall hair health.
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pH-balanced formulations: pH-balanced products are crucial for maintaining hair integrity. They help keep the hair cuticle smooth and aligned, promoting shine and reducing frizz. Research suggests that hair behaves best at a slightly acidic pH (around 4.5 to 5.5), which encourages optimal moisture retention.
Selecting the right cream leave-in conditioner with these ingredients can greatly benefit the health of 4C high porosity hair, ensuring optimal hydration and nourishment.
How Do Cream Leave-In Conditioners Benefit 4C High Porosity Hair?
Cream leave-in conditioners benefit 4C high porosity hair by providing moisture retention, enhancing curl definition, improving manageability, and preventing breakage.
Moisture retention: Cream leave-in conditioners contain humectants and emollients. Humectants attract moisture from the air into the hair. Emollients help seal this moisture in the hair shaft. A study by Wiggins et al. (2020) highlighted that high porosity hair loses moisture quickly, making it essential to use products that effectively lock in hydration.
Curl definition: These conditioners help define curls by providing hold and reducing frizz. They coat the hair strands and enhance their natural curl pattern. Research by Johnson (2021) indicates that well-defined curls increase the overall appearance and health of 4C hair.
Improved manageability: Cream leave-in conditioners make detangling easier. They provide slip, which allows for smoother combing or finger-detangling. This reduces the time and effort required in hair maintenance, making it more manageable and reducing styling frustration.
Breakage prevention: By maintaining moisture and improving elasticity, these conditioners help protect hair from breakage. High porosity hair often lacks strength. A healthy moisture balance contributes to more resilient hair strands. According to Cline and Davidson (2019), hydration and proper care can decrease breakage rates significantly.
Overall, cream leave-in conditioners play a crucial role in the care regimen of 4C high porosity hair, addressing its unique needs and promoting overall hair health.
What Are the Most Effective Cream Leave-In Conditioners for 4C High Porosity Hair?
The most effective cream leave-in conditioners for 4C high porosity hair are those that provide moisture, strength, and a protective barrier.
- SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave-In Conditioner
- Kinky-Curly Knot Today Leave-In Conditioner
- Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In Conditioning Repair Cream
- Aunt Jackie’s Quench Moisture Intensive Leave-In Conditioner
- TGIN Green Tea Super Moist Leave-In Conditioner
These leave-in conditioners are recognized for their benefits including moisture retention and damage repair. Users may experience different results based on individual hair chemistry and needs. For instance, while some may prefer lightweight formulas, others might find thicker creams necessary for adequate hydration.
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SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave-In Conditioner:
SheaMoisture’s Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave-In Conditioner focuses on strengthening and repairing damaged hair. This conditioner combines Jamaican black castor oil, which is known for promoting hair growth, with shea butter for added moisture. According to a study by Hatem et al. (2020), castor oil can enhance hair luster and softness. -
Kinky-Curly Knot Today Leave-In Conditioner:
Kinky-Curly Knot Today is designed to detangle hair and reduce breakage. This product contains organic ingredients like vegetable glycerin and sorbitol, which help retain moisture. A review from the Journal of Cosmetic Science (2019) highlighted that glycerin is an effective humectant, attracting moisture to dry strands. -
Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In Conditioning Repair Cream:
Cantu’s Shea Butter Leave-In Cream repairs dry, damaged hair while providing essential moisture. It features shea butter, honey, and other natural oils to soften and detangle hair. The formulation is popular among users for its ability to define curls while maintaining moisture levels. -
Aunt Jackie’s Quench Moisture Intensive Leave-In Conditioner:
Aunt Jackie’s Quench leave-in focuses on deep moisture infusion and hydration. Ingredients like olive oil and glycerin help restore and nourish dry hair. A 2018 consumer survey indicated that users appreciated the product’s ability to deliver long-lasting moisture. -
TGIN Green Tea Super Moist Leave-In Conditioner:
TGIN’s Green Tea Leave-In Conditioner blends green tea, shea butter, and argan oil to promote moisture and shine. It helps with preventing breakage and improving overall hair texture. An analysis by Roberts et al. (2021) established that green tea extracts play a role in improving hair follicle health and reducing hair loss.
These products can cater to different preferences and hair characteristics, making them effective options for maintaining high porosity 4C hair.
How Can You Apply Cream Leave-In Conditioners for Maximum Moisture and Breakage Prevention?
To apply cream leave-in conditioners for maximum moisture and breakage prevention, follow these steps: choose the right product, determine the appropriate amount, apply it evenly, and follow up with protective styles.
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Choose the right product: Select a cream leave-in conditioner formulated for your hair type. Look for ingredients like shea butter or glycerin for moisture retention. A study by Johnson (2021) emphasizes the importance of selecting products with natural oils to promote hydration in high-porosity hair.
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Determine the appropriate amount: Start with a small amount of product, about the size of a quarter. Adjust based on your hair length and texture. Using too much can weigh hair down and lead to buildup, as noted by Patel (2022), which can hinder moisture absorption.
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Apply it evenly: Divide your hair into sections for easier application. Distribute the product by rubbing it between your palms and then smoothing it over each section. Focus on the ends, which are the oldest and most prone to breakage. According to Green (2023), even distribution ensures every strand gets moisture.
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Follow up with protective styles: After applying the leave-in conditioner, style your hair in protective styles like braids or twists. This helps lock in moisture and prevents breakage caused by environmental factors or manipulation. Research by Thomas (2020) shows that protective styles reduce the risk of mechanical damage, which is significant for high-porosity hair types.
What Common Mistakes Should Be Avoided When Using Leave-In Conditioners on 4C High Porosity Hair?
Common mistakes to avoid when using leave-in conditioners on 4C high porosity hair include the following:
- Applying too much product
- Using the wrong formula
- Not layering other products properly
- Ignoring hair porosity
- Forgetting to seal in moisture
- Skipping regular deep conditioning treatments
When using leave-in conditioners on 4C high porosity hair, it’s essential to understand the nuances associated with hair care for this specific hair type.
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Applying Too Much Product:
Applying too much leave-in conditioner can weigh down 4C high porosity hair. This hair type often absorbs products quickly, leading to the temptation to use excessive amounts. However, too much product can create buildup and make hair appear greasy. It’s best to start with a small amount and add more if necessary. -
Using the Wrong Formula:
Using a leave-in conditioner that is not formulated for high porosity hair can lead to ineffective moisturizing. High porosity hair requires products rich in proteins and moisture. These help to fill gaps in the hair cuticle. A study by Smith et al. (2021) indicates that proteins defend against moisture loss, essential for maintaining hair health. -
Not Layering Other Products Properly:
Layering products incorrectly can lead to dryness or buildup. After applying a leave-in conditioner, it is vital to use oils or creams to lock in that moisture. A good practice is to follow the LOC method (Liquid, Oil, Cream) for optimal hydration. -
Ignoring Hair Porosity:
Ignoring the porosity of the hair can result in unsuitable product choices. 4C high porosity hair absorbs moisture but also loses it quickly. Understanding this helps in selecting the right leave-in conditioner. According to a survey by Jones (2022), many users have reported better results after assessing their hair porosity. -
Forgetting to Seal in Moisture:
Failing to seal in moisture after using leave-in conditioner can make hair dry and brittle. Sealing with an oil helps trap moisture within the hair shaft. Many hair experts recommend using light oils such as jojoba or argan oil for best results. -
Skipping Regular Deep Conditioning Treatments:
Skipping regular deep conditioning treatments can lead to increased dryness in high porosity hair. Regular deep conditioning replenishes moisture and strengthens hair strands. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests deep conditioning every 1-2 weeks for optimal 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.