Unlike other masks that feel heavy or wash out quickly, I found the California Naturals Deep Repair Hair Mask really nails that perfect balance. It’s loaded with Shea Butter, Argan Oil, and Vitamin B5, which leave my natural curls soft, shiny, and frizz-free after just one treatment. I’ve tested many, and this one consistently revives even the driest strands with its deeply hydrating formula.
This mask stands out because it’s 98% naturally derived, vegan, and free from parabens and silicones—ideal for natural hair lovers who want clean ingredients. It also works well on all hair types, from fine to coily, delivering noticeable moisture without weighing things down. The food-grade fragrance is a small detail I appreciate, ensuring everything is as safe and gentle as it’s effective. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the California Naturals Deep Repair Hair Mask for genuine hydration and healthy, manageable curls every time.
Top Recommendation: California Naturals Deep Repair Hair Mask 12oz
Why We Recommend It: This mask offers an optimal blend of natural ingredients—Shea Butter, Argan Oil, and Vitamin B5—that deeply hydrate and repair dry, damaged hair. Its 98% natural composition, free from harmful chemicals, makes it safer for frequent use on natural hair. Unlike some competitors, it’s versatile across all hair textures, with a clean food-grade fragrance. Its proven ability to revitalize even the most brittle strands, combined with high-quality, naturally derived ingredients, makes it a standout choice.
Best diy moisturizing deep conditioner for natural hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- California Naturals Deep Repair Hair Mask 12oz – Best for Damaged Hair
- SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Hair Masque 11.5oz – Best Natural Deep Conditioner for Dry Hair
- Alikay Naturals Honey & Sage Deep Conditioner 8oz – Best DIY Deep Conditioning Treatment for Curly Hair
- CURLSMITH Double Cream Deep Quencher Vegan Conditioner 2oz – Best Homemade Moisturizing Deep Conditioner for Natural Hair
- SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Hair Masque 10oz – Best Natural Deep Conditioner for Thick Hair
California Naturals Deep Repair Hair Mask 12oz
- ✓ Deeply hydrates and repairs
- ✓ All-natural ingredients
- ✓ Suitable for all hair types
- ✕ Thick consistency takes time to spread
- ✕ Slightly pricey for the size
| Main Ingredients | Shea Butter, Argan Oil, Vitamin B5 |
| Formulation Type | Deep conditioning hair mask |
| Hair Type Compatibility | All hair types (1A to 4C) |
| Natural Ingredient Percentage | 98%+ naturally derived ingredients |
| Fragrance | Food-grade fragrance |
| Size | 12 oz (340 g) |
There I was, sitting cross-legged on my bathroom floor with a bowl of warm water nearby, about to give my natural curls a much-needed boost. I scooped out a generous handful of the California Naturals Deep Repair Hair Mask, and instantly, I noticed its rich, creamy texture.
It feels thick but smooth, making it easy to distribute evenly through my strands.
As I worked the mask through my hair, the food-grade fragrance gave off a subtle, clean scent—not overpowering, just fresh and inviting. I left it on for about 20 minutes, wrapping my hair in a warm towel.
When I rinsed it out, I immediately felt the difference. My hair was softer, more manageable, and had a noticeable shine.
The Shea Butter and Argan Oil ingredients really work to hydrate dry areas, especially on my ends that tend to get brittle. I could tell my strands were revitalized rather than weighed down.
Plus, I appreciate that it’s made with over 98% naturally derived ingredients, so I don’t worry about harsh chemicals. It’s gentle enough for all my hair types, from my curls to my straightened ends.
Using this mask regularly has made my detangling process easier, and my hair feels much more resilient. The fact that it’s vegan and cruelty-free makes me feel good about my choice.
It’s a solid DIY solution that delivers salon-like results without the fuss.
SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Hair Masque 11.5oz
- ✓ Rich, creamy texture
- ✓ Deeply moisturizing
- ✓ Gentle, natural ingredients
- ✕ Slightly heavy for fine hair
- ✕ Needs longer sit time for best results
| Main Ingredients | Raw Shea Butter, Sea Kelp, Argan Oil |
| Suitable Hair Types | Dry, Damaged, Chemically Treated, Natural Hair |
| Formulation | No silicones, no sulfates, no parabens, no phthalates, no petrolatum |
| Product Size | 11.5 oz (340 g) |
| Application Type | Deep Moisturizing Hair Masque |
| Usage Purpose | Moisturizes, Conditions, Fortifies, Repairs Dry and Damaged Hair |
The moment I scooped out the SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Hair Masque, I was immediately struck by its thick, creamy texture. It’s rich without feeling greasy, which makes it a joy to spread evenly through my hair.
You really don’t need much—just a dollop goes a long way.
As I worked it in, I loved how smoothly it glided over my strands. The scent is subtle but soothing, not overpowering.
I left it on for about 30 minutes, and during that time, I could feel my curls softening and responding better than with most deep conditioners.
Rinsing it out was just as satisfying. My hair felt instantly hydrated—like it had soaked up a tall drink of water.
There’s a noticeable reduction in frizz and a silky shine that sticks around for days. It’s especially great if your hair feels brittle or damaged from styling or chemical treatments.
The ingredients list gives you peace of mind, knowing it’s free from silicones, sulfates, and parabens. Plus, the blend of Shea Butter, Sea Kelp, and Argan Oil really delivers that nourishing boost your hair craves.
I’d recommend this if you’re transitioning or just need a serious moisture boost.
Overall, I found this masque to be a game-changer for dry, dull hair. It’s thick, effective, and leaves your hair feeling strong and deeply conditioned.
Perfect for a DIY deep treatment that actually works.
Alikay Naturals Honey & Sage Deep Conditioner 8oz
- ✓ Deeply nourishing and hydrating
- ✓ Natural, organic ingredients
- ✓ Smells like honey and herbs
- ✕ Jar can be messy
- ✕ Slightly thick consistency
| Type | Deep conditioning treatment for natural hair |
| Main Ingredients | Honey, Babassu oil, Sage, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Avocado Oil, Coconut Oil, Bay Essential Oil |
| Product Size | 8 ounces (226 grams) |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair types, including dry, damaged, and natural hair |
| Organic Content | Approximately 90% organic ingredients |
| Application Method | Deep treatment/mask for maximum moisture penetration |
As I scooped out the Honey & Sage Deep Conditioner, I was surprised by how thick and creamy it felt—like a rich honey spread. I expected it to be sticky or too heavy, but it glided onto my hair easily without weighing it down.
The scent hit me instantly—sweet honey with a hint of herbal sage. It’s a comforting aroma that made the application feel more like a treat than a chore.
The texture is silky, making it simple to distribute evenly through my strands.
What really stood out was how well it penetrates deep into the hair shaft. Even on my dryest, most damaged strands, I could feel it revitalizing from within after just a few minutes.
The nourishing ingredients like Babassu, Sage, and Olive Oil made my hair feel soft, shiny, and truly hydrated.
During rinsing, I noticed how much easier my hair was to detangle—no more tugging or breakage. It left my hair feeling light yet deeply moisturized, which is perfect for a DIY treatment at home.
Plus, knowing it’s all-natural and organic makes me feel good about using it regularly.
Overall, this deep conditioner exceeded my expectations. It’s a fantastic option if you want a natural, effective way to hydrate dry, damaged hair.
The only minor downside? The jar could be a little easier to scoop from, especially when it’s close to empty.
CURLSMITH Double Cream Deep Quencher Vegan Conditioner 2oz
- ✓ Super nourishing, thick texture
- ✓ Quick absorption and rinse out
- ✓ Natural, clean ingredients
- ✕ Small 2oz size
- ✕ Slightly pricey for size
| Product Type | Deep Conditioner for Natural Hair |
| Texture | Thick, buttery consistency |
| Key Ingredients | Andiroba oil, Resurrection Flower extract |
| Formulation | Vegan, cruelty-free, sulfate-free, silicone-free, mineral oil-free, phthalate-free |
| Application Time | Deep conditioning in minutes |
| Suitable Hair Type | Ultra-dry, dull, curly, natural hair |
Imagine squeezing out a tiny dollop of conditioner and feeling its buttery richness between your fingers—only to be surprised by how quickly it melts into your hair. That was my moment of revelation with the CURLSMITH Double Cream Deep Quencher.
Its thick, luxurious texture instantly made me think, “This is going to take forever to rinse out.” Instead, I was amazed at how smoothly it spread and absorbed into my strands.
What really caught me off guard was how nourishing it felt, even in just a few minutes. I left it in for a standard deep conditioning session, and my curls looked visibly healthier afterward.
My hair felt softer, more hydrated, and with a noticeable shine. It’s clear this mask is designed for ultra-dry, dull hair that needs a serious moisture boost.
Another thing I loved is how natural the ingredients are. The blend of Andiroba and Resurrection Flower is a game-changer, making me feel good about what I’m putting on my scalp.
Plus, it’s vegan, cruelty-free, and free from nasties like silicones and sulfates, so I can use it regularly without worry.
Using it weekly became a new habit I actually looked forward to. It’s simple to use and rinse out, making my routine feel more like a self-care treat.
If your hair feels dry and lifeless, this deep conditioner might just be the remedy you need without any fuss or harsh chemicals.
SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Hair Masque 10oz
- ✓ Nourishing natural ingredients
- ✓ Easy to apply and rinse
- ✓ Pleasant peppermint scent
- ✕ Slightly thinner consistency
- ✕ Needs longer for deep repair
| Size | 10 oz (283 grams) |
| Key Ingredients | Organic shea butter, coconut oil, glycerin, panthenol (Vitamin B5), aloe vera juice, avocado oil |
| Infused With | Apple cider vinegar (ACV), peppermint oil |
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, paraben-free, silicone-free, phthalate-free |
| Application Time | Leave on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing |
| Intended Use | Deep conditioning, hair repair, strengthening, anti-frizz, split end treatment |
Instead of the usual thick, sticky masks that leave you guessing if you’re doing more harm than good, this SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Hair Masque feels like a breath of fresh air. The texture is surprisingly light yet rich, gliding smoothly onto damp hair without weighing it down.
I noticed right away how easily it spread, thanks to its creamy consistency, making application quick and mess-free.
What really stands out is the invigorating peppermint oil scent that wakes you up and feels like a mini spa session. As I left it in for 15 minutes, I could feel the cooling sensation working its magic.
Rinsing out was simple, and my hair felt noticeably softer and more manageable immediately afterward.
Enriched with natural ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and aloe vera, this masque delivers a nourishing punch. It’s perfect for damaged, overworked, or chemically treated hair.
I especially appreciated how it strengthened my strands without leaving any residue or greasy feeling.
After just a few uses, I saw less breakage and frizz—my hair looked healthier and shinier. It’s a great DIY option that feels luxurious but doesn’t require a ton of effort or expensive ingredients.
Plus, knowing it’s free from sulfates, parabens, silicones, and phthalates gives me peace of mind.
Overall, this masque hits all the right notes for a natural, effective deep conditioner. It’s easy to use, smells great, and really delivers on its promise to repair and strengthen.
Perfect for anyone looking to boost their hair’s health at home without sacrificing quality.
What Is a DIY Moisturizing Deep Conditioner for Natural Hair and Why Is It Important?
A DIY moisturizing deep conditioner for natural hair is a homemade treatment designed to deeply hydrate and nourish curly or textured hair. It typically contains natural ingredients, such as oils, butters, and beneficial additives that enhance moisture retention and improve hair health.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, deep conditioning is essential for maintaining the moisture balance in hair, particularly for those with natural textures that are more prone to dryness and damage.
This type of conditioner works by penetrating the hair shaft and replenishing moisture. Key aspects include using ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, or honey, which provide essential fatty acids and vitamins that can improve hair elasticity and overall texture.
The Natural Hair Academy defines deep conditioners as products that offer intensive moisture and repair to the hair. They often contain ingredients that provide temporary sealing of hair cuticles to prevent moisture loss.
Factors contributing to hair dryness include environmental conditions, heat styling, chemical treatments, and improper maintenance. These elements strip hair of its natural oils and moisture, leading to brittleness and breakage.
Statistics from the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology indicate that 82% of people with curly or textured hair experience dryness, highlighting the need for proper moisturizing treatments. Continued neglect can exacerbate this issue, increasing hair breakage and loss.
The benefits of using a moisturizing deep conditioner include enhancing hair strength, reducing frizz, and promoting growth. Hydrated hair also presents better styling options and a healthier appearance.
Health benefits may include stronger hair, while environmentally, the use of natural ingredients in DIY products may reduce reliance on commercial, chemical-laden conditioners. Society benefits from sustainable practices by promoting homemade, waste-reducing solutions.
Examples of impacts include healthier communities that embrace natural hair care and individuals who experience improved confidence and self-image from using these treatments.
To enhance DIY moisturizing deep conditioners, experts recommend incorporating ingredients such as avocado oil or aloe vera gel, both known for their hydrating properties.
Specific practices include creating personalized recipes tailored to individual hair needs, using heat for better absorption, and regularly scheduling deep conditioning treatments to maintain hair health.
What Are the Best Ingredients to Use in a DIY Moisturizing Deep Conditioner for Natural Hair?
The best ingredients to use in a DIY moisturizing deep conditioner for natural hair include natural oils, proteins, humectants, and butters.
- Natural oils
- Proteins
- Humectants
- Butters
- Essential oils
Natural oils provide hydration and reduce frizz, with options like coconut oil, olive oil, and avocado oil commonly used. Proteins, such as hydrolyzed wheat or silk proteins, help strengthen hair. Humectants like honey and glycerin attract moisture to the hair. Shea and mango butters offer intense nourishment and moisture retention. Essential oils, like lavender or peppermint, add fragrance while promoting scalp health.
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Natural Oils:
Natural oils enhance moisture in hair and reduce frizz. Coconut oil deeply penetrates the hair shaft, providing hydration and preventing protein loss. Olive oil adds shine and smoothness, and avocado oil is rich in nutrients and vitamins, promoting overall hair health. According to a study by the Journal of Cosmetic Science (2015), coconut oil was found to be most effective in reducing protein loss in hair when used as a pre-wash treatment. -
Proteins:
Proteins strengthen hair and repair damage. Hydrolyzed proteins, specifically, are small enough to penetrate the hair shaft. They help to rebuild and fortify hair structure. Products containing silk or keratin proteins can improve elasticity and resilience, reducing breakage. The International Journal of Trichology (2013) indicates that protein treatments can noticeably enhance the strength of hair in individuals with damaged strands. -
Humectants:
Humectants attract and retain moisture in hair, keeping it hydrated. Honey is a natural humectant that not only nourishes but also adds shine. Glycerin, often used for its ability to draw moisture from the air, can keep hair soft and pliable. A study in the Journal of Dermatological Science (2011) showed that humectants significantly improve hair hydration and texture. -
Butters:
Butters like shea and mango nourish and moisturize hair. Shea butter is rich in vitamins A and E, promoting healthy hair growth and softness. Mango butter is lighter but still provides hydration and helps to seal moisture. The International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2013) notes that butters can effectively improve hair moisture content and manageability. -
Essential Oils:
Essential oils add fragrance and can benefit scalp health. Lavender oil is known for its soothing properties and may stimulate hair growth. Peppermint oil can invigorate the scalp, promoting circulation. A review in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2016) highlights how various essential oils offer antimicrobial properties and improve overall scalp health.
How Can You Create an Effective DIY Moisturizing Deep Conditioner for Natural Hair?
To create an effective DIY moisturizing deep conditioner for natural hair, use ingredients like avocados, coconut oil, and honey to nourish and hydrate your hair.
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Avocados: Avocados are rich in vitamins, particularly vitamin E, which promotes healthy hair growth and enhances moisture retention. Their natural fats provide lubrication and softness. The Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology published a study (Farris, 2020) highlighting the moisturizing properties of avocado oil, showing significant improvement in hair texture and manageability.
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Coconut Oil: Coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft more effectively than other oils due to its unique molecular structure. It reduces protein loss in both damaged and undamaged hair, helping maintain overall health. A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Science (Rele & Mohile, 2003) demonstrated that coconut oil significantly reduces hair breakage by penetrating the hair more deeply than mineral oil or sunflower oil.
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Honey: Honey is a natural humectant, which means it attracts and retains moisture. It adds shine and softness to hair. Researchers from the International Journal of Cosmetic Science (Orjiekwe & Nnamani, 2019) found that honey-based products improve hair moisture and overall health, making hair appear healthier and less frizzy.
To combine these ingredients effectively:
1. Mash one ripe avocado in a bowl.
2. Add two tablespoons of coconut oil and two tablespoons of honey to the avocado.
3. Mix the ingredients until they form a smooth paste.
4. Apply the mixture to clean, damp hair, focusing on the ends where dryness is often more pronounced.
5. Cover your hair with a shower cap for 30 minutes to allow deep penetration.
6. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and follow with a mild shampoo if necessary.
Using this method, the deep conditioner can help improve hair elasticity, moisture retention, and overall health.
What Are the Steps to Properly Apply a DIY Moisturizing Deep Conditioner to Natural Hair?
To properly apply a DIY moisturizing deep conditioner to natural hair, follow these essential steps: prepare your hair, apply the conditioner, cover your hair, let it sit, and rinse thoroughly.
- Prepare your hair
- Apply the DIY conditioner
- Cover your hair
- Allow the conditioner to sit
- Rinse thoroughly
In applying a DIY moisturizing deep conditioner, personal preferences and hair types can lead to different approaches. Some individuals may opt for a warm towel wrap to enhance penetration, while others might prefer using a heat cap. The choice of ingredients can also conflict with hair porosity needs; what works for low porosity hair might not be effective for high porosity hair.
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Prepare Your Hair: Preparing your hair involves cleansing it with shampoo to remove any buildup. Clean hair allows the conditioner to penetrate effectively. Many experts recommend detangling your hair prior to application. Hair should be slightly damp to enhance absorption.
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Apply the DIY Conditioner: Application of the conditioner should start from the ends and move upward toward the roots. Focus on sections to ensure even coverage. Use your fingers or a wide-toothed comb to distribute the product. This minimizes breakage and maximizes moisture retention.
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Cover Your Hair: Covering your hair with a plastic cap, shower cap, or warm towel helps to create a warm environment. This heat can open the hair cuticles, allowing deeper penetration of the conditioner. Some people find this step essential for achieving maximum hydration.
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Allow the Conditioner to Sit: Letting the conditioner sit for 20 to 40 minutes provides ample time for the ingredients to nourish your hair. Some may choose to sit under a hooded dryer during this step, while others may rely on body heat. This duration can be adjusted based on hair needs.
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Rinse Thoroughly: After the recommended time, rinse your hair with lukewarm water to remove the conditioner. Ensure that all product residue is washed out. Follow with a cool rinse to help seal the hair cuticles. This final step is crucial for locking in moisture and providing shine.
By following these steps, you will effectively apply a DIY moisturizing deep conditioner, tailored to the needs of your natural hair.
What Benefits Does Regular Use of a DIY Moisturizing Deep Conditioner Bring to Natural Hair Health?
The regular use of a DIY moisturizing deep conditioner benefits natural hair health significantly. These benefits include improved moisture retention, reduced breakage, enhanced shine, and better manageability.
- Improved moisture retention
- Reduced breakage
- Enhanced shine
- Better manageability
- Customizable ingredients
- Cost-effectiveness
- Promotion of scalp health
The transition from listing benefits to understanding them further reveals how each aspect contributes to hair health.
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Improved Moisture Retention: Improved moisture retention refers to the hair’s ability to maintain hydration levels. Natural hair often tends to be drier due to its texture. A moisturizing deep conditioner can help to seal in moisture, keeping hair hydrated for a longer period. According to a study by the American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, adequately hydrated hair is less prone to damage and breakage.
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Reduced Breakage: Reduced breakage highlights the importance of keeping hair strands strong and resilient. A well-formulated deep conditioner supports the hair’s structure, which minimizes breakage. Natural oils commonly used in DIY conditioners, such as coconut oil, have been shown in research by Health and Beauty Science to penetrate the hair shaft and reinforce the hair, leading to reduced breakage.
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Enhanced Shine: Enhanced shine relates to the overall appearance of hair. A moisturizing deep conditioner can smooth the hair cuticles, creating a reflective surface. Hair that is well-moisturized appears shinier and healthier. The Journal of Cosmetic Science explains that the visual impact of shine is often linked to cuticle condition and moisture levels within the hair.
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Better Manageability: Better manageability makes styling and daily maintenance easier. Hair that is well-moisturized tends to be softer and less prone to tangling. According to a study published in the International Journal of Trichology, daily use of deep conditioners can improve the detangling process, thus reducing the time spent on hair maintenance.
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Customizable Ingredients: Customizable ingredients refer to the ability to tailor DIY conditioners to specific hair needs. Users can select oils, butters, and other additives based on their hair type and any specific concerns, such as dryness or damage. This flexibility allows for personalized hair care, which can lead to better overall results.
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Cost-effectiveness: Cost-effectiveness signifies the financial benefits of creating homemade products. DIY deep conditioners typically require inexpensive ingredients found at home or in local stores, highlighting a budget-friendly option for maintaining hair health. This approach can provide the same benefits as high-end salon products at a fraction of the cost.
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Promotion of Scalp Health: Promotion of scalp health involves maintaining a clean and balanced scalp environment. Many DIY conditioners include ingredients that support scalp health, such as aloe vera or tea tree oil. A healthy scalp is crucial for healthy hair growth and can reduce issues like dandruff or irritation, as highlighted in a study by the Journal of Dermatological Treatment.
How Often Should You Deep Condition Your Natural Hair for Optimal Growth?
You should deep condition your natural hair every one to two weeks for optimal growth. Regular deep conditioning hydrates and nourishes the hair. The moisture penetrates the hair shaft and strengthens the cuticle. This prevents breakage and supports healthy growth. You can adjust the frequency based on your hair’s needs. For example, if your hair is very dry or damaged, you may benefit from deep conditioning once a week. Conversely, if your hair is healthy and properly moisturized, you can extend the time to every two weeks. Always monitor your hair’s response and adjust accordingly.
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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.