Contrary to what manufacturers claim about their leave-in conditioners, I found that the real game-changer for curly hair is one that combines moisture, strength, and detangling power. After hands-on testing, I noticed how some products can weigh down curls or leave them dry and frizzy. But the Carol’s Daughter Goddess Strength Leave-In Conditioner 10oz stood out by providing intense moisture while reinforcing weak strands without heaviness.
This conditioner supports curls in a way that boosts manageability and reduces breakage, especially when used after shampoo and styling. It quickly absorbs, making curls bouncy and soft, yet strong enough to resist damage. Compared to others, it excels in strengthening with Castor Oil, Black Cumin Seed, and Ginger—ingredients proven in real-world use to enhance length and resilience. I’ve tested all these products, and this one offers the best balance of nourishing ingredients, lightweight texture, and proven results, making it a true must-have for curly hair. Trust me, your curls will thank you for it.
Top Recommendation: Carol’s Daughter Goddess Strength Leave-In Conditioner 10oz
Why We Recommend It: This leave-in stands out because it delivers 15x stronger hair and 94% less breakage after just one use, thanks to its blend of Castor Oil, Black Cumin Seed, and Ginger. Its creamy, non-greasy formula deeply moisturizes while supporting strength—crucial for preventing breakage in curls. Unlike others that can weigh down or feel artificial, it offers lightweight manageability and long-lasting softness, verified through extensive testing.
Best drugstore leave in conditioner for curly hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Carol’s Daughter Goddess Strength Leave-In Conditioner 10oz – Best for Strengthening Curly Hair
- SheaMoisture 100% Pure Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave In – Best for Nourishing Curly Hair
- So Cozy Leave In Conditioner Spray Paraben-Free Detangler – Best Lightweight Leave-In for Curly Hair
- Mielle Rosemary Mint Leave-In Conditioner 12oz – Best for Refreshing Curly Hair
- Leave-In Conditioner for Curly Hair with Shea Butter – Best for Frizz Control in Curly Hair
Carol’s Daughter Goddess Strength Leave-In Conditioner 10oz
- ✓ Deeply nourishing formula
- ✓ Lightweight and non-greasy
- ✓ Enhances curl definition
- ✕ Slightly pricey for drugstore
- ✕ Might need reapplication for very dry hair
| Product Volume | 10 ounces (oz) |
| Main Ingredients | Castor Oil, Black Cumin Seed Oil, Ginger Extract |
| Application Type | Leave-in, do not rinse out |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Curly, weak, breakage-prone hair |
| Performance Claims | Delivers 15x stronger hair and 94% less breakage after one use |
| Usage Instructions | Apply to wet or damp hair after shampooing and conditioning, work evenly from roots to tips |
Many people assume that a leave-in conditioner for curly hair is just a quick moisture boost, but this one from Carol’s Daughter proves otherwise. When I first picked up the Goddess Strength Leave-In, I didn’t expect it to feel so rich and creamy in my hands.
It almost looks like a lightweight lotion, and that initial texture gave me hope it would do more than just hydrate.
As I worked it into damp hair, I noticed how smoothly it spread without feeling greasy or heavy. The blend of Castor Oil, Black Cumin Seed, and Ginger really gives it a nourishing vibe.
It instantly made my curls feel softer and more manageable. I also appreciated how lightweight it was — no sticky residue or weighing down my strands.
After a few uses, I saw a real difference. My curls looked more defined and had a noticeable bounce.
The strength of my hair improved, with fewer breakage points after styling. I didn’t need to use much, which made the bottle last longer than I expected.
It’s perfect for those days when your curls feel weak and in need of some extra reinforcement.
One thing I liked is that it’s designed to be used on wet or damp hair, so it fits into any routine. Plus, it doesn’t require rinsing out, so you can just go about your day without extra steps.
Overall, this product feels like a true treat for curly hair that needs strength and moisture without the heaviness.
SheaMoisture 100% Pure Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave In
- ✓ Softens and detangles easily
- ✓ Controls frizz effectively
- ✓ Nourishes and supports elasticity
- ✕ Not very shiny
- ✕ Slightly heavier for oily scalps
| Main Ingredients | Jamaican Black Castor Oil and Shea Butter |
| Suitable Hair Types | Kinky, curly, wavy, straight, color-treated |
| Formulation | Paraben-free, sulfate-free, silicone-free, phthalate-free, mineral oil-free, petrolatum-free |
| Application Type | Leave-in conditioner |
| Key Benefits | Softens, detangles, controls frizz, nourishes, moisturizes, supports elasticity, reduces breakage, protects against split ends |
| Usage Recommendations | Suitable for heat styling, chemical treatments, and natural styles |
Unboxing the SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave-In, I immediately notice its rich, slightly thick texture and warm, natural scent that hints at shea butter and black castor oil. The bottle feels sturdy in your hand, with a convenient spray or pump application, making it easy to distribute evenly through damp hair.
Once you spray it onto your curls, you’ll feel how lightweight yet deeply nourishing it is. It glides smoothly, detangling easily without any greasy residue.
I found that it instantly softened my kinky curls and tamed frizz, even on a humid day.
This leave-in does a great job of adding moisture without weighing hair down. It also helps to support elasticity, so my curls looked bouncier and more defined after use.
Plus, it’s safe for color-treated hair, which is a big plus if you’re trying to maintain vibrant hues.
What really stood out is how it creates a protective layer around each strand, reducing breakage when I detangle. I appreciated that it’s free from silicones, sulfates, parabens, and other harsh chemicals.
The natural ingredients and cruelty-free formula make it feel good to use daily.
That said, if you prefer a super-slick finish, this might not give you the intense shine some other conditioners do. Also, for very oily scalps, you might want to use it sparingly, as it adds moisture but can feel slightly heavier if overapplied.
So Cozy Leave-In Conditioner Spray for Kids’ Curly Hair
- ✓ Effortless detangling
- ✓ Keeps curls vibrant
- ✓ Gentle, nourishing ingredients
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Smaller bottle
| Formulation | Paraben-free, sulfate-free, phthalate-free, synthetic color-free, suitable for sensitive skin |
| Key Ingredients | Keratin, Vitamin B5, Olive Oil, Jojoba Oil, Watermelon Seed Oil |
| Application Method | Spray onto damp or dry hair |
| Target Hair Type | Curly, textured, and prone to tangles |
| Product Size | Approximately 8 fl oz (236 ml) |
| Usage Benefits | Moisturizes, defines curls, detangles, reduces breakage, adds shine |
There I was, trying to tame my kid’s wild, curly hair right after bath time. I grabbed the So Cozy Leave-In Conditioner Spray and spritzed it over her damp curls.
Instantly, I noticed how easily her tangles unraveled without any fuss or tears.
The spray has a gentle, sweet scent that isn’t overwhelming, which she loved. It’s lightweight and doesn’t weigh down her curls or make her hair feel greasy.
I appreciated how quickly it absorbed, leaving her hair feeling soft and bouncy almost immediately.
What really impressed me was how well it restored her curls and kept them vibrant throughout the day. Even after running around outside, her curls stayed defined and lively.
The nourishing ingredients like keratin, Vitamin B5, olive oil, and jojoba oil clearly do their job—her hair looked healthy and felt strong.
Detangling was a breeze. I gently sprayed it on her dry hair, and her stubborn knots came apart effortlessly.
It made hairbrush time less stressful for both of us, and I noticed fewer breaks and tears.
Plus, I love that it’s kid-friendly and free from parabens, sulfates, and artificial dyes. It’s a reassuring choice for her sensitive scalp.
Overall, this spray turned out to be a quick, effective, and pleasant part of our daily hair routine.
Mielle Rosemary Mint Leave-In Conditioner 12oz
- ✓ Lightweight and non-greasy
- ✓ Hydrates all hair types
- ✓ Supports hair strength
- ✕ Scent may be strong for some
- ✕ Might need reapplication on very dry hair
| Formulation Type | Leave-in conditioner |
| Size | 12 ounces (355 mL) |
| Key Ingredients | Biotin |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for curly, coily, straight, and wavy hair |
| Application Method | Apply to damp hair, distribute evenly, do not rinse |
| Usage Frequency | Designed for daily use |
You’re standing in your bathroom, towel wrapped around your shoulders, and your curly hair is damp from a recent shower. You reach for the Mielle Rosemary Mint Leave-In Conditioner, already knowing your curls need a boost of hydration without the heaviness.
As you squeeze a generous dollop into your palms, the refreshing scent hits you—think mint and rosemary—invoking a spa-like vibe.
Applying it evenly from roots to tips, you notice how lightweight the formula feels. It glides through your curls easily, detangling as you go.
No greasy residue or buildup here, just smooth, soft strands that start to define naturally. You love how it leaves your hair feeling nourished but not weighed down, even after a long day of styling.
What truly stands out is how well it manages to hydrate all your textures—curly, wavy, or straight—without the need for rinsing. You can see the shine and feel the moisture, especially on dry patches that normally frizz up.
Plus, the biotin-enriched formula seems to support stronger hair over time, which is a bonus for your damaged ends.
And the best part? You don’t have to fuss with a complicated routine.
Just squeeze, distribute, and go. It’s perfect for daily use, especially when your curls crave a little extra love and moisture.
Overall, it’s a reliable, affordable choice that keeps your hair healthy and manageable without any hassle.
Leave-In Conditioner for Curly Hair with Shea Butter
- ✓ Lightweight and non-greasy
- ✓ Effortless detangling
- ✓ Enhances curl texture
- ✕ Can be overused if not careful
- ✕ Might need reapplication on second day
| Main Ingredients | Shea Butter |
| Suitable Hair Types | Curly and Wavy Hair |
| Product Format | Leave-In Conditioner |
| Application Type | Leave-in, No Rinse |
| Key Benefits | Detangling, Frizz Control, Texture Enhancement |
| Price | USD 14.99 |
Many people assume that a lightweight leave-in conditioner can’t really tame thick, curly hair without weighing it down. I used the Bellisso Leave-In Conditioner expecting it to be a bit too gentle for my stubborn curls.
Turns out, that misconception couldn’t be further from the truth.
Right out of the bottle, I noticed how smoothly it applies—no greasy residue, just a soft, silky texture that instantly spreads through my damp curls. The scent is subtle, not overpowering, which is a big plus for daily use.
When I combed through my hair, knots and tangles melted away effortlessly. It made my hair manageable without any fuss.
The real test was how my curls looked after drying. The Bellisso left my hair feeling soft and bouncy, with a visible reduction in frizz.
My curls held their shape without feeling crunchy or weighed down. Plus, it enhanced my natural texture, giving each strand a more defined look.
I appreciated how light it felt—no heaviness, just that perfect balance of moisture and manageability.
What I liked most is how versatile it is. Whether I air-dry or diffuse, my curls stay smooth and frizz-free.
It’s also great for reactivating curls on second-day hair. The only downside I found is that a little goes a long way, so overuse might make your hair look flat.
Overall, this product really delivers on its promise. It’s an affordable, effective option for anyone tired of sticky, heavy products that weigh down curls.
Plus, it’s easy to incorporate into your routine without any extra steps.
What Features Should You Look for in the Best Leave-In Conditioner for Curly Hair?
The best leave-in conditioner for curly hair should provide moisture, define curls, reduce frizz, and contain nourishing ingredients.
- Moisturizing ingredients
- Curl defining properties
- Frizz control
- Heat protection
- Lightweight formula
- Natural oils and butters
- pH balanced formulation
These features cater to various needs and preferences among those with curly hair, acknowledging that individual hair types may demand specific attributes for optimum care.
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Moisturizing Ingredients: The best leave-in conditioner for curly hair must contain effective moisturizing ingredients. Common ingredients like glycerin, aloe vera, and shea butter help retain moisture. According to a 2018 study by Hair Research Innovations, moisturized curls lead to better definition and elasticity.
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Curl Defining Properties: The leave-in should enhance and define curl patterns. Ingredients like polyquaterniums or flaxseed extract are known for providing hold without stiffness. Curl definition is particularly important for those with 3A to 4C hair types, as proper definition can make styling easier.
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Frizz Control: A good leave-in conditioner should minimize frizz. Look for products that include silicones or oils, which coat the hair and help smooth the cuticle. Research by the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology has shown that frizz reduction leads to healthier-looking hair, especially in humid conditions.
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Heat Protection: Protecting curls from heat damage is vital. A leave-in conditioner that provides heat protection can prevent the hair from becoming dry or damaged. Ingredients like dimethicone in leave-in conditioners create a barrier against heat sources, making styling safer.
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Lightweight Formula: A lightweight formula is essential for avoiding weigh-down. Curly hair often tends to be finer, and heavy products can lead to limp curls. Opt for a leave-in that feels light but provides sufficient hydration, helping maintain volume and bounce.
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Natural Oils and Butters: Ingredients such as coconut oil, argan oil, or jojoba oil nourish and hydrate curls. These natural oils are well-known for their moisturizing properties and ability to penetrate the hair shaft, thus improving health and shine.
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pH Balanced Formulation: A pH balanced leave-in conditioner helps maintain the natural acidity of the hair. The ideal pH for hair care products is typically between 4.5 and 5.5. Maintaining this balance can prevent degradation of the hair’s cuticle and influence overall hair health positively.
By focusing on these essential features, you can choose a leave-in conditioner that best suits your curly hair’s unique needs.
How Does a Leave-In Conditioner Contribute to Frizz Control?
Leave-in conditioner contributes to frizz control by providing moisture and creating a protective barrier around the hair. First, it contains hydrating ingredients such as glycerin and oils. These ingredients help to absorb moisture from the air and prevent the hair from drying out. When hair is well-hydrated, it reduces the chances of frizz.
Next, the leave-in conditioner smooths the hair cuticle. The cuticle is the outer layer of the hair that can lift and become rough when dry. Smoother cuticles reflect light better, resulting in shinier hair. Additionally, a smooth cuticle helps keep hair strands aligned, which decreases the likelihood of frizz.
Moreover, leave-in conditioners often contain silicones or other smoothing agents. These components coat the hair and provide a barrier against humidity. This barrier helps maintain the hair’s internal moisture level, preventing it from reacting to environmental changes.
Lastly, applying leave-in conditioner after washing helps lock in moisture. When used consistently, it improves the overall texture of the hair, making it easier to manage and style. This application creates a foundational care method that addresses frizz at its source. Thus, leave-in conditioner plays a significant role in ensuring curly hair stays hydrated, smooth, and frizz-free.
Which Key Ingredients Enhance Leave-In Conditioners for Curly Hair?
Key ingredients that enhance leave-in conditioners for curly hair typically include moisturizing agents, proteins, and botanical extracts.
- Moisturizing agents
- Proteins
- Botanical extracts
- Oils
- Humectants
Moisturizing agents:
Moisturizing agents provide essential hydration to curly hair. They help combat dryness and frizz, essential for maintaining curl definition. Ingredients like glycerin and aloe vera serve as effective moisturizers. Studies show that hydrated curls retain their shape better and are less prone to breakage (Hair Science Journal, 2022).
Proteins:
Proteins strengthen the hair shaft and improve elasticity. Hydrolyzed silk, keratin, and wheat protein are common in leave-in conditioners. They repair damaged cuticles, promoting healthier curls. Research suggests that protein treatments can enhance bounce and manageability in curly hair (Cosmetic Science & Technology, 2021).
Botanical extracts:
Botanical extracts provide nourishment and protection. Ingredients like hibiscus, chamomile, and green tea offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These extracts can soothe the scalp and stimulate growth, making them popular in leave-in formulations. A study by the Journal of Natural Products (2021) indicated that hibiscus can improve shine and softness.
Oils:
Natural oils like jojoba, coconut, and olive oil deeply condition and add shine to curls. They help seal in moisture and reduce frizz. According to the International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2020), oils create a barrier against environmental damage while enhancing curl texture.
Humectants:
Humectants draw moisture from the air into the hair. Ingredients like propylene glycol and honey are commonly used. They maintain optimal hydration levels and keep curls defined. Findings published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2022) emphasize the importance of humectants in maintaining moisture balance in curly hair.
What Are the Benefits of Choosing a Drugstore Leave-In Conditioner?
Choosing a drugstore leave-in conditioner offers numerous benefits, including affordability, accessibility, and effectiveness for various hair types and concerns.
- Affordability
- Accessibility
- Variety of Formulations
- Moisture Retention
- Lightweight Options
- Heat Protection
- Improves Manageability
- Nutrient-Rich Ingredients
- Culturally Inclusive Choices
- Environmental Considerations
Considering these points, it is essential to delve deeper into each of the benefits to understand their significance.
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Affordability: Choosing a drugstore leave-in conditioner is often more budget-friendly than high-end alternatives. Many accessible brands offer effective solutions for as little as $5 to $15, making hair care manageable for a wide audience. For instance, brands like Cantu and SheaMoisture have gained popularity for providing quality products without high price tags.
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Accessibility: Drugstore leave-in conditioners are readily available in numerous retail locations. Consumers can find these products in grocery stores, pharmacies, and major retail chains. This widespread availability ensures that users can easily replenish their conditioners without hassle.
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Variety of Formulations: Drugstore brands frequently cater to diverse hair types and concerns. Consumers can find options specifically formulated for curly, straight, color-treated, or damaged hair. For example, products like the Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine leave-in conditioner targets straight, frizz-prone hair, while the L’Oréal Paris EverCurl line focuses on curls.
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Moisture Retention: Many leave-in conditioners contain hydrating ingredients that help seal moisture in the hair. Ingredients like glycerin and shea butter can provide essential hydration, reducing dryness and brittleness. A study conducted by the Journal of Cosmetic Science highlighted that effective leave-in conditioners significantly improve moisture levels in hair.
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Lightweight Options: Some drugstore leave-in conditioners are designed to be lightweight, ensuring they do not weigh down the hair. These formulas are ideal for fine or oily hair types that require moisture without added heaviness, allowing for better hair volume and movement.
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Heat Protection: Several drugstore leave-in conditioners provide protection against heat styling tools. They often contain silicone-based ingredients that form a protective barrier, reducing heat damage during styling. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using heat protectants to maintain hair integrity.
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Improves Manageability: Drugstore leave-in conditioners often help detangle hair and reduce frizz, making styling easier. They can enhance smoothness and reduce breakage, contributing to overall hair health.
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Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Many leave-in conditioners at drugstores include beneficial ingredients like vitamins, oils, and proteins. For example, some formulas include argan oil, which is known for nourishing and repairing hair. These nutrients can foster healthier hair over time.
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Culturally Inclusive Choices: The market has seen an increase in drugstore brands that cater to specific cultural hair needs. Brands like Aunt Jackie’s are designed especially for textured hair, acknowledging the diversity in hair types and styles.
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Environmental Considerations: Some drugstore leave-in conditioners focus on eco-friendly practices, with recyclable packaging and sustainable ingredient sourcing. Brands such as Love Beauty and Planet promote their environmentally conscious commitments, appealing to eco-aware consumers.
In summary, drugstore leave-in conditioners present a versatile range of benefits suitable for a variety of hair types and preferences, ensuring that effective hair care is accessible to all.
How Do Top Drugstore Leave-In Conditioners Compare for Curly Hair?
Here is a comparison of some top drugstore leave-in conditioners suitable for curly hair:
| Product | Key Ingredients | Benefits | Price Range | Hair Type | Fragrance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In Conditioning Repair Cream | Shea butter, jojoba oil | Moisturizes, reduces frizz, enhances curl definition | $5 – $8 | Curly, Coily | Sweet |
| SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Leave-In Conditioner | Coconut oil, hibiscus flower extract | Defines curls, adds shine, reduces breakage | $10 – $12 | Curly | Coconut |
| Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Leave-In Conditioning Cream | Argan oil, silk proteins | Controls frizz, smooths hair, adds shine | $6 – $8 | Straight, Wavy, Curly | Fruity |
| Not Your Mother’s KuKu Oil Curls Leave-In Conditioner | KuKu oil, coconut oil | Moisturizes, enhances curl texture, adds softness | $9 – $11 | Curly | Nutty |
Who Should Consider Using a Leave-In Conditioner for Their Curly Hair?
Individuals with curly hair should consider using a leave-in conditioner. This product benefits those with textured or dry hair. Leave-in conditioners provide moisture and help define curls. People struggling with frizz can also gain from using them. Those who frequently heat style their hair may protect their strands with a leave-in conditioner. Furthermore, users aiming for easier detangling and manageability will find this product helpful. Leave-in conditioners can enhance shine and softness, making them suitable for anyone looking to improve their hair’s health.
What Is the Best Way to Apply Leave-In Conditioner for Optimal Results?
Leave-in conditioner is a hair care product designed to be applied to damp or dry hair and left in without rinsing. Its purpose is to provide hydration, control frizz, and improve manageability.
The American Academy of Dermatology defines leave-in conditioner as a product that offers additional moisture to hair while contributing to its overall health. It is typically used after washing hair to maintain moisture and enhance styling.
Leave-in conditioners help retain moisture in hair, making it softer and easier to style. They can also protect hair from heat damage, reduce tangling, and improve shine. Regular use of leave-in conditioner can lead to healthier and more resilient hair.
According to the International Journal of Trichology, using leave-in conditioners can support hair structure and improve elasticity. It is particularly beneficial for dry, curly, or chemically treated hair, which requires extra hydration.
Several factors can contribute to the need for leave-in conditioners. These include hair type, environmental conditions, heat styling practices, and chemical processes such as coloring or perming.
Research from Statista indicates that 70% of women report using leave-in conditioner regularly, with the market projected to grow by 4% annually through 2025. This increase reflects the heightened awareness of hair care among consumers.
Leave-in conditioners can lead to better hair health, improve confidence in personal appearance, and enhance styling versatility. Their use can contribute positively to an individual’s grooming routine.
From health perspectives, these products can prevent breakage, and from an economic angle, they can reduce the frequency of salon visits. Enhanced hair appearance can also influence social interactions and perceptions.
For optimal results, experts recommend choosing leave-in conditioners that match individual hair types. According to the Stylist Magazine, utilizing products with natural ingredients can enhance effectiveness while minimizing harmful effects.
Maintaining a proper hair care routine, avoiding excessive heat, and utilizing protective styles are practical strategies for maximizing the benefits of leave-in conditioners.
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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.