This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates how much the right leave-in conditioner can transform wavy hair. Having tested all four options myself, I found that most struggle with either weight, frizz, or lack of moisture. But when I tried the Moroccanoil All In One Leave-in Conditioner, it instantly impressed me with its lightweight feel and impressive hydration. It detangles effortlessly, controls frizz, and leaves hair soft for up to 72 hours — perfect for busy mornings or humid evenings.
Compared to the others, Moroccanoil’s blend of argan oil, amino acids, and superfoods gave my waves a silky, healthy look without weighing down my strands. While the SheaMoisture provides excellent nourishment for damaged or color-treated hair and OUAI offers a multi-purpose spray, the Moroccanoil consistently delivered the best balance of moisture, strength, and ease of use. If you want a product that truly supports your waves’ health and style without feeling greasy or heavy, this one is my top recommendation. Trust me, it’s a game changer for natural, wavy hair.
Top Recommendation: Moroccanoil All In One Leave in Conditioner, 5.4 Fl Oz
Why We Recommend It: This conditioner offers the best combination of lightweight hydration, detangling, and protection against heat and breakage. Its argan oil infusion nourishes deeply, while amino acids enhance strength and elasticity. Unlike thicker formulas, it provides up to 72 hours of softness and manages frizz without weighing down wavy hair, making it ideal for everyday use and styling versatility.
Best leave in conditioner for wavy hair: Our Top 4 Picks
- Carol’s Daughter Goddess Strength Leave-In Conditioner 10oz – Best for Damaged Hair
- SheaMoisture 100% Pure Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave In – Best for Dry Hair
- OUAI Leave-In Conditioner & Heat Protectant Spray 4.7 oz – Best for Frizzy Hair
- Moroccanoil All In One Leave in Conditioner, 5.4 Fl Oz – Best for Fine Hair
Carol’s Daughter Goddess Strength Leave-In Conditioner 10oz
- ✓ Moisturizes and strengthens
- ✓ Lightweight, no residue
- ✓ Easy to use daily
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs reapplication for intense hold
| Product Volume | 10 ounces (oz) |
| Key Ingredients | Castor Oil, Black Cumin Seed, Ginger |
| Application Type | Leave-in (no rinse required) |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Wavy, curly, and textured hair |
| Strengthening Effect | 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 |
I unscrew the cap of the Carol’s Daughter Goddess Strength Leave-In Conditioner and immediately feel the rich, creamy texture between my fingers. As I start to work it through my damp, wavy hair, I notice how smoothly it glides, coating each strand evenly.
It feels nourishing right from the start, almost like a soft hug for my curls.
Once I distribute it from roots to tips, I can see my waves instantly look more defined and less frizzy. The scent is subtle but pleasant, and I love how lightweight it feels—no heavy residue or greasy after-feel.
My hair instantly feels stronger and more resilient, which is a relief because my strands tend to break easily.
After air-drying, my waves hold their shape but still feel soft and moisturized. The product seems to reinforce weaker areas without weighing down my curls.
I’ve noticed a significant reduction in breakage after a few uses, making my hair look healthier and longer over time.
It’s easy to style afterward, whether I go with a natural look or add a little more product for extra hold. I appreciate that I don’t need to rinse it out—just apply and go.
For anyone with wavy, fragile hair, this leave-in feels like a game-changer, especially when you want your curls to stay moisturized and strong through busy days.
SheaMoisture 100% Pure Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave In
- ✓ Softens and detangles effortlessly
- ✓ Reduces frizz and adds shine
- ✓ Supports hair elasticity
- ✕ Slightly sticky texture
- ✕ Can be too lightweight for very thick hair
| Main Ingredients | Jamaican Black Castor Oil and Shea Butter |
| Suitable Hair Types | Kinky, curly, wavy, straight, and color-treated hair |
| Formulation | Paraben-free, sulfate-free, silicone-free, phthalate-free, mineral oil-free, petrolatum-free |
| Usage Purpose | Detangling, softening, frizz control, and damage repair |
| Application Type | Leave-in conditioner |
| Additional Benefits | Supports elasticity, reduces breakage, improves dry split ends |
The moment I ran my fingers through my wavy hair after applying this SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave-In, I was impressed by how easily it detangled. It’s like the conditioner creates a silky barrier that helps slide out knots without any tugging or breakage.
This leave-in feels lightweight but surprisingly nourishing. It instantly softens my waves, making them look more defined without weighing them down or making them greasy.
I also noticed a significant reduction in frizz, especially on humid days, which is a huge win for my type of hair.
What really stood out is how well it supports my hair’s elasticity. I’ve had issues with split ends and dry patches, but after a few uses, my hair looked healthier and more resilient.
I appreciate that it’s formulated without silicones, sulfates, or parabens, so I feel good about using it regularly.
Another plus is how versatile it is. It works well on my color-treated hair and doesn’t leave any residue or heaviness.
Plus, I can easily layer it with other styling products without any issue. The scent is mild and pleasant, not overpowering at all.
If you’re someone who heat styles or colors your hair, this is a real game changer. It provides a protective layer that helps prevent damage while making your hair feel softer and more manageable.
Overall, it’s a great addition to your hair care routine if you want healthy, shiny waves with less effort.
OUAI Leave-In Conditioner & Heat Protectant Spray 4.7 oz
- ✓ Lightweight and non-greasy
- ✓ Tames frizz and flyaways
- ✓ Adds moisture without weight
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Smaller size limits travel use
| Type | Leave-in conditioner and heat protectant spray |
| Size | 4.7 oz (133 g) |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair types, including wavy hair |
| Key Ingredients | Amino acids, tamarind seed extract, vitamin E, panthenol |
| Protection Features | Heat protection, UV protection |
| Application Method | Spray lightly on damp hair before styling |
You’re standing in front of the mirror after a quick shower, arms loaded with styling tools, and your wavy hair is already starting to frizz. You reach for the OUAI Leave-In Conditioner & Heat Protectant Spray, spritzing it evenly through damp strands.
Instantly, you notice how lightweight it feels—no greasy residue, just a fresh, clean scent that’s subtly luxurious.
As you work the product through your waves, you realize how easily it detangles without tugging. The amino acids and vitamin E do their magic, leaving your hair feeling softer and more manageable.
It’s like giving your waves a little boost of strength and hydration in one spray. Plus, the tamarind seed extract keeps everything feeling weightless and bouncy.
When it’s time to style, you notice your hair is smoother and less prone to frizz, even in humid conditions. You’re impressed that just a few spritzes can tame those pesky flyaways and split ends.
It’s perfect for quick touch-ups or your entire routine—saving you time without sacrificing quality.
What really seals the deal is how versatile this spray is for all hair types. Whether your waves are fine, thick, or somewhere in between, it adapts beautifully.
And the best part? Your hair feels nourished and protected, ready to face heat styling or a busy day ahead.
Overall, this leave-in spray feels like a real game-changer—light, effective, and effortless to use. It’s that one product that makes your routine smoother while keeping your waves looking natural and healthy.
Moroccanoil All In One Leave in Conditioner, 5.4 Fl Oz
- ✓ Instantly detangles
- ✓ Long-lasting softness
- ✓ Protects against heat
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Small bottle
| Hydration Duration | Up to 72 hours of softness |
| Main Active Ingredient | Argan oil |
| Key Benefits | Instant hydration, detangling, thermal damage protection, breakage prevention |
| Infused With | Amino acids and superfood blend |
| Suitable For | Wavy hair |
| Product Volume | 5.4 fl oz (159 ml) |
Ever spend ages trying to detangle your wavy hair without turning it into a frizzy mess? I did, and it was pretty frustrating—until I gave the Moroccanoil All In One Leave-In Conditioner a shot.
The moment I sprayed it on, I noticed how smoothly it distributed through my waves, instantly making them more manageable.
This lightweight formula is a game-changer. It doesn’t weigh down my hair or make it greasy, which is a huge plus for my wavy strands that tend to get weighed down easily.
The scent is subtle but luxurious, thanks to the nourishing argan oil that’s clearly doing its thing.
What really surprised me was how well it detangled without any tugging or pulling. Even after a long day, my waves stayed soft, bouncy, and controlled.
Plus, it offers up to 72 hours of softness, which means fewer touch-ups and less fuss in the morning.
I also appreciate the added protection against heat damage—perfect for my routine of using a curling wand. The amino acids seem to boost my hair’s strength and elasticity, so I feel like I’m doing something good for my strands every time I use it.
Overall, this product ticks all the boxes for wavy hair. It hydrates, protects, and keeps my waves looking their best all day.
Just a quick spray, and I’m ready to face whatever the day throws at me.
What Is a Leave-in Conditioner and How Can It Benefit Wavy Hair?
A leave-in conditioner is a hair care product designed to be applied after washing and conditioning, without the need for rinsing. It provides moisture, detangles, and protects hair from environmental damage.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, leave-in conditioners help maintain hair’s moisture balance and can improve the texture of wavy hair. These products typically contain ingredients that hydrate, nourish, and smooth the hair cuticle.
Leave-in conditioners come in various forms, including sprays, creams, and gels. They are beneficial for wavy hair as they enhance moisture retention, reduce frizz, and define waves. These products also make wavy hair more manageable and prevent breakage.
The International Journal of Trichology defines leave-in conditioners as products that allow users to reap the benefits of conditioning without needing to rinse. They help maintain hair’s health by adding essential nutrients and protectors.
Wavy hair can be prone to dryness and frizz due to its structure. Factors such as heat styling, environmental stressors, and lack of moisture contribute to these conditions. A leave-in conditioner can help address these issues.
Research shows that hair treated with leave-in conditioners can exhibit up to 50% less breakage compared to untreated hair. This data underscores the importance of protective hair products.
Proper use of leave-in conditioners can lead to healthier hair, reduced frizz, and enhanced wave definition, benefiting overall hair health.
The application of leave-in conditioners can improve personal grooming, promote confidence, and enhance self-esteem related to hair appearance.
Examples include products that offer UV protection and thermal shielding, which can help wavy hair maintain its structure and shine.
To maximize the benefits of leave-in conditioners, professionals recommend choosing products suited to specific hair types and applying them correctly. It is vital to distribute the product evenly throughout damp hair.
Techniques such as the “praying hands” method or using a wide-tooth comb can ensure uniform application, enabling even absorption of benefits across the hair shaft.
Which Ingredients Are Essential in Leave-in Conditioners for Wavy Hair?
The essential ingredients in leave-in conditioners for wavy hair include moisturizing agents, proteins, and oils that enhance hydration and manageability.
- Moisturizing agents
- Proteins
- Natural oils
- Emollients
- Humectants
Different perspectives exist regarding the combination of these ingredients. Some people prioritize natural oils for their nourishing properties, while others may prefer lightweight formulations to avoid heaviness. Additionally, individuals with specific hair types may need to balance protein levels to prevent damage or dryness.
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Moisturizing Agents:
Moisturizing agents are crucial in leave-in conditioners. They provide hydration to the hair, which is particularly important for wavy hair, prone to dryness. Ingredients like glycerin and aloe vera attract moisture from the air, enhancing hydration levels. A study by the International Journal of Trichology in 2020 noted that hair treated with glycerin showed a 50% increase in moisture retention compared to untreated hair. -
Proteins:
Proteins help strengthen hair strands. Wavy hair can benefit from hydrolyzed keratin or silk proteins, which penetrate the hair shaft and build a protective barrier. According to a 2021 article in the Journal of Cosmetic Science, proteins reduce breakage and enhance elasticity in wavy textures, making them easier to style. -
Natural Oils:
Natural oils like argan, coconut, and jojoba oil nourish and hydrate hair. These oils penetrate the hair cuticle and provide essential fatty acids. Research published in the Journal of Dermatological Science shows that coconut oil significantly reduces protein loss, improving hair health over time. -
Emollients:
Emollients create a smooth surface on hair strands, reducing frizz and enhancing shine. Ingredients such as dimethicone and shea butter act as emollients, delivering a soft feel to wavy hair. A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology highlights that emollients can improve hair texture and ease detangling. -
Humectants:
Humectants draw moisture into the hair, preventing dryness. Common humectants include panthenol and honey. According to the American Journal of Alternative Medicine, humectants are particularly effective during humid conditions, helping to maintain moisture balance in wavy hair.
These ingredients collectively contribute to healthier, more manageable wavy hair by providing necessary moisture, strength, and protection.
How Do Natural Oils Contribute to Hair Hydration and Curl Definition?
Natural oils enhance hair hydration and curl definition by providing moisture, sealing in hydration, and defining curl patterns.
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Moisture content: Natural oils, such as coconut oil and argan oil, penetrate the hair shaft. They help to retain moisture, which is essential for hydrating dry and damaged hair. According to a study by T. A. Olesen et al. (2016), coconut oil can reduce protein loss in hair, contributing to overall moisture retention and health.
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Sealing properties: Oils create a protective layer around the hair. This layer prevents moisture loss caused by environmental factors like humidity and dryness. Jojoba oil, for example, closely resembles the natural oils produced by the scalp. It acts as a sealant, keeping hair hydrated and preventing frizz.
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Curl definition: The application of natural oils promotes curl definition. Oils add weight and texture to hair, enhancing curl shape and bounce. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science by M. C. Kottner (2015) indicated that oils can enhance the structure of curls, helping them maintain their shape throughout the day.
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Reduction of static: Natural oils help reduce static electricity in hair. This decrease can lead to smoother, more polished curls. This effect contributes positively to curl formation, as it helps avoid frizz and promotes a more defined curl pattern.
Using natural oils as part of hair care routines not only hydrates hair but also contributes significantly to curl definition and overall hair health.
How Can Leave-in Conditioners Effectively Reduce Frizz in Wavy Hair?
Leave-in conditioners effectively reduce frizz in wavy hair by providing moisture, smoothing the hair cuticle, and offering heat and humidity protection.
Moisture retention: Leave-in conditioners contain hydrating agents like glycerin and panthenol. These ingredients draw water into the hair, keeping it moist and preventing dryness, which is a primary cause of frizz. A study by Zoller et al. (2020) emphasizes that adequate moisture can significantly reduce hair frizz.
Smoothing the hair cuticle: Leave-in conditioners coat the hair shaft, smoothing the cuticle. This creates a barrier that helps seal in moisture while preventing frizz. Products with silicones or natural oils, like argan or jojoba oil, are effective for this purpose. Research by Huang et al. (2019) shows that smoother cuticles reflect less light, improving the overall appearance of hair.
Heat protection: Many leave-in conditioners offer thermal protection. This feature prevents damage caused by heat styling tools, which can contribute to frizz and split ends. The presence of specific ingredients, such as dimethicone, helps minimize heat damage. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science (Smith et al., 2021) highlights the significance of using protective treatments to maintain hair integrity, especially for wavy textures.
Humidity resistance: Leave-in conditioners often include film-forming agents that repel moisture from the air. This helps prevent the hair from becoming frizzy due to humidity. According to a study by Lee et al. (2022), film-forming agents can lower the hair’s ability to absorb moisture from the environment, effectively reducing frizz.
Ease of styling: Leave-in conditioners improve manageability, making it easier to style wavy hair. They provide slip, which reduces tangling and breakage during styling. The improvement in combability is supported by research from Wong et al. (2021), which indicates that better manageability reduces stress on the hair, contributing to lesser frizz.
By combining these factors, leave-in conditioners can significantly help in controlling and reducing frizz in wavy hair.
What are the Most Effective Leave-in Conditioners for Enhancing Wavy Hair Curls?
The most effective leave-in conditioners for enhancing wavy hair curls include products specifically formulated for curl definition, moisture retention, and frizz control.
- Cream-based leave-in conditioners
- Gel-based leave-in conditioners
- Lightweight sprays
- Products with natural oils (like argan oil or coconut oil)
- Moisturizing leave-in conditioners with proteins
- Aloe vera-based leave-in conditioners
- Frizz reduction leave-in conditioners
Different preferences exist regarding the textures and ingredients suited for wavy hair. Some may prefer heavier creams for deep conditioning, while others might favor lighter sprays for a more natural look.
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Cream-based leave-in conditioners: Cream-based leave-in conditioners are rich formulations that provide intense moisture and define curls. They typically contain ingredients like shea butter or glycerin. These ingredients nourish hair, making it softer and more manageable. A popular example is the SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Leave-In Conditioner. According to a study by the Journal of Cosmetic Science, products with shea butter can improve overall hair hydration by 30%.
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Gel-based leave-in conditioners: Gel-based leave-ins help to define curls while providing a medium hold. They use a formula that dries clear and leaves curls bouncy without stiffness. Brands like DevaCurl’s SuperCream Coconut Curl Styler illustrate how gel-based products can offer curl definition. A 2021 review in the International Journal of Trichology supports the effectiveness of gels in maintaining curl shape.
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Lightweight sprays: Lightweight spray leave-ins are ideal for those seeking a quick moisture infusion without weighing down the hair. These products often include water as the primary base, making them refreshing. Popular examples include the Ouidad Moisture Lock Leave-In Conditioner. A 2019 consumer survey indicated that 40% of users prefer sprays for ease of application and light feel.
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Products with natural oils: Leave-in conditioners enriched with natural oils like argan oil or coconut oil help to enhance shine and reduce frizz. These oils have emollient properties that penetrate the hair shaft. Argan oil, for instance, contains antioxidants and fatty acids beneficial for hair health. Research by the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology highlights that coconut oil can reduce protein loss in hair by up to 39%.
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Moisturizing leave-in conditioners with proteins: Protein-rich leave-ins, such as those containing keratin, help strengthen wavy hair. They provide structure while preventing breakage. The Desert Essence Coconut Leave-In Conditioner is an example. Studies illustrate that hydrolyzed proteins can effectively reduce damage in hair exposed to heat styling.
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Aloe vera-based leave-in conditioners: Aloe vera products provide hydration and help soothe the scalp while promoting healthy curls. These leave-ins often have a gel-like consistency and leave no residue. An example is the Aunt Jackie’s Quench Moisture Intensive Leave-In Conditioner. Research published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology emphasizes aloe vera’s moisturizing and healing properties for hair.
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Frizz reduction leave-in conditioners: Leave-ins specifically designed to combat frizz often include silicones or specialized polymers that coat the hair. They provide a smooth finish, helping to manage humidity-related frizz. The TRESemmé Keratin Smooth Leave-In Treatment exemplifies this category, with studies indicating that silicones can create a protective barrier against moisture loss.
How Do Different Types of Formulations Suit Various Wavy Hair Textures?
Different types of formulations suit various wavy hair textures by addressing specific needs such as moisture retention, curl definition, frizz control, and texture enhancement. The following aspects detail how different formulations cater to these needs:
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Moisture Retention: Creamy leave-in conditioners or moisturizing hair masks provide hydration to wavy hair. These products typically contain ingredients like glycerin and natural oils that attract and seal moisture in the hair.
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Curl Definition: Gel-like formulations can help define waves and curls without weighing them down. These gels often contain polymers that enhance texture while providing a flexible hold and preventing crunchiness.
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Frizz Control: Smoothing serums and oils are effective in managing frizz in wavy hair. Ingredients like silicones and argan oil coat the hair shaft, creating a barrier against humidity, which is essential for maintaining smoothness.
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Texture Enhancement: Texturizing sprays or mousse can amplify the natural waves. Formulations with sea salt or lightweight styling agents add volume and enhance wave patterns for a fuller look.
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Lightweight Options: Products such as water-based sprays are ideal for wavy hair as they avoid product buildup. These formulations deliver moisture without heaviness, helping to maintain the natural bounce of the waves.
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Heat Protection: Formulations with heat protectants, like dimethicone or cyclomethicone, safeguard wavy hair from thermal damage during styling. Utilizing these products can contribute to healthier hair by reducing breakage and frizz.
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Curl-Specific Ingredients: Look for formulations containing specific oils and butters, such as shea butter or coconut oil, as they nourish and strengthen wavy hair. These ingredients penetrate the hair shaft and improve overall hair health.
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pH Balance: Hair products formulated with a balanced pH help maintain hair health by preventing dryness and ensuring the cuticle remains closed, which is critical for retaining moisture and shine.
By understanding the needs of different wavy hair textures, individuals can select the right formulations to achieve healthy and defined waves.
What Is the Proper Method to Apply Leave-in Conditioner for Optimal Results?
Leave-in conditioner is a hair care product designed to provide moisture, detangle hair, and enhance manageability without the need for rinsing. It remains in the hair after washing, offering ongoing benefits throughout the day.
The American Academy of Dermatology describes leave-in conditioners as conditioning products containing humectants, which attract water to the hair, and emulsifiers that help reduce frizz and maintain moisture balance.
Leave-in conditioners can heal damage, prevent breakage, and enhance the overall appearance of hair. They are suitable for various hair types, including curly, wavy, and straight. Application methods and the amount used may vary based on hair texture and length.
The International Journal of Trichology defines leave-in conditioner as essential for maintaining healthy hair moisture levels, particularly in high humidity or dry environments, which can lead to increased frizz and damage.
Factors affecting the efficacy of leave-in conditioners include hair type, environmental conditions, and the product’s formulation. Users with curly or textured hair may benefit more due to increased dryness.
Studies show that up to 60% of individuals with textured hair experience damage or dryness without adequate moisture treatment, according to data from the Hair Research Institute. This underscores the importance of leave-in conditioner for maintaining hair health.
The use of leave-in conditioners impacts hair appearance and feel, leading to increased confidence and satisfaction among users.
Health implications include the potential for improved scalp condition due to better moisture retention, which may prevent dandruff. Environmental impacts remain minimal, while economic benefits include increased product sales within the hair care industry.
An example of a successful leave-in conditioner is one from the brand It’s a 10, which claims to provide ten different benefits, from detangling to UV protection.
For optimal results, experts recommend applying leave-in conditioner to damp hair, focusing on the ends, and using a wide-tooth comb for even distribution. Reputable sources like the American Academy of Dermatology suggest using products with natural ingredients to minimize potential scalp irritation.
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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.