Tuesday, April 28

{shampoo & conditioner review}

   As you know from this post, I have been looking for a new shampoo and conditioner.  I have been "conducting research" to find the perfect type for my hair.   Of course, we all have different hair types, so what works for someone else may not work at all for my hair.  Therefore there is a lot of trial and error involved!
I have discovered several things, first of which is that I believe that there is not one perfect shampoo/conditioner.  The shampoos that leave your hair feeling like silk are usually depositing substances (usually silicones) on your hair shaft.  This leads to buildup and flatness.  The shampoos that remove buildup often leave hair feeling "squeaky clean" aka "a knotted straw-like rats nest"!  So, what to do?  Sometimes switching between two types is the answer.
Personally, I do not like the shampoos that leave behind silicones on my hair.  These are listed on the ingredients label as anything ending in (-cone).  I have noticed that I can tell immediately in the shower because my hands feel waxy/greasy with these type of shampoos.  One that felt this way and left me a bit flat was the new L'Oreal EVERPURE line.  The shampoo left me so flat that I gave it away after 2 tries.   I did not like the Rosemary Juniper scent to it, either, but I know that scent is a very personal preference.  Not the shampoo for me, although many people have had good results with it.  I decided that what I need is a shampoo that simply cleans and leaves the moisturizing to a conditioner.  Otherwise there is just too much silicone/oil/grease going around.  Also, if you compare prices based on amount or ml of shampoo, the L'Oreal is just as expensive as a salon brand such as Matrix.  And L'Oreal is actually more expensive than the Matrix deal that I got!

I tried Matrix Biolage second and liked it.  I purchased the 1 liter size conditioner, and then received the 1 liter shampoo for 88 cents at the salon at JCPenneys!  (JCP salons have the best sales on hair products!)  Having no silicone in the shampoo worked better for me, and the sulfate is a mild one.  As it turns out some SULFATES are not so bad after all.  The milder ones used by salon brands are good at removing buildup and after all, I have used them for years before and always had very healthy hair.  It is just since I've started coloring that my hair has become more fragile and more dry.

My latest finding will probably shock you!!!
While browsing at Target I noticed that Suave (yes, Suave) has a new "Professionals" line.  They compare them to various salon brands.  I looked at every one before deciding on this Volumizing type and took the pair home for a trial run.  By the way--the ingredients list is very small on this one, with a mild sulfate, no silicones AND no parabens (a few studies have correlated parabens with cancer, some saying that your body can even absorb the parabens--but it has not been proven)!!  The exact sulfate is sodium laureth sulfate--one of the mildest sulfates.
The results--it didn't make my hands feel greasy (yay!) and after conditioning with it's partner, I have to say that the final result is almost identical to the Matrix Biolage!!   And all for.....I am embarrassed to say.....$1.92 each at full price.  LOL!  It is definitely necessary to use a conditioner after this one.  So, if you like your hair feeling silky after just shampooing I recommend trying one of the other Suave Professional types--I think there were about 6 different types.  And, for this price, it's worth a try.  I will probably alternate between my Matrix Biolage and this Suave.
{Several years ago I used to use Suave Coconut shampoo (yummiest scent!) and my stylist actually asked me what shampoo I used because my hair was so shiny and in such good condition!  Since then, I am convinced that shampoos/conditioners don't have to be pricey to deliver good results.  Of course sometimes it's nice to indulge in a salon blend with all of the aromatherapy and extracts--Aveda comes to mind!}

This is as far as I have progressed in my research, but I'll be sure to let you know of any new updates!  I have a few more brands in mind that I'd like to try.   :)

25 comments:

kb said...

I am in the market for new shampoo too! I saw the sauve commercial yesterday and I want to try!
I just wish all stores would give you samples like Sephora!

-As for my refund, I may or may not have embelished a little to her by saying that some big name bloggers were going to post my entry as well.

But either way, I got my refund :)

StylishSuburban said...

Thanks for the update on your quest for the perfect shampoo/conditioner. I usually buy the salon expensive brands, but if I'm in a pinch may try the Suave.

Jillle said...

Have you tried Pureology? Its expensive, but so worth it! The last time I got my hair cut, they stylist said my hair was "too healthy". Huh? How could it be too healthy? And no, they did not sell me the shampoo and conditioner! I buy it at a beauty supply. I get the big ones with the pump, its the best value. It actually last a really long time.
Good luck on your search!!

Ashley Turner said...

I have been using the Straight Sexy Hair shampoo with Soya Want Healthy Hair conditioner and I really like this combo - I get straight silky hair out of it, which is not normal for me... good luck with your search!!!

Sweet, Sassy, Southern and Classy said...

I've used the Suave coconut shampoo and I was impressed with it as well! I bet the professionals line is way better! Thanks for the head's up!

Paisley & Pearls said...

I've used the Biolage shampoo and conditioner for a few years and now and LOVE it. I've tried so many shampoos/conditioners and still haven't found ones I like as much. I only use the Biolage conditioner, even when switching between shampoos. Glad you liked the Suave just as much though! I will definitely have to give those a try!

Randall @ Happy For This Moment said...

I'd love to see your final choice! Right now I am using Dove which I really like. I do believe that you dont' have to pay salon prices to get great hair - I may have to give Sauve a try!

Heather said...

I had forgotten about Biolage, but it is nice and moisturizing. Thanks for the tip on the Suave one!

Lipstick said...

Thank you for sharing!!!

Marilyn *Pink Martinis and Pearls* said...

This post was very interesting. I'll give it a try. :)

Alison said...

Oh my goodness, your post has shaken up everything I have ever thought about hair products!! Suave!? I can not wait to buy some and try it! Also, my husband will be thrilled!! Are there any styling products you would recommend?

Great post!

Ashley Turner said...

Oh dear, if you're looking for body and already have straight hair, I've led you a little astray! You'd want to try BIG SEXY HAIR products - made by the same company, but for gals who are looking for a little volume. I've used these too and because I have limp frizzy, when I use those, they plump it right up! I use the straight one to tame my hair cause it's not straight or curly...

But the Soya Want Healthy Hair products are great I would think for any hair - it's just healthy soy stuff - probably won't give you volume, but will help if you're having trouble with dryness or split ends. Hope this helps!!! Oh, and I've just recently posted a new conditioner I tried on my blog called Dumb Blonde (for all colors) which is a great occasional deep conditioner or can be used as a hair mask!

Belle said...

Petunia, this is fantastic! I love your reviews. My stylist insists on me using expensive shampoos and conditioners. But, I don't. I'm always looking for a good substitute. I'll be sure to try your suggestions. Thanks!!

Have a great day!
Belle

Together We Save said...

Thanks for the info. You have great tips.

I have something for you. Stop by my blog and pick it up.

Patois42 said...

How tacky am I? I gave up shampoo several years ago. I condition maybe once a week or so. I've never been happier. Of course, people steer clear of me. (Not really.) (Or at least not for that reason.)

LyndsAU said...

I used to use Biolage. I love it! Smells so yum! And i do love John Freida!!

Jaina said...

I used to use Biolage when I was little. Love that stuff. I'll have to try the Suave version. Currently I'm using Herbal Essence. LOVE it too. :)

midnight macaroons said...

Wow, $1.97!!! If this shampoo line works with my thick hair; I'm going to catch the next flight to Florida and kiss you. My husband is gong to dance a jig when he hears about this. He's always complaining about how much money I spend on my hair/hair products. I'm so happy you told me about it. Thank you!!! Yippee!!!

Domestic Diva said...

Wow- I love this post. I am always looking for something new to use. As I want it to all natural and good for my hair. Not easy to find.
I have used the Biolage since college. It is the one I always go back to. I just tried the Fekkai Au Naturel Shampoo & conditioner. It was nice and safe for the girls to use too. I have them use California Baby (non-chemical..plant- based). Another good one is Kiehl's Amino Acid Shampoo with coconut oil.

Jill said...

I just tagged you on my blog. :)

Purple Flowers said...

Great post - thanks!

Danielle Moss said...

Great post. I'm always looking for a new shampoo. I do try to find ones that have not been tested on animals, which isn't easy. Body wash is really hard to find, too.

Do you have a favorite?

Please find your prom pic!

Anonymous said...

Target has GIOVANNI now (I used to be only able to get it at the Health Food store)--this line is just the BEST EVER!

Tres Poshe Preppy said...

Keep the updates coming!!! BTW- thanks for the JCP tip, who knew?!?

I truly belive we all have to find 'the one' or at least a few products that works for us. It's so hard when we all have such different hair types, skin types, etc. I have fun trying new things so I'm always on the hunt... It's also nice to save a few pennies in the process as well and I'm loving your finds.

Anonymous said...

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