When I decided to go overhaul my routine by weeding out the silicones and sulfates, I realised that none of the deep treatment conditioners in my stash were silicone free. So off I went in search of a new deep treatment. My first stop was Mecca Maxima (mainly because I’ll take any excuse to enter that store), but they did not have any silicone free treatments in stock that day.
Next up was Priceline – the place I’m sure many Australian women would not be able to live without when it comes to budget beauty and personal products. While there, I glanced at some of the more natural brands, but many of the so-called ‘natural’ and ‘organic’ brands often contain silicones (this is why it’s so important to become educated in ingredient labels, that’s where the truth of a product lies), or they have intense smells that that give me nausea.
Moving on to the more synthetic brands, I stumbled upon the L’Oreal Elvive Total Repair 5 Masque. If you decide to give this product go, make sure it’s the one with the red label – the other masques contain silicones.
I’ve been using this masque one to two times a week for the past couple of weeks and so far I quite like it. It has a bit of protein which is perfect for my colour treated hair. In actual fact, the first time I used it, I noticed that my hair had more body, shine, curl and less frizz. I went out dancing that night and enjoyed my big hair – I love big hair!
It’s not the thickest treatment I’ve ever used; it’s more like a thick conditioner. As I’ve mentioned in the past, I’m not one for spending hours on deep treating my hair. The only difference between my regular routine and this one is that I’ll scrunch out as much water as possible before applying the treatment to two sections of hair. I really coat the hair with the product then finger detangle before going through thoroughly with my Denman brush. It provides a lot of slip for a product that’s marketed as a ‘masque’.
My only bone to pick with the treatment, is the synthetic floral fragrance – not my favourite. But it doesn’t linger, so it’s not a deal breaker.
The Breakdown:
Where can you get it? I picked mine up from Priceline, but it’s also available at Coles, Woollies and a few chemists.
How much is it? $$ (currently on sale for less 😉
Eco-friendly? 4/10
Animal testing? Yes; no indication otherwise.
CG friendly? 2/3 – it does have one water-soluble silicone right at the bottom of the list.
Colour safe? It makes no claims to be, but since it’s a treatment which is meant to strengthen structurally damaged hair, I’m going to say yes.
Available internationally? Yes.
Let me know if you give this treatment a go. I’d also like to know if there are any products (preferably silicone and sulfate free) you’d like me to try and review, and I’m happy to answer any and all questions!
Love and waves,
Astrid
Can't Stop Thinking About Hair 