alcohol free hair cream

15 BEST DEEP CONDITIONERS FOR CURLY HAIR, ACCORDING TO HAIRSTYLISTS AND EDITORS

Want to give your curly hair some extra TLC?  Deep conditioners are a curly girl’s best friend, adding moisture, definition, and shine to your locks. But with so many products on the market, it can be tough to choose which one is right for you. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the 15 best deep conditioners for curly hair, according to hairstylists and editors. Whether you have fine, thick, or color-treated hair, there’s a deep conditioner on this list that will help you achieve your best curls yet! 

OUR TOP PICKS 

SPOILEDCHILD M26 DAMAGE REVERSER

SpoiledChild M26 Damage Reverser is a hair mask designed to repair and revitalize damaged hair in just 10 minutes. It targets breakage, restores strength, and aims to fortify hair to prevent future damage. The key ingredients are Argan oil and Keratin, both known for their hair repair properties. This product is ideal for those with dry, dull, or frizzy hair caused by heat styling, chemical treatments, or coloring. Users report that the mask leaves hair shinier, softer, and more manageable.

BREAD BEAUTY HAIR-MASK DEEP CONDITIONER

Bread Beauty’s Hair-Mask Deep Conditioner is a popular choice for its ability to both strengthen and soften hair. It contains unique ingredients like Australian Kakadu Plum Seed Oil, which is lightweight and effective at keeping hair moisturized and supple. Customers love that this mask hydrates and detangles hair, leaving it feeling soft, luxurious, and quenched.  This deep conditioner comes in two sizes, a 3.3 oz and a 12 oz dispenser, to fit your hair care needs.

SHEA MOISTURE INTENSIVE HYDRATION HAIR MASK

SheaMoisture’s Intensive Hydration Hair Mask, also known as the Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Masque, is a deep conditioning treatment designed specifically for dry, damaged hair, particularly curly hair. It promises to intensely hydrate and nourish hair with a blend of key ingredients. Certified organic Shea Butter, Manuka Honey, and Mafura and Baobab Oils work together to restore and lock in moisture. This rich formula also contains African Rock Fig, an antioxidant that helps strengthen hair follicles and promote frizz-free hair. Overall, the SheaMoisture Intensive Hydration Hair Mask aims to revitalize dry, damaged hair, leaving it smoother, stronger, and healthier.

MIZANI 25 MIRACLE MILK LEAVE-IN CONDITIONER

Mizani’s leave-in conditioner is a versatile hair product praised by hairstylist Ryan Babbitt for its multiple benefits. This sulfate-free formula is rich and nourishing, yet lightweight, making it ideal for various hair types.  Babbitt uses it for shine enhancement, detangling, as a cutting lotion during trims, and even as a daily leave-in conditioner for curly hair. It also boasts a “fresh and honest” scent, although some might find it strong.

BRIOGEO DON’T DESPAIR, REPAIR! DEEP CONDITIONING MASK

Briogeo’s Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask is a hair treatment designed to restore and revitalize dry, damaged, or chemically treated hair.  This intensive weekly treatment uses natural ingredients to deliver essential hydration and enhance hair’s resilience to protect against future damage.

The mask is formulated with Briogeo’s NOVA Complex, a blend of transformative nutrients including B-vitamins, rosehip oil, argan oil, algae extract, and biotin. These ingredients work together to replenish damaged hair, leaving it shiny, healthy-looking, and manageable. Briogeo’s Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask is free of sulfates, silicones, phthalates, parabens, DEA, and artificial dyes, making it a good choice for those with sensitive scalps or color-treated hair. 

COLOR WOW MONEY MASK DEEP HYDRATING & STRENGTHENING HAIR TREATMENT

Designed by celebrity stylist Chris Appleton, COLOR WOW’s Money Mask Deep Hydrating & Strengthening Hair Treatment is a luxurious hair mask aimed at achieving salon-quality shine and health at home.  This weightless formula penetrates deep into the hair to deliver a powerful dose of moisture and fortify strands with marine-derived ingredients.  Key components include Blue Sea Kale, which strengthens hair, and a Mediterranean Sea Kelp and Algae Blend that provides deep hydration.  Suitable for all hair types, the Money Mask is touted for leaving hair glossy, supple, and manageable with continued use. You can use it weekly or as often as every three shampoos for an extra boost of hydration and heat protection.

DAVINES LOVE CURL CURLY HAIR MASK

Davines Love Curl Hair Mask is a deep conditioning treatment designed specifically for wavy or curly hair. It promises to tame and nourish even thick, unruly strands. This mask focuses on improving manageability and curl definition. The formula contains ingredients like Noto almond, rich in proteins and vitamins, to boost elasticity and volume in your curls.  It also contains panthenol for added shine and vitamin E to combat frizz.  The Davines Love Curl Hair Mask is described as having a pleasant citrus scent and is designed to leave your curls soft, bouncy, and easier to manage.

DESIGN ESSENTIALS ALMOND & AVOCADO WASH DAY DEEP MOISTURE MASQUE

Designed specifically for dry hair, Design Essentials’ Almond & Avocado Wash Day Deep Moisture Masque is a concentrated treatment that promises intense hydration. This rich mask is formulated with the nourishing properties of Almond and Avocado oils, aiming to strengthen hair while locking in moisture. It goes beyond just hydration though, targeting  increased elasticity and shine for your hair.  This paraben, phthalate, silicone and gluten free formula is also said to improve detangling and manageability, making wash day a breeze.

BUMBLE AND BUMBLE THICKENING PLUMPING MASK

Bumble and Bumble Thickening Plumping Mask is a lightweight hair mask designed to add volume and body to fine or thin hair.  This product is formulated with their Strand-Plumping Technology, which is designed to plump up each hair strand from root to tip for a thicker overall look.  It also contains Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, which adds volume and bounce, and Kukui Seed Oil and Coconut Oil to condition and smooth hair.

Bumble and Bumble Thickening Plumping Mask is free of parabens, formaldehydes, phthalates, and mineral oil, and is also cruelty-free.  It is ideal for those with fine to medium hair who are looking for a lightweight hair mask that will add volume and hydration without weighing hair down.

L’ANZA TRAUMA TREATMENT

L’Anza Healing ColorCare Trauma Treatment is a hair product designed to repair and revitalize color-treated hair that has been damaged by chemical processing, heat styling, or environmental factors.  This restorative conditioner contains a blend of amino acids and ceramides to strengthen hair and improve color longevity. It  also offers triple UV and heat protection to help prevent future damage. Users report that L’Anza Trauma Treatment leaves hair feeling shinier, softer, and more manageable.  This product is available in two sizes, a 5.1 fl oz bottle and a 1 liter container.

ADWOA BEAUTY BAOMINT DEEP CONDITIONING TREATMENT

Adwoa Beauty’s Baomint Deep Conditioning Treatment is designed to detangle and invigorate your scalp with a cool and refreshing experience.  This treatment, particularly suited for kinky, coily and curly hair,  focuses on deep moisture to support length retention and healthy hair growth.  The key ingredients are Baobab Oil, known for its moisturizing properties, and a blend of Mint Oils for their scalp-stimulating and possibly hair growth supporting effects.  This product is advertised to be particularly effective for medium to thick hair.  Users can expect softer, more manageable curls with continued use.

LIVING PROOF NO FRIZZ INTENSE MOISTURE HAIR MASK

Living Proof’s No Frizz Intense Moisture Hair Mask is designed to combat frizz and bring intense moisture to coarse, thick hair. It promises to  deliver smooth, manageable hair without any greasy weighdown often associated with heavy conditioners. This silicone-free formula utilizes a unique technology to target frizz while still providing deep hydration. Shea butter is included in the ingredient list to further nourish hair and potentially extend the time between washes.  Living Proof’s No Frizz Intense Moisture Hair Mask is ideal for those struggling with frizzy, thick hair who are looking for a lightweight mask that delivers both moisture and frizz control.

SHU UEMURA ULTIMATE RESET HAIR MASK FOR VERY DAMAGED HAIR

Designed for very damaged hair, Shu Uemura’s Ultimate Reset Hair Mask is an intensive repair treatment that specifically targets hair weakened by chemical processes like bleaching, coloring, and frequent heat styling.  This rich mask is formulated with Japanese-sourced rice extract, which is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These ingredients work together to nourish hair from within, fortifying hair fibers and repairing damage. The result? Hair that is stronger, less prone to breakage, and visibly smoother and shinier.  This mask is suitable for all hair types, though those with very damaged hair will benefit most.

ORIBE MOISTURE & CONTROL DEEP TREATMENT HAIR MASK

Oribe’s Moisture & Control Deep Treatment Hair Mask is a luxurious hair mask designed to deliver intense hydration and manageability to all hair types, particularly curly hair.  This silicone-free formula features coconut and almond oils to quench dry strands, prevent breakage, and repair damage. It also works to seal the hair cuticle, further promoting moisture retention and adding shine.  Users can expect smoother, softer, and more manageable hair with continued use.

VIRTUE FLOURISH THICKENING & HYDRATING MASK FOR THINNING HAIR

Virtue Flourish Thickening & Hydrating Mask for Thinning Hair is a targeted treatment designed to address concerns of thinning hair. This whipped, creamy yet weightless mask promises multiple benefits. It aims to strengthen hair strands and support healthy hair growth, all while delivering intense hydration. This two-pronged approach can leave hair feeling stronger, shinier, and silkier, with the potential to help prevent breakage often associated with thinning hair. The key to Flourish Mask lies in its use of Alpha Keratin 60ku CLINICAL, a patented protein that Virtue Labs claims is clinically proven to be effective. This protein is said to thicken, strengthen, and repair hair while also balancing the scalp to create an optimal environment for growth.

WHAT IS DEEP CONDITIONING + WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?

According to Larry Sims, a hairstylist and co-founder of Flawless by Gabrielle Union, deep conditioning is like giving your hair a super boost of care. It’s especially important for people with curly hair because it helps keep their curls healthy and strong, even if they use heat or chemicals on their hair.

When you’re picking a deep conditioner for curly hair, look for ones with ingredients like argan oil, coconut oil, and shea butter. Avoid ones with alcohol or sulfates because they can dry out your hair.

Using a deep conditioner is easy. After you shampoo your hair, put the deep conditioner on your damp hair, making sure every strand is covered. You can use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to help spread it evenly.

You can leave the deep conditioner on for 5 to 10 minutes for a quick treatment, or you can cover your hair with a shower cap and sit under a hooded dryer for a more intense treatment. Then rinse it out with cool water before styling your hair as usual.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A DEEP CONDITIONER

When choosing a deep conditioner, there are a few key factors to consider to target your specific hair needs:

Hair type and condition: Are your curls in need of definition or moisture? Is your hair fine and limp or thick and coarse? Dry, damaged hair will benefit from intense moisture, while fine hair might need a lightweight formula to avoid weighing it down.

Ingredients: Look for ingredients that address your concerns. For moisture, seek out emollients like butters and oils, and humectants like glycerin and aloe vera. Protein is great for strengthening damaged hair, but too much can be drying.

Desired benefits: Do you want frizz control, manageability, or heat protectant qualities? Some deep conditioners offer multiple benefits, while others specialize in a particular area.

Here’s a quick breakdown of some common deep conditioner benefits and their corresponding ingredients:

  • Moisture: shea butter, coconut oil, jojoba oil, glycerin, aloe vera
  • Strength: keratin, hydrolyzed proteins, amino acids
  • Shine: silicones (optional), fatty alcohols
  • Frizz control: shea butter, coconut oil, Abyssinian oil

Keep in mind that some deep conditioners are designed for specific hair types, such as curly hair or color-treated hair.  Reading the label and understanding your hair’s needs will help you pick the best deep conditioner for you.

CONCLUSION

Whether you have wavy, curly, or coily locks, finding the right deep conditioner can transform your hair care routine. By considering your curl type, hair condition, and desired results, you can choose a product that provides the moisture, strength, and control your curls need. With so many great deep conditioners on the market and the right combination of products like hair masks for curly hair or a scalp massager, we believe you will have beautiful, healthy hair from deep within. Happy conditioning!

10 BEST SHAVING CREAMS FOR SENSITIVE SKIN: SAY GOODBYE TO RAZOR BURN

Do you dream of a smooth, irritation-free shave but wake up to red bumps and razor burn? If you have sensitive skin, shaving can be a battle. But fear not! This guide will unveil the 10 best shaving creams for sensitive skin, formulated to soothe and protect your skin while delivering a close, comfortable shave. Get ready to ditch the discomfort and embrace the confidence of a shave that pampers!

WHAT SHAVING CREAM IS SAFE FOR SENSITIVE SKIN?

When you’re checking the ingredients in shave products for sensitive skin, it’s good to look for certain things. Dr. Marisa Garshick, a skin doctor in New York City and New Jersey, suggests looking for glycerin because it pulls moisture into the skin, and shea butter because it keeps moisture in and makes your skin softer. Also, it’s helpful to find ingredients like oatmeal or aloe that calm your skin and ingredients like jojoba oil that moisturize it.

Another skin doctor, Dr. Joshua Zeichner, also likes ingredients such as avocado butter and vitamin E because they are very good for your skin. He recommends using creams or thick gels because they protect sensitive skin from rubbing.

Dr. Garshick says that creams are better for dry or sensitive skin, while gels and foams are better for oily skin. But it also depends on what feels best for you, as foams are lighter and easier to wash off.

WHAT SHAVING CREAM TO AVOID WITH SENSITIVE SKIN

If you have sensitive skin, there are a few ingredients you should steer clear of when choosing a shaving cream:

  • Sulfates (SLS or SLES): These create a lather but can be harsh, stripping away natural oils and causing dryness and irritation.
  • Fragrances: Artificial fragrances are common irritants and can trigger allergic reactions. Opt for fragrance-free shaving creams.
  • Alcohol: Alcohol can be drying and exacerbate sensitivity. Look for alcohol-free formulas.
  • Propylene Glycol: This ingredient can irritate some people, so it’s best to avoid it if you have sensitive skin.

BEST SHAVING CREAMS FOR SENSITIVE SKIN

AVEENO POSITIVELY SMOOTH SHAVE GEL

Aveeno Positively Smooth Shave Gel is a great option for those with sensitive skin seeking a comfortable shave. This fragrance-free formula skips harsh ingredients like sulfates and alcohol, making it gentle on irritated skin. It contains soothing aloe and vitamin E to help prevent nicks, cuts, and razor bumps, leaving your skin feeling smooth and hydrated. Users also report that the gel provides a good glide for a close shave. If you’re looking for a gentle yet effective shaving product, Aveeno Positively Smooth Shave Gel is definitely worth a try.

BLU ATLAS SHAVE CREAM

Blu Atlas Shave Cream caters specifically to those seeking a natural and potentially irritation-reducing shaving experience. Formulated with 96-100% naturally-derived ingredients, it boasts a calming and soothing effect thanks to hydrating glycerin and nourishing oat bran extract. This shave cream is designed to be used without a brush, resulting in a thinner, lightweight lather. While some users find this lather effective, it might take some adjustment compared to thicker traditional creams. However, the focus on natural ingredients and potential for reduced irritation makes Blu Atlas Shave Cream an intriguing option for those with sensitive skin, especially if they don’t mind a different lather texture. 

FLAMINGO FOAMING SHAVE GEL

Flamingo Foaming Shave Gel promises a comfortable shave for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It boasts a luxurious gel-to-foam formula that transforms into a thick, pillow-y lather. This rich layer helps create a smooth glide for your razor, minimizing friction and irritation. Flamingo’s formula also contains aloe vera, known for its soothing properties, which can help calm and hydrate your skin during the shave. Another plus is that the gel is designed to stay put on wet legs while rinsing clean from your razor blades, making for a mess-free experience. While some users might prefer a fragrance-free option, Flamingo Foaming Shave Gel could be a good choice for those with sensitive skin who prioritize a comfortable shave and a luxurious feel.

GILLETTE SATIN CARE ULTRA SENSITIVE SHAVE GEL

Gillette Satin Care Ultra Sensitive Shave Gel is a fragrance-free and dye-free option designed specifically for those with sensitive skin. This dermatologist-tested formula prioritizes minimizing irritation by omitting common triggers. The gel offers a lubricating layer to enhance razor glide, promoting a closer shave with less friction. Gillette Satin Care also aims to leave your skin feeling smooth and hydrated, potentially reducing the appearance of razor bumps. If you’re familiar and comfortable with Gillette products and prioritize a fragrance-free, dermatologist-tested shave gel, then Gillette Satin Care Ultra Sensitive Shave Gel could be a strong contender for your shaving routine.

VANICREAM SHAVE CREAM

Vanicream Shave Cream is a solid choice for those with sensitive skin seeking a fragrance-free and no-nonsense approach. It boasts a thick, moisturizing formula that spreads easily and creates a good barrier for your shave. This can be particularly helpful in reducing razor burn and irritation. Users report feeling a noticeable difference in post-shave dryness, with some even suggesting it feels like they’ve already applied lotion. While some reviewers find a faint, slightly off-putting odor, the lack of added fragrance makes it a good option for those with fragrance sensitivities. Keep in mind that the thick formula might require a bit more rinsing to ensure it doesn’t clog your razor blades. 

OUI THE PEOPLE MOISTURIZING SHAVE GEL-TO-MILK

Oui The People’s Sugarcoat Moisturizing Shave Gel-to-Milk offers a unique and potentially luxurious experience for those with sensitive skin seeking a close, comfortable shave. Unlike traditional creams, it starts as a gel and transforms into a milk during application. This innovative formula boasts a blend of nourishing oils, including argan, grapeseed, marula, and sunflower. These oils aim to provide deep hydration while allowing your razor to glide effortlessly, minimizing friction and irritation. The inclusion of Vitamin C adds a brightening boost, potentially leaving your skin looking radiant after the shave.  With its focus on natural ingredients and unique texture, Oui The People’s Sugarcoat Shave Gel-to-Milk might come at a higher price point compared to some drugstore options. However, it’s a good choice for those willing to invest in a potentially more luxurious and effective shaving experience for their sensitive skin.

THE ART OF SHAVING UNSCENTED SHAVING CREAM

If you have sensitive skin and crave a classic shaving routine, The Art of Shaving Unscented Shaving Cream is a worthy contender. This fragrance-free formula caters to those who might be irritated by artificial scents. It delivers a rich, foamy lather that helps soften beard hair for a close, comfortable shave. The Art of Shaving prioritizes protecting your skin from irritation and razor burn, making it a good choice for those prone to shaving bumps. While some users might find it pricier than drugstore options, The Art of Shaving Unscented Shaving Cream offers a potentially high-quality shaving experience formulated specifically for sensitive skin.

HARRY’S SHAVE CREAM 

Forget about cuts, bumps, or hair you don’t want; just smooth, clear skin without any hairy hair. We really like saying “hairy hair,” especially when we’re talking about Harry’s products.

Harry’s shaving cream uses natural stuff like cucumber and aloe to make your skin feel good while you shave. It makes lots of foam and feels really soft on your skin. It’s like spreading a fluffy cloud on your face that’s full of aloe to keep your skin happy. It also has oils to help with dryness after you shave. You’re supposed to use Harry’s Shave Cream on your face, but you can use it anywhere on your body to avoid cuts and bumps. Some people might find it irritating because it has things like eucalyptus and marula oil in it. But don’t worry, it doesn’t have any bad stuff like sulfates or parabens in it.

TRULY COCO CLOUD AFTER SHAVE MOISTURIZER

If you shave a lot, your skin might lose moisture. That’s why it’s good to use a moisturizing shave lotion like Truly Coco cloud. It smells really good, and we found that after just two times using the razor, our skin was smooth. The lotion feels thick when you first put it on, so it’s better to rub it between your hands before spreading it on your skin. It turns white and foamy, making it easy to see where you’ve put it. If you put too much on, you might need to shave over it again. But after shaving, your skin feels smooth and smells nice. This lotion is great if you shave every day because it keeps your skin really hydrated.

PACIFIC SHAVING COMPANY CLEAN SHAVE CREAM

This shaving cream has good stuff like shea butter, vitamin E, and sunflower seed oil that make your skin feel really nice. It helps protect your skin from getting hurt by the razor and also makes it feel hydrated. The shaving cream makes lots of foam that feels smooth on your skin and keeps it safe. It comes in versions with no smell and a little smell for anyone to use.

HOW TO SHAVE WITH SENSITIVE SKIN

Here are some easy steps to help you get a good shave if you have sensitive skin:

  • Make sure your skin is wet before you start shaving to avoid irritation.
  • Use a razor made for sensitive skin.
  • Put enough shaving gel or cream on your skin before you shave.
  • Be gentle and take your time, especially in sensitive areas.
  • Shave in the same direction your hair grows, not against it.
  • Wash and moisturize your skin well afterward to keep it healthy.
  • Test a small area of your skin with the shaving product before using it all over.

CONCLUSION

So there you have it, folks! Say goodbye to shaving worries. Along with the fundamental rules for shave down there, these top 10 shaving creams can help you avoid razor burn and achieve smooth, irritation-free skin. Keep in mind to choose a cream that matches what you like – whether it’s fragrance-free, lathers up nicely, or uses natural ingredients. Armed with the perfect product, you can confidently tackle your reflection and embrace the day with skin as stunning as it feels.