We’ve spent years testing and trailing hair products - and I have some pretty unruly hair of my own to tame. So after reviewing these standouts, we feel confident saying this lineup will give your locks that salon polish without breaking the bank. Read on to see the best affordable haircare on offer now by editor Trudi Brewer.
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Tangle Teezer Ultimate Detangler Matte Pumice Gray, $23
The success of this brush lies in its clever bristles. With two rows, one shorter and one longer, (Tangle Teezer’s patented design detail) is to thank. This thoughtful feature gently detangles your hair and smooths it without catching strands, holding them hostage, or causing breakage. The results? Less damage, fewer tears, and shiny, frizz-free, happy locks. Don’t use this brush with heat.
Hask Curl Care Curl Defining Cream, $17
First up, you won’t find silicone in this frizz fighter, which can weigh hair down and cause buildup over time. But you will find nourishing coconut and argan oils, along with hair-loving vitamin E. It’s a brilliant, humidity-proof formula that enhances your natural curl, leaving it bouncy and defined. Like most salon-quality haircare, it is free from sulfates, parabens, phthalates, and drying alcohols, and it works for any hair type, including coloured hair.
Provoke Touch of Silver Toning Treatment Mask, $18
Keeping on top of brassy overtones in blonde, grey, and white hair is a full-time job, and tinted shampoos and hair masks are pricy. Not only does this toning mask do a brilliant job of keeping your blonde hair looking cool, thanks to the violet pigments that neutralise yellow and orange tones. Its secret weapon, AquaPlex, which contains castor oil, is deeply hydrating, leaving your hair feeling soft and looking shiny.
Umberto Giannini Curl Jelly Crème, $30
For anyone with thick, wavy or curly hair, this brand was created for you. This giant tub (300ml) of styling cream, stacked with coconut oil and shea butter, will give your hair intense nourishment and unrivalled shine. It’s also silicone-free, stops frizz, and helps define your blow-dry. Apply to damp hair from the roots to the tips, and then style as usual.
Jacques Janine Damage Repair Leave In Conditioner, $35
For anyone who loves thier heated tools like straighteners, you need this. Not only does it heat-protect, but it also offers brilliant shine and strength to fragile hair. With shea butter, wheat protein, argan oil and ceramides, your hair will feel and look so much better within days. You only need one to two pumps on wet then style as usual.
Mermade Interchangeable Blow Dry Brush, $160
Three hot tools that will dry, smooth and style your hair with a single tool. Simply dry off the roots with the pre-styling dryer attachment. Then choose the Volume Head (60mm), an oval attachment that creates epic bounce for the ultimate salon-looking blowout. Or the Curling Head (32mm), a round barrel to help you create loose curls in minutes. Great for mixing up your hairstyles daily, and for packing one hot tool when you travel, and how cute is the colour?
At a fraction of the cost.