Today I'm writing the final installment of my three part series "Do I Really Need That?," which tackles some of today's trendiest beauty items and their real value in your beauty routine. If you haven't read parts 1 and 2 addressing makeup and skincare, click here and here. In this post, I'm addressing hair care and bath/body items, which are often subject to the most scrutiny due to the prevalence of controversial chemicals and fillers in these products.
The Product: BODY LOTION VS BODY OIL (AND HOW MUCH TO SPEND)
The Claim: Body oils are marketed as a more natural approach to achieving moisturized skin, whereas body lotions claim a plethora of benefits. Some high end lotions even promise to help with signs of aging or even reduce the appearance of cellulite.
The Verdict: In terms of formula, it's really a matter of preference. Both categories include products that are effective at doing their main job: moisturizing. As for shelling out big bucks on a body product, I would steer clear as you're basically paying for fragrance (unless you want that). Skin looks great when it is hydrated. Period. And skin on your face is much more delicate than that on your body, so you won't need so many fancy ingredients to see results.
The Couturist Recommends: Kiehl's Creme de Corps, Weleda Wild Rose Body Oil
The Product: LUXURY SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER
The Claim: These promise bounce, shine and better-than-ever hair, but is the price tag really in proportion to the efficacy?
The Verdict: Not necessarily! For shampoos, the main concern is choosing a sulfate-free formula, especially anything that benefits the scalp in order to ensure a clean base for conditioner to absorb properly. An all-natural conditioner (also sulfate free) will help re-hydrate your freshly cleansed scalp. Stick to all-natural brands for the shiniest hair.
The Couturist Recommends: Aveda Hair Care, Pureology Hair Care
The Product: HAIR MASQUES
The Claim: Hair masques, also known as deep conditioners, are bi-weekly treatments that boost moisture, shine and volume while nurturing your hair with an extra dose of softness.
The Verdict: A fun, splurge item but not necessary. In fact, one of the most effective ways to DIY a hair masque is to leave your normal conditioner in for 20 minutes. I've found that it is more the length of time you let your hair soak in the moisture than the specific ingredients a product contains.
The Couturist Recommends: Aveda Hair Care, Pureology Hair Care
The Product: STYLING PRODUCTS (MOUSSE, BLOW DRY CREAM)
The Claim: Styling products claim to change your texture in order to achieve a desired look. Some popular products include sea-salt spray, volumizing mousse and blow dry cream.
The Verdict: Spend here!!! In terms of styling products, you get what you pay for. High end products do offer smoother more effective formulas that promote all-day hold.
The Couturist Recommends: Bumble and bumble surf spray, Living Proof Thickening Mousse
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