If you yearn for silky smooth hair, read on - we've tracked down the best treatments and products to transform your mane, from the ultra luxurious to the budget-friendly.
The Hair-Taming System, from $250, by Global Keratin, 1300 402 064
What is it? An in-salon application of the protein Juvexin keratin aims to leave hair more manageable, softer and smoother. The hair is washed with a clarifying shampoo to open cuticles, then the keratin solution applied and the locks blow-dried and ironed straight. Hair can’t be washed for 48 hours to allow the keratin to penetrate. Hair elastics and tucking behind the ears during this period are also not allowed as this may create kinks. The treatment contains no formaldehyde and each treatment lasts for up to four months, though repeated exposure to salt water can lessen its efficacy.
Our tester says: “The process only takes a couple of hours and the results are staggering. After my first wash at home, my normally wavy, frizzy, nightmare hair air-dried into smooth, manageable waves that needed only the quickest kiss with the straightener to smooth the upper layers. Even better, it lasted. And lasted. Sure, it’s not cheap, but when I think of the angst I saved, it’s an investment.”
Action 2 Phases, $98, by La Biosthetique, 1300 554 069
What is it? A two-step, 25-minute conditioning treatment to help repair brittle, dry and damaged hair from the inside out. After shampooing, an organic blend of wheat molecules and magnesium is sprayed on hair to improve elasticity and repair hair’s inner fibre structure. Next, a mask, containing cactus, silk and botanical extracts is applied to help strengthen hair’s outer cuticle.
Our tester says: “This left my hair incredibly soft – almost too soft to be able to do anything with. If hair is extremely damaged, this may be the right treatment for you, otherwise, it may err more on the repairing side rather than smoothing.”
Smooth Down Shot, from $20, by Redken, 1300 650 170
What is it? This two-step, 20-minute in-salon system – a concentrated “shot” and a spray treatment – comprises macadamia oil to help replenish and nourish, candelilla wax to smooth and refiners for a humidity-defying, silky finish.
Our tester says: “My hair (which was in bad shape after a summer by the sea) was noticeably softer and less tangled afterwards. It looked fantastic after I left the salon. The next day, after a wash and wear, my hair still felt amazing to touch. While there was still a little frizz, the curl looked much better.”
Always Smooth Shampoo and Conditioner, $7.99 each, by Pantene, 1800 028 280
What is it? The lightweight shampoo and conditioner work together to help lock in natural moisture and seal out humidity.
Our tester says: “I definitely noticed a change in the texture of my hair after blow-drying – the overall manageability improved and my hair was not so fluffy.”