When I did a “Canada AM” spot earlier this year to talk about drugstore hair solutions on behalf of Pantene, a very rude man I don’t even know sent me a message on Facebook to tell me that, as an expert in professional hair care (he’s a salesperson), he wouldn’t wash his floors with drugstore hair products. Aside from a suspicion that shampoo and conditioner probably isn’t great for floors, I pointed out the fact that inexpensive hair care can deliver far more than one might expect for the reasonable price tag.
But are pricey salon products are better than wallet-friendly brands? Some are, yes. However, dismissing the surprising quality you’ll find on your drugstore shelves these days could cost you pretty pennies. Take the EverPure Sulfate-Free Color Care line from L’Oréal Paris, for example. Pro-stylists recommend sulfate-reduced or sulfate-free shampoos post-dye because they’re generally more gentle on colour. Enriched with natural botanicals, EverPure fits the effective bill at $10.99 for shampoos and conditioners and $12.99 for treatment masks.
EverPure didn’t make the Homemakers online piece because pricing hits at just above $10, but it was worth the mention here (I tried and liked the Moisture shampoo and conditioner for my wavy, dry-ish ’do). For the under-$10 list, visit Homemakers.com.
L’Oréal Paris EverPure Color Care is available at drugstores and mass retailers. Image courtesy of L’Oréal Paris.
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Hmmm… I’ve been curious about this line. As someone who alternates between drugstore brands and salon/pro ones I agree that paying more doesn’t always mean you are getting a better product. There are plenty of fantastic drugstore brand shampoos and conditioners.
At bare minimum, you can alternate between your pricey bottles from the salon and your less expensive ones at the drugstore for great hair while paying less.
I like the idea of having “treat” products, so your alternate days are something to look forward to. Nice.
I try all the different shampoos but I like Johnson’s Baby shampoo best. It never makes my hair feel dry. I haven’t used the conditioner in awhile I should try that too. I liked the John Frieda brand for Brunettes, it smells nice but costs more than my Johnson’s who always make coupons available at save.ca. I just don’t see the sense in spending a big whack of money on a salon/pro line.
I’ve found success from both sides of the shopping tracks. As well as liking this EverPure stuff, I’m really pleased with the Herbal Essences Tousle Me Softly as well as a Nexxus duo I’m using right now. At the salon level, I really, really like Joico’s new Colour Therapy line, although I don’t colour — it makes my hair feel so soft.
Really, the choices come down to what your hair needs, what your wallet can afford, and what your lifestyle can handle. All good.