John Frieda Miraculous Recovery Masque €7.99
Far from being "miraculous", this was quite disappointing. My hair was still fluffy and frizzy at the ends and looked the same as when I use my normal conditioner. It is lightweight, though, and doesn't leave any oily slick on the roots. It also smells like professional salon products, which is nice. Overall, however, I would definitely go for the Les Karités if you're looking for a cheaper alternative to the professional products.
Olaplex €38
This treatment repairs broken bonds in the fibre of the hair caused by colouring and heated tools. It reconnects the bonds, giving hair elasticity and strength. Apply these at-home treatments to damp hair before shampoo and conditioner to maintain the process between salon visits.
Kérastase Nutritive Crème Magistrale €36
This is somewhere between a conditioning mask and a serum. The Nutritive range is aimed at dry hair and claims to cater for both fine and thick locks. A recent relaunch of the range has introduced this leave-in conditioner, designed for severely dried-out hair. You apply the balm to towel-dried hair and style as normal. It returns very damaged hair back to its former glory, making it supple and shiny again.
Pureology Colour Fanatic mask €30
The Pureology brand uses only natural, vegan ingredients and has just been introduced to Peter Mark salons nationwide. The brand prides itself on its anti-fade complex, which includes UVA sunscreens and vitamins C and E, helping to maintain hair colour. This multitasking mask has many benefits for all kinds of hair: it restores hydration, protects against heat damage, reduces static and controls frizz. A great all-rounder for those who are fond of the hair dye.
Kérastase Soleil Masque UV Défense Active €36.45
It is easy to forget about protecting your hair from the sun, but believe me, it's worth it. It is especially important on foreign holidays where the heat is stronger and you are in and out of chlorine-filled pools and salty beaches. But if – like me – you are an act-now- think-later person and already have brittle, frazzled hair from the sun, this mask should help undo some of the damage. It will strengthen and improve the surface of the hair and protect it from UV rays.
NIAMH LOVES . . .
Les Karités Shea Butter Hair Mask €1.99
Remember that little yellow sachet that screamed "buy me, buy me!" when you were queuing up in the pharmacy to pay for your vitamin C? It was probably this, an impulse buy that actually proves its worth. It left my hair bouncy and shiny, giving a real lift to the roots. The shea butter sinks in and leaves the hairy moisturised and not fuzzy or frizzy. I like to use it the night before special occasions to give my hair that little bit of bounce.
