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And the Official 5th Annual TotalBeauty.com Winners Are...
For months, we powdered, dabbed and scrubbed our way through thousands of beauty products -- all to find the best new makeup, face, body and hair products to hit the shelves this past year. While we narrowed down our favorites to name this year's Editors' Picks, we invited you -- our amazing readers and tireless beauty sleuthers -- to vote for your true blue beauty staples for our Readers' Choice award. Now it's (finally!) time to present the best of the best and name the 2014 winner. Here they are below -- our (and soon-to-be your) newest beauty product obsessions.
Blow Dryer
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Editors' Pick
Harry Josh Pro Tools 2000 Pro Dryer
This chic mint-green dryer might be pricey, but it packs a wallop of drying power in a superlight, supercompact package.
Readers' Choice
I am SO thrilled that I bit the bullet and purchased this hair dryer. I was hesitant because of the price tag but I have battled with LONG drying time my whole life. The first time I used it I set the timer on my phone. My whole head was dry in LESS than five minutes! I also noticed that my hair is shinier. So happy with this purchase!
Editors' Pick Honorable Mention
This lightweight wonder with multiple nozzles dries hair quickly, leaving it shiny and (surprise!) healthy-looking.
Readers' Choice Honorable Mention
Harry Josh Pro Tools 2000 Pro Dryer
This dryer was an investment, but it was a good investment! There are so many reasons why I love this dryer. It uses less energy, it has magnificent power and it cuts down my drying time, which is great for me and the health of my hair. The less time spent under the heat, the better. I love the ion button to keep frizz under control and the cool shot button to finish off the look. Not only does it do a great job, but it looks good doing it! So cute and small, it's like an accessory for your bathroom.
Breakthrough Product
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Editors' Pick
Pureology Colour Fanatic Multi-Tasking Hair Beautifier
Part lightweight shine spray, part conditioner, part heat-protectant spray, this is the ultimate multitasker, smoothing even the most fried strands with a light, pleasing scent.
Readers' Choice
I love this brush. I have long, fine, straight hair that tangles. I also have a very tender scalp and this brushes through easily and doesn't hurt! Love it!
Editors' Pick Honorable Mention
Living Proof Perfect Hair Day 5-in-1 Styling Treatment
Living Proof is at the forefront of hairstyling technology. Exhibit A: This insanely impressive treatment, whose patented molecules strengthen, soften and add body.
Readers' Choice Honorable Mention
BaByliss PRO MiraCurl Professional Curl Machine
I have never been able to do curls with a regular curling iron. The Miracurl is awesome. Easy to use and excellent results. The curls will last long too... which is a plus. I am very pleased with the results!
Brush / Comb
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Editors' Pick
This cult shower detangling brush works through the most gnarled strands -- and even hair extensions -- with minimal shedding.
Readers' Choice
I love, love, LOVE this hair brush. It comes in a bunch of fun colors, and is very durable for having such flexible and thin bristles. This Wet Brush makes brushing my hair much more pleasant. I have tried round brushes, combs, as well as every detangler under the sun, but nothing has helped tame my mane except for the Wet Brush! It takes about three strokes to get some of the biggest knots out. It is amazing and I highly recommend this brush to everyone I talk to! I can't go without this brush!
Editors' Pick Honorable Mention
EcoTools Quick Volume Styler Hair Brush
A stylish-looking, inexpensive brush made with sustainable materials. This brush's wide vents make it perfect for an at-home blowout.
Readers' Choice Honorable Mention
Mason Pearson Popular Bristle & Nylon Brush
I have wanted one of these brushes for about a year, but was afraid to spend so much on a brush. I ordered the brush and was AMAZED at the difference in my hair. It is soft, supple, much stronger and my split ends even look better. This brush has truly saved my hair. It is hands down the best money I've ever spent on myself.
Conditioner
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Editors' Pick
Neutrogena Triple Repair Fortifying Conditioner
Neutrogena's affordable conditioner leaves hair soft, strong and less prone to breakage.
Readers' Choice
Matrix Biolage SmoothProof Conditioner
I'm one of those people who just have to have conditioner. Without it, my hair is noticeably more frizzy and tangled. This makes my hair super manageable, soft and smooth. Plus, it has a pleasant scent that isn't too in your face.
Editors' Pick Honorable Mention
Nexxus Hydra-Light Weightless Moisture Conditioner
This nutrient-rich conditioner is infused with luxurious coconut oil to hydrate but feels as light as air.
Readers' Choice Honorable Mention
Suave Professionals Keratin Infusion Smoothing Conditioner
This conditioner is really great for the money you pay (only $3). You can't beat that! It has a decently thick formula, and smells good, nothing overwhelming. The actual results are great! Leaves hair soft, detangled, and most importantly, helps with the frizz. Recommended and I'd buy it again!
Curling Tool
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Editors' Pick
Sultra The Bombshell 1.5 Inch Curling Rod
Bombshell, indeed: This substantial rod leaves hair looking like you just got a pricey salon blowout.
Readers' Choice
Hot Tools 1" Professional Spring Iron for Full Curls and Waves
These gold curling irons really are the best. They heat up so fast, create great curls and last forever. I have the 1" and 1 1/2" barrel curling irons and I've had them for over 5 years. I have not regretted my purchase, and should they ever die, I would totally repurchase. In addition to being hardworking, great curling irons, the springs are stiff (in a good way) and the smooth barrels don't pull hair. I love them.
Editors' Pick Honorable Mention
T3 BodyWaver 1.75-inch Professional Styling Iron
This curling iron's 1 3/4-inch barrel creates ginormous, babe-ly waves, and the hollow design makes it surprisingly lightweight.
Readers' Choice Honorable Mention
Remington T-Studio Pearl Ceramic Professional Styling Wand
I was skeptical about buying this wand because I was afraid it wouldn't work on my hair. This completely changed after I got my hands on this baby! Wow!!! Not only does it leave beautifully defined curls but they last all day and into the next. I absolutely recommend this wand to anyone.
Deep Conditioner
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Editors' Pick
John Frieda Full Repair Hydrate + Rescue Deep Conditioner
This nourishing mask makes hair feel as soft and new as a baby's after just one use.
Readers' Choice
I LOVE this product, and it actually works in just three minutes! I color my hair and blow dry and straighten it just about every day so it goes through a lot and this deep conditioner makes it feel soft and healthy in just three minutes (I can't get over that part)!
Editors' Pick Honorable Mention
Clear Scalp & Hair Beauty Therapy Damage & Color Repair Deep Nourishing Treatment Mask
Heat and environmental irritants don't stand a chance against the protective and reparative powers of this nutrient-rich scalp and end treatment.
Readers' Choice Honorable Mention
Moroccanoil Moisture Repair Conditioner
THIS IS THE BEST CONDITIONER YOU WILL EVER BUY! I live in Houston, Texas where the humidity is always high. My dry/frizzy/wavy hair is obviously not ideal for this weather and finding a shampoo and conditioner combo that will tame my hair in any scenario has not been an easy task. After using the Moisture Repair Conditioner my hair is silky, smooth and healthy whether I straighten it or let it air dry and be wavy! I'm in love!
Dry Shampoo
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Editors' Pick
Herbal Essences Naked Volume Dry Shampoo
With a unique citrus-mint scent, this paraben- and dye-free spray revives hair without robbing it of shine or leaving chalky residue.
Readers' Choice
I wash my hair every other day and use a dry shampoo on the days in between. This is the BEST I've tried and I've tried quite a few. It gets rid of the oil without leaving anything from the spray behind. Plus, the price point is reasonable for the effectiveness.
Editors' Pick Honorable Mention
Vidal Sassoon Pro Series Colorfinity Dry Shampoo Rich Darks
This genius dry shampoo protects against color fading, and the tinted formula doubles as a quick cover-up for grown-out roots.
Readers' Choice Honorable Mention
Klorane Dry Shampoo With Oat Milk
This is definitely my favorite dry shampoo I've tried. Not only does it get rid of any greasiness but I feel like it really does make my hair look as if I just showered and blow dried. It seems to add a little volume which is always a plus!
Gel
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Editors' Pick
Matrix Biolage Agave Nectar Control Gel
Think that all gels leave hair a crunchy mess? Think again. This gives hair hold while leaving it soft and manageable.
Readers' Choice
Garnier Fructis Style Curl Sculpting Cream-Gel
Before using this my hair would always get poofy and frizzy after showering and I hated it. But once I used this on my wet hair and let it dry, BAM! Instant beach waves.
Editors' Pick Honorable Mention
This superstrong pomade holds hair firmly in place without making it feel stiff or tacky.
Readers' Choice Honorable Mention
Ouidad Climate Control Heat & Humidity Gel
This product is SO amazing. My hair isn't super curly (just a little wave to it), but I love using this gel for frizz control. It's very silky and a little goes a long way. It doesn't leave your hair crispy (yay!) or greasy. It really helps to make it silky and smooth-looking. If the price were a little lower I would have given it a 10! Highly recommend if you don't mind the investment.
Hair Color
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Editors' Pick
Clairol Expert Collection with Pantene AgeDefy
In addition to covering grays, this conditioning dye functions as an anti-aging serum for hair, with technologies that fight the signs of older, lackluster strands.
Readers' Choice
eSalon Made for You Custom Hair Color
This is THE BEST hair color I have ever used. The color is blonde, and it made my hair soft and full. It gives your hair great color. I gave it a 10 because it is a really good product, and if you don't mind spending the money for it, I recommend it.
Editors' Pick Honorable Mention
John Frieda Colour Refreshing Gloss
A weekly treatment that boosts hair's hue and shine, this is at-home color maintenance that anyone can do.
Readers' Choice Honorable Mention
L'Oréal Paris Excellence Creme
I have been dying my hair for four years now, and, I am in love with this product. My hair is soft and EXACTLY like the color on the box. I love this color! If my friend asked me what kind of dye to get, I would say L'Oreal Excellence Creme without a second thought!
Hair Gadget
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Editors' Pick
Goody Athletique Zipper Storage Headband
Who'd have thought you could use your headband for storage? This moisture-wicking wrap has a small zippered pouch for holding odds and ends (a house key, lip balm) under hair while you work out.
Readers' Choice
Goody Mosaic Perfect Wrap Curved Bobby Pins
I LOVE these curved bobby pins. I am Asian and have VERY thick, coarse and long black hair. It would take over an entire pack of regular bobby pins to make my hair stay up in a bun. It takes only FOUR of these wonderful pins.
Editors' Pick Honorable Mention
InStyler Wet 2 Dry Rotating Iron
Get a blowout without the arm workout. This multitasking tool allows you to dry while straightening or curling hair.
Readers' Choice Honorable Mention
Revlon Perfect Heat Hot Air Styler and Dryer Brush with Tourmaline Ceramic
This has become my savior!!! I never thought that I would be one of those people who would say that I would like an all-in-one heating appliance, but I have jumped ship from my very reliable and expensive flat iron. This does a magnificent job. I find that I can curl the bottom portion of my hair with just a slight twist of the wrist. Plus, it has an ion button for those of us who cringe at the sight of FRIZZ. I highly recommend this.
Hair Oil
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Editors' Pick
Aveda Dry Remedy Daily Moisturizing Oil
Practically weightless, Aveda's product adds moisture and shine minus grease. It's the perfect treatment pre-blowout or for split ends.
Readers' Choice
Moroccanoil Treatment Original
Most of us usually cringe at the thought of putting any oil in our hair. But Moroccanoil is Holy Grail-worthy in the haircare department. It quickly absorbs into the hair and doesn't hang out and make my hair lifeless and weighed down. It's a perfect weapon against the battles I wage with my flat iron. While it is a little on the pricier side, a little goes a long way. I will probably have this same bottle for a very, very long time.
Editors' Pick Honorable Mention
Dove Pure Care Dry Oil Nourishing Treatment with African Macadamia Oil
An amazing dry formulation that you won't feel at all, it gives hair a silky, weightless feel. The pretty packaging simply seals the deal.
Readers' Choice Honorable Mention
L'Oréal Professionnel Mythic Oil Nourishing Oil
A stylist put this in my hair when I got my haircut. The cut itself wasn't that grand, but MAN my hair felt and smelled sooooooo good!!! I went home and flat ironed my naturally wavy hair straight and I couldn't keep my hands off my hair! It's pricey stuff but I went out and bought some anyways, as it makes my hair-straightening experiences really fabulous.
Hairspray
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Editors' Pick
L'Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle Lock It Weather Control Hairspray
Its scent has editors divided, but this hairspray is ridiculously strong stuff, holding hair in place even in drizzly weather.
Readers' Choice
Tresemme Thermal Creations Protective Spray Heat Tamer
This product is incredible and leaves my hair soft, smooth and shiny ... even after I terrorize it for 15 minutes with my hair dryer! I don't need to use anything else. I simply spray it on and dry. Usually after drying, my hair is roughed up, dry and puffy, but this product leaves my hair smooth, shiny and so soft! I love this product and won't ever be without it!
Editors' Pick Honorable Mention
Sexy Hair Big Sexy Hair Get Layered Flash Dry Thickening Spray
With "flash-dry" technology, Big Sexy Hair's nonsticky formula gives layered hair major body and hold.
Readers' Choice Honorable Mention
Nexxus Comb Thru Touchable Hold Finishing Mist
This is my go-to hairspray. It's not crunchy, holds well and really leaves hair feeling natural. I try others sometimes, but always come back to this.
Leave-In Conditioner
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Editors' Pick
Kérastase Initialiste Advanced Scalp and Hair Concentrate
A little goes a long way with this amazingly softening, split-end-concealing treatment -- so impressive that it motivated two vacationing editors to squeeze it into their teeny-tiny TSA-approved liquids bags.
Readers' Choice
It's a 10 Miracle Leave-In Conditioner Spray Product
I love this leave-in conditioner. It conditions my hair, leaving it shiny, and nourished, not greasy. It does not weigh down the hair and has a built-in heat protectant. You just spray it on, comb it out and you're good to go and safe to heat style!! I would totally recommend to everyone.
Editors' Pick Honorable Mention
Nexxus Hydra-Light Weightless Moisture Leave-In Conditioning Foam
While its softening effects weren't immediate, this leave-in product makes hair silky after drying and eliminates tangles without leaving behind greasy residue.
Readers' Choice Honorable Mention
This product made my damaged hair soft and silky. It smoothed the flyaways without weighing it down. A little bit goes a long way, so even a small bottle will last for a long time. I will definitely be using this product regularly in the future.
Mousse
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Editors' Pick
Oribe Grandiose Hair Plumping Mousse
Oribe's volumizing mousse is king of the new class of hair mousses that leaves hair full, soft and silky.
Readers' Choice
Tresemmé Thermal Creations Volumizing Mousse
No flaws in this product whatsoever!! It is perfect!! This mousse is not too thick and sticky like most I have seen on the market. The application is extremely easy and really fun to put on. It gives you plenty (and I mean PLENTY) of va-va-volume. The mousse creates sort of an invisible lifting barrier on your roots. It lifts your hair to the sky and stays there for the whole entire day!
Editors' Pick Honorable Mention
Optimum Salon Haircare Amla Legend Lustrous Body Blow Dry Mousse
This oil-infused mousse makes hair softer, not stiffer, while holding hair firmly in place.
Readers' Choice Honorable Mention
Herbal Essences Body Envy Volumizing Mousse
Not only does this smell heavenly (like the rest of the products in the Herbal Essences line) but it actually did what was promised -- it volumized my hair and gave it nice body! I didn't find it to be crunchy feeling at all. I apply a little less than a palm-full (and let me just tell you, I have SUPER THICK, super curly hair) and it's the perfect amount. And one more bonus, the price is definitely right for this mousse: $3.49 at any drugstore. Buy it girls, you'll love it!!
Pomade
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Editors' Pick
This adds defined, piece-y texture and hold but (shocker!) shampoos out easily. Quite simply, we're in love.
Readers' Choice
Because of Bed Head Manipulator, I love my curly hair! I have tried almost every product to get the perfect curls and this alone is the bomb. You only need to use about a nickel-sized dollop for medium-to-long hair. I put it on when my hair is still wet, no blow dry and get perfect curls. The little jar lasts me about a month and a half with everyday usage. So it is a great buy in my book!
Editors' Pick Honorable Mention
Tigi Bed Head Up Front Rocking Gel-Pomade
Get funky, defined rock-star texture with this gel-pomade that even your guy will want to steal.
Readers' Choice Honorable Mention
Most pomades are a little heavier. This one (since it's foaming) is excellent! It doesn't weigh the hair down making it feel sticky or tacky. It goes on smoothly and adds shine. Perfect for those who like that polished, put-together look, and wonderful for those who just want a little control to tame frizzies.
Scalp Treatment
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Editors' Pick
Dr. Dennis Gross Root Resilience Anti-Aging Scalp Serum
First, our faces and now, our scalps: We didn't think we needed a dermatologist-created anti-aging treatment for our scalp -- until this came along.
Readers' Choice
Pantene AgeDefy Advanced Thickening Treatment
I just replaced my husband's usual shampoo and conditioner in the shower with this and after his first use he said, "OK, what's the new stuff you've got me using? Look how much better my hair looks!" Now that he's been using them and the serum daily for a couple of weeks he's even happier with how it's working and I have to agree that his hair actually looks noticeably healthier and thicker! If that's not a glowing recommendation, I don't know what is!
Editors' Pick Honorable Mention
Psssst! Clarify & Shine Scalp Treatment
This cuts through product build-up to reveal a healthier scalp and shiny, squeaky-clean strands.
Readers' Choice Honorable Mention
Nioxin Thinning Hair System Kit System 1
I was sick a while back and was losing my hair to the point that you could see my scalp. It was recommended that I use Nioxin. It really helped. I got back a full head of hair and now my hair stylist cannot believe how much I have.
Shampoo
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Editors' Pick
Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Shampoo
This dirt- and oil-repelling, volumizing shampoo left us begging for more. Quite simply, this breakthrough product is the best shampoo we've tried in years.
Readers' Choice
Dove Anti-Frizz Oil Therapy Shampoo
Even with thick, dry hair this shampoo cleaned and moisturized my waves. Fabulous. I hadn't yet even purchased the conditioner and my hair was left soft and frizz-free. Awesome for a drugstore purchase.
Editors' Pick Honorable Mention
L'Oréal Professionnel Mythic Oil Shampoo
Infused with argan, avocado, grapeseed and cottonseed oils, this gentle, luxurious-smelling shampoo has profound moisturizing benefits that can be felt as soon as you work it into a lather.
Readers' Choice Honorable Mention
Pantene Pro-V Normal-Thick Hair Solutions Smooth Shampoo
This product rocks! I have super thick hair, and now I can let my hair dry naturally, without worrying about it smelling unclean or mildewy. It also helps a lot with the frizz. I don't even have to use a flat iron to tame flyaways.
Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair
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Editors' Pick
Vidal Sassoon Pro Series Color Finity Shampoo
This shampoo's advanced formula seals off strands to protect against the color-fading oxidation process.
Readers' Choice
By far the best shampoo I've ever used. That's right, ever. I've never been able to style my hair using only a blow dryer (and no straightener). Now I can! My hair is so unbelievably smooth! Not only that, but I feel better knowing the ingredients are natural, vegan and actually good for my hair (and body).
Editors' Pick Honorable Mention
L'Oréal Paris Advanced Haircare Color Vibrancy Nourishing Shampoo
Antioxidants and UV protectants keep color-treated hair vibrant until your next trip to the salon.
Readers' Choice Honorable Mention
Very nice shampoo for people who color their hair and for those who need a little moisture. The shampoo was nice and rich and I loved how nicely it lathered in my hair so easily. There really isn't a strong smell to this product but it leaves a light fresh soap scent in my hair. Great shampoo!
Shine Enhancer
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Editors' Pick
Redken Diamond Oil Shatterproof Shine Intense
A dime-size amount of this serum is all it takes to get a head full of seriously shiny, supermodel-esque hair.
Readers' Choice
Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum
This is a lifesaver. My damaged hair looks so shiny and radiant after I use this product. Initially, my mother had bought this and let me try it. I was instantly in love. The smell is so fresh, yet subtle and not overbearing so it won't conflict with any perfume you may be wearing. It does last a long time, and has such a smooth feel to it. It's honestly the best product of this category that I've tried.
Editors' Pick Honorable Mention
Matrix Total Results Blonde Care Flash Filler Sheer Mist
This mist does what the bottle promises, making hair gleam-y, soft and smooth with just a few spritzes.
Readers' Choice Honorable Mention
Aveda Brilliant Emollient Finishing Gloss
I love this product. The shine is awesome. I once accompanied fifth graders to a school performance at a college. When the performance was over, many of the girls came up to me saying that my hair was shining even in the dark! I only used a dime-sized amount. That's enough to last until the next flat ironing. Love it!
Straightening Iron
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Editors' Pick
Ferrum Professional Styler by Ladies & Gents
With tourmaline- and fabric-coated plates, this flat iron does an admirable job of smoothing and straightening while protecting hair from burning and breakage.
Readers' Choice
CHI Original 1" Ceramic Hairstyling Iron
I have had my CHI for probably 10 years now, no joke! I use it on a daily basis and have had zero issues with it. It gets hot super fast, does a great job, and doesn't fry my hair. If, heaven forbid, it ever does break, I will immediately replace it with another one. Cheapy brands are no match!
Editors' Pick Honorable Mention
Sexy Hair Ultimate Control Professional Flat Iron
Ceramic/titanium plates smooth hair without requiring multiple passes, and the digital temperature display is a breeze to read.
Readers' Choice Honorable Mention
Absolutely LOVE this hair straightener. I have fine, naturally curly hair and this straightener gets my hair pin-straight. It heats up quickly, has an automatic shut off and cleans very easily. It doesn't fry your hair or give you that obvious 'I straightened my hair" look. Works on very short hair to very long hair, fine hair to extremely thick hair. I would recommend this everyone.
Styling Cream
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Editors' Pick
Tresemmé 7 Day Heat Activated Treatment
A DIY smoothing system that gets darn close to mimicking the results of a salon keratin treatment.
Readers' Choice
Moroccanoil Hydrating Styling Cream
I'm a huge fan of the Moroccanoil line, and this may just be my favorite product of them all. Just a little of this applied before blow drying makes an enormous difference in the look and feel of my long, color-treated hair. It's silky smooth for the first time in many years! You need only a small amount of the cream, so a bottle will last a long time. Love, love, love this!!!
Editors' Pick Honorable Mention
Marc Anthony Oil of Morocco Argan Oil 3 Day Smooth Perfect Blow Dry Smoothing Cream
This is an awesome mash-up of some of the best hair-smoothing ingredients: shea butter, argan and olive oils, vitamin E and keratin.
Readers' Choice Honorable Mention
Fekkai Brilliant Glossing Crème
I absolutely LOVE this product!! From the very first time I used it, my hair almost instantly felt softer and looked shinier. I have very thick, naturally curly hair and it's hard to find a product that will give me shine, softness and take away any flyaways and/or frizzies. This product delivers it all!! I can't go a day without using this stuff!
Texturizer
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Editors' Pick
Blow Pro Textstyle Dry Texture Spray
A texturizer and dry shampoo in one, this product adds volume and cool piecey-ness for bed head with body.
Readers' Choice
Sexy Hair Big Sexy Hair Flip It Over Texture Spray
This stuff gives fine, flat hair the boost it needs. Provides great definition and amazing texture! It also gives you that second day hair look without looking greasy and gross. Perfect for long hair with shorter layers or for someone looking for that wild look!
Editors' Pick Honorable Mention
Balmain Hair Texturizing Salt Spray
This glamorously packaged texturizing spray does the job, giving us cool-French-girl hair in a flash.
Readers' Choice Honorable Mention
Gives you great "just surfed and lounged at the beach like a goddess" hair. Smells great and has never made my hair sticky or crunchy. Use small amounts until you get the desired effect.
