Inexpensive shampoos and conditioners

Hello Grace,

While I, too, have straight hair, it is not fine nor have I had a perm in a gazillion years, so I'm not sure if I can offer product ideas based on your hair type.

Some users you'll notice won't use products with certain ingredients, having seen it on a list or by personal use opinion. This is where everyone differs. I can use products with Laureth Sulfate, but have issues with Lauryl Sulfates unless a cone is involved. Yep, I am a hair type that prefers a cone product.

Here is an example. When using Kenra; which is a bit spendy, my hair cannot appreciate the sulfates in the shampoo, so instead, I use Aussie Moist Shampoo (this product contains laurly AND laureth but includes a dimethicone) combined with the conditioner of Kenra.

When going through a budget crunch, my hair does well with Aussie Moist Shampoo and Suave Aloe Vera. I can use the more inexpensive lines provided I choose a good combination of products. For me, using the shampoo and conditioner from one particular company does not always work. Don't let anyone scare you into thinking you must use both to achieve optimum quality, I've been a product swapper for years and have never had problems other than banning one to the 'don't do that again' list.

It actually depends on your hair and type. Try to think of products you've used in the past that worked better, and perhaps give them another try. Also, don't switch products so often that you cannot recognize or remember their effect on your hair.

Karen Marie

I think L'oreal Vive and Garnier Fructis have sodium laureth not lauryl.
Here are some shampoos and conditioners under $6.00.
Shampoos: Australian Organics $4.99. Got2Be $5.49. Nature's Gate $5.59.
Conditioners: Herbal Essences $3.49.  Suave Professionals $1.99. Pantene Pro-V $4.29

Thanks. I notice that Herbal Essences has both sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate with the lauryl sulfate listed ofter the laureth sulfate.

The idea of spending an afternoon in a store reading shampoo bottles was a bit overwhelming. Although in our unusual 90 degree heat and humidity, air conditioning is appealing...

Clairol Herbal Essences for dry/permed hair. Now that I'm half permed/half virgin hair, I'm not sure I need that formula.

I'm debating trying a different shampoo and conditioner to see if that will make a difference for my hair. However, price is an issue for me. I'm finding the hair care aisle a little overwhelming with choices, so wondered if anyone had suggestions.

My hair is basically straight, with about six inches of old perm at the bottom, and somewhat on the fine side. I only use shampoo every fourth day and CO every other day. It is softer, but still needs some work. I also do an ACV rinse every couple weeks, which helps greatly.