Discover the Best Hair Products for Stunning Results

This guide turns awards and editor testing into clear picks you can use today. We distill insights from Harper’s Bazaar’s Hair Awards, Allure’s 2025 winners, and hands-on editor labs to show what truly delivers on shine, volume, and frizz control.

Celebrity hairstylists like Chris Appleton note a shift back to styled finishes that look polished but never heavy. Justine Marjan points out people are open to slightly higher-maintenance routines for real results.

Our testing lens compares touchability, scent, texture, and volume across brands such as Prose, OUAI, Act + Acre, and Hairstory. Each section maps the right shampoo and conditioner order, plus targeted add-ons, so your hair feels like its best self whether you want waves, curls, or sleek shine.

Key Takeaways

• We translate awards and editor tests into easy shopping guidance by hair type.
• Expect formulas that block frizz and add mirrorlike shine without weight.
• Testing focused on touchability, scent, texture, and volume for apples-to-apples notes.
• Coverage ranges from drugstore to salon brands for U.S. shoppers.
• Each pick includes the right routine order so results show up day after day.

How We Chose the Winners: Testing Criteria, Hair Types, and Real-World Results

We tied editorial priorities to lab metrics to judge outcomes that matter every day. Our approach defines “results” as a balanced mix of shine, frizz control, lasting volume, and improved long-term hair health. Winners had to deliver more than a momentary boost.

What “results” means

Results include mirrorlike shine, controlled frizz, resilient volume, and stronger strands over time. We weigh durability between washes and the grease factor so volume scores reflect real wear.

Testing pillars from editorial labs

We scored touchability, scent, texture, and volume—pillars adapted from TQE editor testing. Prose led with 10/10 across each pillar. OUAI scored 9/10, Hairstory 8.25/10, and Act + Acre 6.75/10.

System scoring and scalp notes

When a shampoo conditioner duo works as a set, we score the system together to capture synergy. Scalp health is a key metric: some formulas clear build-up fast, others need an acclimation period before peak performance.

“Subtle scents and smooth texture made daily wear feel effortless.”

We map strengths to type—from fine to kinky and curls to color-treated—so picks reflect real-world needs and tester feedback.

Best Hair Products: Editor-Backed Picks by Need and Hair Type

Editors match award-winning formulas to common concerns so you can quickly find the right pick for your type.

Quick match: fine, dry, damaged, color-treated, curly, kinky, scalp-prone

Use this grid to route your routine. For fine strands, John Frieda UltraFiller+ gives lightweight thickness without limpness. Dry hair benefits from Herbal Essences Honey Daily Moisture to restore softness while keeping volume.

Damaged hair needs Kérastase Première Bain/Fondant to combat mineral build-up and strengthen fragile ends. Color-treated routines should lean on Biolage Color Last to extend tone and gloss—pair with a weekly tone-maintenance step like the purple duo milk_shake Icy Blond for brass control. Learn more about color maintenance color maintenance.

Curly and kinky types thrive with Pattern Hydration Shampoo and Creme of Nature Argan Oil Sulfate-Free for slip and definition. Scalp-prone readers will see clearer roots using Act + Acre clarifiers or Prose-customized clarifying sequences.

Award cues: How industry accolades inform our shortlist

Awards validate performance and editors add texture notes: OUAI leans salon-sleek, Hairstory simplifies routines, and Prose excels when used as a full system. Choose a duo when the label notes system synergy for best results.

Shampoo & Conditioner Winners by Hair Type (Awarded and Tested)

Match your hair type to these editor-tested shampoo and conditioner duos for targeted results.

Fine

John Frieda UltraFiller+ uses panthenol, biotin, and hyaluronic acid to cleanse without weight. It builds deceptive fullness and leaves strands soft and touchable. Pair with the matching conditioner to keep volume through the day.

Dry

Herbal Essences Honey Daily Moisture relies on camellia oil to mimic sebum and reduce frizz. It restores softness after each wash and sets a smoother base for styling.

Damaged

Kérastase Première follows a two-step decalcifying and reparative routine. Citric acid clears hard-water film so glycine and repair agents reach fragile ends, improving combability over weeks.

Color-treated

Biolage Color Last leans on soybean oil and stearic acid to lock tone and add gloss. Use the duo to stretch time between salon visits while keeping strands conditioned.

Curly

Pattern Hydration Shampoo hydrates with aloe, honey, shea, and coconut oil. It cleans without tangling and preserves curl spring for defined shape.

Kinky

Creme of Nature Argan Oil Sulfate-Free gently lathers without sulfates, mineral oil, or petrolatum. The argan oil-driven formula keeps Type 3–4 textures pliable and healthy-feeling.

Purple duo pick

milk_shake Icy Blond uses deep purple pigments plus milk proteins to neutralize brass while conditioning. Use the purple duo every few weeks to avoid over-toning or dryness.

• Usage cue: Pair each shampoo with its awarded conditioner for system synergy.
• Scent notes: expect clean-floral from Biolage and a mild woody-floral from Pattern.
• Choose by type: then refine by desired shine, frizz control, and ends repair for a dialed-in system.

“Choose the duo that fits your type first—formulas work best when matched to real needs.”

Clarifying, Co-Wash, and “One-and-Done” Cleansers for a Balanced Scalp

A clear plan for clarifying, co-washing, and minimalist cleansers keeps the scalp balanced and volume consistent.

Deep clean: Dae Desert Detox Clarifying Shampoo

Dae Desert Detox uses cactus flower, devil’s claw, and prickly pear seed to break up build-up and lift residue without roughing the cuticle. Testers praised the formula for “squeaky clean hair with shine” and a lightweight feel after the shower.

Co-wash staple: Aveda Be Curly Advanced Co-Wash

Aveda’s co-wash rinses impurities while preserving lipid-rich natural oils. Plant peptides and kokum seed butter add slip and strength, so curls detangle and keep pattern between clarifying sessions.

Minimalist routine: Hairstory New Wash

Hairstory New Wash is a no-foam, one-and-done option that cleans like a conditioner. TQE testers found it leaves the scalp calm and adds unexpected volume when applied with the scalp brush to prevent residue.

• Cadence: Clarify every 1–2 weeks; co-wash between clears to maintain scalp balance and volume.
• Apply smart: Work New Wash from scalp to ends and use a brush for even spread.
• Pairing: Follow with lightweight conditioners or leave-ins only when needed to avoid collapsing volume.

“Alternate cleansers based on build-up and styling load to keep roots light and the scalp healthy.”

Scalp Health Essentials: Flakes, Build-Up, and Strength at the Root

Managing flakes and build-up starts with targeted, scalp-first steps. A clear routine calms irritation, controls oil, and supports density signals so strands look healthier over time.

Dandruff solution:

Head & Shoulders Bare Soothing Hydration

Why it works: Zinc pyrithione fights flaking in a sulfate-, silicone-, and dye-free base. Citric acid helps pH balance. Editors report fast relief when used two to three times a week during flare-ups.

Exfoliation upgrade:

AAVRANI Scalp Detox Jelly Cleanser

This formula uses glycolic acid plus a built-in silicone scrubber to lift flakes and break up build-up without gritty particles. The targeted applicator makes it easy to treat the scalp first, then let runoff clean the mid-lengths.

Tonic support:

Act + Acre 3% Stem Cell Peptide Treatment

The spray blends grape stem cells, caffeine, and arugula extract to signal density and refresh the scalp. Use near-daily as a light treatment between washes to support comfort and reduce fallout.

“Editors saw immediate flake reduction with Act + Acre’s detox approach, though touchability may improve after an adjustment period.”

• Routine tip: Use a stripped-back anti-dandruff shampoo several times a week during flare, then taper to maintenance.
• Exfoliate smart: Choose glycolic formulas that loosen debris without hurting the skin barrier.
• Balance oil: Avoid over-cleansing; strategic treatments keep roots fresh without rebound oil.
• Application order: Focus on the scalp, allow runoff to cleanse strands, and pair treatments with a gentle shampoo if strands are dry.

In short: a consistent plan—clarify, exfoliate, and support with a peptide tonic—gives your scalp the care it needs so beauty and resilience show up in every strand.

Editors’ Brand Showdown: Prose, OUAI, Act + Acre, and Hairstory

We compared full systems to see which brands reliably deliver the look you reach for most mornings. The goal: clear trade-offs so an editor can pick by texture, scent, and routine complexity.

Prose — custom routine, consistent results

Prose scored 10/10 across touchability, scent, texture, and volume. Its scalp detox to curl cream system gives predictable “perfect hair day” results even with air-dry. Expect springy curls, buoyant lift, and a spa-like scent tailored to you.

OUAI — salon-sleek, effortless waves

OUAI earned a 9/10 for silky feel and beachy waves. It keeps roots lifted while smoothing ends and offers a subtle-luxe scent that blends with personal fragrance.

Act + Acre and Hairstory — trade-offs and simplicity

Act + Acre nails texture and scalp clarity but has a lighter scent and may need a short adjustment to sulfate-free cleansing.

Hairstory (no-foam New Wash) simplifies to one product. Testers noted softness, shine, and more volume than expected for a non-foaming routine.

“Weigh feels like, texture lift, and scent comfort alongside performance to pick a brand you’ll love using daily.”

• Who to choose: customization devotees — Prose; sleek-shine seekers — OUAI; scalp-first minimalists — Act + Acre; low-step purists — Hairstory.
• Routine note: Prose is system-heavy; Hairstory is a one-step clean; OUAI and Act + Acre slot into classic shampoo/conditioner formats.

Mask, Leave-In, and Repair Heroes for Moisture, Shine, and Stronger Strands

A focused treatment step can restore moisture, seal cuticles, and improve daily manageability.

Hydration mask — Kerasilk Smoothing Mask: Hydrolyzed proteins replenish amino acids for satin slip and restored shine. It tames frizz while keeping fine, highlighted hair from falling flat, making it ideal when you need lift and gloss without weight.

Repair and leave-in picks

Repair mask — Isima Súperbomba Triple Repair Peptide Mask: Rebuilds broken hydrogen and ionic bonds, replaces lost protein and keratin, and seals the cuticle for glossy, frizz-free strands across hair types.

Leave-in primer — Lush Super Milk: Oat, almond, and coconut milks detangle, reduce frizz, and add heat protection. Testers praise its scent and how it makes bright blonde ends feel silkier, not straw-like.

• Use Kerasilk weekly for a quick moisture-and-shine reset; save Isima for biweekly or when you need bond repair.
• Apply masks mid-length to ends; skip roots to protect volume.
• Cream-based leave-ins restore slip after co-wash or clarifying days and guard against heat—start light to avoid weighing down texture.

“Match your mask and leave-in to current condition: hydrate when parched, repair when you see breakage.”

Styling That Cares: Curls, Waves, and Frizz Control Without Crunch

The right styling step should define shape, block frizz, and still feel soft to the touch. Editors and stylists now favor treatment-forward stylers that shape curls and waves while nourishing strands.

Fenty Hair The Homecurl — curl cream for springy definition

Fenty’s The Homecurl is a curl-defining cream that adds moisture and proteins so curls spring back without stiffness. Apply with a two-hand rake-and-scrunch motion for quick, air-dry definition that stays touchable.

Olaplex No.10 Bond Shaper — bond-care gel with flexible hold

Olaplex No.10 uses flexible, humidity-resistant polymers to define shape while repairing disulfide bonds. It gives defined, frizz-resistant hold without the crunchy feel of classic gels.

Stylist insights and practical tips

Harper’s Bazaar-noted stylists praise formulas that create mirrorlike shine and block frizz without weight. Try small cocktailing: a pea- to dime-size cream per section, or mix a touch of gel for humid days.

• Start light: pea- to dime-size amounts; add as needed for thicker curls.
• Use air-dry scrunching or plopping to boost waves; diffuse on low for lift without frizz.
• Refresh day two with a little water plus a touch of cream to reactivate curls.

“Today’s award winners prove you can marry care and style—shine and frizz control without heaviness.”

Trend Report: What Awards Tell Us About This Year’s Formulas

Judges and stylists alike are rewarding products that treat strands and deliver camera-ready finishes. Harper’s Bazaar’s 2024 Hair Awards highlighted a return to styled looks—blowouts, sleek buns, and curl hacks—paired with formulas that block frizz and give mirrorlike shine without weight, per Justine Marjan and Chris Appleton.

Health-meets-style means conditioning actives and flexible polymers now power styling. Bond builders, peptides, and lightweight oils create smoother texture, better volume, and glassy shine while leaving hair responsive to tools and creams.

Awards also spotlight cleansers and shampoo conditioner duos that clear build-up yet keep strands soft and ready for shaping. Texture-friendly stylers and creams support waves and curls through humidity and weather shifts.

“Formulas that protect while they shape are the real story—smarter care that makes elevated styling sustainable.”

• Watch labels for weightless conditioning and humidity resistance.
• Look for ingredients like peptides, bond builders, and flexible polymers for lasting shine and volume.
• Try a small rotation this year and refine by how your strands feel after each use.

For a deeper take on category winners and editorial picks, see Allure’s 2025 winners, and when choosing oil-based treatments, also look for lightweight oils and UV to protect tone and gloss over years.

Hair Growth and Thinning: Evidence-Led Treatments and Daily Habits

When hereditary thinning starts to show, pairing a proven topical with daily scalp care gives the best chance at regrowth. A clear, simple plan makes it easier to stick with a long-term approach and measure progress over months.

OTC proven option: Women’s Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Foam

Women’s Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Foam is the only FDA‑approved OTC topical shown to regrow hair in hereditary loss. The thin, unscented foam vanishes in strands so daily styling stays mess-free.

Apply it once a day to a dry or slightly damp scalp. Let it absorb before using light stylers so the treatment stays in contact with follicles.

Routine tips: Consistency, scalp care, gentle styling, and patience

Expect subtle changes over weeks and more visible density after months. Early shedding can occur before new growth normalizes—this is common and not always a sign to stop.

• Daily: apply minoxidil to the scalp first, then let it dry before styling.
• Weekly: use a nourishing mask to keep ends soft and flexible as new growth appears.
• Scalp health: exfoliate periodically and balance cleansing so follicles stay clear.
• Styling: avoid tight, high-tension looks and heavy oils at the roots to prevent interference with absorption.
• Track progress: take photos the same day each month to monitor change over time and stay motivated.

“Minoxidil needs time and consistent use. Pair it with gentle care and scalp maintenance for the best outcomes.”

Bonus note: the minimal fragrance footprint of the 5% foam makes daily use easier for scent-sensitive readers. If shedding is sudden or severe, consult a clinician to rule out non-hereditary causes.

Build Your Routine: The Right Order for Shampoo, Conditioner, Treatment, and Style

Set a simple order for washing and styling so each product earns its time and purpose. A clear routine helps you match steps to your type and save time in the shower and after.

In-shower sequence

Clarify or co-wash first: choose a clarifying shampoo when you have build-up or use a co-wash to preserve moisture for curls. Dae Desert Detox works for biweekly clears; Aveda Be Curly Advanced is ideal for regular co-wash days.

Then condition or mask: use conditioner for daily slip. Reserve a mask when strands feel rough—Kerasilk for hydration and Isima for repair. Focus masks mid-length to ends to protect root volume.

Post-shower order

Leave-in first: apply a primer like Lush Super Milk to detangle, heat‑protect, and control frizz. Next, add curl cream or a light gel to define curls without stiffness—Fenty Homecurl or Olaplex No.10 are solid options.

• Cadence: clarify every 1–2 weeks; co-wash between as needed; mask weekly or biweekly.
• Minimalists: try one-step cleansers like Hairstory New Wash plus a single leave-in to streamline steps.
• Finish light: use featherweight serums sparingly to keep movement and volume intact.

“Match order to your styling plan: air-dry for soft texture, diffuse for lift, or blow-dry with heat protection for sleek finishes.”

Shopping Smart in the U.S.: Editors’ Picks by Budget and Availability

Find the right balance between price and performance when selecting shampoos and conditioners in U.S. stores.

Drugstore standouts deliver award-level results on a budget. Look for John Frieda UltraFiller+, Herbal Essences Honey Daily Moisture, Head & Shoulders Bare Soothing Hydration, and Creme of Nature Argan Oil Sulfate-Free at big-box and online retailers. These options solve common type needs without a luxury price tag.

Salon and specialty picks—Kérastase, Biolage, Pattern, Dae, Kerasilk, Olaplex, and Fenty Hair—offer elevated texture, bond care, and tone longevity. Find them at Sephora, Ulta, and salon partners for targeted performance.

Custom and DTC choices like Prose, Act + Acre, and Hairstory give personalization and refill options. Order direct for formulas tuned to local water and climate and consider refill plans to lower cost-per-use.

• Starter cart: one shampoo, one conditioner, a treatment mask, and a light styler.
• Mix budgets: pair a value cleanser with a premium mask to maximize results per dollar.
• Where to shop: Amazon, Sephora, Ulta, and brand sites cover most availability in the U.S.

“Organize shopping by budget and type to surface options that work in real life—use award cues to choose formulas that match your routine.”

Conclusion

Wrap up the way you build a routine: match an awarded cleanser pair to your type, add one targeted treatment, then finish with a caring styler.

Modern formulas deliver shine and control without weight, so consistent results show up more often and a great hair day becomes predictable.

Start with a single upgrade per category — clarifier, mask, or leave-in — and note texture, volume, and moisture changes over weeks.

Small tweaks matter: adjust wash cadence, focus conditioner on ends, and use stylers sparingly to protect lift and scalp balance.

Keep this guide saved as news evolves; awards and editor testing update over years, and swapping clarifying, co‑wash, or repair steps is the smart way forward.

Choose routines you’ll keep and your next great hair day is only a few washes away.