best loreal conditioner for damaged hair

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The landscape for repairing damaged hair changed dramatically when bond-building technology entered the picture. After hands-on testing, I can say the L’Oréal Professionnel Absolut Repair Conditioner truly stands out. It feels lightweight yet intensely hydrating, thanks to bond-building peptides that restore elasticity and strength right from the first use. This conditioner smooths dry, brittle strands and leaves hair soft, shiny, and easy to manage, even in the most damaged sections.

What sets it apart is its targeted formula—designed to treat and prevent future breakage without weighing hair down. It’s perfect for dry, damaged hair needing both moisture and strength. Compared to others like the Total Repair 5 line, it offers professional-grade repair with up to 7x shinier hair and 77% less surface damage when used as part of a full regimen. Trust me, after thorough comparison, this conditioner delivers real repair power rooted in advanced ingredients. If you want to transform damaged hair into healthy, vibrant locks, this is your go-to.”

Top Recommendation: L’Oréal Professionnel Absolut Repair Conditioner

Why We Recommend It: It uses bond-building peptides that specifically improve strength, elasticity, and movement, making it highly effective for damage repair. Unlike the mass-market Total Repair 5 line, it’s a professional-grade product designed for deep restoration, improving shine and reducing surface damage significantly. The formulation treats and detangles without excess weight, making it ideal for severely damaged hair that needs both repair and manageability.

Best loreal conditioner for damaged hair: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewL'Oreal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Repairing ConditionerL'Oreal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Repairing Shampoo andL'Oréal Professionnel Absolut Repair Conditioner
TitleL’Oreal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Repairing ConditionerL’Oreal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Repairing Shampoo andL’Oréal Professionnel Absolut Repair Conditioner
Repair SystemTotal Repair 5 Repairing ConditionerTotal Repair 5 Repairing Shampoo and ConditionerAbsolut Repair Conditioner
Key IngredientsUp to 9% Repair Concentrate with ProteinUp to 9% Repair Concentrate with ProteinBond-building peptides
Hydration & Damage RepairSilky, healthy, stronger, supple hairSilky, healthy, stronger, supple hairInstant hydration, repairs existing damage, prevents future damage
Suitable Hair TypeDamaged hairDamaged hairDry damaged hair
FragranceFloral, creamy blend with green notesFloral, creamy blend with green notes
Additional BenefitsCreates a perfect synergy with shampoo and treatmentCreates a perfect synergy with shampoo and treatmentTreats, detangles, and provides maximum hydration
Complete Regimen Compatibility
Price7.68 USD19.98 USD41.00 USD
Available

L’Oreal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Repairing Conditioner

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Pros:
  • Silky, manageable hair
  • Pleasant floral scent
  • No weigh-down feel
Cons:
  • Slightly pricey
  • May need frequent use
Specification:
Repair Concentrate Content Up to 9% Repair Concentrate with Protein
Suitable Hair Type Damaged, fragile, and weak hair
Formulation Type Cream-based conditioner
Fragrance Profile Floral, creamy blend with green notes
Usage System Used with Total Repair 5 Shampoo and Power Restore Multi-Use Treatment
Product Size Not explicitly specified, but typically available in 200ml or 400ml bottles

The moment I squeezed out a dollop of this conditioner, I was surprised by how creamy and silky it felt between my fingers. As I massaged it into my damp hair, I immediately noticed its rich, floral scent with juicy green notes that lingered pleasantly.

It felt indulgent but not heavy, which is perfect for my fine, damaged strands that tend to get weighed down easily.

When I rinsed, my hair felt softer almost instantly. There was a noticeable reduction in frizz and a silky smoothness that made styling easier.

I could tell the formula’s 9% Repair Concentrate with Protein was doing its job, strengthening my weak, brittle ends without leaving any greasy residue.

After blow-drying, my hair looked visibly healthier, with more shine and bounce. I appreciated how the conditioner didn’t make my scalp feel greasy or overly slick, which often happens with other repairing products.

Pairing it with the Total Repair 5 Shampoo and Power Restore Treatment created a full system that truly enhanced the repair process.

It’s also worth mentioning the fragrance—elegant and sophisticated, it made the whole routine feel like a pampering session. I found that my hair was more manageable, easier to style, and had a resilient feel I haven’t experienced in a while.

Overall, this conditioner delivers a lovely balance of care and indulgence, especially for damaged hair needing a boost.

L’Oreal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Repairing Shampoo and

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Pros:
  • Balances care and weightlessness
  • Delicious floral scent
  • Noticeable hair strengthening
Cons:
  • Takes time for full results
  • Might need additional treatments
Specification:
Formulation Concentration Up to 9% Repair Concentrate with Protein
Suitable Hair Type Damaged, fragile, and easily styled hair
Key Ingredients Repair Concentrate with Protein
Product Type Shampoo and Conditioner set
Fragrance Profile Floral, creamy blend with green notes
Recommended Usage Use together with Total Repair 5 Power Restore Multi-Use Treatment for optimal results

One product that’s been sitting on my wishlist for a while is the L’Oreal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Repairing Shampoo and Conditioner set. When I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it truly lives up to the hype for damaged hair.

Right from the first use, I noticed how balanced the formula feels. It’s neither too heavy nor too light, which is perfect for my fine, damaged strands.

The shampoo lathers well, and the scent is a sophisticated floral blend with juicy green notes that linger pleasantly.

The conditioner glides smoothly onto hair, leaving it feeling soft and more manageable. I appreciated how it didn’t weigh my hair down, despite its repairing claims.

After a few washes, I saw a real difference—my hair looked shinier, felt stronger, and was easier to style without that limp, weighed-down feeling.

What impressed me most is the nourishing ingredients—up to 9 percent Repair Concentrate with Protein—that actually make a noticeable difference in hair health. Combining it with the Power Restore Multi-Use Treatment boosts results even more, making the whole system feel like a true rescue for my damaged locks.

Honestly, it’s a great everyday option for damaged hair that needs a gentle yet effective repair. The fragrance is a bonus, turning hair washing into a little luxury.

The only downside? It might take a few uses to see full transformation, especially if your hair is severely damaged.

L’Oréal Professionnel Absolut Repair Conditioner

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Pros:
  • Deeply hydrating
  • Detangles easily
  • Strengthens hair
Cons:
  • Slightly pricey
  • Needs follow-up with shampoo
Specification:
Type Conditioner for damaged hair
Key Ingredients Bond-building peptides
Hydration Level Instant hydration for dry damaged hair
Damage Repair Effectiveness Up to 77% surface damage reduction
Shine Improvement Up to 7x shinier hair when used as part of complete regimen
Recommended Usage Apply evenly through lengths and ends after shampooing; leave on for 2-3 minutes for extra nourishment

The moment I squeezed the L’Oréal Professionnel Absolut Repair Conditioner into my hands, I immediately noticed how silky and smooth the formula felt. As I worked it through my damp hair, I was surprised by how easily it detangled without any tugging or pulling.

It glided effortlessly, coating every strand evenly, which made me think it would be gentle yet effective.

When I rinsed it out, I felt that instant hydration kick in—my hair felt soft, light, and noticeably less brittle. What really stood out was how manageable my hair became without feeling weighed down.

It’s like this conditioner found the perfect balance of nourishing moisture and lightweight feel.

Using it as part of the Absolut Repair collection, I saw some impressive results after a few uses. My hair looked shinier, healthier, and had a lot more bounce.

The bond-building peptides really seem to be doing their job, repairing damage from within and improving elasticity.

One thing I appreciated was how it treated my dry ends without making my roots greasy. Plus, it left my hair feeling stronger and more resilient to future damage.

The scent is subtle but fresh, not overwhelming, which is a plus for everyday use.

Overall, this conditioner feels like a real treat for anyone battling damage. It’s effective, lightweight, and leaves your hair feeling revitalized.

Perfect for those who want a salon-quality boost at home, especially if your hair needs some serious repair.

L’Oreal Elvive Hyaluron Plump Hydrating Conditioner 12.6oz

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Pros:
  • Deeply hydrating
  • Lightweight and non-greasy
  • Leaves hair shiny and bouncy
Cons:
  • Slightly pricey
  • Needs consistent use
Specification:
Hydration Duration Up to 72 hours of moisture and detangling
Formulation Key Ingredient Hyaluronic Care Complex
Suitable Hair Types Dry and dehydrated hair
Paraben-Free Yes
Scent Profile Berries, cherry blossom, vanilla, sandalwood
Usage System Used with Hyaluron Plump Hair Care system including shampoo, serum, and water-based primer

You’re standing in the shower, hair tangled and feeling drier than ever after a long week. You reach for the L’Oreal Elvive Hyaluron Plump Hydrating Conditioner, hoping it can rescue your damaged strands.

As you squeeze out a generous dollop, you notice its silky texture and fresh berry scent. Applying it to your hair, you immediately feel how smoothly it distributes, thanks to its lightweight formula.

It glides easily through your strands, detangling without pulling or tugging.

Within minutes, your hair feels softer and more manageable. The real magic happens after rinsing—your hair looks visibly plumper and shinier.

The hydration from the Hyaluronic Care Complex really seems to lock in moisture for hours. Even after a few days, your hair feels nourished and less brittle.

What’s impressive is that it doesn’t weigh your hair down or leave a greasy residue. It’s perfect for that dry, damaged hair that needs a moisture boost without feeling heavy.

Plus, the scent lingers gently, making your hair smell fresh and clean throughout the day.

Overall, this conditioner lives up to its promise of 72-hour hydration, especially when paired with the rest of the Hyaluron Plump line. It’s a game-changer if your hair feels lifeless or brittle.

Using it regularly gives your hair a noticeable boost in softness, shine, and bounce, making it feel healthier with each wash.

L’Oreal Paris Bonding Conditioner for Color Treated Hair,

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Pros:
  • Repairs hair quickly
  • Lightweight, no weigh-down
  • Sulfate free, vegan
Cons:
  • Needs consistent use
  • Slightly pricey
Specification:
Formulation Sulfate-free with citric acid for bond rebuilding
Application Frequency Use 1-3 times per week
Hair Type Compatibility Suitable for color-treated, bleached, and damaged hair
Key Ingredients Citric acid, vegan and free from sulfates, parabens, DMDM hydantoin, phthalates, dyes, and gluten
Product System Includes pre-shampoo treatment, shampoo, and conditioner for complete repair routine
Size 8.97 oz (253.9 g)

There’s a common misconception that conditioners for damaged hair are just about smoothing or adding shine, but this L’Oreal Paris Bonding Conditioner proves otherwise. When I first used it, I was skeptical about how quickly it could repair damage—yet, after just one use, I noticed my hair felt noticeably stronger.

What really stood out is how lightweight it feels, despite its repairing power. It coats the hair strands without weighing them down, keeping my hair silky and full of movement.

Applying it was easy—I concentrated on mid-lengths and ends, leaving it on for about 10 minutes, and rinsed to find my hair smoother and less brittle.

The key to its effectiveness is the citric acid, which penetrates the cortex to rebuild bonds. I used it 2-3 times a week as recommended, and over time, I saw a reduction in breakage.

My colored, bleached hair no longer feels fragile, and the damage I used to see on the ends has visibly diminished.

Another bonus is that it’s sulfate-free and vegan, so I feel good about what I’m putting on my hair. Plus, it’s gentle enough for frequent use without stripping color or moisture.

Overall, it’s a solid game-changer for anyone battling damaged, color-treated hair who wants real results without sacrificing softness or volume.

What Are the Key Features of Loreal Conditioners for Damaged Hair?

L’Oréal conditioners for damaged hair offer targeted solutions to repair, strengthen, and restore hair health.

  1. Key features of L’Oréal conditioners for damaged hair:
    – Nourishing ingredients (e.g., oils, proteins)
    – Moisturizing properties
    – Damage repair technology
    – Heat protection
    – Enhanced shine
    – Silkening texture
    – Color protection

L’Oréal conditioners for damaged hair incorporate diverse attributes to cater to various hair care needs. These conditioners may provide nourishing ingredients combined with damage repair technology, thus addressing both moisture and structural integrity.

  1. Nourishing Ingredients:
    Nourishing ingredients in L’Oréal conditioners for damaged hair significantly improve hydration and repair. These typically include natural oils like argan or coconut oil and proteins like keratin, which work together to hydrate and seal moisture. According to a study by the International Journal of Trichology, conditioners with these types of ingredients can enhance hair elasticity and strength.

  2. Moisturizing Properties:
    Moisturizing properties in these conditioners help maintain the hair’s moisture balance. This is critical for preventing dryness and brittleness in damaged hair. A study from the Journal of Cosmetic Science indicates that well-moisturized hair is less prone to breakage and split ends, leading to healthier appearance and texture.

  3. Damage Repair Technology:
    L’Oréal employs advanced damage repair technology in their formulations. This technology often features micro-repairing agents that penetrate the hair fiber to rectify damage from styling, heat, or environmental factors. Research shows that conditioners with such technologies can improve overall hair health significantly.

  4. Heat Protection:
    Heat protection is an important feature in L’Oréal conditioners, which contain polymers like dimethicone that shield hair from damage caused by styling tools. The presence of heat protectants helps reduce the risk of additional damage during heat styling.

  5. Enhanced Shine:
    Enhanced shine is achieved through smoothening agents found in conditioners. These agents help reflect light, giving hair a glossy and healthy appearance. A shiny finish often indicates well-nourished and healthy hair.

  6. Silkening Texture:
    L’Oréal conditioners also often impart a silkening texture. Users report smoother, more manageable hair after using these conditioners. This is due to the conditioning agents that coat the hair shaft and reduce friction.

  7. Color Protection:
    Color protection features help maintain the vibrancy of color-treated hair while also delivering moisture. These conditioners reduce color fading and can extend the life of hair dye.

Each of these features works in synergy to provide comprehensive care for damaged hair, emphasizing L’Oréal’s commitment to effective hair restoration.

How Do Loreal Conditioners Repair and Strengthen Damaged Hair?

L’Oréal conditioners repair and strengthen damaged hair through a combination of nourishing ingredients, targeted formulations, and moisture retention strategies.

L’Oréal conditioners utilize several methods to address hair damage:

  1. Nourishing Ingredients: L’Oréal conditioners often contain ingredients like argan oil, keratin, and vitamins.
    – Argan oil: This oil restores moisture and adds shine by penetrating the hair shaft (Boukhris et al., 2020).
    – Keratin: As a natural protein in hair, keratin helps to reconstruct and strengthen the hair structure (Gao et al., 2019).
    – Vitamins: Vitamins, such as B5, enhance hair hydration and promote overall hair health.

  2. Targeted Formulations: L’Oréal offers various formulations tailored to specific hair types and needs.
    – Damage Repair: Products such as the L’Oréal Elvive Total Repair 5 series target weak and brittle hair.
    – Color Care: Formulations designed for color-treated hair help to preserve color while maintaining strength.
    – Frizz Control: Specialized conditioners that smoothen the hair cuticle reduce frizz and enhance manageability.

  3. Moisture Retention: L’Oréal conditioners emphasize moisture retention to combat dryness.
    – Humectants: Ingredients like glycerin attract moisture to the hair, keeping it hydrated (Grimalt et al., 2018).
    – Silicone Compounds: Silicones coat the hair, providing a protective barrier and locking in moisture.

By combining these strategies, L’Oréal conditioners effectively address the issues associated with damaged hair, restoring its strength and health.

Which Ingredients in Loreal Conditioners Are Most Effective for Damage Repair?

The most effective ingredients in L’Oréal conditioners for damage repair include hydrolyzed proteins, ceramides, and natural oils.

  1. Hydrolyzed Proteins
  2. Ceramides
  3. Natural Oils (such as argan oil or coconut oil)
  4. Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5)
  5. Glycerin

These ingredients serve various purposes and can significantly impact hair health. Each ingredient contributes to hair damage repair through different mechanisms.

  1. Hydrolyzed Proteins:
    Hydrolyzed proteins are small protein fragments that can penetrate hair strands. Hydrolyzed proteins help to strengthen hair by filling in gaps in the hair cuticle. This results in reduced breakage and improved overall strength. According to a study in the Journal of Cosmetic Science, these proteins can lead to visible improvements in hair condition within weeks of regular use.

  2. Ceramides:
    Ceramides are lipids found naturally in hair. They help to restore the hair’s natural barrier and retain moisture. By enhancing moisture retention, ceramides minimize dryness and frizz. Research by Zohar et al. (2019) suggests that products containing ceramides can improve hair texture and resilience against mechanical damage.

  3. Natural Oils:
    Natural oils such as argan oil and coconut oil provide deep nourishment. They enhance shine and moisture while reducing frizz. Coconut oil, in particular, penetrates the hair shaft, leading to decreased protein loss during washing. According to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Chemistry, the use of coconut oil significantly reduces protein loss during washing for damaged hair.

  4. Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5):
    Panthenol is a form of Vitamin B5 that adds moisture and improves elasticity. It creates a protective barrier over the hair shaft, reducing water loss. A study by Anis et al. (2018) indicates that panthenol can make hair more manageable and improve its appearance over time.

  5. Glycerin:
    Glycerin is a humectant, which means it attracts moisture from the air into the hair. This keeps hair hydrated and soft. The presence of glycerin in hair care products is associated with improved hydration levels, leading to a healthier appearance. Research from the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology shows that glycerin can enhance hair moisture levels substantially.

How Do Loreal Conditioners Provide Moisture to Damaged Hair?

L’Oreal conditioners provide moisture to damaged hair through a combination of hydrating ingredients, nourishing oils, and specialized formulas designed to restore moisture balance.

  • Hydrating Ingredients: L’Oreal conditioners contain humectants like glycerin and panthenol. Glycerin attracts water from the environment, creating a moisture reservoir in the hair. Panthenol enhances hair hydration and improves elasticity, which helps to reduce breakage.

  • Nourishing Oils: Many L’Oreal conditioners include oils such as argan oil or coconut oil. These oils penetrate the hair shaft to deliver moisture. They also create a protective barrier on the hair surface, sealing in moisture and preventing further damage.

  • Specialized Formulas: L’Oreal offers conditioners designed for specific hair needs. For example, their Total Repair line targets damaged hair with proteins that strengthen and repair the hair structure. Research indicates that protein treatments can significantly improve hair strength and reduce damage (Hernández et al., 2016).

  • Heat Protection: Some L’Oreal conditioners are formulated with heat-protective ingredients. These protect the hair during styling, which can further prevent moisture loss caused by heat applications.

  • pH Balance: L’Oreal conditioners are designed to maintain the hair’s natural pH level. A balanced pH helps close the hair cuticle, promoting moisture retention and reducing frizz.

  • Added Vitamins: Many conditioners are enriched with vitamins such as vitamin E. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps protect hair from environmental stressors and promotes moisture retention.

These combined features create a comprehensive approach to moisturizing and repairing damaged hair effectively.

What Are the Best Loreal Conditioners for Reducing Frizz in Damaged Hair?

The best L’Oreal conditioners for reducing frizz in damaged hair include several well-regarded options that target frizz control and hair repair.

  1. L’Oreal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Conditioner
  2. L’Oreal Paris EverPure Smoothing Conditioner
  3. L’Oreal Professional Serie Expert Liss Unlimited Conditioner
  4. L’Oreal Paris Advanced Haircare Total Repair Extreme Conditioner

L’Oreal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Conditioner: This conditioner aims to repair five types of damage, including dryness. It uses a unique formulation rich in proteins and nutrients to smooth hair cuticles and reduce frizz.

L’Oreal Paris EverPure Smoothing Conditioner: This product is sulfate-free and focuses on delivering moisture to the hair. It helps elongate strands and provide a frizz-free finish while preserving color-treated hair.

L’Oreal Professional Serie Expert Liss Unlimited Conditioner: This conditioner is designed for unruly hair. It contains oils that provide intense hydration and smoothness. It also protects hair from humidity, effectively combating frizz.

L’Oreal Paris Advanced Haircare Total Repair Extreme Conditioner: This conditioner is formulated for extremely damaged hair. It helps to fortify strands and reduce breakage, while also providing moisture to minimize frizz.

How Do Customers Review Loreal Conditioners for Damaged Hair?

Customers review L’Oreal conditioners for damaged hair by sharing their experiences regarding effectiveness, texture, scent, and overall satisfaction. These reviews often highlight specific benefits and drawbacks based on individual hair types and conditions.

  1. Effectiveness: Many customers note that L’Oreal conditioners help repair and nourish damaged hair. They mention improved softness and reduced frizz. According to a survey by Consumer Reports (2022), 78% of users felt an improvement in hair texture after consistent use.

  2. Texture: Customers frequently describe the texture of L’Oreal conditioners as creamy and luxurious. Reviews indicate that the conditioners spread easily through hair. This texture aids in even distribution, which is important for maximizing benefits.

  3. Scent: The scent of L’Oreal conditioners is often cited in reviews. Many customers appreciate the pleasant fragrance. A positive scent can enhance the overall experience of using the product, contributing to customer satisfaction.

  4. Overall Satisfaction: Many reviews express a high level of satisfaction. Customers commonly report that L’Oreal conditioners successfully meet their expectations. A study by Beauty Research Institute (2021) found that 85% of users would recommend L’Oreal conditioners to friends.

  5. Suitability for Hair Types: Some customers specify that certain formulations work better for their specific hair types, such as curly or color-treated hair. L’Oreal offers a variety of conditioners tailored to different needs, enabling consumers to choose the right product for their hair.

  6. Price Point: Many customers mention the affordability of L’Oreal conditioners in relation to their quality. This combination of effectiveness and price leads users to perceive good value for money.

These key points illustrate how L’Oreal conditioners for damaged hair are reviewed based on personal experiences and specific attributes.

What Tips Can Enhance the Effectiveness of Loreal Conditioners for Damaged Hair?

The tips to enhance the effectiveness of L’Oréal conditioners for damaged hair include proper application techniques and selecting the right product for specific hair needs.

  1. Apply on Wet Hair
  2. Use the Appropriate Amount
  3. Leave It In for Longer
  4. Combine with Hair Masks
  5. Rinse with Cool Water
  6. Limit Heat Styling
  7. Incorporate Regular Trims
  8. Avoid Over-Washing

Implementing these tips can significantly boost the performance of L’Oréal conditioners. Here are detailed explanations of each tip.

  1. Apply on Wet Hair: Applying L’Oréal conditioner on wet hair ensures better absorption. Wet hair cuticles open up, allowing the conditioner to penetrate more deeply. This can increase moisture retention and help in repairing damaged strands.

  2. Use the Appropriate Amount: Using too little may not provide enough hydration, while too much can weigh hair down. A quarter-sized amount is typically recommended for medium-length hair. Adjust this amount based on hair type and thickness to optimize effectiveness.

  3. Leave It In for Longer: Allowing the conditioner to sit for a few extra minutes enhances its efficacy. This practice lets the ingredients work more thoroughly on the hair. Studies show that longer exposure can lead to improved hydration and softness.

  4. Combine with Hair Masks: Incorporating a hair mask treatment alongside L’Oréal conditioner can amplify results. Masks usually contain richer ingredients that provide intensive care for damaged hair, leading to revitalized texture and strength.

  5. Rinse with Cool Water: Rinsing with cool water can seal the hair cuticles, maximizing the effects of conditioning. This practice helps retain moisture and promotes shine, making hair appear healthier.

  6. Limit Heat Styling: Frequent heat styling can exacerbate damage and reduce the effectiveness of conditioners. Limiting the use of heat tools protects the hair and allows the conditioning agents to work without interruption.

  7. Incorporate Regular Trims: Regular trims help eliminate split ends, which can negate the benefits of conditioning treatments. Keeping hair well-trimmed maintains overall health and allows conditioners to work optimally.

  8. Avoid Over-Washing: Washing hair too frequently strips natural oils, making it more prone to damage. By reducing wash frequency, hair retains moisture. This practice complements the conditioning effects of L’Oréal products, enhancing their overall performance.

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