EMBRACE THE ELEMENTS

A new haircare range is helping more people go paraben- and sulfate-free when it comes to looking after their locks, and it’s readily available

Is this new hair care range just what you need for healthier hair?

If your hair is naturally prone to dryness, like mine, or feels fragile or coarse, then this column is for you. Sulfates are mild detergents that clean your hair really well, but also strip it of moisture.

Parabens are chemicals that act as a preservative in lotions and potions, to prevent the growth of bacteria.

Both are common in shampoos and conditioners, but increasingly people are steering away from them in the belief they are not good for hair health.

If your hair is coloured or just feeling a little parched, it might be an idea to try a parabenand sulfate-free hair regimen. I never realised this could make a difference. I thought I was using all the right products and I was treating my hair once a week, but nothing worked.

Luckily, I have the luxury of working in a hair salon, so I get to see what new products are on the market. Once I learnt that maybe my shampoo and conditioner could be causing my hair to feel dry — I have used bucketloads of luxe oil to try and get moisture back into it — I tried the new Elements range from Wella Professionals. Paraben- and sulfate-free, it contains anti-irritant properties for a balanced scalp, preserves the moisture of your hair and protects hair keratin — the natural protein in your locks.

I noticed the Renewing Shampoo didn’t foam up as much as my previous brands, but my hair still feels clean. It also feels a lot healthier and nowhere near as dry as it used to.

The Daily Renewing Conditioner is a lightweight formula that strengthens each hair fibre from within, helping to repair and preserve your hair’s natural vitality. First, I towel dry my hair, then use a 20c coin size amount of conditioner, applying it through the mid lengths and ends. I leave it in for one minute, then rinse.

This range also includes a Reconstructing Mask and Leave-In Conditioning Spray.

Next time you go to your salon ask about sulfate- and parabenfree products, and turn to page 40 for more hair care ideas.