Healthy hair products soothe stressed tresses

In the realm of health and beauty care, nowhere is innovation more prevalent than in the over-the-counter (OTC) hair care category. In the past year, manufacturers have launched a special comb to zap lice, styling sprays designed to handle heat-treated hair, and unique moisturizing shampoos and conditioners. Below are just a few of the new hair care products that are being sold in U.S. drug stores.

Head lice treatments

Head lice is a major concern of parents as children head back to school. In fact, recent studies report that 75% of North American lice have become resistant to the most common active ingredient in the leading lice shampoo. As a result, LiceGuard recently introduced the RobiComb, which can be used regularly to detect and prevent future outbreaks. This innovative comb uses an audible signal to indicate the presence of new lice. Used on dry hair, the electronic comb detects and kills lice on contact, eliminating both the lice and their eggs.

At the same time, the technology behind shampoos for head lice is evolving too. Babo Botanicals’ new Rosemary Tea Tree Lice Repel Shampoo and Lice Repellent Spray both feature a unique blend of rosemary, mint, and tea tree oil to provide a safe, all-natural alternative to harsh chemicals. The pesticide-free formulas repel lice, while cleansing and conditioning hair with pure botanical ingredients. Both products are sold in 8-ounce bottles.

Styling products

There are many creative new products in the styling and hair protection category. Vidal Sassoon Pro Series Boost & Lift Foaming Air Mousse is one such advanced product. The mousse is formulated to allow a long working time for the desired style, so it helps control unruly hair. It provides up to 24 hours of strong, flexible hold and long-lasting volume. “The Foaming Air Mousse was created after learning that consumers want touchable volume that will last and won’t weigh hair down,” according to a statement from the company. The Boost & Lift Foaming Air Mousse does not feel sticky and combs out easily.

Meanwhile, Beat the Heat Thermal Shield Spray from Not Your Mother’s protects hair from the heat of flat irons and curling irons. It guards hair against moisture loss and provides a light hold. The spray is infused with sunflower, vitamin A, and vitamin E. It is available in a 6-ounce container and in the 2-ounce travel size. For beach lovers, consider Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Texturizing Cream to be used to style hair after a day in the wind and waves.

Shampoos/conditioners

Shampoos and conditioners have also become more technologically advanced. Take Dove Daily Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner. The two products are based on a patented technology that goes down to the cellular level to moisturize hair. The shampoo and conditioner contain Pro-Moisture Complex, infused with a blend of essential amino acids, which penetrate hair to help replenish lost proteins. They do not weigh the hair down with excess residue. The Dove Daily Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner are sold in 12-ounce bottles.

This year Dove also launched Dove Intensive Repair Shampoo and Conditioner, which contains Keratin Repair Actives. The shampoo and conditioner work on the keratin already present in hair to help repair damaged proteins. They smooth hair from root to tip, adding strength by reducing breakage. The Intensive Repair Shampoo and Conditioner also help prevent split ends and feature a new, improved fragrance. They come in 12-ounce bottles.

Hair treatment

Recently, Not Your Mother’s launched a new type of treatment designed to repair and nourish hair. Its Lock Luster Oil Treatment, which is infused with argan oil and macadamia oil, aids in repairing dry, damaged hair. The product also protects hair from heat and excessive styling, and detangles overworked hair. The product works well with all hair types, especially dry and damaged hair. It is available in a 3.4- ounce bottle.