Hi--

I've noticed that a few of these threads mention avoiding certain things in hair products.  I was wondering if there is a comprehensive list somewhere of what effect these ingredients have on hair, or how to determine what I should look for to use in my hair?

I have fine, thin blonde hair that hasn't been colored or heat-treated in probably ten years, so not too much damage (tho I should probably be nicer when I brush it).  I've been using Garnier Fructis for a really long time; I've noticed some "buzz" about it here and have thought about switching, but I have no idea what to look for or what to avoid.  I realize that individual hair is different and it's pretty "trial and error", but there are so many choices out there that I'd like to at least narrow the field a bit, if possible.  

Also, how do you keep track of the effect a product has on your hair?  My hair always feels smooth and shiny just after it dries out of the shower no matter what I use...but then later it sometimes feels brittle, sometimes rough, etc.

Any advice is appreciated!
TIA!

We have a whole board for product reviews.  For a list of product ingredients check this topic.

Everyone's hair and environment is different so what works for one may not work for another person.  Trial and error is what most of us have done to find the right products (and some of us are still looking!).  

I have fine hair that does not like silicone type ingredients.  They are too heavy and coating on my hair. I've found the lighter shampoos and conditioners work best, then I oil on a regular basis to help keep the moisture up on the the ends.

Good luck on your search.

Actually, I have semi-coarse, thick hair, and have a hard time using silicone derivied products on my hair as well.  It's either way too heavy/sticky, or dries my hair out, so it feels brittle.

I'm just the opposite.

I have verrry fine, thin hair & the only products it seems to like are products with cones in them. Anything else makes it thin, stringy, sticky and hopelessly tangled.

I also avoid products with oil in them (at least for the most part) because of my skin. The only oil I use is very diluted & goes on the ends of my hair only.

I have never tried Garnier Fructis...is it any good? I haven't heard many good things said about it.

Perhaps you should try using products without cones for awhile & see which your hair likes better.

I like the conditioners because I can have my cones, and yet they are water-soluble.

I was thinking... maybe your hair wouldn't be dry and brittle if you used a vinegar rinse?

You hair may like cone products, and that's cool, but maybe the clarifying properties of a vinegar rinse would get rid of some of that roughness?  Just a thought.

As for keeping track of what happens to your hair on what product... well, I'd suggest only changing one product/routinue at a time, then give it a month... that should be able to be more of an accurate gauge for you.