Avenue Magazine Edmonton

Posted by Emma and Rita in Beauty Blog on Sep 18 2009 16:09

Rita: So, as we mentioned in the last entry, we’ve been trying out some offerings from the new Kiehl’s store in Southgate Centre.

Emma: Let’s start this time by talking about the hair products.

R: We test drove Kiehl’s Sunflower Color Preserving line, which is great for those of us who are self-professed salon junkies.

E: Yes, well, neither one of us is a stranger to hair dye — that’s for sure!

R: The Sunflower Color Preserving Shampoo, Conditioner, and Deep Recovery Mask all contain anti-oxidant rich sunflower, apricot oils and Vitamins B3, B5 and B6.

E: First off, I think it smells fantastic… apricot and citrus — mmmm. Plus, one of its selling points is that it’s sulphate free, which helps protect your hair colour.

R: It’s not very “lather-y,” which could be a downside for some people — even if it’s just a psychological downside.

E: That’s right. Because it cleans just as effectively as a “lather-y” shamnpoo, but the lack of chemicals, such as sulfate and silicone, make for a more “modest” lather.

R: It seems like it leaves your hair ready for the conditioner.

E: The Sunflower Color Preserving Conditioner serves the same purposes a regular conditioner does … moisturizes, detangles your tresses. On top of that, this one is also silicone-free.

R: Which means the product isn’t using wax to make your locks feel smooth and soft, while really weighing your hair down. This genuinely protects the hair shaft and extends colour-life.

E: And, don’t forget the UV protection!

R: That’s an attribute all three products share. They have a UV Protective filter, that protects hair from sun-damage and general aging.

E: It’s crazy to think even your hair ages! We can’t escape it.

R: The Color Preserving Deep Recovery Mask comes to the rescue!

E: Truly, this is a more intense and rich moisture-repair treatment. The company recommends you use it twice a week, but with this product, it’s tempting to use it more often.

R: Well, keep in mind, during dry Alberta winters, it’s probably OK to use it a bit more often, especially if you just want to give your ends some extra TLC.

E: Speaking of TLC, Rita, remind me of what those fancy Vitamins do?

R: B3, B5 and B6 add shine, and prevent other products you use on your hair and pollutants from causing damage through processes like oxidation.

E: So, overall, I love the scent of this line, the fact that it’s more natural, and that it protects your hair from environmental damage. My favourite is definitely the mask.

R: I second that motion — huge fan of the recovery mask.

E: For anyone who’s interested in the other hair care lines, you can find Kiehl's at Holt Renfrew (10180 101 St., 780-425-5300) and the new outlet in Southgate Centre (11100 51 Ave., 780-435-5666).

Emma and Rita are young Edmonton women working (and playing) in the capital city. Together, they have roughly 50 years of beauty experience, and have what some might describe as an unhealthy addiction to potions, products and pampering.