It’s the ultimate confidence booster, an expression of gender identity and personal style, and its cultural significance is profound. Styling locks is an art that can be difficult to master and doesn’t have to be a riddle.
Everyone has a personal relationship with their mane. Mine, fat, coarse, and almost ill-mannered, has spent most of its life bound to bread. I feel like I’ve been searching for these curl elixir since birth, but the magic potion just kind of eluded me.
Recently, after squeezing every last drop of product from my tried and failed hair care system, I stepped into the salon for a shag cut and professional instruction.
After chatting with my stylist (who suggested I focus on moisturizing my hair), I looked into vegan, sustainably packaged, and cruelty-free remedies for dryness. This search led me to Biolage, a plant-based professional hair care brand.
Biolage’s HydraSource line, available on Chatters and Amazon, sounded exactly like what the doctor (or stylist) ordered. This hydration product line is packaged in 100% recycled plastic, which is a huge plus.
So I tried the Ultra Hydrasource Conditioning Balm ($26), Hydrasource Shampoo ($26), Ultra Hydrasource Leave-in Cream ($26), and Hydrasource Deep Hydration Pack ($19).
For those who are also exhausted in their Sisyphean search for sustainable hair care that actually works, here’s my review of Biolage’s HydraSource line.
violage hydra source shampoo
Sierra Riley | Narsity
First, I picked up a super smooth shampoo bottle and showered according to the directions on the back label (I also learned that these Biolage products are free of parabens).
It had a silky, gel-like consistency and a mild floral scent, which turned out to be the iconic Biolage Aromascience scent.
I lathered it around the scalp and washed it off. Pro Tip: Apparently, this shampoo is also great for people with color-treated hair.
Biolage HydraSource Conditioning Balm
Sierra Riley | Narsity
Next is the conditioning balm. This creamy white product was thicker than shampoo, but smelled just as nice.
When I applied a generous amount from the roots to the ends of my hair, I found that it spread even a little better. To me, this is always a great sign of a long-lasting product (plus minimal waste).
Before washing off the conditioner, I belted Taylor Swift and left it on for three minutes. My hair felt instantly detangled and fuller to the touch.
Violage Hydrasource Daily Leave-in Cream
After showering, I put a microfiber towel over my hair until it was damp, then applied a leave-in cream (which I was particularly excited to try).
The label and rave reviews claim that this restorative treatment has added polymers. Makes styling very easy.
Sierra Riley | Narsity
Curious to see if this product would do such wonders for my unruly hair, I combed through it in such a quantity that it absorbed like drinking the much-needed water.
It’s time to play the game of waiting for your hair to dry naturally.
immediate results
In about an hour; my normally dull curls were especially defined and even had a bit of shine to them.
The ringlets held on all day and only got a little frizzy after sleeping. So far, this seemed far from a miracle.
Sierra Riley | Narsity
I wash my hair about twice a week so only time will tell how these results will last.
Violage Hydrasource Deep Treatment Pack Hair Mask
By the third day after washing, my hair was still a little frizzy and felt smooth.
Sierra Riley | Narsity
Each pack provides approximately 4 uses when extra hydration is needed. The solution is pale green in color and has the trademark Aroma Science scent.
I worked some of this potent stuff into my mane after shampooing and left the treatment on for a full three minutes before rinsing it off.
final impression
Sierra Riley | Narsity
In my second wash with the Biolage HydraSource line, these products have achieved workhorse status as a staple in my shower caddy.
A good hair day has become a possibility rather than an accident. Biolage freed my mane from the usual bread. Wear it loose or style it like Jane Fonda.
The relationship between hair and people is unique. My shag and I have achieved symbiosis, and I will take care of it.
Find out more about Biolage’s Hydrasource line here. Follow us on our website, Instagram, order products online.
Although the product was provided free of charge in this review, the author’s opinions are genuine and do not reflect those of Narcity Media.
