Product Review: Desert Essence Organics Hair Care

By Melissa Barlow on October 30th, 2009

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Living in Los Angeles, it is almost a sin to admit that I really don’t like most organic beauty products. I know they are good for you. I know they help the environment. But I have yet to find an organic line that really works for me, as I need some good old fashioned petroleum in my conditioner. My hair looks like straw without it.

With that in mind, I was recently given some samples of Desert Essence Organics Italian Red Grape Shampoo and Conditioner. I’ve been noticing the Desert Essence Organics line was popping up in more and more drugstores, but never had bought any despite its super affordable price. My cynicism in organic products (especially if they are available in a drugstore) was just too great.

First some background: Desert Essence Organics is 100% vegan, wheat-free, gluten-free and is also free of parabens, sodium lauryl/laureth sulfates, phthalates, artificial colors, silicones, EDTA, glycol, and petroleum-based ingredients. Whew! Oh, and it’s also cruelty-free and biodegradable. My eco-friendly ladies, thesec products were made for you.

That said, once again, I’m glad I didn’t buy it. On the plus side, the shampoo and conditioner smelled wonderful and left my hair smelling like grape lip smackers. However, that was really the only plus. I have mega hair that I only wash twice a week, and with Desert Essence Organics I had to shampoo three times before my hair really felt clean. The conditioner was super light, did nothing to detangle my rat’s nest, and actually left my hair a little dry. I ended up using my regular conditioner instead. Now, I do think these products might be good for someone with super-fine hair or for someone who washes often, but curly haired girls, unless you hair is really fine, don’t even bother.

I’m really interested in hearing from you, though. Do you know of affordable organic skin or haircare lines that actually deliver? What are some of your favorites? Have you found an organic product that you can’t live without? Please let me know! I’m ALWAYS looking for new products I can’t live without.