37 Hair Care Products We Don't Know How We Lived Without

Some days I swear my hair and I are in a neverending battle and the hair might be winning. I need all the help I can get to tame these locks into something that looks nice and doesn't fight me every step of the way. That's why I am pretty dang picky about the hair care products that I use: I'm not about to slap some drugstore shampoo on my hair and hope it turns out ok. I'm willing to bet that you have a similar attitude: it takes years to grow out hair, so it's worth it to treat your tresses right. From your conditioner to your hair dryer, you want quality products…plus a little something extra if you've got some frizz or a bit of curl up there. Never fear my friends: I've found some amazing hair care products that will see you to the shiny hair of your dreams. All you have to do is scroll.

We hope you find these products as awesome as we do. Just an FYI: We are a participant in the Amazon affiliate program, and may receive a share of sales from links on this page. Prices on Amazon fluctuate so anything mentioned below might change as soon we publish it!

These Outdoor Sports Headbands Always Make My Hair Look Great

Amazon

Keeping long hair out of my face when I'm doing outdoor activities is a must and these are my favorite sports headbands. They're both fashionable and functional and the price tag makes them a no-brainer on Amazon. Some days I wear them when I just don't feel like washing my hair, and I always look cute as heck. And they come in a six pack of different colors to match any outfit.

This Coconut Curling Cream For Styling Your Curls

Amazon

Calling my curly haired friends: if you're on the lookout for a styling cream, then look no further. This cream specifically made for curly hair has more than 10,000 positive four- and five-star reviews. It defines curls without weighing them down — and unlike some creams, this one is made without any mineral oil, sulfates, parabens, or silicones.

A Blast Of Volume With This Spray

Amazon

Looking for a way to achieve more volume? Step away from the dry shampoo. This Full Dry Volume Blast spray from Living Proof will give you the instant, long-lasting volume and texture you've been looking for. Living Proof was already one of my favorite hair care brands, but this product gets them extra brownie points. One reviewer said: "I was pleasantly surprised when I tried this for the first time. It worked! I have fine, flat hair, and this product really did give me noticeable volume."

This Repairing Treatment Fixes Any Hair

Amazon

Over the last year or so I went a little wild with the at home bleach. I know, it's not a good choice, but the 2020s have not been kind to any of us. When I finally went in to see my stylist, he threw on some Olaplex, and the results were honestly astonishing. I went from fried frizz to a healthy sheen. It strengthens and repairs the broken bonds in your hair, helping reverse damage while smoothing frizz.

You Will Be Disney Dreaming With This Scrunchie

Amazon

For many, the allure of Disney never dies, whether you're 8 or 88. If you're a fan of "the mouse" or you have a trip scheduled to the "happiest place on earth" sometime soon, you need these mouse ear scrunchies. Available in pink or red, this four-pack of hair accessories will have everyone in the family looking Disney-ready. The scrunchies also have a smattering of sequins for added glitz (which everyone needs).

These Colorful Claw Clips are Versatile and Cute

Amazon

I am soooo happy that claw clips are back in style. I have never loved my hair in a ponytail or bun, so this is such an easy way to look put together when I just don't feel like getting ready. These colorful claw clips are circulating all over Instagram and TikTok because they are colorful (and heavy-duty). I particularly love them because they don't leave my hair with split ends the way a ponytail does, and I can wear them with all kinds of hairstyles.

This Olaplex Bonding Oil Repairs Your Locks and Protects From Heat

Amazon

Did you think Olaplex only did repair? Think again. If you use heat tools on your hair, this Olaplex bonding oil is going to quickly become your new best friend. Simply apply before heat styling and you'll get smooth, shiny locks with close to zero effort. It'll also repair damaged hair, whether that's from heat or bleaching, and leave you with the healthiest looking hair you've ever had. This brand is my hero.

This Supersonic Knock-Off That Does the Job

Amazon

You don't have to drop $400 for a Dyson supersonic dryer when you can have this one for less than $40. This ionic hair dryer has all of the same attachments (smooth nozzle and diffuser nozzle) and features — two speeds, three heat settings, and multiple cool settings. Reviewers cite the speedy drying time and resemblance to a more expensive dryer as reasons to purchase. Who needs the name brand when you can get all the results for cheaper?

Style Your Baby Hair Effortlessly With These Tiny Hair Brushes

Amazon

I hate trying to manage those tiny little baby hairs that always seem to fly straight up. That is I did until I found these slim brushes to style them down flat. They're gentle on the delicate skin around your hairline, yet will still separate your strands to help get rid of knots and tangles. Plus, they've got thousands of reviews. You tellin' me the reviews are wrong? I don't think so.

These Pearl Hair Clips are the Ultimate in Class

Amazon

This twelve-piece set of pearl hair clips will have you being the envy of your followers. They've become a hit trend online and can be worn every day or for special occasions such as weddings or parties. Whether your hair is light or dark, they're an elegant accessory that matches basically any outfit. I love the way they elevate something simple into something gorgeous.

This Kitsch Shower Cap Gives You More Shower Options

Amazon

We all know the struggle: it's not your hair washing day but you are in desperate need of a shower. Or, maybe you just don't have the time for your hair routine. Whatever your reason is, I've got your back. This Kitsch shower cap is truly a lifesaver and will keep your hair looking incredible and fresh even after the shower: just wrap your hair up, hop in the shower, and you'll emerge clean and refreshed but with perfectly dry hair.

Bring the Salon to Your House with this Hair Cutting Cape

Hair cutting cape via Amazon

I have an undercut, which means that I've got a fair amount of shaved hair that needs constant trimming. I'm not about to shell out to go to the salon just for a 10 minute trim. Lucky for me, this soft, lightweight, and waterproof hair cutting cape is the perfect solution to at-home haircutting. Constructed of non-stick material, this cape collects hair so it doesn't go all over the floor, your clothes, or anywhere else you find errant stray hairs after a barber session.

Get Longer, Stronger Hair With This Strengthening Oil

Amazon

Scalp treatment? Check. Split end care? Check check. This strengthening oil from Mielle Organics combines rosemary and mint to invigorate your scalp and stimulate hair growth. It's a leave-in product so you can section hair into four parts exposing the scalp, apply and massage in, and then style as usual. One reviewer said: " My hair has grown a few inches. I have noticed and my girls have noticed it as well, they come in my room looking for it so I have to hide it from them." Moral of the story: Sharing is caring.

These Pearl Headbands for Queen Bees of the Gram

Amazon

Any influencer who is a Gossip Girl fan will love these pearl and velvet headbands. It's the ideal accessory to play queen bee for your followers and they're a great way to dress up a casual outfit. Whether your hair is short or long, this six-pack of headbands will look great for any occasion.

This Detangling Hair Brush is Perfect for Curly Hair

Amazon

When even the softest brushes are tugging at knots in my hair, I switch over to this detangling brush. It works by separating the strands stuck in knots so that they melt away painlessly, and the ergonomic handle fits comfortably in both hands. One reviewer even raved that "If you have natural hair and have dreaded wash day for too long, get this brush. You will love it." I'm firmly of the believe that hair care shouldn't be painful so take it from me: you need this brush.

This Wonder Water Lives Up to Its Name

Amazon

I found out about this product from a Facebook group I'm in and it is hands down, my best purchase of 2021 (and maybe 2020). Dubbed 8-Second Wonder Water for its water-like consistency and wondrous results, this rinse-out product from L'oreal transforms your hair from tangled to sleek in eight seconds. (No lie.) It uses something called lamellar water technology, which means nothing to me except perfectly silky strands.

I Bleach My Hair And It Is Healthy Because of This Purple Hair Mask

Amazon

Do you know how they say you should never bleach your hair at home? They are correct — but if you do it anyway like I did, make sure to have this purple hair mask on hand. The purple pigments cancel out the brassy yellows that develop from lightening your hair. Without it you'll end up with that horrendous orange color, so plan ahead and grab the hair mask. Plus, it's completely sulfate and paraben-free.

Go Longer In-Between Hair Appointments With L'Oreal's Magic Root Cover Up

Amazon

I hate to admit this on the internet, but I in fact have gray hairs. And not just a few. Enough that I have to touch up my hair every few weeks. So I am always trying to find things to help me push my hair appointments a bit. The Magic Root Cover Up conceals grays and roots in a matter of seconds and lasts me a few days. I do this for a week or two, and I buy myself more time!

Get A Heat-Resistant Mat For All Your Hot Tools

Amazon

Here's something I've learned from (painful) experience: hot tools can leave scorch marks on your vanity if you aren't careful. After making that mistake one too many times, I found this silicone mat that keeps my surfaces protected, and I've never looked back. The textured surface also keeps your tools from sliding off if you accidentally bump into them, and it's large enough to fit at least two tools at once.

You Can't Go Wrong With A Silicone Shampoo Brush

Amazon

Full transparency: I'd never heard of a shampoo brush before I saw this product, but now I'm absolutely obsessed. Add a squirt of shampoo to this brush, then gently massage it into your scalp to wash away the day's sweat and grime. The bristles are made from soft silicone — so don't even worry about it scratching into your head — while the handle on the back helps you keep a firm grip when wet.

The Product That Saved My Hair is This Scrunchie

Amazon

If you're anything like me, your hair is super prone to kinks and breakage. Enter these silk scrunchies. Seriously amazing; they hold up any amount of hair without putting strain on my luscious locks. My hair loves it and I promise you will too. Not to mention, they are pink and super cute and great for literally hundreds of different styles.

This Leave-In Conditioner Detangles Knotted Hair So Easily

Amazon

You'll be glad you stocked up on this leave-in conditioner the next time your hair has become a jumbled, knotted mess (this happens far more often to me than I care to admit). While it works great on all types of hair, curly girls will find its moisturizing properties particularly useful — especially if you're constantly battling against frizz. And unlike some conditioners, this one is ultra-lightweight so that it won't weigh your hair down. I see no negatives here.

This Boar Bristle Brush is a Great Value (and Great at Its Job)

via Amazon

If you want shiny, detangled, healthy-looking hair on the cheap, look into this boar bristle brush that's under $15. Comparable to brushes that go for well over $200, this one works the exact same way to give you great results. It's got over 13,000 ratings for a wow-worthy 4.5 stars - reviewers love that you can use it wet or dry and that brushing is painless! I know I didn't pay enough attention to having the right kind of brush for years, but now that I've switched I would never go back.

Get This Texturizing Taffy Which Delivers The Perfect Curl

Amazon

Gelled hair is so 2002 — so bring yourself into 2021 with this texturizing taffy. The best part about it is that it gives you a solid hold while still keeping your hair flexible. You can give your hair shape and still feel the natural movement. Oh and did I mention you only need a dime-sized amount for a full head of hair?

This Pura D'Or Biotin Shampoo Treats Thinning Hair Of All Types

Amazon

Thinning hair is basically the worst: if you're struggling with it, treat the problem at the roots with this Pura D'Or Biotin Shampoo, which combines biotin, argan oil, nettle extract, saw palmetto, red seaweed, and 17 herbal ingredients. The result is a sulfate-free shampoo that customers swear by, because it gives you thicker and more luscious hair with every wash.

This Hydrating Mask Loaded With Nourishing Argan Oil

Amazon

While some of the products on this list can cost a pretty penny — a pretty penny that they're absolutely worth, mind you — this argan oil mask is available for less than $15. That's my kind of price. Reviewers loved how soft it left their hair feeling, as the moisturizing oils penetrate deep into your hair, leaving it shiny and healthy.

This Hot Air Brush From The 'Dry Bar' Salons

Amazon

Cheap hot airbrushes can fry your hair, leaving you with tons of frizz and breakage: no thanks. So if you're going to use one, make sure to shell out for a professional model — like this one from Drybar. And let me tell you, it's amazing to use when you get one that's quality. "This is a game-changer for fine, thin hair," wrote one reviewer. "I did not use any product just dried my hair and the volume is great!"

This Curl Cream is Cruelty-Free And Vegan

Amazon

The key to bouncy curls is to make sure you aren't using any products that'll weigh them down. Not sure where to start? I love this cream, which is cruelty-free, vegan, and loaded with nourishing shea butter that provides light-as-a-feather hydration. But if that isn't enough? Reviewers loved how it smells like lemon cake.

This Shampoo Refreshes Your Bright Colors

Amazon

If you have hair dyed a bright color, you know how quickly it fades. Well not anymore! You can use this color-depositing shampoo to keep your color looking fresh and fun. It only takes about five minutes, and it comes in tons of different shades, so it's great for maintaining intense shades.

This Caddy For All Your Styling Tools

Amazon

Is your vanity a big mess of styling tools and bottles? I feel you. I fixed that mess with help from this caddy. There's designated space for flat and curling irons, as well as blow dryers. And unlike many caddies, this one is made from real wood — not plastic. It makes the whole thing look classier.

This Anti-Frizz Spray Even Works In The Rain and Humidity

Amazon

The best part about this spray isn't even that it leaves your hair silky-smooth — it's that those results last through up to three shampoos. I didn't even think that was possible. That means you can potentially go almost an entire week with gorgeous hair, all by simply giving your head a few spritzes before you hit the town. Just make sure you either use a blow dryer, or hot styling tool to activate the formula on your strands.

This Trimmer For Quick Little Touch-Ups At Home

Amazon

Whenever I'm unable to get to the barber shop, this trimmer is an absolute lifesaver — particularly when it comes to my undercut. Not only does it save me $30 every two weeks, but the waterproof exterior means you can even rinse it off under running water. Plus, the battery is completely rechargeable, so no managing irritating cords while you try to trim the back of your head.

This Conditioner is Gentle Enough for Babies

Amazon

I'm kind of a baby when it comes to my hair products because I've gotten one too many shampoos in my eyes. Lucky for me, this conditioner is incredibly gentle and still gets the job done. Paraben- as well as tear-free, the sweet orange and vanilla scent helps relax your mind after a long day. "I love this conditioner," raved one reviewer. "I was a little skeptical at first because I've tried other natural conditions that left my hair limp and greasy, but not this one! A little goes a long way. I have fairly long, medium thick hair, and two pumps are all it takes."

Get Diffuser To Transform Drying Curly Hair

Amazon

If you're still using a regular hair dryer to blow out your curly hair, this is a sign that it's time to grab a diffuser — like this one. The wide mouth disperses the hot air so that your curls stay intact, and it's designed to fit onto most dryers. It makes the heat much gentler on your hair and keeps you looking healthy as can be.

This Flat Iron With Tourmaline Ionic Technology

Amazon

Some flat irons are made with plain metal plates, which will leave your hair absolutely fried — that's why this one is made with sleek ceramic plates. The result? Your hair straightens with minimal breakage or dryness, giving you a sleek 'do that stays shiny all day long. I'm all here for a heat tool that gives me the power of heat without the destroyed hair.

This Conditioner Gets Your Hair Ready For Television

Amazon

Look — I've tried everything from $5 to $50 conditioner. And once my bank account recovered from blowing shocking amounts of money on hair care products, I finally settled on regularly using R+Co's television-ready line of shampoo and conditioner. The price is right in the middle between luxury and higher-quality shampoos, yet still leaves my hair feeling as smooth as the $50 bottles. It's the best of all possible worlds.

This Volumizing Powder Seriously Boosts Limp Strands

Amazon

Limp hair got you feeling down? Just give those flat roots a few spritzes of this volumizing powder, and they'll perk right up. It's completely translucent — so there's no need to worry about it looking like dandruff — and the formula is even completely cruelty-free.