Which, if any ingredients do you avoid in your hair products? Why?
The answer would depend upon the type of product that I’m purchasing. For instance, I tend to avoid shampoos, cleansers and finishing products that contain any type of protein because it upsets my hair’s protein-moisture balance. While I may not avoid them outright, I also don't use products that contain mineral oil, silicones and cheap ingredients, like corn and palm oil, too often. IMO, they’re a waste of time since I don't receive any benefit from them. Plus, I can do without the added worry of ridding myself of the build up these additives can bring.
Do you avoid these same ingredients in your body products? Why or why not.
Yes, I do. I'm not interested in using body products that contains proteins, silicones, mineral oil or other cheap ingredients because I view them as unnecessary fillers.
What is the main thing you look for from a hair product? In other words, what would make you a repeat customer of a hair product?
The main thing that I look for in a hair product is always efficacy – how well a given product performs on my hair. Whether it be a deep conditioner/masque or protein treatment, in order for me to become a repeat customer, I must receive long-lasting moisture and visible strength respectively. If not, I will look elsewhere.
What is the main thing you look for from a body product?
For body products, the deciding factor for me is performance – will it provide long-lasting moisture and softness.
Are there any ingredients you buy separately to add to a product or use by themselves, such as, oils or pure butters? What are they?
Yes. I love the added benefit that certain essential and carrier oils can offer, so I purchase them separately.
What frustrates you the most about online hair and body product retailers?
The things that frustrate me most with online vendors are: (1) unsafe and unhygienic products that contain foreign items, such as dirt, grime and hair; (2) hazardous products – those that spoil easily and/or have a short shelf life; (3) products with consistency issues - one that is thick and creamy one month and thin and runny the next; (4) substandard customer service, where a vendor is either uncommunicative with their consumers, or are dismissive of their needs and concerns. I have no problem with waiting for a product to be shipped out to me, particularly if it’s a handcrafted item. However, when I do receive my product, I expect it to be clean, consistent and stable. I dare say it isn’t too much to ask that my items are free of dirt, hair and consistency issues, and is able to exist for a year without difficulty.
How much do you estimate that you spend monthly on hair and body products?
I don’t have a monthly budget because I don’t make hair and body purchases every month. I only shop during sale promotions...substantial sale promotions. Since there is no product that I’m willing to purchase at full price, my interest is only piqued when there’s a sale. No sale, no deal.
