Is it just me, or does the beauty industry have a Ph.D. in making us feel like we’re always one product away from perfection?
I mean, my bathroom cabinet is a whole skincare buffet – from snail mucin to every serum under the sun – yet here I am, still waiting for that promised goddess-like glass skin. What gives?
And it’s the same for hair. Got dry curls? There’s a fix for that. Frizz got you frazzled? Avocado oil to the rescue. Edges looking more eek than on fleek? No worries, there’s a concoction for that too.
But here’s the million-dollar question: how many of these so-called magic-working curly hair products are the real deal, and how many are just slick marketing making your coins disappear faster than your silk press in the rain?
Now, don’t get me wrong, some staples (hey, shampoo, leave-in conditioner, heat protectants) are worth every penny. But others? They’re just empty promises in a pretty package.
So, if you’ve been wondering whether to grab that hair-thickening snake oil or those fancy hair supplements, here’s the lowdown on six curly hair products that aren’t worth the hype or your hard-earned cash.
Related: Sorry, The 3-Month Braids & Weaves Won’t Grow Out Your Hair – Try This Instead
Rosemary Oil
Okay, I know you’re ready to come for my head on this one.
But listen, according to studies, it’s not the rosemary oil itself that triggers hair growth; it’s the act of massaging any oil onto your scalp.
Let me explain.
In a 2015 clinical trial involving 100 men with androgenetic alopecia, researchers found that participants who massaged their scalps with rosemary oil twice a day for six months experienced hair growth comparable to that of those using 2% minoxidil, the most studied hair loss treatment.
Interestingly, another study showed that participants who massaged their scalps with dry hands—nothing on them—also saw significant hair growth. Why? Because scalp massages stimulate blood flow to hair follicles, promoting follicular activity and encouraging growth.
So, we can confidently say it’s the massaging action, not the oil itself, that boosts curl growth.
But does that mean rosemary oil is useless? Hell no! Rosemary oil contains carnosic acid, known for its ability to stimulate and heal nerve tissue. Plus, it boasts anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties that reduce redness and protect your strands from free radical damage.
So, the next time someone tries to sell you rosemary oil for hair growth, let them know the real deal!
Related: The 6 Best And Most Affordable Hair Regrowth Devices In 2024
Hair Gummies
Sure, hair loss can happen for all sorts of reasons, and yeah, a balanced diet is right at the top of the list. But before you sprint to the nearest pharmacy to grab those biotin-packed gummies, please pause for a sec!
According to studies, you might be popping those sweet treats for no real reason. This is because most gummies are packed with a cocktail of vitamins and minerals that may or may not be vital for your curls health, not to mention a generous dose of sugar.
Without knowing exactly what’s causing your hair loss or growth plateau, you’re just throwing your money away. Harsh, but true.
What you really need?
A quick visit to a medical pro who can pinpoint the issue. And guess what? It’s usually about tweaking your diet and staying hydrated, not splurging on supplements.
Additionally, you need to be careful with biotin overload. According to consultant dermatologist Dr. Anjali Mahto, overconsumption of biotin could mess with your hormones and even lead to a misdiagnosis of a heart attack.
So, to be on the safe side, and rather than spend your coins on supplements and gummy bears, just make sure you’re boosting your fruit and veggie intake. That’s the real secret to healthier, thicker curls.
Split End Treatments
If your curls have already taken a one-way trip to Splitsville, babe, I hate to break it to you—it’s too late. The only real solution? A trim, straight up.
You see, hair is always battling the elements (unless you’re living the full-time hermit life), plus it deals with daily friction from your clothes, pillowcases, ties, and brushes.
So, it’s entirely normal for it to get weathered, resulting in split ends, which any hair expert worth their shears will tell you cannot be fixed. Once your strand splits, that damage runs up the shaft until you trim it. You can’t glue it back together or bring it back to life.
Which means all those miracle-working split-end treatments? Not worth the hype.
The only thing these products can do is coat your curls to make split ends less noticeable, giving them a sleeker, smoother look. Basically, they’re Band-Aids, not cures.
Plus, many contain silicone, which might make your curls seem lush at first, but three to four weeks later, you’ll notice dryness creeping in.
Bottom line: just get a trim. That’s your only saving grace!
Anti-Aging Haircare
Who wants to think of their hair as old? Not me!
But while we’re obsessed with reversing aging—much like The Evil Queen’s mirror or those questionable vampire tales—anti-aging hair products are a complete scam. Or should I say they don’t really exist?
Here’s why.
There are only two things that happen to your strands as you age. First, it becomes thinner. Follicles weaken and may even stop producing hair altogether.
Second? Your curls turn gray. The cells responsible for your hair color cease to function, leading to those silver strands. Simple.
So, all those products you reach for—hair dye, temporary color, volumizing styling aids—are just cosmetic fixes, not real treatments.
Related: The Best Hair Dye Colors for Dark Skin Tones for Fall – And Almost Every Other Season
There you have it – the real deal on overhyped products. But before I sign off, let me leave you with a few good alternatives that promote healthy hair and won’t cost you an arm and a leg:
- Embrace the basics: A good sulfate-free shampoo, hydrating conditioner, and leave-in are your curl’s best friends. Peroidt!
- Scalp massagers: If you’re not big on DIY scalp massaging, get yourself the Bread Beauty Supply Scalp Thingy ($18). Your curls (and stress levels) will thank you.
- Nourish from the inside: Load up on fruits, veggies, and proteins for healthy hair growth. Your plate is the only supplement you’ll ever need.
- Trim regularly: Don’t ghost your stylist. Regular trims are the real MVPs in the fight against split ends.
- Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate: Both your body and your curls. Water and a good deep conditioning routine can work wonders.
Remember, the best investment in your curls is knowledge and care. Your hair is already amazing – let it shine!
