(Features press samples & affiliate links - see disclaimer)
I changed my hair quite a bit last year - I'd recently had a second baby, have no plans to have anymore and so it was time to find me again which meant losing the baby weight, changing my hair and finally getting my eyebrows microbladed.
The eyebrows came first and then I chopped my hair off and went blonde; I love it but it has meant the extra bleach means my hair needs a little more loving than usual. I discovered Authentic Beauty Concept towards the end of last year and it has really transformed the feel and texture of my hair, a really great brand I couldn't wait to share more of.
The vegan and planet-friendly haircare company aim to bring thoughtful hair care to the masses using a combination of cutting-edge science and carefully chosen ingredients.
"From almost the dawn of time, man has been in pursuit of healthy hair. Cultures around the world have long used plant power to achieve glossy tresses, applying everything from nut and seed oils to fruit pulp and crushed herbs to their locks. With time, as our understanding of science and technology improved, we have found increasingly sophisticated methods to harness that power. Likewise, ingredients have evolved from rudimentary combinations to specialised formulas. Authentic Beauty Concept products are formulated with a special combination of purified natural extracts. For example, the Hydrate product range for dry hair contains mango fruit extract and basil leaf extract. Mango is known to be rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, and basil is known to have anti-inflammatory properties. Read on to discover how these ingredients have been specially extracted, purified and preserved thanks to advanced science"
Authentic Beauty Concept
I've been trialling a handful of products from the range including Hydrate for Dry Hair and one of their styling products all of which are packaged in climate-neutral boxes and bottles in soft matte hues. The range has a soft cotton fragrance that helps to evoke a sense of calm thanks to a combination of white flower notes, mango and basil accord over a subtle blend of powdery vanilla notes - perfect!
The light, transparent cleanser helps to moisturise and clean hair - just squeeze a small amount into the palm of your hand and massage it into your hair. It creates a really soft lather than works through given the cleanest feeling I've felt in a long time. It can sometimes feel like my hair is quite knotty post-bleach and this really helps with that - I just adore the scent too.
Following the cleanser, I use the conditioner and I think this is my favourite product out of the ones I have tried as it just leaves my hair feeling so soft and nourished. The smallest amount makes the biggest difference and the products feel super luxurious which just adds to the experience.
I don't always add extra product to my hair as I don't like the way it can sometimes weigh my hair down but this little tube of hair goodness is excellent. Free from parabens and silicones, it has a barely-there feel that just adds the perfect amount of smoothness to hair. The formula contains Bakuchiol which helps with its light feel while it nourishes and protects hair. You can even use it on the skin - it soaks in beautifully, leaves a velvet soft feel and smells subtly floral.
It's packaged in a climate-neutral box too!
At Authentic Beauty Concept, there is something for everyone and I'm already itching to try the range for coloured hair next - the beautiful pale pink bottles are calling my name. My hair feels the best it has in months and Authenitc Beauty Concept is 100% responsible and with traditional methods and ingredients that really make a difference at the brand's core - it's one to watch this year!