Most of us fall under the category of “I’m so busy that I can hardly make time for self-care these days,” so when we find a product that really works AND saves time in our routines, we consider it a big win. Those were my thoughts exactly when I discovered Alterna Haircare’s fan-favorite Caviar Anti-Aging Replenishing Moisture CC Cream, which is a best-seller and I’m not surprised. Here’s what makes it so good, and why I especially love using it this time of year.
My Hair Type:
I have long, fine, color-treated hair—it doesn’t always look fine because I have a lot of hair and I’m also prone to frizz, but I promise it is.
The Benefits:
This multitasking cream delivers a laundry list of both treatment and styling benefits in one easy step that replaces my traditional leave-in conditioner. The 10 benefits include providing moisture, shine, smoothness, softness, anti-breakage properties, heat protection, light hold, UV color protection, manageability, and strength. One of the secrets behind this powerhouse formula is the caviar extract, which is from pure caviar from the roe of non-endangered sturgeon fish that are sustainably farmed in France. This ingredient is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals that help restore the hair’s lipid layer to its optimal state, so it looks healthier.
In the brand’s clinical testing, the CC Cream was proven to provide moisture, smoothness, shine, managebility, and thermal protection up to 450 degrees, as well as reduce hair breakage more than 98 percent compared to hair that wasn’t treated with the product. It works on all hair types, from straight to tightly coiled, and it’s not only safe for color-treated hair, but also beneficial on several accounts. Color-treated hair can become dry and brittle quicker than its virgin counterparts, which this cream is perfect for, but I also really appreciate the addition of UV protection. Sun damage can ruin beautiful hair color, and as we head into summertime, this is a great way to add an extra layer of defense into your routine.
Key Ingredients:
Caviar extract, omega-3s, minerals, proteins, and antioxidants
What It’s Free From:
Parabens, phthalates, DEA/TEA, synthetic color, and SLS/SLES: sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate
How to Use It:
Apply a small amount to clean, towel-dried hair and style as usual. I find that a little goes a long way, so start with less and add more next time if you need it. The brand says the cream can be used alone as a primer or quick fix, or as a foundation for the layering of other styling products. Though it feels rich in my fingers, it spreads evenly in my hair, but I also comb it through to ensure it reaches every strand. It makes my hair feel super soft and helps keep frizz at bay, and love the way it smells too, like I just left the salon.
Price/Where to Buy:
$46, sephora.com
(You can also try them yourself if you’re one of the lucky ones to snag this week’s BeautyPass Free Gift Friday. Click here to sign up for BeautyPass if you haven’t already.)
