Even as a professional colorist, I tend to be very skeptical of in-salon deep conditioning treatments. They are often meant to boost a stylist’s sales and are good for 2-3 shampoos before the hair returns to its original dry and frazzled self. But like many things, there are always exceptions to the rule and when I find something that really works, I will shout it from the rooftops. Here are three in-salon deep treatments that I would easily give up the commission for.
I.S.H. Ionic Rescue Treatment
Hair Type: Dry and/or damaged hair
Time: 45 minutes-1 hour
Cost: $100
The pH: All the benefits of the popular Keratin treatment without the cost, commitment and formaldehyde. Although time consuming, this is the most advanced deep conditioning and smoothing treatment available and the secret is in the “crystals” of aloe and jojoba that penetrate the hair when combined with thermal heat.
We start by shampooing the hair with the color-safe ionic shampoo, blow drying 50% dry and applying the HRC crystal conditioning treatment section by section, roots to ends. We then flat iron each section, which opens the cuticle and allows the crystals to penetrate into the hair shaft. After the entire head is flat ironed, the hair is rinsed and the conditioning sealer is applied. The hair is then formally blow-dried into the softest, silkiest hair you’ve ever had. Best of all, the I.S.H. treatment lasts six weeks and can be done right after a color service. 
Concentre Vita-Ciment by Kerastase
Hair Type: Fine, weakened and/or damaged hair
Time: 5-10 minutes
Cost: $40
The pH: I’ll be honest, I find Kerastase a bit “culty” as a brand, but when stuff works, it REALLY works. This express treatment is like a protein shot for the hair. For those with hair that has been weakened by hormones, over-processing or age, this is for you. It comes in a vial that is sprayed on to towel-dried hair and is massaged into the scalp and ends for 5-10 minutes. It’s then rinsed out and hair is left feeling stronger and silkier. I recommend this to anyone who highlights, straightens or perms their hair in order to prevent breakage.
Nioxin Scalp Renew Natural Dermabrasion
Hair: Fine and/or thinning
Time: 15 minutes in salon combined with nightly take-home treatment for 14 days
Cost: $100-150
The pH: As someone who experienced major hair loss a few years ago, I’m both fascinated and completely skeptical of anything that promises hair restoration and density. So when we got this combination treatment in at the salon, I was naturally the first one to try it out. And I’m extremely happy with the results.
Although there are various reasons for hair loss and thinning, many people don’t realize that clogged follicles are often the cause and scalps need to be exfoliated regularly. The in-salon exfoliation takes approximately 15 minutes and is massaged into the scalp. It’s then shampooed out and the client is sent home with part 2 of the combo pack: The Density Restoration Treatment, which is massaged into the scalp each night for 14 days to reduce hair loss.
After two weeks, I’ve noticed a big difference in my hair with shine, density and what comes out in the shower. It also did not affect my color, so extra points for that.
I’m sure there are many other in-salon treatments that are blog-worthy, but for me, these really stand above the rest and are worth the time and money spent in the salon.
what's the pH? 