Achieving confidence in your natural locks come wedding day is, of course, all about what you do for your hair in the months leading up to the big event. With an overwhelming amount of haircare products that promise quick, effective results, it’s hard to know which actually belong in the “worth-the-money” category and which are simply marketing ploys. 

Luckily, you don’t have to waste your time or resources testing them out, because we’ve done it for you! Our editors tried the following products firsthand and deemed each more than worthy of adding to your pre-wedding haircare regimen.

Detoxing the Scalp for Better Growth

The first step to healthy hair is removing all the buildup from products, dead skin cells and environmental pollutants. The SH-RD Caffeine Revival Shampoo uses effective ingredients like caffeine and botanical extracts to refresh your scalp, and a tingly, cooling feel soothes itchiness. You can pair this (or any shampoo, really) with the ACTIIV Scalp Massager for a gentle exfoliation of the scalp. This specific massager covers a larger surface area than most others we’ve seen. Plus, using it in the shower not only stimulates the hair follicles, aiding in your scalp’s natural hair growth process, but it also helps distribute all the goodness of whatever product you’re using.

Repairing the Damage

The JOICO Defy Damage products are often recommended by hairdressers, and after trying them, we can see why. The Defy Damage Protective Shampoo & Conditioner makes any hair type look visibly shinier without weighing the hair down. With moringa seed oil, keratin, arginine, and rosehip oil, it has a delightful scent. 

On days when you have a bit of extra time and want a deeper condition, you’ll be happy to have the INTEGRITYrx REPAIIR Bio-Enrich Hair Mask by ACTIIV. Based on an independent third-party laboratory study on bleached human hair tresses, scientists found that 88% of split ends were repaired… in just minutes. On top of being incredibly effective at reversing damage, this hair mask is free of harmful ingredients like parabens and phthalates. Even better, ACTIIV carries a waterproof 5-minute timer that can suction to your shower walls to ensure you’re using the product as directed.

After the shower, allow your hair to dry to a damp state and apply our officially new favorite haircare product by ZENAGEN, the Repairacle Strengthening Leave-in Conditioner spray. It’s aptly named because it truly works miracles on dry, color-treated hair with a gentle formula that is lightweight and non-greasy. The results were immediately noticeable: no tangles, less frizz, and a softer texture. On top of that, this product works as an effective protector against damage from blow dryers or hot tools!

Style & Protect

With the high temperatures we subject our hair to weekly, one form of heat protectant is okay, but it couldn’t hurt to take extra precautions with your lovely hair in the months leading up to your wedding! From the same line as ACTIIV’s hair mask is the REPAIIR All-In-One Protectant is just as (if not more) effective in repairing split ends. It also provides a number of benefits besides heat protection at up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, like 24-hour frizz control in 80% humid environments – hello, tropical destination wedding brides!

Ultimately, the hair products you use will have a massive impact on how your hair behaves for your stylist on W-day. Why not make it easier on them (not to mention gaining luscious hair in the process) by adding some pizzazz to your weekly haircare now?