Drugstore Haircare That Delivers Salon-Worthy Results

Source: Steven Ferdman/Getty Images

There’s no better feeling than leaving the salon with a fresh cut and blow-dry. However, with salons closed for much of the year and appointments difficult, if not impossible to secure, we’re relying on drugstore formulas that deliver salon-worthy results – this year needs to be as budget-friendly as possible! From the celeb hairstylist-approved serum to the finishing crème that cuts styling time in half, here are five products that’ll give you I-just-left-the-salon confidence, at a fraction of the cost.

1. For Frizz-Free Tresses: Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-Frizz Serum, $5

Source: Garnier

In our recent interview with celeb hairstylists, both Cash Lawless and Kathleen Riley – who collectively have worked with the likes of Kendall Jenner and Sofia Richie – mentioned their obsession with this argan-infused serum.

Kathleen explains why it’s her go-to, “This serum works amazingly when you’re right out of the shower, with wet hair to start as a base of a frizz-free style. I also love using it when doing a “wet look” because the serum is a thicker consistency and saturates the hair.”

2. For Defined Curls: Taliah Waajid Curly Curl Cream, $8

Source: Taliah Waajid

If you’ve been blessed with curls or coils, this non-greasy cream is about to be your best friend. The rich formula will help eliminate frizz, define your curl pattern, and add shine. Another major bonus? It has no sticky build-up and leaves your hair feeling hella-soft. It can be used on wet or dry hair or for spiral sets, two-strand twists, and braid outs.

3. For Soft, Sleek Hair: Pantene Smooth & Sleek 3 Minute Miracle Daily Conditioner, $4

Source: Pantene

This has been one of our go-to masks for years. The formula contains 80% more conditioning ingredients than a regular conditioner, which is why we like to use it as a mask. It also boasts terminal amino-silicones (TAS), that smooth and flatten the outer cells of the hair cuticle, to keep the hair protected and decrease moisture loss. Comb a coin-sized amount of this mask through your hair while it’s still soaking wet for best results.

4. For Damage-Free Locks: Tresemme Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray, $6

Source: TRESemme

Any celebrity hairstylist will school you on the importance of using a heat-protection spray, and this affordable formula is one of the best. Not only does the heat-activated spray protect your hair from damage, but it also enhances the hair’s flexibility for easy styling and prevents frizz. Simply spritz your damp locks, pre-heat styling, and you’ll instantly be able to notice a difference!

5. For The Perfect Air Dry: Kristin Ess Weightless Shine Air Dry Crème, $10

Source: Kristin Ess

Regardless of your hair type or texture, this creme will work wonders. The formula features a unique zip-up technology – a strengthening complex designed to “zip-up” split ends while replenishing weak areas of the hair – that smoothes the appearance of damaged cuticles and eliminates frizz.

If you’re looking to achieve a polished final look but don’t have an abundance of time, this cream is a must. To use, leave your hair to air dry until your natural pattern begins to form, then work a quarter-sized amount through your hair and allow it to finish air-drying.

For more amazing drugstore formulas, check out drugstore formulas celeb MUAs and hairstylists use on the red carpet.

Disclaimer: Every product we review has been independently selected and tested without bias by our editorial team. We never take payment to review products, however, some brands allow affiliate links, so we may earn a commission if you purchase a product by clicking on one of our links.