The Shea moisture brand has gained a buzz over the years due to its ability to provide natural products to diverse naturalistas. Founded by Sofi Tucker in 1991 the brand became popular around 2010 when the natural hair movement kicked off in the United States. Fast forward to 2019 some of the products under its range remain holy grails due to the fact that they walk the talk with some even surpassing expectations.
From the Shea Moisture curling cream to the JBCO Leave-in conditioner this brand has gained a place in the natural hair community, becoming a go-to brand for transitioning naturalistas and people like me who once wondered what the fuss was all about. Related; Natural hair terms and tips.
Without further ado, let’s review the Shea Moisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Hair Masque also known as the deep conditioner.
- Texture
Before we delve into the product I would like to mention that my hair type is 4C, high porosity. This means it tends to dry up fast. In essence, knowing my hair type and porosity helps me identify which products will counter my hair issues (dryness, prone to tangles, breakage) while providing the great results I so desire.
Here’s how you find the best products for your hair
Shea Moisture Intensive hydration hair masque comes in a brown container which mimics the colour of honey, one of its ingredients. In a 12 oz/350g container you find a white-coloured deep conditioner with a very thick consistency. If you are a 4C naturalista you probably know the joy of finding a thick product that coats your strands like a true moisturizer. The Shea moisture-intensive hair masque does exactly that. Once you spritz your hair with water and apply an ample amount, you won’t have to grow old as you struggle with managing your hair. Especially if you use a clarifying shampoo to wash your natural hair. Learn how to wash kinky hair the right way.
Verdict – On a scale of 1 to 10 it deserves a 9 in terms of consistency, spreadability (coating the hair strand) and moisturizing power. The scent can be too strong for some people but it is not repulsive. Personally, I like it.
- Conditioning effect
The three highlighted ingredients on the Shea moisture-intensive hydration hair masque, are Manuka honey, which is a great anti-inflammatory and moisturizer; Mafura oil, which is said to replenish the oils stripped from hair and the African Rock Fig, a vitamin C that helps keep the hair looking vibrant.
After I had applied the hair masque, waited for 30 minutes, and then rinsed out the product my 4C hair felt softer and bouncier. This makes it easy for me to section the hair before I can moisturize further or add sealants. Check out the best oils to use on 4C hair. The product also provides a great slip so before I rinse it out I take advantage of its moisturising effect to finger-detangle my hair before I comb it.
Verdict – On a scale of 1 to 10 in terms of slip and conditioning effect I would give it an 8. Having transitioned from the Mikalla honey conditioner I feel this deep conditioner does suit my hair better. It might be because it’s an intensive hydration masque which counters my high porosity problems, but overall it addresses my needs.
- Natural ingredients
The good thing about a natural product is that you don’t get to worry if it will be bad for your hair or cause it to break. When it comes to the Shea moisture-intensive hair masque a handful is like a trip down nature’s lane. It contains no sulphates, no parabens, no phthalates, no paraffin, no mineral oil, no synthetic fragrance, no colour and no DEA. What it has is Coconut oil, Shea butter, Mafura oil, Manuka honey, African rock fig, hydrolysed rice protein, Baobab seed oil, Avocado oil and Mango seed butter. It can’t get any juicier than this.
In summary, this is a good deep conditioner as it does what it’s supposed to.
However, all this goodness goes for KSH 1500. Because of this, I wouldn’t say it is the most affordable hair masque/deep conditioner on the market. But it is worth a try. Especially if you have been struggling to find a deep conditioner that works for your hair.
Here’s a guide for you if you’re looking for the right regimen for your hair
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