What They Say: "Senses are indulged as hair is treated to a beneficial blend proven to maintain healthy hair. Gentle cleansers, detangling conditioners and protective antioxidants keep hair soft, shiny and in perfect balance."

Alissa's Opinion: This pair of products has so many cushy ingredients that I expected it to treat my hair very nicely. In addition to green tea, it contains shea butter and echinacea to moisturize and silicones to enhance shine. It definitely lived up to my expectations and gave me a soft and shiny mane. The shampoo produced a nice thick lather and the conditioner felt thick and luxurious, yet it rinsed out easily. My only complaint is that the scent isn't very appealing, something I wouldn't expect from Back to Basics. It smells faintly medicinal but not offensive. This is a nice everyday product.

Retail Price: $9.95-31.95 for 11.5oz size up to 1/2 gallon size (at salons and select distributors - go here to find one near you)

Delush Rating:

What They Say: "Senses are indulged as hair is treated to a beneficial blend proven to soften thick, coarse hair. Gentle cleansers, detangling conditioners and rich emollients keep hair controlled, conditioned and rich with moisture.

Coconut: Extremely hydrating conditioning fruit quenches dehydrated hair. Smoothes rough cuticle layer into a glossy finish. Softens coarse, thick or wiry hair for added control.

Mango: Significant source of Vitamins A, B and C to promote a shiny surface, and protect from heat and styling stress.

Jojoba: Moisturizing conditioner instantly penetrates rehydrating the cortex. Ensures hair is always strong, always healthy, always bouncy.

• Added UV protection guards against fadage.
• Moisturizers and bodifiers balance the formulas resulting in resilient styling.
• Naturally derived surfactants carefully remove impurities with a sensuous, billowy lather.
• Color safe formula is gentle for all color treated hair."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: Okay, this was a pair I definitely wanted to try, as I've for years been dealing with my often unruly, half-wiry hair with talented juggling of various hair products and styling techniques. Mostly, my problem is typically the first 8-12 hours after washing my hair. If the water isn't JUST soft enough, or if the product isn't QUITE right, or if I blowdry for too long or for too little and in the wrong direction, my hair without product can be - quite frankly - poofy and dry as straw. This is part of the reason (aside from the fact that it's healthier for my hair) that I only wash it every 3-4 days.

I've found several products and some shampoos and conditioners that really make those first few hours much more pleasant to look at. But I'm also glad to find more.

The shampoo smells SO GOOD. It's like a coconut/creamsicle scent, and the lather is velvety soft. When you rinse, the hair still feels soft and not stripped. The conditioner does not smell quite as incredible...there's some other component to it which makes the scent different, but it is still pleasant. I wouldn't call this an intense conditioner by any means, either. It does the job along with the shampoo but isn't heavy.

Overall, this duo did its job creating a mood-lifting, pampering experience and did in fact leave my hair more soft and touchable. It also didn't look dry right after blowdrying, either - even without the aid of any other styling product. I was pleased.

Retail Price: $9.95-31.95, depending on size (go to backtobasics.com to find a salon retailer near you)

DeLush Rating: (the Shampoo)
(the Conditioner)

What They Say: "Senses are indulged as hair is treated to a beneficial blend proven to infuse hair with maximum volume. Vitamin B5 helps each strand to enhance hair's overall body and fullness. Gentle cleansers and detangling conditioners leave hair shiny, silky, and volumized."

Apple
Contains natural emulsifiers that help thicken hair, boosting volume. Damaging free-radicals are countered with Vitamins A and C.

Ginseng
Increases volume and thickness, infusing fine hair with energy.

Vitamin B5
Penetrates deep within the hair shaft to plump up each individual strand, making hair look and feel thicker and fuller.

Jen's Experience: I am always a sucker for the latest volumizing shampoo and conditioner combo, and the ones I've tried usually fall into two categories: ones that add volume through texturizing, and ones that clean really well and inject vitamins and moisture to boost the actual thickness of the hair. This one is very much in the "soft volume" category.

I've been spoiled after using the Aveda Pure Abundance shampoo and conditioner, expecting to just blow dry my hair and walk out the door. When I use this shampoo and conditioner, my hair does seem to appear thicker than it would be with more general products, but it doesn't have the same volume and the roots and the body that I would like to see.

On the positive side, it cleans my hair as well as any clarifying or detoxifying shampoo, so I can use it everyday without any build-up. It does a really good job of cleaning off all of the other products I put in my hair.

Overall, this is a good pick for those with fine hair if you're willing to use some extra products once you're out of the shower. I've been following a tip from one of our readers, mixing a styling gel (I am using my Halo Bodifying Gel) with the Aveda Pure Abundance hair powder. And that adds just enough texture to my hair to give it the extra body I was hoping for.

Retail Price: $9.95 shampoo/11.5 oz, $10.95 conditioner/11.5 oz (Visit BacktoBasics.com for Salon locations)

Rating:

What They Say: (about the Curl Refreshing Shampoo & Conditioner) Senses are indulged as hair is treated to a beneficial blend proven to activate and define curl. Gentle cleansers and detangling conditioners in these moisturizing, anti-frizz formulas keep curls smooth and separated, soft and shiny.

(about the Curl Activating Gel) Formulated with a natural blend proven to activate, define and separate curls. Moisturizing, anti-frizz formula keeps curl smooth and shiny throughout the day.

Jamie's Review: Hello, my name is Jamie, and I have high maintenance hair.

(in chorus) Hello, Jamie.

Despite several very solid DeLush reviews on the Back to Basics line of products, I was skeptical about this one. I second guess any product that claims to have any control whatsoever over my naturally curly hair. Do these so-called "curly hair only" products actually do what they say they will?

Well, yes. And no.

The shampoo is predictable, nothing special happening there. It rinsed out quickly and completely, which I always appreciate. The conditioner, on the other hand, is phenomenal. It was very creamy upon application and especially rinsing - it had an instant softening effect on my hair. When I stepped out of the shower, I was able to run my fingers through my hair without physical pain. Usually, I need 4-5 spritzes of detangler before that can occur. Hallelujah! Graham Webb, I love you, wherever you are. After a quick brush, it was onto the gel. It went on very goopy but distributed nicely in the end. The "golden rule of hair gel" definitely applies here - the more gel you use, the crunchier your hair will be. It also did not control the strange, frizzy waves I have on the back of my head at all.

A note on the scent: Holy jasmine, Batman! I found the scent (a very thick, heady floral mix) completely overwhelming, and not necessarily in a good way. If you're like me and prefer a lighter, fresh, citrus scent, do not purchase this product. The scent lasts all day and well into the evening, which is fantastic, if you like the way it smells.

Overall results of the "curl refresher" suite of products? Average at best, save the conditioner. If they made the conditioner in citrus, I would use it everyday!

Retail Prices: (the shampoo & conditioner) $9.95 - 31.95 each in a range of three sizes (the gel) $9.95 (available at salons and select distributors - find a location near you here)

DeLush Ratings: Back to Basics "Curl Refreshing" Shampoo
Back to Basics "Curl Refreshing" Conditioner
Back to Basics "Curl Activating" Gel

What They Say: (about the shampoo & conditioner) "A beneficial blend of bamboo, ivy, avocado oil and panthenol. The shampoo's color-safe formula acts as a humidity barrier to keep straight hair soft, shiny and frizz-free."
(about the crème) Effectively smoothes curls, waves, and frizz without leaving any buildup, so hair stay touchable and soft. Also, adds an additional layer of protection against thermal tools. Just apply evenly on damp hair and blow dry straight."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: (about the shampoo & conditioner) I have to come right out with it. Frankly, I'm thrilled with this formula. The clear shampoo alone makes my hair feel soft when it's rinsed out. Then the conditioner, which is more gel-like than cream-like, finishes off the super-soft feeling. After blowdrying, I don't notice any weighing-down, but instead very frizz-tamed and soft locks. I also feel like my hair has more swing and it even looks healthier. Now, my hair is very thick, but the strands are fine and prone to waves and frizz. If you struggle with thin or limp hair, you may want to be careful and perhaps even find out if your stylist thinks this will work for you (maybe they can use it on you at your next appointment). I tend to think because of the products' lack of buildup during my experience that it won't be a problem. (Readers with fine or thin hair who've used this already - please go ahead and leave a comment to let us know how it worked for you!).

(about the straightening crème) Stick to applying this a few inches away from your roots, comb it through, and blowdry - and you'll have sleeker heat-styled hair. I think this combined with the Bamboo Straightening Shampoo & Conditioner really makes a difference, especially when you do a blowout or use a straightening iron. If you aren't really going to use a heat styling method, this likely is not necessary if you just use the shampoo & conditioner alone.

Retail Prices: $9.95 for the shampoo, $10.95 for the conditioner, $10.95 for the crème (exclusively through premier salons and distributors across North America...to find a salon or distributor near you, please call 800-456-9322 or go to www.backtobasics.com)

DeLush Ratings:
Bamboo Straightening Shampoo & Conditioner
Straightening Crème:

What They Say: "Senses are indulged as hair is treated to a beneficial blend proven to restore hair's moisture balance. Gentle cleansers and detangling conditioners hydrate and smooth for soft, silky, shiny hair.
• Tames split ends and static indicative of dry hair.
• Increases flexibility of dehydrated hair resulting in responsive styling.
• Naturally derived surfactants carefully remove impurities with a sensuous, billowy lather.
• Color safe formula is gentle for all color treated hair."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: If the incredible scent (fresh, light, and luscious) doesn't get you interested in this shampoo and conditioner, then perhaps the fact that hair is transformed into strong, soft, and shiny locks WILL. The shampoo is clear and very gentle (my color has not faded while using it), and the conditioner creates a softness not often achieved with anything less than a deep conditioner. This has by far been my favorite cleansing and conditioning duo recently.

These formulas are specifically made for normal to dry hair. If you have a problem with oiliness, you may need to try a more specifically-engineered formula for your hair type. However, if you DO purchase these two, it is always best to get them at an actual salon to ensure you are getting the highest quality product.

Retail Price: $9.95-31.95 (both are available in three sizes) at salons (go here to find a salon near you)

DeLush Rating:

What They Say: "Formulated with a natural blend proven to deliver body and shine. Sculpt styles with no flaking, no tackiness. Hair stays touchable and smooth with a medium hold.
• Moisturizing conditioners ensure healthy body with every use.
• UV protection extends to styling products for maximum protection.
• DIRECTIONS: Spray on damp hair, comb through evenly. Style and define."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: Generally, I haven't been a big user of texturizing sprays, mostly because I've felt like I had "enough" natural body in my thick hair, not realizing the difference texturizer can make. But lately I've been trying several different texturizing sprays from different lines, and today's versions really can have an impact on your hair.

This formula is made to be used in damp hair before styling or blowdrying. I noticed a difference immediately as I was drying my hair; it had much more volume. Afterward I also noticed more of a matte texture to my hair, holding a bit more of a style. It was a little hard to brush through a few hours after I'd initially blowdried, and I also thought my hair got a little oily the very next day. I think the key is to keep the product away from your roots when you apply it.

Overall, this provided some amazingly tousled texture for a couple of days, with just a few glitches that can probably be avoided once you get the hang of it.

Retail Price: $10.95 (go here to find a salon retailer near you - sorry overseas readers!)

DeLush Rating:

What They Say: "Has summer taken its toll on your hair leaving you with split ends, breakage and weak lifeless styles? Well, Mother Nature has come to the rescue. Back to Basics Vanilla Plum Fortifying Shampoo is designed to infuse strength and vitality into damaged, weak hair using our unique Vanilla Plum Fortifying Complex. The complex contains a revitalizing blend of vanilla, plum and natural proteins that together help strengthen, improve texture, restore elasticity and protect hair, promoting overall health and shine.

[It] features a delicious fragrance which begins with a juicy top of black and red plums combines with rich black currant. Its accents are bursting with zesty citrus notes of lemon, key lime, and bergamot. The undertones are an absolute vanilla white musk to balance the overall fruity tone of the fragrance."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: I could try to tell you how good this smells, but no matter how well I describe it, you're still going to open it up yourself and give a surprised "Ooooooooh!" It's honestly THAT good. My husband even made the Oooooooh noise when he smelled it. And I think he wanted to use it first, but I wouldn't let him! I can't really say I've noticed a huge difference in hair texture, though I have noticed more shine and that is always a good thing. If you've got more damaged or more stressed hair, you may see a more notable difference. I do know it doesn't weigh my hair down at all, and since it cleanses gently and smells so wonderful, it's definitely worth a try!

Retail Price: $8.95 (go to backtobasics.com for salons or call 800.456.9322)

DeLush Rating:

Back to Basics Launches New Web Site to Support Redefinition
Revamped Web Site Zeroes in on Vital Content for Both Stylists & Consumers


Carlsbad, CA (January 2006) – Change is definitely in the air for Back to Basics – the recent redefinition has not only introduced all new packaging and formulas, but an interactive stylist and consumer-friendly Web site reflective of the new look and feel of the brand. This unique resource offers several tools that help consumers to better understand their hair, its health and its styling needs, as well as how to communicate their desired look to their stylist. Also included is a members-only area for the salon professional where they can access exclusive updates and downloads.

"We wanted to connect with the consumer and stylist by providing a resource which offered easy-to-access information that was both educational and entertaining," according to Lisa O'Connor, executive director of marketing, Back to Basics. "The site helps to simplify often confusing hair terminology and answers the most commonly asked questions for the consumer to help guide them toward the right styling choice. It's also an incredible guide to client outreach and relationship building for stylists and salon owners."

Consumer site perks:

· Ingredient Glossary – Features in-depth descriptions and benefits
· Hair Prescription Tool – Offers recommendations for care and styling products following a brief questionnaire regarding hair type, lifestyle and desired look
· Hair Glossary – For those unsure of their hair type or how to explain it when looking for products or talking to stylists, this section describes how to analyze hair type and corresponding properties of each type
· Talking to Your Stylist – Tips on how to communicate with stylists to achieve the desired look each and every time, plus fun facts like how much to tip, how often to get a hair cut, etc.
· Look/Product of the Month – Monthly updates on featured products for care and styling including styling tips
· FAQ's – A great resource addressing basic consumer questions about products and how to use them
· Highly functional product knowledge section with prescription charts and conversion charts

Salon Professional – Devoted to stylists, this section offers useful information and retail tools such as:

· Retail Authority – Delivers business-building tools for salon owners, such as a guide on how to talk to your clients and recommend products, planograms, and merchandising ideas
· Diversion – Provides detailed information on this ongoing issue and its effect on the salon industry, as well as a downloadable diversion contract to use in their salons/stores
· Salon Finder Enrollment – Provides opportunity for salons to be listed on the site for customers to locate them
· Designer Salon – Details on the recently enhanced salon loyalty program
· Styling Technicals – Step by step processes for achieving different hairstyles
· Additional Tools – Promotion selling tips, downloadable templates for e-news, client invitations, referral cards, product recommendation pad, and counter cards

The full line of Back to Basics hair, bath and body products are available exclusively through premier salons and distributors across North America (only sold in US and CN). To find the salon or distributor near you, please call 800-456-9322 or log onto www.BacktoBasics.com.

ABOUT GRAHAM WEBB INTERNATIONAL
An energetic marketer and leading manufacturer of upscale, top-quality professional hair care, skin care and cosmetic products, Graham Webb International launched in 1990 in an effort to meet the growing needs of salons, stylists, and consumers around the world. Sold exclusively to the salon industry, the product base includes six celebrated brands, including the classic Graham Webb line offering prescriptive hair care and styling products; the ever-popular spa-inspired Back to Basics collection; the new Halo line boasting superior color-protection technology; and the fun, flirty Bibo line of cosmetics. To this day, the company maintains its fervent commitment to salons and stylists, and is dedicated to addressing their most relevant and important needs – from product development and education, to aiding in building their retail and service businesses. For more information on the company, please visit www.grahamwebb.com .