Top-Rated Hair Products from 2018 by Sales and Awards
In 2018, consumer data and professional surveys highlighted several hair products that led in retail sales and industry recognition. Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector, a bond-building treatment, saw rapid growth after being adopted by salons and influencers, with the brand reporting strong year-over-year revenue increases as it expanded into mass retail channels Forbes. Moroccanoil Treatment, an argan oil-based styling and finishing product, remained a staple in professional salons and retail, with the company continuing to grow international distribution during 2018. These products were frequently cited in top-seller lists and professional polls, reflecting consistent demand for reparative and shine-focused formulations.
Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser's Invisible Oil Heat Protectant Primer ranked among the most recommended products by stylists in 2018, offering lightweight protection against thermal damage. Living Proof Perfect Hair Day (PhD) Dry Shampoo gained visibility for its odor-locking technology and quick refresh use, supported by the brand's scientific approach to hair care. Both products appeared in curated editor and stylist recommendations, with measurable sales lifts in professional and specialty retail channels during the year.
Best Shampoo and Conditioner Lines of 2018
Salon and Drugstore Shampoo Rankings
In 2018, Pureology Hydrate Shampoo was a leading choice for color-treated and dry hair, with the brand emphasizing sulfate-free formulas and sustainability commitments. Pantene Pro-V Daily Moisture Renewal Shampoo remained a high-volume drugstore option, supported by broad distribution and consumer testing data. Both lines were evaluated in consumer reports and professional reviews for their cleansing performance, ingredient profiles, and price-to-performance ratios.
Conditioner Performance and Formulation
Olaplex No. 5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner and Pureology Hydrate Conditioner were frequently paired with their respective shampoos in 2018 regimens, with users reporting improved detangling and reduced breakage. Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In Conditioning Repair Cream was a widely recommended drugstore option for textured and curly hair, with the brand leveraging natural butter-based formulations to address moisture retention and frizz control.
Styling and Treatment Products with Strong Market Impact in 2018
Heat Styling and Finish Products
In 2018, TRESemmé Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray was a widely used heat protectant, positioned as an affordable option with proven thermal defense in consumer testing. Kenra Volume Mousse 12 and Oribe Maximista Thickening Spray were cited in professional circles for strong hold and texture-building performance, with Oribe emphasizing high-end salon distribution and premium pricing.
Treatment and Scalp Care
Briogeo Don't Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask was recognized in 2018 for its clean formulation and reparative claims, targeting damaged and over-processed hair with plant-based ingredients. Nioxin System Kits for thinning hair continued to be a prominent scalp and hair-care line, with the brand leveraging clinical-sounding claims and salon-exclusive retail strategies to maintain market share among consumers seeking density-focused solutions SEC.