shine on

I was a highlight junkie. For years, I spent countless hours at the hair salon while layer after layer of bleach was applied to my naturally brunette locks. It was addictive. With each session, I added "just a few more" until I was about as close to blonde as a brunette can get. Then in 2000, I decided to go back to my roots--literally. I was my old self again and I loved it! It wasn't until eight years later, when my first single strands of gray started to peek out, that I opted for another dose of color. I made an appointment for a quick single process and walked out of the salon with my grays under cover and some seriously shiny hair. The last thing I wanted to do was ruin a good thing--so when I learned of Lamas Beauty's Soy Hydrating Shampoo ($18) featuring Certified Organic Botanicals for chemically dry, treated or damaged hair, I had to give it a try. The first thing I noticed was that the product lacked any extravagant flowery or exotic scent, which--to me--implied that it meant business. It was designed to do what it's supposed to do. In addition, the clear formula didn't lather up or feel thick when I applied it. Instead, it smoothed botanical nutrients (ie: golden seal, chamomile, carrot seed and yucca) through my hair and rinsed clean without leaving any buildup. Apparently, the soy protein is supposed to reconstruct and strengthen weakened hair shafts. I followed up with the Soy Balancing Conditioner ($18), also for chemically treated, dry or damaged hair. Once blow-dried, my hair looked healthy, sleek and shiny. What more could a girl want? Oh yeah--a discount! Order both on www.lamasbeauty.com and save $3.