You see it. You like it. You buy it. And then, your impulse wears off and common sense kicks in. You wonder what you saw in it because it neither has the scientific logic nor nature’s magic it promised.

What am I talking about? 

Kerastase Aura Botanica shampoo.

Tell me more

I enjoy experimenting with shampoos, so when Kerastase launched the Aura Botanica range, I couldn’t help but splurge (now splurge would be an understatement because my wallet’s still crying). Packed in a sturdy amber and gold bottle, the packaging screamed luxury, and my mind screamed ‘Buy it!’. Even the Beauty Associate convinced me that it was meant for all hair types (I have dry hair). Also, it promised all things nice, right from fusing nature and science, a blend of luxurious oils, a radiant sheen, glorious hair and what not. I was sold on it and simply couldn’t wait to try it. But in just one wash, I realized how wrong I was. My first thought when I first used it was that it worked up a rather stingy lather. But then again, it was infused with Samoan Coconut Oil and Moroccan Argan Oil, so I waited for the oils to work their magic, to give my hair that ‘aura’ of confidence and hopefully live up to its name. But nothing. As I washed it off, I could almost feel it stripping my hair of moisture. Not a good feeling, that one. And it was no different after my hair dried. It was dry, frizzy and extremely unmanageable. My hair was a tangled mess, so much so, that brushing my hair was a task. This product was a complete let-down. It didn’t work for me, or probably our ‘auras’ just didn’t match. Whatever the reason, I’m giving this a skip.

Does it smell good?

That's probably the only good thing about it. It’s deliciously scented and smells lovely. Not overbearing, but understated and feminine. It smells rich, like bottled luxury. Unfortunately, that’s just about it.

Should I buy it?

I would say no. If you have dry hair, then definitely not. It didn’t work for me and to add to it, it’s supremely expensive. I definitely didn’t get my money’s worth. But you’re feeling adventurous, then try at your own risk.  

Girly tip

Save your money and pamper yourself at a hair spa instead.