Silicones are everywhere. ... in serums, conditioners, and nearly every “smoothing” product promising instant shine. They make hair feel soft and glossy, but behind that quick-fix illusion is a hidden truth that most luxury brands won’t share.
At Less & Lavish, we believe that true luxury means transparency. Let’s pull back the curtain on silicones, what they really do, and why your hair deserves better.
What Are Silicones?
Silicones are synthetic polymers, essentially liquid plastics, designed to coat your hair with a smooth, water-resistant layer. They give the illusion of shine and slip, helping detangle and tame frizz instantly.
It sounds great, right? But that glossy finish often hides deeper issues.
The Hidden Downside of Silicones
While silicones create surface-level smoothness, they also seal the hair shaft, preventing natural moisture and nutrients from penetrating. Over time, that barrier can:
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Lead to dryness and brittleness beneath the surface
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Cause buildup that dulls the hair and clogs the scalp
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Interfere with color absorption and treatments
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Require harsh clarifying shampoos to remove
The result? Hair that feels soft at first but becomes limp, lifeless, and dependent on more silicone-based products to “fix” the problem they created.
The Natural Alternative: Real Performance, No Coating
True shine doesn’t come from plastic, it comes from health.
At Less & Lavish, we replace silicones with high-performance botanical ingredients that actually nourish the hair rather than masking damage.
Our formulas use:
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Argan and Camellia oils to restore elasticity and shine
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Aloe vera for hydration that reaches the scalp and strands
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Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) to strengthen and smooth naturally
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Guar and Solagum for a silky finish without buildup
These ingredients work with your hair’s structure, not against it, delivering shine that lasts, softness that’s real, and a scalp that can finally breathe.
How to Transition Away from Silicones
Switching from silicone-based products can feel daunting, but within a few washes, you’ll start to see the difference. Here’s how to ease the transition:
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Use a gentle clarifying wash once to remove buildup.
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Follow with a hydrating, botanical shampoo and conditioner like our Chamomile Shampoo & Ultra-Lux Conditioner Duo