I tested Dove's new Damage Therapy Intensive Repair Bi-Phase Serum + Oil on one of the most dreary, muggy, and rainy days that the NYC weather gods have offered us recently—for scientific research purposes, of course. The product is infused with amino serum for around the clock frizz control and to deliver a glossy, shiny finish. Below, I'm breaking down the experience so you don't have to.
My Hair:
Everyone with coily hair in protective styles (boho braids, for example, which I have now) knows that it's not an excuse to ignore your natural hair's health needs. It seemed to be the perfect time to try a product that promises to tame frizz, increase shine, and add general moisture and hydration to my hair, which tends to lack those things.
The Product
The product is infused with amino serum for around the clock frizz control and to deliver a glossy, shiny finish. It includes Bio-Protein Care technology to help hair regain strength and prevent further damage. The formula also includes Argan and apricot kernel oils in the formula. Argan oil is known for having moisturizing and anti-inflammatory benefits, while apricot kernel oil is known to be hydrating, nourishing, and soothing, as well as offering antioxidant protection. I found the formula to be lightweight. It wasn't sticky or greasy and, in part because it's packaged in a spray bottle, I didn't have to worry about accidentally over-applying or dispensing too much.
The Results
I sprayed it on my braids and used my fingers to spread it towards the ends. What I first noticed was how my consistently frustratingly dry scalp (extra dry at the moment, due to the braids) was soothed and I probably owe this to the Argan and apricot kernel oils in the formula.
In terms of its taming promises, asking any product to leave my hair completely frizz-free is a tall task. This is just to say that it didn't get my frizz and flyaways under control but, to be fair, sometimes the stickiest most glue-like of gels can't even do that.
Worth It?
For me, the feeling of a hydrated scalp and knowing that I am actively taking care of and nourishing the hair that I have in braids for protection purposes, is more than enough for me to continuing using this product, especially at $9.99 for a 3.9 ounce bottle.
TL;DR
Dove's new Damage Therapy Intensive Repair Bi-Phase Serum + Oil is formulated with ingredients to help your hair regain strength, stay hydrated, look shiny, and look less frizzy. While it didn't do much to tame the frizz of my coily type 4 hair, it did leave my scalp and hair feeling moisturized. I think this product makes it easy to take care of your natural hair, especially when in braids or other protective style and, at $9.99, is definitely worth having in your haircare arsenal.
