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Let’s rewind for a second… I’ve been bleaching my hair since junior high. And as any bleach babe knows, damage becomes a long-term companion. Over the years, I’ve tried so many shampoos, oils, masks—you name it—but the battle for softer, healthier hair always felt uphill. So when Amika gifted me a few of their best-sellers, I was excited, but honestly? A little skeptical. Could these actually work for my high-maintenance hair?
Spoiler: They did. And I’m not gatekeeping.
First Impressions: Colorful Packaging + Custom Recommendations
Amika’s branding is stunning. I’m a girl who loves color, and their vibrant, playful aesthetic immediately caught my eye. But it’s not just cute packaging—they also offer a hair quiz to help you choose the right products for your unique needs. I took it, and the results recommended the Kure line, designed specifically for damaged hair. It couldn’t have been more accurate.
Here’s what I chose for my new routine:
The Kure Line: My Repair Ritual
The Kure Strength Repair Shampoo
A gentle yet effective shampoo that strengthens and helps prevent future breakage. It lathers beautifully and doesn’t strip my hair.
→ Shop The Kure Strength Repair Shampoo
The Kure Strength Repair Conditioner
Super hydrating and rich, this conditioner makes my hair feel soft and manageable right out of the shower.
→ Shop The Kure Strength Repair Conditioner
The Kure Intense Strength Repair Mask
This is now my holy grail. I use it once or twice a week—it deeply conditions and helps bring my natural texture back to life. It also plays a key role in my sauna routine (more on that below).
→ Shop The Kure Intense Strength Repair Mask
The Wizard Detangling Primer
This all-in-one spray is a must-have. Not only does it help with detangling (which is huge for me since I wear real human hair extensions that can get knotted), but it also protects against heat. I haven’t always been great about using heat protection, but now that I’ve invested in my extensions and really want to maintain the health of my natural hair, I’ve been religious about using this spray before blow drying or heat styling. It’s lightweight, effective, and doesn’t leave any sticky residue.
→ Shop The Wizard Detangling Primer
Superfruit Star Lightweight Hair Styling Oil
This oil is EVERYTHING. It promises hair that’s 7x stronger, 2x smoother, and 86% less breakage—and it actually delivers. I apply it post-shower for moisture retention, and again after styling to lock in shine and tame frizz. The best part? I can use a generous amount without my hair looking greasy, which is rare with oils. It’s nourishing without being heavy, and it smells incredible.
→ Shop Superfruit Star Lightweight Hair Styling Oil
Sauna Sessions, but Make It Hair-Friendly
I love using the sauna regularly, but in the past, it always left my hair feeling dry and brittle—especially with bleach damage and extensions in the mix. So I decided to switch up my routine and protect my hair before the heat exposure.
Here’s my sauna routine:
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I get my hair slightly damp
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I apply The Kure Intense Strength Repair Mask from mid-lengths to ends
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I layer in The Wizard Detangling Primer for added moisture and heat protection
This combo works like a hydrating barrier. After the sauna, my hair feels soft, smooth, and protected instead of dry and frazzled. If you’re a sauna lover (or even do hot yoga), this simple step makes a huge difference—and yes, it helps protect your extensions too.
Real Results: Three Weeks Later
After three consistent weeks of using this full routine, I can confidently say my hair is changing for the better.
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My natural curls are coming back
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There’s noticeably less frizz (even in Austin’s humidity)
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My hair feels softer and healthier, even when air dried
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And I’ve received genuine compliments on how good my hair smells
No joke—a woman behind me in line asked what perfume I was wearing, and I had to laugh and tell her, “It’s my hair products.”
Now I’m Eyeing: Amika Aura Hair + Body Mist
If the scent of the hair products is this good, I need to try the new Amika Aura Hair & Body Mist. It’s been one of the most-requested products from the Amika community, and now it’s finally here. They’ve taken their iconic signature scent—found in all their haircare—and bottled it up so you can wear it all day, from head to toe.
Scent Notes:
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Top: Pink grapefruit
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Middle: Juicy apricot, lily of the valley
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Base: Vanilla and sandalwood
It’s designed to uplift your mood and help you feel fully and fearlessly yourself. I can’t wait to get my hands on it.
→ Shop Amika Aura Hair & Body Mist
Proof Is in the Hair
Amika genuinely surprised me. Between the colorful packaging, personalized quiz, and powerful ingredients, their products have truly made a difference in my hair. From damaged strands to restored curls, I’ve finally found a routine that feels right.
And full disclosure—my friends have already stolen some of the products because they love how they smell. If that’s not proof, I don’t know what is.
I’ll be back with a follow-up post in a few weeks to share more progress, especially as I continue to test how these hold up in Austin’s humidity.
Until then, if you’ve been struggling with damaged hair and feel like you’ve tried everything—consider giving Amika a shot. Your hair (and your senses) will thank you.
xo
Codi
