Ingredient

Amodimethicone

An amino-functionalised silicone — essentially dimethicone with positively-charged amino groups grafted on — used mainly as a hair conditioner.

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Similar ingredients

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Pro-vitamin B5

Pro-vitamin B5; soothes, hydrates, and helps repair the skin and hair surface.

Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein

A plant protein that strengthens and thickens the feel of hair.

Hydrolyzed Keratin

Protein fragments that patch damaged spots in the hair shaft.

Good to know

Non-soluble silicone
Avoided in curly-girl routines; can build up unless you cleanse thoroughly.

What it does

moderate evidence

Because damaged, weathered hair carries a negative surface charge, the cationic amodimethicone is electrostatically drawn to and deposits preferentially on the most damaged areas, where it forms a smoothing, antistatic film.

Benefits

Targeted conditioning that concentrates on the most damaged, porous sections of hair
Long-lasting slip, detangling, shine and frizz control from a durable surface film
Antistatic, so hair lies flatter and flyaways are reduced
More substantive (longer-lasting) than plain dimethicone, so a little goes a long way

Side effects

Not water-soluble, so with frequent use it can build up on hair and leave it limp or dull until clarified
Build-up is usually removed by a clarifying or sulfate shampoo; co-wash-only and curly-hair routines may notice it sooner
An occasional concern for fine hair, which can be weighed down more easily