About Prose
If I had to describe my hair, words like dry, damaged, and dull are the first I think of. I’ve tried totally natural products, numerous drugstore brands, and a few expensive labels I struggle to justify.
I know I’m not alone in this, yet I have some friends with perfectly nourished locks from using a $5 bottle of shampoo alone.
Prose believes hair care is a personal journey, and for that reason, they create custom hair care products using different formulations unique to you. The thorough Prose consultation process ensures your best hair is achieved, while reformulations ensure your needs are met along the way.
Prose has been featured on numerous media platforms like Bazaar, Vogue, GQ, and Bustle. Plus, the Prose Instagram page has a whopping 236k followers, and their website has over 345k 5-star reviews—like, that’s unheard of.
Pretty excited about learning more in this Prose hair care review, come with me as I check out what this brand is all about—formulas and feedback too.
Overview of Prose
There’s a myth that great hair belongs to the elite. They always seem to have the freshest, glossiest strands without a split end in sight. So what’s their secret?
I used to assume it was a personal hair stylist with a doctorate in follicular biology and daily 24k gold treatments, but now I know this: it’s that their hair’s needs are personally addressed on a regular basis. So why can’t ours be too?
Evidence[1] shows that self-perceived attractiveness can make people believe they belong to a higher social class. Studies show that your hair look can actually influence your confidence and self-esteem—and it totally make sense. A survey[2] conducted in the UK among men and women experiencing hair loss showed that alopecia was correlated with loss of confidence, low self-esteem, and diminished quality of life.
Enter Prose, a company founded in France (but is now based in Brooklyn, NY) by Arnaud Plas in 2017. With beauty in his bones, Arnaud was formerly a part of the digital team at L’Oreal.
As for Prose’s team: Prose has an R&D team of chemists in Paris who design customized formulas. It’s a the ideal set-up really. The results-driven heart of French beauty with a gritty NYC soul, it’s no wonder this brand is such a hit.
As a Certified B Corporation, Prose is committed to being transparent and reducing their carbon footprint. How? By using sustainable harvesting practices and paying their workers fair wages around the world.
I’m quickly coming to realize this brand isn’t one to miss out on. I’ll guide you through all of the must-knows in this Prose hair care review, and that starts with the highlights:
Highlights
- Sustainable and ethical company committed to reducing their carbon footprint
- Custom hair care products developed to your specific hair needs
- Cruelty-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free, non-GMO, phthalate-free, & alcohol-free products
- Customers associate hair loss prevention with Prose products
- Users report softer, shinier, healthier hair
- Free US shipping
Custom products are becoming all the rage, and for good reason. My best friend and I have totally different hair, so why would we use the same shampoo?
Prose products are all custom-formulated with ingredients tailored to suit your specific hair type, what you’d like to achieve with their products, your lifestyle, and even your location. It’s a thorough approach I’m totally obsessed with, not to mention its sleek apothecary-like packaging and cruelty-free formulas—so let’s check them out.
Prose Hair Care Bestsellers
Ready to get things rolling? It’s all coming up in this Prose hair care review. Just below, I’ll feature the brand’s bestselling products, their results, how to use them, and the key ingredients inside. Read on to discover what Prose can do for your mane.
Prose Pre-Shampoo Hair Mask Review
Yes, pre-shampoo is a thing. I’ve read that it’s a star at moisturizing your hair before you cleanse it. And while this sounds kind of counter-active, it’s all about infusing your strands with nourishing ingredients.
The Pre-Shampoo Hair Mask works to add moisture back into dry, lifeless hair. Depending on your moisture needs, Prose tailors this mask to hydrate and repair damaged hair.
This Prose hair mask uses a healthy lineup of ingredients to provide hydration, antioxidants, cuticle nutrition, anti-breakage, and deep nutrition to hair. Ingredients of the formula include mango butter, lilac extract, sunflower oil, castor oil, silk proteins, and jojoba oil. This review[3] shows that mango butter moisturizes the skin while protecting against UV rays. Sunflower oil[4] has soothing properties and is non-comedogenic (does not activate acne).
Regarding jojoba oil, a literature review[5] highlights that it reduces protein loss, protects the hair thread, and improves breakage resistance during straightening treatments.
The Pre-Shampoo Hair Mask is to be used on damp hair before you shampoo, for up to 30 minutes. This highly concentrated pre-wash treatment comes as 8.5fl oz for $38.
Prose Pre-Shampoo Scalp Mask Review
The scalp is where it’s at. That is where hair grows from, after all. I’m seeing so many scalp-centric hair care products pop up lately, so I was pleased to see it in Prose’s selection too.
People tend to forget about the importance of taking care of their scalp. To achieve and manage healthy hair, you must have a healthy scalp–one that is properly hydrated, nourished, and clean.
The Prose Pre-Shampoo Scalp Mask comes in an 8.5 fl oz jar and contains micro-exfoliators to help restore balance and purify your scalp. It soothes and refreshes skin, creating the perfect conditions for the next steps in your hair care routine.
An example formula contains Peppermint extract, Grapefruit Oil, Kale Extract, CBD Powder, Bamboo Charcoal, Pro Vitamin B5. These ingredients work to regulate sebum, soothe and nourish your scalp, and provide detoxification and hydration.
According to a recently published review article[6], Mentha piperita (peppermint) can balance the scalp pH, reduce dryness, combat the fungi responsible for dandruff, and reduce flakiness. Grapefruit oil[7] can help with greasy and congested skin, while pro-vitamin B5[8] has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Cannabidiol powder was found to induce hair growth in a case series[9] study. So cool.
All of the benefits from the Prose Pre-Shampoo Scalp Mask can be yours for $38.
Prose Shampoo Review
The last natural shampoo I used left my hair in a matted mess in the shower. Too harsh for my hair, I can see the benefits of using a formula that’s actually made for me.
This Shampoo is sulfate-free and ready to rock. It does whatever your own unique hair needs it to—formulas range to address needs like rebalancing roots and adding hydration. Because this shampoo does not contain sulfates, I should warn you that though you can still work it into a light lather, it may not be as bubbly as what you’re used to with traditional shampoos.
You can use your Shampoo as much as needed. Frequency depends on your hair texture, activity level, and many other factors. I’ll note here in my Prose hair care review that you shouldn’t wash your hair daily. Prose tells me it can lead to excess oil and frizz. That’s why dry shampoo was invented (among other reasons).
A sample formula of the shampoo contains licorice extract, sunflower oil, apple cider vinegar, argan oil, prebiotics, and silk proteins, that act as a scalp soother, infuse your hair with antioxidants, add shine, and provide nourishment, balance, and cuticle nutrition.
Licorice extract (glycyrrhiza glabra) may stimulate hair growth. In a preclinical study[10], animals with induced androgenic alopecia were treated either with licorice extract, finasteride, or a placebo. Animals treated with licorice extract showed significant hair growth, similar to those who received finasteride.
As described in a review article[11], argan oil is rich in powerful antioxidants, tocopherols, and polyphenols, and can keep the hair hydrophobic and moisturized. On the other hand, silk proteins can temporarily fix split ends. A review article[12] highlights that these proteins are attracted to the keratin and can hold the cortex fragments together until the next time you shampoo.
The Shampoo comes in an 8.5fl oz size with a Prose shampoo pump for $25.
Prose Conditioner Review
So that natural shampoo I used? It came with a natural conditioner that was waaaay too heavy for my hair.
Wouldn’t it be nice to be able to add moisture, shine, and bounce to your hair without the heaviness that some conditioners bring? If you’re looking to boost curls and minimize frizz, Conditioner could be the product for you.
To lock in moisture, be sure to fully rinse the conditioner out of your hair and finish with a shot of cold water.
Potent ingredients work together to bring shine, pollution defense, fiber repair, and antioxidants. Not to mention, they provide moisture and act as a UV absorber. One review[13] describes how hair suffers photodamage when exposed to UV rays, such as degradation of hair proteins and discoloration. The use of sunscreen protects the hair cuticle and prevents photodamage.
The Conditioner is designed to be used in conjunction with their shampoo and comes in the same size of 8.5fl oz for $25.
Prose Hair Oil Review
My hair is incomplete without oil. If you aren’t already using hair oil, it’s time to step up your hair care game.
Hair Oil works to repair split ends and improve hair texture by adding moisture and nourishment, all while renewing lifeless looking strands. You may not realize it, but your hair suffers extreme damage from blow drying, flat irons, and other heat tools. Well, at least mine does.
You can use the Hair Oil before washing, or as a finishing product when styling. The oil will protect your hair and smooth frizz. To use for styling, start with a small amount and if needed, add more. This will help avoid slick or greasy looking hair.
One bottle measures 1.7fl oz and contains no added fragrances, but does offer a light almond oil scent. Ingredients in your Hair Oil could include grapeseed oil, cucumber oil, Siberian pine nut oil, shea oil, rice bran oil, and rosehip oil.
In a study[14] on the effects of shea butter on bleached hair, the authors reported that it provided smoothness and thickness to decolored hair samples. For rice bran oil, a recently published review[15] highlights its potential to moisturize the skin and promote hair growth. This natural and nourishing must-have retails for $48.
Prose Dry Shampoo Review
Dry shampoo has taken off and become wildly popular in the beauty industry over the last ten years. I think it’s because the average schedule is so jam-packed—feed the kids, go to work, head to the gym, head back to work, cook dinner, etc.
We’re squeezing more into our days than ever before, leaving our hair to fall limp by the wayside. Or, maybe we simply just don’t have the energy to wash and style our hair daily. Whatever it is, this Dry Shampoo may just be your fave product in this Prose hair care review.
Traditional dry shampoos are pretty unappealing. Just take a look at their ingredient list and it’ll shock you. Dry Shampoo contains only natural ingredients like menthol, tapioca starch, and witch hazel extract. While tapioca starch[16] absorbs the oil produced by sebaceous glands, menthol provides freshness and witch hazel protects the scalp.
In a clinical study[17], witch hazel extract was shown to be effective for the treatment of sensitive scalp. These combined ingredients work together beautifully to provide freshness, volume, and oil control to oily or lifeless hair.
To use, part your hair into sections and spray directly on your roots. Press down on the pump gently as while researching for this Prose hair care review, I found note that a little goes a long way.
Let the powder sit for one minute, massage it into your scalp, then brush or blow dry out. This translucent, refreshing (and actually good for you) Dry Shampoo comes in a 1.4fl oz. bottle for $25.
Prose Curl Cream Review
I have curly hair, but no one would ever know. I’m straighten it weekly because it’s unmanageable otherwise—I wouldn’t step out of the house with my natural curls and I hate that. I don’t want it to be that way.
Curls can be difficult and stressful to manage, and often, they’re not treated the right way. This curl cream will help you see the true potential of your curls, and may make you fall back in love with your natural texture. Goodbye flat iron!
Curl Cream defines natural waves, curls, and coils (Type 2 waves, Type 3 curls, Types 4A, 4B, and 4C coils) keeping them hydrated and frizz-free. The special formula works to add definition to your curl pattern and gives a light hold without a stiff finish. You can say goodbye to drugstore gel, too.
To use, slightly dampen your hair but be sure to avoid the roots. Apply a small amount of the cream to your individual curls, scrunch, and air dry. This 5.1fl oz Curl Cream will finally let you wear your hair curly again, and not in a ponytail, for $25.
Prose Leave-In Conditioner Review
I grew up close to the ocean and leave in conditioner wasn’t something I went to the beach without. Salty hair is dry and matted—it’s not the effortless waves you see in movies. I know the different in dryness that a good leave-in can make.
Give your hair an extra boost of hydration and shine with this Leave-In Conditioner. Simply spritz in hair before, or after, your regular shower routine for smoother, more manageable hair.
This 5.1fl oz. bottle of Leave-In Conditioner is non-greasy and will not weigh your hair down. Instead, expect added volume while promoting hair health.
This product can also used as a detangler before you wash, but it’s important to use on damp hair. Another plus is that this Leave-In serves as a heat-protectant for the next steps in your beautification process. Whether your blow drying, straightening, or curling, you’ll feel safer knowing your hair protected up to 450 degrees F.
Ingredients like fermented rice water, acacia collagen, caviar lime extract, pea protein, copaiba Oil, and ungurahui Oil work together. A review article [18] describes the thermal protective properties of rice water. It provides shiness and smoothness while adding a layer of protection to the hair cortex.
This mix works to deliver more smooth, beautiful-looking hair for $25.
Prose Membership
I know that it can take time to see results. But I also know that once I see results, I’m hooked on a product for life.
A Prose Membership is the ideal option for those who would like to see positive hair changes over time. Even though some customers report Prose products have improved the health of their hair in just one use, you’re going to want to see those results all the time, right?
A Prose Membership is a flexible subscription plan that has no additional sign-up cost. When you become a member, you’ll get free shipping, 15% off all products, limited-edition gifts, new product testing, limited edition products, and exclusive content like their guided audio series.
It’s a power-packed list of perks. Plus, for every 10 products you purchase, they’ll give you one for free—like a coffee card, but way, way better.
You can customize your plan to receive your order at any frequency you like, and have the ability to pause or cancel your plan at any time with no penalty fee.
If you’re new to the brand, you can activate your subscription to Prose products at checkout. If you’ve bought Prose before, you’ll need to access your Prose sign in page. Join by entering your Prose login on Prose.com and head to ‘My Prose Account’. From there, simply click ‘My Salon Membership’.
Prose Reviews: What Do Customers Think?
For this part of my Prose hair care review, I’ll take a look at feedback on the brand’s website and Facebook page, Reddit, as well as an Allure magazine review, to see what customers have experienced with the company.
My first stop was Reddit. In a detailed Prose Reddit review, one user claimed the brand was “true to their word” when it came to shipping. She received her order “in the mail about 4 days after” she placed it. In regards to the hair mask, her comment continued: “My scalp itches every 2 minutes…for once I didn’t want to scratch.”
After using the shampoo and conditioner, the same customer reported, “My hair smelled incredible, and it felt ridiculously CLEAN.” Her overall opinion of her Prose routine was that her hair felt “light and healthy”, her curls were “defined” and had “never felt soft like this, unless I got [my hair] professionally done.”
That’s a pretty critical piece of feedback if you ask me. Especially for someone like me with unruly curls. Next, I checked out a Prose hair care review on Allure.
In an Prose trial, the writer noted that Prose products gave them “silkier hair and less tangle-prone strands.” Since tangles can lead to breakage, this little tidbit is helpful for anyone who struggles with it.
Hopping back over to Prose.com, one of the many (there’s 345,000 5-star reviews there, btw) positive Prose shampoo reviews read, “Prose is the best shampoo and conditioner I have ever used – and I have used a lot, including keratin treatments, anti-frizz sprays, all kinds of brands from the salons.”
As for customer service, I popped onto the brand’s Facebook page to get the scoop and found quite a few positive accounts. Take for example, this comment from a shopper: “Their customer service can’t beat…they are very attentive and caring…not only did they allay my worries, but handled the situation in the most customer-friendly way.”
Honestly, the feedback for this brand is off the charts. I’m kind of blown away by how many people love it, and that just proved to me that there really is something to custom hair care. But more, there’s something to Prose.
Is Prose Worth It?
With any beauty product, different ingredients have different effects on different people. Any product that made completely from natural ingredients, by people. Who paid fair wages, by a brand that uses sustainable practice also going to on the costly side. That’s the only issue I could possibly find with this brand. But I value the fact that subscribing saves me 15%.
I found countless Prose hair care reviews from customers that report how the products saved and transformed their hair, stopped hair loss, and restored curl patterns. This speaks to the fact that the formulas really do work. Though I don’t think I need to say it at this point, I think their products are worth the buy.
Prose Promotions & Discounts
Though I searched the brand’s site, there are currently no Prose promotions or discounts available right now. To save big on a regular, consider becoming a member.
If you do, you’ll get perks like 15% off, limited-edition gifts, new product testing, limited edition products, and exclusive access to their guided audio series. Whether you subscribe or not, shipping is always free.
Where to Buy Prose
Prose’s whole deal is that it’s formulas are custom, so you’ll need to take the quiz to find yours. To start, head to Prose.com.
FAQ
Where is Prose located?
Prose headquarters are located in New York. Their lab is based in Paris. Glamorous in different ways, these two inspiring cities give Prose its unique edge.
Where is Prose made?
All Prose products created and developed in Paris. They use sustainable ingredients from around the world.
How does the Prose membership work?
To become a Prose member, choose the subscription option at checkout. It’s available with no additional costs, you can sign up to receive their products at a frequency of your choice.
When you become a member, you will enjoy perks like free shipping, 15% off all products, limited-edition gifts, new product testing, limited edition products, and exclusive content.
Is Prose all natural?
Prose carefully selects a variety of natural and synthetic ingredients. I read that the synthetic ingredients they do use have mild risk. Formulas are always free of Parabens, Mineral Oils, Dyes, Sulfates, GMOs, Phthalates, and Methylisothiazolinone.
Is Prose eco-friendly?
Prose a Certified B Company, and carbon neutral—a goal they crushed in 2020. The brand transparent about their carbon footprint, and they only use ingredients that have sustainably gathered.
Although they use PET plastic bottles (for a good reason), their plastic is 100% recyclable and is lighter, which lowers the weight for shipping and ultimately results in lower carbon emissions.
Do Prose products contain sulfates?
I’m pleased to say that Prose products never contain sulfates. Their shampoos produce a light lather, much less than regular shampoos that contain sulfates.
What kind of silicone does Prose use?
Prose uses a professional high-quality and water-dispersible silicone that will eliminate any residue on your scalp or hair. If you’d rather your products be silicone-free, you can specify that in your consultation.
Is Prose safe for color treated hair?
In your Prose consultation, it’s important to notify the consultant if you have color-treated hair. They will design all of your custom formulas to suit your current hair’s condition.
Which Prose scent is the best?
Prose products are all fragrance-free. Depending on your custom formulation, your product may have light, natural scents, like almond or lavender.
Does Prose ship internationally?
Currently, Prose only ships within the USA and Canada. If you require other shipping options, send an email to [email protected] to increase the chance of the brand being available in your country.
How long does Prose take to ship?
All orders ship through USPS Priority. They do not offer expedited shipping and normally delivered in 3-5 business days after shipment.
However, their current delivery timeline is approximately 10-15 business days. You’ll see a more specific shipping time at checkout.
Can you return Prose?
Prose offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. You can return your order within 60 days of the ship date if you truly satisfied with your products.
Prose pre-shampoo mask, shampoo, and conditioner can adjusted and sent to you free of charge. Or you can return your product for a full refund. For the hair oil and dry shampoo, these formulas cannot adjusted and only returned for a full refund.
To start the process to receive your adjusted, free-of-charge formulas, email [email protected] with:
- Your order number
- Feedback
For a full refund, email [email protected] with:
- Your order number
- Reason for your return request
Prose will send you instructions on what to do next, as well as a pre-paid return label to send the original products back. If you’re requesting a refund, Prose will notify you when the amount credited back to your original form of payment.
