Living Proof: Brand Review and 5 Standout Products

More than fifteen years ago, Living Proof made its debut and took the haircare world by storm. The brand’s desire to deliver products that solve hair problems, as opposed to concealing them, has helped it earn the household name status that it possesses today. With a range of 45 products, there is truly something for everyone in Living Proof’s collections. Its products are available in countless stores across the U.S, and the brand has won more than 180 industry awards since its inception.

What started as a conversation between hairstylist Mitchell de Rosa and biotech scientist Bob Langer, Ph.D. resulted in the birth of the science-rooted haircare brand. De Rosa was frustrated by products that seemed to be formulated with outdated technology. Along with other hairstylists, he wanted to see quality hair care products that did exactly what they said on the packaging. Thankfully, Langer answered the call and Living Proof was born. The brand’s mission is "to solve hair problems with formulas that are tested and proven in labs, delivering transformative results and unexpected joy in the comfort of your own home," says CEO Zach Rieken.

The brand's ethos, "science in action," has been a guiding principle in its product development—its website even features a section dedicated to its patented technologies, including a Healthy Hair Molecule, a Volumizing and Texturizing Molecule, and a Thickening Molecule. ‘’Our passion for brilliant hair starts in the lab and is brought to life by the results we see in our customer’s hair journey,’’ Rieken says. He adds that the brand approaches its community’s hair challenges with ingenuity and engineering.

Below, some of the best products Living Proof has to offer.

Living Proof Perfect Hair Day (PhD) Dry Shampoo

Dry shampoos continue to be among the most sought-after hair care products, and this formulation is no exception. Launched in 2015, the PhD (which stands for Perfect Hair Day) dry shampoo is designed to not only clean hair, but also eliminate oil, sweat, and odor, leaving hair looking, feeling, and smelling great.

Powered by the brand’s Triple-Action Clearing Technology, the PhD dry shampoo is gentle enough to be combined with other products, so if you are always on the go and looking for a quick fix for your hair, it's definitely worth a try. The amount of dry shampoo you should use is dependent on your hair type as well as the level of oil, sweat, and odor you have in your hair. For best results, section the hair and spray for one to two seconds at a time. Once you’re done spraying your hair, wait at least 30 seconds for the powders to work their magic.

Living Proof Full Dry Volume & Texture Spray

Perfect for dry hair types and featuring the brand’s Volumizing and Texturizing Molecule, the newly reformulated Full Dry Volume + Texture Spray (previously known as Full Dry Volume Blast) transforms fine and flat hair without causing any stiffness. No wonder it’s already become one of Living Proof’s most popular products.

We love this spray because it’s buildable. The patented molecule adds volume to your hair by increasing the space between hair fibers, so a little bit truly does go a very long way. And it can also be used on finished styles for extra texture and hold.

To apply, shake well and hold the canister 10 inches away from dry hair. Section the hair, lift and spray in an upwards motion from roots to ends. Repeat until your desired style is achieved. Do remember to shake the can between each spray, and be sure to tousle your hair with your fingers for maximum effect. For best results, the brand recommends pairing the product with the Full Shampoo and the Full Conditioner.

Living Proof Perfect Hair Day (PhD) Advanced Clean Dry Shampoo

Living Proof elevated the dry shampoo game with the launch of the Perfect Hair Day Advanced Clean Dry Shampoo. The brand sought out to mimic the results of a rinse-out shampoo (minus the water, of course). The LP community was instrumental in the formulation of the product—the brand wanted to solve consumer-sourced concerns, such as the desire to clean the hair while providing care for the scalp. With this innovative product, you can remove everything you don’t want from your hair (we’re talking oil, sweat, and odor) while leaving it softer and shinier.

To apply, shake first for maximum cleaning results. Hold the can 6-10 inches away from dry, dirty hair and section and apply the product in a sweeping motion. Wait for 30 seconds before removing the powder by massaging and shaking at the roots with fingers or a hairbrush. Like the Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo, this product is buildable, so more can be applied as needed.

Living Proof No Frizz Vanishing Oil

Living Proof’s No Frizz Vanishing Oil works to enhance shine as well as hydrate the hair, doing so by mimicking its natural oils. Infused with a combination of the brand’s patented Healthy Hair Molecule along with a lightweight five-oil blend (including jojoba and moringa oils), this product works to block humidity and provide frizz protection.

For best results, start with a small amount of oil and work it through damp or dry sectioned hair and repeat as needed. For those who would like added hydration, mix some oil into the No Frizz Conditioner, or, for a more intense treatment, opt for the No Frizz Intense Moisture Mask.

Living Proof Curl Definer

This conditioning styler works to leave curls stronger, improving definition and providing 90 percent frizz control. Providing the perfect level of conditioning to leave curls looking bouncy, this product aims to transform curls to look visibly healthier over a period of time.

Powered by the patented Healthy Curl Complex, the Curl Definer is ideal for textured, wavy, or coily hair. For best results, apply to wet hair from root to tip and evenly distribute the product throughout the hair. Scrunch the hair to form curl groupings and then dry as usual. To get the most out of the Curl Definer, start with a small amount and add more product as needed. Those who are primarily concerned with shrinkage might want to opt for the Curl Elongator instead.