And who, we hear you chorus, is Kristen Ess?

Well, she’s a name you need to know: a US-based celebrity hairstylist who launched a collection of haircare and styling products which can be slotted into your existing haircare routine, or indeed used as a regime. The other essential: it had to be affordable. (We’re not talking bargain basement, but still, with so many luxury hair launches around, these are excellent value.)

We like that idea; hair brands always try to push the idea you’ve got to use everything from their lines, or you might as well not bother – although to be fair, we have come to accept that a ‘matching’ haircare duo does often offer greater benefits than those used which are mixed-and-matched.

Always a teeny bit wary of mass market shampoos, suffering from sensitive scalps ourselves, we set out to try the Kristen Ess Extra Gentle Shampoo and Extra Gentle Conditioner. So, so, SO pleased we did. Hair is light and swingy, super-glossy – and absolutely NO scalp irritation, whatsoever, despite a good foam from just the first wash. (That’s your benchmark as to whether to do a second shampoo: if it’s not lathering well, yes. If it does, don’t bother.) We schlepped these to the salon, actually (as is our wont), where the stylist was as impressed as we are.

And can we tell you what else we like? The packaging. Slightly squidgy, soft-touch, with an excellent flip-top lid. The scent is lightly fruity, but nothing overwhelming, meanwhile. Nothing to buy it for specifically, but it’s not going to turn anyone off.

We’re so encouraged that we will be trying out more of the range – and will report back. Meanwhile, Ms. Ess, thanks for the Good Hair Days that we are already enjoying.

Kristen Ess Extra Gentle Shampoo/£8.99 for 296ml – buy here

Kristen Ess Extra Gentle Conditioner/£9 for 296ml – buy here (and do have a laugh, as we did, over Boots’ pricing here, with a penny difference on the two products!)

Prize Draws