We Tried Dyson’s New Chitosan Styling Products on 4 Different Hair Types—Review with Photos

We know what you’re thinking. For skeptics who might say that is a lot of effort just for the application of your products, consider what happens when you use too little—or worse, too much product. “Using too much product may lead to excessive buildup, flaking, or a greasy appearance when it comes to the level of oils and emollients,” says Dobos, who adds that this isn’t a superfluous practice. “Conversely, insufficient dosing may result in inadequate hold and reduced effectiveness, failing to achieve the desired styling outcome.”

As for the texture and experience of the product, Dyson was specific about striking the right balance. “Getting the balance of formulation for styling whilst being lightweight and promoting healthy, natural-feeling hair was the most challenging part of formulating the Chitosan stylers,” says Coutts “When we found chitosan unlocked the balance of the two, enabling us to create a rich, almost skin-care-like formulation, while not weighing the hair down or leaving it looking greasy.”

Did the brand succeed? Before we get into the reviews, let’s take an even closer look at each formula.

Meet the experts:

• Amanda Lam is a cosmetic chemist based in Los Angeles
• Kelly Dobos is a cosmetic chemist based in Cincinnati, Ohio.
• Ginger King is a cosmetic chemist based in Parsippany, New Jersey.

Chitosan Pre-Style Cream

The Pre-Style Cream contains between four to five oyster mushrooms’ worth of chitosan, which can “protect hair from heat and help it take a style more easily,” says cosmetic chemist Ginger King. It comes in four variations: Straight to Wavy Light Conditioning, Straight to Wavy Rich Conditioning, Curly to Coily Light Conditioning, and Curly to Coily Rich Conditioning.

The difference between them lies in the concentration of emollients, says Dobos. “The rich conditioning formulas contain higher concentrations of emollient esters and oils to help smooth the cuticle of damaged hair and add shine,” she says, noting that she thinks these four products cover a range of hair types.

To use the product, which can be applied to wet or dry hair, place the dispenser into your palm and press down. This will dispense a bead of the cream. Rub your hands together and apply it onto your strands, section by section. It will absorb quickly and that’s okay! A little goes a long way—and only reach for more if your hands are dry and free of product and you know you haven’t fully coated the section of hair you’re working with.

Chitosan Post-Style Serum

This serum absorbs into hair quickly, smoothing and reintroducing any moisture it might need after heat-styling. This is thanks to a blend of hyaluronic acid and amino acids, says King.