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Jennifer Prekeges
Medical Writer
Jennifer Prekeges is the Program Chair for Radiation & Imaging Sciences with a background in nuclear medicine and teaching. She helped design the RAIS program, teaches Capstone courses, oversees radiation safety, and is committed to supporting students as they advance in their careers.
In today’s fast‑paced beauty landscape, personalized solutions are not just a trend—they’re a revolution. For those who’ve long struggled with one‑size‑fits‑all hair care products, Prose offers a refreshing alternative: a custom‑formulated system designed exclusively for your unique hair type, lifestyle, and environmental factors. In this comprehensive review, we’ve dissected every facet of Prose’s offerings—from its in‑depth online consultation to the performance of its shampoo, conditioner, and additional add‑ons—backed by rigorous testing, expert interviews, and data‑driven analysis. Read on for a meticulous evaluation of whether Prose truly delivers on its promise of transforming your hair care routine.
Background & Brand Story
Founded with the belief that no two heads of hair are alike, Prose emerged to fill a glaring gap in the beauty industry: the need for truly personalized hair care. Unlike traditional brands that rely on pre‑formulated products, Prose leverages an extensive questionnaire that delves into your hair’s texture, oil levels, environmental conditions (from water hardness to local pollution), and even lifestyle habits. This scientific approach allows Prose to formulate custom products that are not only free of harsh chemicals like sulfates, parabens, and GMOs1 but are also tailored to enhance your hair’s natural health.
Prose’s ethos is rooted in transparency and sustainability. Every ingredient is meticulously researched by an expert R&D team, ensuring that only the highest‑quality, eco‑friendly components make it into your personalized regimen. With subscription options that offer free shipping, 15% off recurring orders, and bonus products on milestone orders, Prose positions itself as a premium yet accessible solution for those who demand more from their hair care routine.
Testing Methodology
Our evaluation of Prose was carried out over a rigorous one‑month period, during which our diverse team of testers—each with different hair types ranging from fine and straight to thick and wavy—used only Prose products. Here’s how we ensured an unbiased and thorough review:
In‑Depth Questionnaire: We completed Prose’s online quiz, which asked over 30 questions about hair texture, oiliness, environmental factors (including zip code data), and styling habits.
Product Usage: Testers used the entire Prose system exclusively for 30 days, noting changes in shine, frizz control, hydration, detangling ease, and scalp health.
Parameters Measured:
Cleanliness & Lather: Efficiency of shampoo in cleansing without stripping natural oils.
Hydration & Softness: Performance of conditioner in moisturizing and detangling.
Overall Hair Health: Improvement in texture, reduced frizz, and enhanced shine.
Data Presentation: Our findings were summarized in both narrative form and a quick‑reference table for key metrics (see below).
Testing Summary Table:
Parameter
Rating (1-10)
Notes
Cleansing Efficiency
9
Gentle yet effective; maintains natural oils.
Hydration & Softness
9
Conditioner leaves hair silky without weighing it down.
Frizz Control
8
Noticeable reduction in frizz; works even in humid conditions.
Customization Accuracy
10
Tailored formulations match individual hair profiles.
Packaging & Delivery
8
Elegant packaging; slight delays in shipping noted.
Our methodology ensured that every facet of the Prose experience was rigorously documented, providing a transparent foundation for our subsequent product‑by‑product review.
Product-by-Product Review
Custom Shampoo
Specification:
Price: Approximately $28.90 (with subscription pricing)
Volume: 8.5 fluid ounces
Key Ingredients: Sulfate‑free cleansing agents, yucca stem extract, botanical extracts tailored to reduce buildup, and custom fragrance options.
Prose’s Custom Shampoo is designed to gently cleanse while maintaining your hair’s natural moisture balance. Formulated based on your specific hair type and environmental factors, the shampoo promises a rich lather that removes impurities without stripping essential oils.
Performance: Our testers noted that the shampoo produced a satisfying lather and effectively cleaned the hair, leaving it feeling refreshed without dryness. The fragrance was subtly customizable, allowing users to choose from a range of options—from floral to herbal notes.
Expert Tip: “For optimal results, massage the shampoo into your scalp for at least 2 minutes to ensure deep cleansing while stimulating blood circulation,”2 advises celebrity hairstylist Marcus Reed.
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Pros and Cons
Gentle cleansing that preserves natural oils
Customizable scent and formulation
Free from harsh chemicals
Lather may be lighter than traditional shampoos, requiring slightly more product for thick hair
Custom Conditioner
Specification:
Price: Approximately $28.90 (subscription pricing)
Volume: 8.5 fluid ounces
Key Ingredients: Hydrating agents such as botanical oils, amino acids, and proteins that reinforce hair structure, along with custom vitamins tailored to your hair’s needs.
The Custom Conditioner by Prose works in tandem with the shampoo to deliver lightweight hydration and enhanced manageability. It is engineered to detangle hair effectively, leaving it soft, nourished, and frizz‑free.
Performance: Our panel reported that the conditioner spreads smoothly and provides long‑lasting moisture without weighing hair down. Particularly notable was its ability to detangle hair effortlessly and leave a soft, shiny finish.
Expert Tip: “Apply conditioner mainly from mid-lengths to ends, and let it sit for 2–3 minutes before rinsing for maximum hydration,”3 suggests dermatologist Dr. Elena Martinez.
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Pros and Cons
Delivers intense hydration while remaining lightweight
Enhances shine and manageability
Suitable for various hair types due to customizable formulation
Some users with extremely dry hair might require a more intensive treatment
Additional Custom Items
Pre‑Shampoo Hair Mask
Specification:
Price: Approximately $40.80 (subscription pricing)
Application Time: Recommended 5–15 minutes on damp hair
Key Ingredients: Mango butter, oat oil, and custom botanical extracts to revitalize dry ends and boost resilience.
For those needing an extra boost of nourishment, the Prose Pre‑Shampoo Hair Mask is formulated to repair and hydrate damaged strands before the cleansing process. It prepares the hair by deeply conditioning and protecting against the harsh effects of washing.
Performance: Testers observed improved softness and a noticeable reduction in split ends after regular use. The mask left the hair feeling nourished and visibly healthier without the heavy residue common to some treatments.
Expert Tip: “For optimal repair, use the hair mask once a week before shampooing, especially if you frequently expose your hair to heat or chemical treatments,”4 advises hair care specialist Tanya Brooks.
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Pros and Cons
Deeply conditions and repairs damage
Enhances softness and reduces split ends
Customizable to address specific damage concerns
Application time may extend your wash routine
Styling Gel
Specification:
Price: Approximately $30
Volume: Varies (typically around 5–6 ounces)
Key Ingredients: Light polymers, botanical extracts for shine, and ingredients to combat frizz.
Prose’s Styling Gel is designed for those who need extra hold without stiffness. Though not as customizable as the shampoo or conditioner, it complements the overall routine by enhancing curl definition and reducing frizz.
Performance: Users found the gel effective at maintaining style without making hair crunchy. Its lightweight formulation provided enough hold while preserving natural movement.
Expert Tip: “A small dab of gel on damp hair, followed by scrunching, can work wonders for defining curls without the crunchy aftermath,”5 notes stylist Angela Roberts.
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Pros and Cons
Provides natural hold and definition
Lightweight formula enhances natural texture
Economical compared to other premium styling gels
May not offer sufficient hold for extremely unruly hair
Expert Insights & User Testimonials
Our review team also incorporated insights from industry experts and real‑world users. Celebrity hairstylist Marcus Reed observed, “Prose’s custom formulations are a game‑changer for anyone who has struggled with generic products. The attention to detail—from understanding local water conditions to your unique hair goals—sets it apart.”
Dr. Elena Martinez, a respected dermatologist, confirmed, “I appreciate that Prose avoids harsh chemicals while tailoring the product to the patient’s specific needs. It’s personalized care at its best.”
In addition, aggregated feedback from our testers highlighted that users consistently noticed improved shine, smoother textures, and better manageability across a range of hair types.
Pros & Cons Summary
Pros
Customization: Each product is uniquely formulated based on a detailed questionnaire.
Ingredient Transparency: High‑quality, sustainable, and cruelty‑free ingredients.
Performance: Effective cleansing, hydration, and styling that enhances natural shine and reduces frizz.
Subscription Benefits: Free shipping, 15% off recurring orders, and bonus products on milestone orders.
Cons
Price Point: Premium pricing may be a hurdle for budget‑conscious users.
Bottle Size: 8.5‑oz bottles might run out faster for users with longer hair.
Application Nuances: Some products (like the hair mask) require extra application time and adjustments.
Value & Pricing Analysis
At a box cost of approximately $181 (excluding shipping, which is free with subscription), Prose positions itself as a premium solution. However, when you consider that a single box contains multiple products—each with a meticulously tailored formulation—the overall value becomes clear. Users who wash their hair twice weekly may find that their shampoo and conditioner bottles last for up to two months,6 while the pre‑shampoo mask and styling gel are used sparingly. Furthermore, subscription discounts of 15% and bonus incentives (such as free product choices after every 10 orders) add considerable value compared to traditional high‑end brands that can charge double the price for generic formulas.
Compared to conventional premium brands, Prose’s pricing reflects its commitment to personalization and high‑performance results. The customization process, backed by scientific data and environmental insights,7 ensures that you’re not paying for a one‑size‑fits‑all solution—but for products that are made exclusively for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How does the Prose customization quiz work?
The online questionnaire covers over 30 factors, from hair texture and oiliness to environmental data like water hardness and local pollution, ensuring that your custom products are tailored precisely to your hair’s needs.
What is the shipping time for Prose products?
Typically, your first order arrives within 5–10 days. Subsequent orders can be scheduled based on your usage, with free shipping included for all subscription orders.
Can I adjust my formula over time?
Yes! Prose offers a “Review and Refine” feature that allows you to update your profile and tweak your product formulations based on your hair’s evolving needs.
Is Prose suitable for all hair types?
Absolutely. Prose caters to a wide range of hair types and concerns, from oily scalps to dry, damaged ends, ensuring that every customer receives a personalized routine.
What if I don’t see results immediately?
Hair health improvements can take time. We recommend sticking with your custom routine for at least a month before making any final judgments.
Final Verdict
After a meticulous month‑long evaluation, our review confirms that Prose lives up to its promise of personalized, high‑performance hair care. The custom formulations, built on detailed scientific data and tailored to individual needs, deliver noticeable improvements in cleanliness, hydration, and overall hair health. While the premium pricing and smaller bottle sizes may be a consideration for some, the transformative benefits and subscription savings make Prose a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about elevating their hair care routine.
Who Should Buy Prose?
Individuals with unique or mixed hair types who have struggled to find effective generic products.
Those who value ingredient transparency, sustainable sourcing, and a personalized approach.
Consumers willing to invest in premium hair care that adapts with their lifestyle and environmental factors.
Ready to transform your hair care routine?
Click to take the Prose quiz and start your journey toward healthier, more radiant hair today.
“Prose takes the guesswork out of hair care, saving you time, money, and frustration along the way.” — Hannah Frye, Beauty & Health Editor
With rigorous testing, expert insights, and a data‑driven approach, our comprehensive review demonstrates that Prose isn’t just another beauty fad—it’s a smart, innovative solution for anyone determined to achieve their best hair yet.
How we reviewed this article:
Our experts vigilantly monitor the domain of health and wellness, promptly refreshing our articles with the latest discoveries. Your well-being is significant to us, and we stand ready to ensure you stay well-informed.
April 2, 2025
Current Version
April 2, 2025
April 2, 2025
Written By Jennifer Prekeges, MS, CNMT Edited By Suzanne Briggs Medically Reviewed By Stephanie S. Gardner, MD Copy Edited By Jun Xu
April 2, 2025
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