This is a consumer-level rinse-out treatment for anyone who wants softer, shinier hair after shampooing, including hair that has been colored. Paul Mitchell positions it as lightweight, so it is aimed at people who dislike heavy conditioners, and the amount is scaled by hair type: one line of product for fine to medium hair, two to three lines for long, thick or coarse hair. It is also intended to be used with the HydraSoft shampoo, though it can follow any shampoo. It is not a professional-only product and needs no mixing.

What sets it apart from a regular conditioner is that it is meant to be used only once to three times a week, as a glossing step, and it is formulated to add shine without weight. The HydraTriplex blend of amino acids, vegetable protein and oils, plus hyaluronic acid and vegan collagen, is what the brand credits for the moisture, and the treatment is applied from the ends up to the scalp so the whole length is treated evenly.

1. Shampoo, then squeeze excess water from your hair.
2. Apply starting at the ends, then work through the mid-shaft up to the scalp. Use one line of product for fine or medium hair, two to three lines for long, thick or coarse hair.
3. Massage or comb through for 10 to 15 seconds.
4. Rinse thoroughly.

Use 1 to 3 times per week, or whenever extra shine is wanted. A slight warming sensation is normal.

In its favor: it is designed to add shine and softness without the weight of a mask, it is color safe, and the brand says it evens out porosity along the length of the hair.

Things to know before buying:

• It is a lightweight glossing treatment, so very dry or damaged hair may need a richer mask alongside it.
• The brand notes a slight warming sensation on application, which some people with sensitive scalps may not like since it is worked up to the scalp.
• Its listed ingredients include propylene glycol and an alcohol, which matters to anyone avoiding them.