Products marketed as cholesterol treatments, often found in beauty supply retailers like Sally Beauty Supply, are typically conditioning treatments designed to improve hair’s moisture retention and overall appearance. These products do not contain actual cholesterol, which is a fat-like substance found in animal cells. Instead, they utilize ingredients designed to mimic cholesterol’s perceived benefits for hair, such as improving manageability and adding shine. For example, a deep conditioning hair mask might be labeled a “cholesterol treatment” and contain ingredients like lanolin, fatty alcohols, or oils.
The historical appeal of these treatments stems from the belief that cholesterol can repair damaged hair, although this is a misnomer regarding the actual ingredient composition. The perceived benefits center around the emollient and moisturizing properties of the ingredients that mimic the effects of cholesterol. These products have been utilized for years to combat dryness, reduce frizz, and improve the overall health and appearance of hair, especially hair that has been chemically treated or is naturally dry.
