Back in Time Today
The 1980s were a golden age for hair care—with wild volume, big perms, and lots of fruity scents to match. The shampoo and conditioner aisle was a playground of brightly colored bottles, iconic scents, and unforgettable commercials. Here are 27 brands and products that ruled our showers back in the day.
1. Pert Plus
Pert Plus revolutionized hair care in the ’80s with its groundbreaking 2-in-1 formula. Combining shampoo and conditioner in one bottle, it was the ultimate convenience for busy individuals. The fresh, clean scent made it an instant favorite for those wanting to save time without sacrificing style.
With its bright green packaging and catchy commercials, Pert Plus became a staple in households everywhere. This iconic product promised smooth, manageable hair in just one step. The brand’s innovative approach set a new standard for multifaceted hair care solutions that endure today.
2. Prell
Prell’s unmistakable thick green gel was a defining feature of ’80s bathrooms, known for its clarity and vibrancy. Packaged in a clear tube, it promised not only to clean but to invigorate the senses. The intense lather and deep cleansing ability made it a favorite choice for those with naturally oily hair.
This shampoo, with its unforgettable texture, became synonymous with thorough cleanliness. Its rich formulation ensured that hair felt refreshed and bouncy. For many, Prell represented their first step into the world of effective hair care.
3. Gee, Your Hair Smells Terrific
With a name that was as bold as its fragrance, Gee, Your Hair Smells Terrific became a sensation in the 1980s. The product delivered on its promise, leaving hair with a captivating, long-lasting scent that turned heads. Its floral and slightly musky aroma lingered, providing users with day-long freshness.
This shampoo’s unique selling point was its fragrance, which became its identity. Alongside its olfactory appeal, it also offered gentle cleansing, making it a go-to for many seeking both style and substance in their hair care routine.
4. Finesse
Finesse offered a personalized touch to hair care, with its memorable tagline, “Sometimes you need a little… sometimes you need a lot.” This brand provided customizable solutions, allowing users to adapt their hair care routine to their specific needs.
The shampoo was known for its subtle yet effective formula that catered to a variety of hair types. The blue bottle became a familiar sight in bathrooms, promising both control and softness. This flexibility made it a beloved choice, cementing Finesse’s place in the era’s beauty landscape.
5. Flex by Revlon
Flex by Revlon stood out with its iconic golden bottle and a spicy-sweet fragrance that captured the essence of the era. It delivered shine and manageability, making it popular among those with unruly hair. The shampoo was formulated to enhance hair’s natural texture while providing a glossy finish.
With its distinctive scent, Flex became a signature fragrance for many. It was more than just a shampoo; it was a sensory experience that reflected the boldness of the ’80s. Flex remains a fond memory for those who cherished its unique aroma.
6. Body on Tap
Body on Tap was truly a product of its time, boasting an unusual ingredient—real beer. Marketed as a way to add volume and shine, this shampoo intrigued consumers with its novel approach. The golden formula promised to strengthen hair while providing a luscious, bubbly lather.
Its quirky concept and effective results made Body on Tap a hit, especially among those with fine or limp hair needing extra body. The beer-based shampoo left hair looking full and feeling refreshed, proving that unconventional ingredients could deliver great results.
7. Wella Balsam
Wella Balsam was a beloved choice during the ’80s, known for its nourishing properties and widespread appeal. Endorsed by iconic figures like Farrah Fawcett, it promised salon-quality results without leaving home. Its rich formula was designed to repair and revitalize tired tresses.
The shampoo’s creamy texture delivered hydration and shine, making it a popular choice for those looking to rejuvenate their locks. With its celebrity backing and effective formula, Wella Balsam became synonymous with glamour and style, leaving a lasting impression on ’80s hair care.
8. Alberto VO5
Alberto VO5 was more than just a shampoo; it was the gateway to silky, manageable hair. Known for its hot oil treatments, the brand offered a complete hair care solution. The shampoo itself was formulated to cleanse thoroughly while maintaining moisture.
The VO5 range was celebrated for its ability to transform dull, brittle hair into something vibrant and healthy-looking. Its thoughtful formulation made it a favorite for those seeking both nourishment and shine. Alberto VO5’s reputation for quality products continues to be cherished by those who grew up in the ’80s.
9. Clairol Herbal Essence
Clairol’s original Herbal Essence shampoo brought the essence of nature into the shower with its earthy, floral scent. The green bottle evoked a sense of purity and connection to the natural world, aligning with the environmental consciousness of the time.
Its formula was designed to cleanse gently while offering a sensory escape. The herbal aroma turned every wash into a delightful experience, making it a favorite among those who valued both fragrance and performance. Herbal Essence captured the spirit of the ’80s in a bottle.
10. Agree
Agree shampoo became the go-to choice for teens in the ’80s, celebrated for its light, fresh scent that resonated with youthful exuberance. The clean, crisp fragrance left hair smelling natural and airy, appealing to a younger audience seeking simplicity.
The formula was gentle, designed to cleanse without stripping hair of essential oils. This made Agree a suitable option for those with sensitive scalps or fine hair. Its approachable scent and effective performance made it a staple during a time when individuality and freshness were prized.
11. Johnson’s Baby Shampoo
Johnson’s Baby Shampoo was more than a product for infants; it became a universal symbol of gentleness. Many adults embraced its mild formula, appreciating its ability to clean without irritation. Its iconic yellow bottle was a familiar sight in homes across the nation.
The ‘no more tears’ formula ensured a worry-free wash, making it an attractive choice for those with sensitive eyes or skin. The soothing scent added to its appeal, creating a comforting experience that transcended age. Johnson’s Baby Shampoo reminded everyone of uncomplicated, tender care.
12. Suave
Suave was the epitome of affordability without compromise, establishing itself as the go-to for budget-conscious consumers. Known for its appealing apple scent, the brand offered high-quality results at a fraction of the price of other shampoos.
The simple, effective formula provided a satisfying cleanse while leaving hair smelling fresh and fruity. Suave proved that you didn’t need to spend a lot to achieve great hair, making it a ubiquitous presence in households across the country. It continues to be cherished for its value-driven approach.
13. White Rain
White Rain shampoo was synonymous with affordability and effectiveness. Its presence in local drugstores made it a convenient choice for those seeking a reliable, no-frills product. The brand’s commitment to quality at a low price point ensured its widespread appeal.
Known for its mild formulation and subtle fragrance, White Rain delivered a refreshing cleanse without unnecessary additives. It was a staple for those who valued simplicity and practicality in their hair care routine. White Rain’s unassuming nature became its strength, cementing its place in ’80s culture.
14. Salon Selectives
Salon Selectives introduced a new level of personalization to hair care with its customizable shampoo and conditioner options. Packaged in distinctive red bottles, it allowed users to mix and match products to suit their individual needs.
The brand’s focus was on delivering salon-quality results at home, an innovative concept that resonated with consumers. The enticing scents and nourishing formulas made Salon Selectives a popular choice for those looking to replicate professional treatments. Its pioneering approach made a lasting impact on the industry.
15. Jhirmack
Jhirmack became a trusted name for those with silver or gray hair, offering specialized care that catered to their unique needs. The brand’s formulations were designed to enhance and brighten natural shades, providing vitality to mature hair.
Its reputation for delivering visible results made it a favored choice for maintaining luminous, healthy-looking locks. Jhirmack’s commitment to quality and targeted solutions resonated with those who wanted to celebrate their natural beauty. It stood as a testament to embracing age with style and confidence.
16. Aussie
Aussie gained fame in the ’80s with its deep conditioning treatments, packaged in distinctive purple bottles. It was a savior for those battling dry, damaged perms, offering intense moisture and repair.
The blend of exotic Australian ingredients promised rejuvenated, silky hair, resonating with those seeking effective solutions. Aussie’s quirky branding and emphasis on natural components set it apart, creating a unique identity that appealed to the adventurous spirit of the era.
17. Tresemmé
Tresemmé began its journey as a salon-exclusive brand before finding its way into everyday homes. It promised professional-grade results, bringing the luxury of salon care to a broader audience.
The brand’s sleek packaging and sophisticated formulations appealed to those who wanted to indulge in self-care. Tresemmé’s commitment to quality made it a sought-after choice for achieving polished, stunning hair. The transition from salon to store shelf marked a significant turning point in making premium care accessible.
18. Dimension
Dimension shampoo carved a niche with its futuristic name and sleek packaging, capturing the imagination of those eager for innovation. It offered a modern approach to hair care, promising advanced formulas that tackled various hair concerns.
The brand’s emphasis on cutting-edge technology and performance made it appealing to those who valued progress and modernity. Dimension’s unique identity and effective solutions ensured its place among the era’s memorable products, leaving a legacy of forward-thinking care.
19. Nexxus
Nexxus was synonymous with sophistication and high-end care, offering salon-exclusive products that felt indulgent. Packaged in elegant beige bottles, it promised luxurious results for discerning consumers.
The brand was known for its commitment to quality ingredients and tailored formulations, making it a favorite among those seeking refined hair care. Nexxus’s reputation for excellence ensured its popularity among professionals and enthusiasts alike, solidifying its status as a premium choice in the ’80s.
20. Infusium 23
Infusium 23 was celebrated for its transformative leave-in treatments, designed to repair and rejuvenate damaged hair. The brand’s focus on delivering visible results made it a go-to for those recovering from the era’s heavy styling products and techniques.
Its nourishing formulas provided deep conditioning and strength, helping to restore resilience and shine. Infusium 23’s dedication to effective solutions made it a revered name among those seeking intensive care, leaving a legacy of innovation and trust.
21. Protein 21
Protein 21 was renowned for its strengthening properties, making it a popular choice for those with tired or weakened hair. The shampoo’s protein-rich formula aimed to reinforce and rejuvenate, providing much-needed resilience.
Its focus on nourishment and repair appealed to consumers looking to combat the wear and tear of daily styling. Protein 21’s commitment to fortifying hair left a lasting impression, establishing it as a trusted ally in the quest for healthy, strong locks.
22. Nature’s Gate
Nature’s Gate took a holistic approach to hair care, offering herbal shampoos that resonated with the health-conscious consumer. Its emphasis on natural ingredients aligned with the growing environmental awareness of the time.
The brand’s commitment to sustainability and gentle cleansing made it a favorite for those seeking purity and effectiveness. Nature’s Gate’s blend of botanicals provided a refreshing, earth-friendly alternative, capturing the spirit of conscious beauty.
23. Sebastian
Sebastian represented the pinnacle of luxury in hair care, offering high-end salon formulas that hinted at the trends to come in the ’90s. It was celebrated for its innovative and bold approach, providing cutting-edge treatments.
The brand’s sleek packaging and sophisticated marketing appealed to those who valued exclusivity and quality. Sebastian’s forward-thinking ethos ensured its place among the elite, appealing to style-conscious consumers eager to stay ahead of the curve.
24. Jheri Redding
Jheri Redding, named after the famed stylist, was linked to groundbreaking hair care solutions. Known for pioneering conditioning techniques, the brand captured the attention of those seeking effective treatments.
Its innovative formulas were designed to provide strength and shine, focusing on health as well as aesthetics. Jheri Redding’s commitment to excellence ensured its place in the pantheon of influential brand names, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.
25. Breck
Breck shampoo was iconic, thanks in part to its captivating advertising campaigns featuring the “Breck Girls.” These ads were almost as famous as the products themselves, portraying beauty and elegance.
The brand’s focus on delivering gentle, effective cleansing made it a trusted name for those seeking reliable care. Breck’s combination of nostalgia and quality ensured its place in the hearts of many, leaving a legacy that transcends time.
26. Zotos
Zotos was celebrated for its color-protecting and perm-friendly formulas, providing care that catered to the specific needs of treated hair.
Its dedication to maintaining vibrant, healthy locks made it a trusted choice for those who embraced the bold styles of the ’80s. With its professional-grade solutions, Zotos ensured that every wash preserved the integrity and beauty of colored and permed hair.
27. Lustrasilk
Lustrasilk was a beloved brand in many Black households, known for its moisture-rich conditioners that catered to textured hair. The brand’s focus on delivering hydration and softness made it a trusted choice.
Its nourishing formulas provided essential moisture, making it a staple for maintaining healthy curls and waves. Lustrasilk’s commitment to celebrating and enhancing natural beauty ensured its enduring popularity and cultural significance.