Carol's Daughter Black Vanilla Moisture & Shine Leave In Conditioner for Dry Hair - 8 floz: Daily Use, Alcohol-Free, Paraben-Free
Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This leave-in conditioner features a range of beneficial ingredients such as glycerin, panthenol, and sodium hyaluronate, which are known for their moisturizing and conditioning properties. The product is free from parabens and alcohol, which is positive for hair health. However, the presence of synthetic fragrance, which can cause irritation or allergic reactions, slightly detracts from its overall ingredient safety.
Key ingredients 20
GlycerinGood
Glycerin is a humectant that attracts moisture to the hair and skin. It helps to keep hair hydrated and soft. It is widely used in hair care products for its moisturizing properties.
Risks
Overuse may lead to a sticky feeling on the hair.
Benefits
Improves hair moisture retention and softness.
Panthenol (Pro-vitamin B5)Good
Panthenol is a form of vitamin B5 that is known for its moisturizing and conditioning properties. It penetrates the hair shaft to improve moisture retention. It also adds shine and reduces split ends.
Risks
Generally considered safe with minimal risk.
Benefits
Enhances hair moisture, shine, and strength.
Sodium HyaluronateGood
Sodium Hyaluronate is a salt form of hyaluronic acid, known for its ability to retain moisture. It helps to hydrate and plump the hair. It is beneficial for maintaining hair elasticity and softness.
Benefits
Provides deep hydration and improves hair texture.
Sodium PCAGood
Sodium PCA is a naturally occurring humectant derived from amino acids. It helps to maintain moisture balance in the hair. It is effective in preventing dryness and improving hair manageability.
Benefits
Enhances hair moisture and prevents dryness.
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower/Leaf StemGood
Lavender extract is known for its soothing and calming properties. It can help to reduce scalp irritation and promote relaxation. It also adds a pleasant fragrance to hair care products.
Risks
Potential allergen for some individuals.
Benefits
Soothes the scalp and provides a calming effect.
Lonicera Caprifolium (Honeysuckle) Flower ExtractGood
Honeysuckle extract is used for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to protect the hair from environmental damage. It also contributes to the fragrance of the product.
Risks
May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Protects hair from damage and adds fragrance.
Lonicera Japonica (Japanese Honeysuckle) Flower ExtractGood
Japanese Honeysuckle extract is valued for its antimicrobial and soothing properties. It helps to maintain a healthy scalp environment. It also provides a natural fragrance to the product.
Risks
Potential allergen for some users.
Benefits
Supports scalp health and adds a natural scent.
Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf ExtractGood
Sage extract is known for its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. It helps to protect the hair and scalp from oxidative stress. It also adds a natural fragrance to hair care products.
Risks
May cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Protects hair and scalp while adding fragrance.
Calendula Officinalis Flower ExtractGood
Calendula extract is used for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to calm irritated scalps and promote healing. It is beneficial for maintaining scalp health.
Risks
Generally safe with minimal risk of irritation.
Benefits
Soothes and heals the scalp.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf JuiceGood
Aloe vera juice is known for its hydrating and soothing properties. It helps to moisturize the hair and scalp, reducing dryness and irritation. It is a popular ingredient in hair care for its conditioning benefits.
Risks
Generally considered safe with minimal risk.
Benefits
Hydrates and conditions the hair and scalp.
Hydrolyzed Wheat ProteinGood
Hydrolyzed wheat protein is used to strengthen and repair damaged hair. It penetrates the hair shaft to improve elasticity and reduce breakage. It is beneficial for enhancing hair texture and resilience.
Risks
May cause allergic reactions in individuals with wheat allergies.
Benefits
Strengthens and repairs hair structure.
Water (Aqua)Neutral
Water is a common solvent used in cosmetic formulations. It helps to dissolve other ingredients and provides a base for the product. It does not have any direct benefits or risks.
Benefits
Provides a medium for other ingredients to be delivered effectively.
Butylene GlycolNeutral
Butylene Glycol is a solvent and conditioning agent used in cosmetics. It helps to improve the texture and spreadability of products. It is generally considered safe for use in hair care formulations.
Risks
May cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Improves product texture and application.
Hydrolyzed Wheat StarchNeutral
Hydrolyzed wheat starch is used as a conditioning agent in hair care products. It helps to improve hair texture and manageability. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
Potential allergen for individuals with wheat sensitivities.
Benefits
Improves hair texture and manageability.
Hydrolyzed Corn StarchNeutral
Hydrolyzed corn starch is used as a thickening and conditioning agent. It helps to improve the texture and feel of hair care products. It is generally safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
May cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Enhances product texture and conditioning.
Citric AcidNeutral
Citric acid is used to adjust the pH of cosmetic formulations. It helps to maintain the stability and effectiveness of the product. It is generally considered safe for use in hair care products.
Risks
May cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Maintains product stability and pH balance.
Polysorbate 80Bad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
May cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Helps to maintain product consistency and stability.
Potassium SorbateBad
Synthetic preservative — flagged in daily-use products.
Risks
May cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Prevents microbial growth and extends shelf life.
CaramelBad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Benefits
Adds natural color to the product.
Fragrance (Parfum)Very Bad
Fragrance is used to add scent to cosmetic products. It can contain a mixture of various chemicals, some of which may cause irritation or allergic reactions. It is often criticized for its lack of transparency in ingredient disclosure.
Risks
Potential allergen and irritant for sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Provides a pleasant scent to the product.
Get the full breakdown in the Scout appTake Scout shopping
Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.
Download on theApp Store GET IT ONGoogle PlayAmazon pricing & content
Amazon price as of . Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED “AS IS” AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.