This Alterna styling product, Strand Expand, does successfully in creating the volume in my hair. Even moreso, when it is combined with Alterna's Silk Sleek Brilliance Creme.


The frizzies are kept at bay, the volume is created, and my inverted bob seems to be a lot more swinging in a slanted line. The aroma is nice, too. The blow-drying was a charm because this styling aid pumped up the volume so easy peasy! Also, I liked the texture of my hair after the dry-out, and was glad there was no icky residue like some products leave in the hair. No greasiness, no stickiness.


Al the Alterna products seem to be on the costly factor when you figure that the product is in small quantities. If you search the net, you will find that these $22 bottles are available for $15 at Pandora. I will test out the Bamboo Volume Abundant Shampoo and Conditioner and report back on another review for them. But for now, I highly recommend this product! Also you really only need to pump out a small amound of product, for the fantastic results, which is a "good thing" as Martha would say, considering the price point.

I really wanted to Love this product, but it did practically nothing for my hair. It did give a bit of volume for a few hours after blow drying, but it didn't last. I'm much happier with Living Proof Thickening cream.

UPDATE: I've switched to Redken 07 Layer Lift with much better results.
ORIGINAL: According to Alterna, this is designed to plump and volumize hair while protecting color. Its a white lotion that smells very light and fresh. Comes in a 4oz pump bottle which is a good idea, but the bottle I got only pumps out a tiny bit at at time so even with my medium amount of thin hair, I risk getting carpal tunnel every morning trying to get enough out of the bottle. That being said, I work about a quarter size this through damp hair from tips to roots, comb through, and style as usual. It detangles beautifully, smooths hair without weighing it down, doesn't dry it out or make it greasier, gives gentle volume and fullness, and...the best part...keeps my hair fresh for 2-3 days. I've never been able to go more than 1 day without washing, mostly because it just becomes so unruly, sticking out all over the place, but with this, it looks fresh and controlled for days. $22 at drugstore.com