I think it's very much down to the individual as to what works best. I have fine, poker straight hair that often lacks volume, and splits easily. I tend to use a combination of Kerastase (recommended to me by my London stylist) and Alterna (recommended by my home stylist) and that seems to keep it healthy and bouncy. When I use general supermarket products, the outcome is fine but I don't get the lift that I get from the professional products.

I have a few products in my cabinet that are reserved for special occasions, since they work really well on my hair for a short period - but they cost an arm and a leg! Hence I'm not so keen to have 'perfect' hair every day

Sometimes I think the 'wow' factor plays an overactive part in new hair products. I've had stylists sell me products before that they've believed to be wonderful. Once I've used it a few times, the effect loses its novelty and I stop noticing it. I have too many half empty bottles at the back of the cabinet and just my handful of regulars at the front - one day I'll learn!