I first came across NELLIE TIER products during a stay at the luxurious The French Country House just outside Tauranga (here’s what we had to say about their gorgeous night cream) so, of course, when I was sent their shampoo and conditioner to review, I wasn’t going to say no!
This New Zealand brand started out as a hobby when friends Ann Porter and Sara Sadd decided to experiment with safe, natural, effective and environmentally friendly products that they would be happy to use on themselves. As more and more people tried their hand-blended products, they found, unexpectedly, they had a business and now enjoy a loyal clientele from around the world.
Named NELLIE TIER after Ann’s grandmother, the business has blossomed and three generations of her descendants now work alongside each other in their Auckland workshop.
When you look at the labels on the bottles, you see different girl’s names at the background and, on investigation, I learn that these names are from both Ann and Sara’s relations – mothers, aunts, sisters, daughters, nieces and granddaughters – and are in grateful acknowledgment of past influences and hopes for the future. Such a beautiful touch!
The shampoo and conditioner are suitable for all hair types and come in 250ml pump bottles – there are handy 100ml travel sizes with a screw top too. They are both fairly thin liquids but they do the job and left my hair feeling soft and manageable. The products also have a gorgeous scent from the ylang-ylang and lavender.
The hero ingredients for the shampoo are Mānuka honey and aloe vera gel which work together to strengthen the hair follicles, soothe any scalp irritation and prevent issues such as dandruff and eczema. As the shampoo isn’t harsh, I was able to use it on its own and only applied the conditioner every other wash. It lathers up quickly and is quick and easy to use. A big plus for me!
The conditioner includes nourishing oils and vitamins so my hair felt nourished and soft.
I love the fact that NELLIE TIER products have no parabens, sodium lauryl sulfate, mineral oils, artificial perfumes or colour additives and that they aren’t tested on animals.
The full range of NELLIE TIER products include face, body and bath products and there’s also a NELLIE TIER baby and teen range. Products can be purchased online.