I Tried Cécred’s New Protection Collection—Here’s Why the Detoxifying Shampoo and Hair & Scalp Balm Stole the Show

The standouts from Cécred’s Protection Collection

Author image: Deena Campbell Fashion and Beauty Director-at-Large

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Published Dec 4, 2025

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Cécred/Original Images by Deena Campbell

Aesthetic: 18/20
Formula: 15/20
Ease of Application: 19/20
Efficacy: 18/20
Value: 16/20

TOTAL: 86/100

Cécred, a brand already beloved for its clean, thoughtful haircare, launched a new Protection Collection designed for protective styles, extensions and textured hair routines. With many of us constantly switching between braids, twists or weaves, the hope for a line that truly cares for scalp health and style integrity felt long overdue. I put the collection to the test (especially the Detoxifying Shampoo, $39, and Hair & Scalp Balm, $36) and here’s what happened.

Cécred

What Is the Cécred Protection Collection?

What I Like

The Detoxifying Shampoo deeply cleanses buildup without stripping or drying out the scalp.
The Hair & Scalp Balm feels nourishing yet light, which is perfect for soothing dryness, softening strands and adding subtle shine between washes.

What I Don't Like

If you don’t wear protective styles or extensions, the features (especially the scalp-clearing shampoo) may feel like overkill.
As with many high-end collections, the price point might feel steep for some, but the quality and results make a strong case.

Cécred

Cécred’s new Protection Collection feels like someone finally sat down and asked, “What do people with protective styles actually need?” As someone who wears braids and twists on occasion, I appreciated that it covers every stage without feeling overwhelming.

The Scalp Refreshing Spray was my first hint this line was different. It gives that clean, cooling feeling on days when washing isn’t in the cards, and it kept my roots calm and itch-free for at least three weeks. The Detoxifying Shampoo is the true reset button of the collection; it is designed to remove buildup from oils and edge control without leaving my hair feeling rough or stripped. On take-down day, the Detangling Spray eases knots apart. The Oil Ritual is rich without being greasy, perfect for massaging into the scalp after a long protective style to bring everything back to life. And the Hair & Scalp Balm is the one I keep reaching for—it melts in, adds moisture and makes braids look freshly done even when they’re not. The collection doesn’t promise perfection; it just makes the whole process easier and a lot more enjoyable.

cecred protection collection deena campbell

Original Photo by Deena Campbell

How I Tested The Cécred Protection Collection?

I gave the Cécred Protection Collection a true real-life test: several weeks of marathon training, protective styles, sweaty scalp days and everything in between. While preparing for the NYC Marathon, my wash routine had to be quick, effective and gentle enough not to disturb my twists, and the Detoxifying Shampoo ended up being my go-to. I used it during the final weeks of training to clear sweat, salt and product buildup from my scalp without unraveling my style.

Once I took my extensions out, I kept using the shampoo to reset my hair. It did the same thing it did while I was in braids: lifted buildup and thoroughly cleansed my scalp. On days when I didn’t wash, the Hair & Scalp Balm became the product I reached for the most. I smoothed it along my scalp and the ends of my hair whenever things felt tight, dry or dull. It kept everything moisturized.

Smart Design and Seamless Application

One thing I appreciated right away is how thoughtfully the entire Cécred Protection Collection is designed for real-life use. The packaging is lightweight and easy to maneuver, which is very important when you’re working around braids or a sensitive post–take-down scalp. The no-rinse Scalp Refreshing Spray has a precise nozzle that gets between parts without soaking the style, while the Detangling Spray delivers an even mist that actually coats the hair instead of sitting on top of it. The Detoxifying Shampoo has a controlled pour that prevents you from overusing it, and the Hair & Scalp Balm melts instantly on contact, making it easy to smooth along the scalp or the ends of your hair with just your fingertips. Every product feels intentionally crafted to make the routine more efficient.

The Cons

There’s no true conditioner in the line. For a complete wash-day routine, you may need to pair the shampoo and balm with a separate conditioner or deep treatment to lock in moisture. Also, if your protective style has been in for longer than the recommended timeframe (6–8 weeks), even the best scalp-care products can have a hard time managing built-up oil, dryness or tension from the braids themselves.

cecred protection collection deena campbell 2

Original Photo by Deena Campbell

The Bottom Line

If you wear protective styles, the Detoxifying Shampoo and Hair & Scalp Balm from Cécred’s Protection Collection are two of the strongest products I’ve used in a long time. The shampoo clears away buildup without stripping moisture, and the balm keeps hair healthy between washes. Whether you’re a protective-style veteran or new to braids and extensions, this collection is a thoughtful, effective refresh for textured haircare.

Fast Facts

Standout formulas: Detoxifying Shampoo (for buildup & scalp reset), Hair & Scalp Balm (for hydration & maintenance)
Why it matters: Protective styles often skip regular washing and moisturizing; this collection fills that gap, giving scalp and strands lots of hydration and care.
Best for: Braided styles, twists, locs and extensions. Basically any protective hairstyle that needs a deep cleanse and scalp care

shop the collection at CECRED

SHOP THE COLLECTION AT ULTA

Deena Campbell

Fashion and Beauty Director-at-Large

Oversees fashion and beauty content.
Former Beauty Director at Marie Claire; editorial lead at Allure, Essence, and L’Oréal-owned beauty platforms
Advocate for inclusive storytelling in style, beauty, and wellness

read full bio