Generic Value Products

There are many things to love about Sally Beauty Supply, but their line of Generic Value Products is at the top of the list.

GVP basically makes generic versions of some of the most popular hair products: Paul Mitchel, Matrix, Redken, Biolage and CHI, to name a few. The coolest part is that on the back of the bottle, GVP has the ingredient list for their product and the one they're copying so you can see that they're both exactly the same.

I've tried various GVPs and they've all been great. The only downside is that as far as I can tell, they only sell them at Sally. So, if one particular store isn't well stocked, you have to trek around to several ones until you find what you're looking for.

Here are my all-time favorites:

• GVP Sculpting Foam: Compare to Paul Mitchell Sculpting Foam With Conditioners

The PM sculpting foam is amazing because it's lightweight but somehow still holds waves in place. But at 18 bucks a pop, it's a bit ridiculous for me [especially because I use a ton of mousse every day.] The GVP copy is exactly the same, down to the signature coconut smell.

Note: there are two sculpting foams, one with and one without conditioners. Apparently, the one without smells horrible, so I suggest sticking to the one with.

• GVP Smoothing Serum: Compare to Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum

An anti-frizz serum, Super Skinny is a must have for anyone who owns a flat iron or anyone who lives in a humid climate. The GVP version lives up to the original and performs beautifully.

• GVP Moisturizing Shampoo: Compare to Nexxus Therappe
• GVP Moisturizing Conditioner: Compare to Nexxus Humectress

I always loved Nexxus, but I didn't love the $14 a bottle it was costing me. I've been using the GVP version for about 6 months now and I don't feel a difference, except now I can buy 3 of the knock-off bottles for the price of one original.

• GVP Leave-in Treatment: Compare to Sebastian Potion 9

I didn't even know what Potion 9 was when I bought this, but I'm a sucker for leave-ins so I bought it anyway. I've still never tried the original, but I love this conditioner.

GVP also has a line of styling tools that I've heard is great but have yet to try. Apparently, the irons are jus as amazing as the CHIs.

So, put down the Redken, head over to your local Sally and enjoy not having to give up your firstborn for a can of mousse.