Can a £4 Viral Shampoo Really Deliver? I Put the M&S Nourishing Range to the Test
When I hear the word “viral,” I’m instantly curious. Like many beauty lovers, I’ve been lured in by the buzz around budget-friendly finds that promise high-end results. So when I spotted the M&S Beauty Nourishing Shampoo and Conditioner, both priced at just £4, I had to give them a try.
These products have been making quiet waves online for their ingredient list and performance — and for good reason. The Nourishing range is infused with micro algae extract, which helps rebalance the scalp, and a blend of bergamot water and coconut oil to deliver much-needed moisture. But what really caught my eye? They're silicone- and sulphate-free — a rare find at this price point, and a big plus for anyone with fine hair or an oily scalp like mine.
Sustainable, Sensible & Scented Just Right
On the sustainability front, the shampoo and conditioner are vegan and packaged in fully recyclable bottles. The scent? Think refreshing sea salt meets green bergamot — clean, subtle, and ideal for a morning mood boost. My only quibble was the bottle design: no pump means it’s a bit tricky to handle mid-shower, especially with wet hands.
Performance That Surprised Me
Application-wise, the shampoo felt incredibly lightweight and easy to lather. Two washes later, my scalp felt clean but not stripped — a rare balance for a budget shampoo. The conditioner was where the magic really happened. Unlike many affordable conditioners that leave a film or fake shine, this one delivered real softness without buildup.
I applied it from roots to ends, let it sit for about five minutes, and rinsed. While the shine was a touch subtler than with some pricier products, there was no dryness or heaviness — just healthy, bouncy hair that felt freshly cut.
Final Thoughts
The beachy scent lingered for a solid two days (yes, I got compliments!), and my hair held up beautifully for three days before the roots got greasy again — standard for me. For £4 each, the M&S Nourishing range seriously overdelivers, the only thing missing is a pump for each bottle.
If you’re looking for an affordable, clean, and effective shampoo and conditioner duo that ticks the boxes for sensitive scalps, sustainable ingredients, and real results, this might be your next favourite.
