I have a confession: it's been over five years since I've washed my own hair.

If you are dumbfounded by my previous statement, understand that this is completely normal for many African-American women.

When you've grown up accustomed to paying a visit to your local hair salon every two weeks to get your hair styled by a professional, why go through the hassle to suds up your own strands?

So, when I was asked to test out the new Pantene Pro-V Curly Hair Series I had no problems expressing my hesitancy.

Would these products actually work on a black girl's hair? Should I use the 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner? How long should I sit with the deep conditioner on my strands? And would the defining mousse help to recreate salon-worthy textured curls with my chemical-free locks?

Pantene Pro-V Curly Hair Series boasts a special polymer formulation that controls frizz, prevents split-ends, nourishes and hydrates, and leaves curls soft and manageable. The hair care range consists of two shampoo and conditioner systems, a 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner, six styling products, and four hair treatments.

But did these curly hair products hold up to their claims (and to my coils)?

After removing my braided updo, I applied a small amount of the Dry to Moisturized Conditioner to loosen and detangle my strands -- a tried and true hair trick used by Pantene Pro-V Celebrity Stylist Tippi Shorter. I then washed my hair with the Dry to Moisturized Shampoo and was instantly reminded of that intoxicating scent the hair brand is known for. And I loved how easy it was to work the product throughout my hair and how it cleansed my dry scalp. But I was completely shocked with the way the Dry to Moisturized Conditioner helped to define my curls -- creating bouncy ringlets.

To maximize on the conditioning process, I used both the Professional Level Damage Repair Ampoules and Deep Moisturizing Treatment. And the result: instant shine and strength.

I must admit that I ran into a dead end when it came to the five styling products. While the Satin Hold Hairspray did keep my curls in place, I was experiencing a bit of crunchy hair. And the Curl Defining Mousse and Curl Enhancing Spray Gel didn't mesh well with my natural tresses when it came to a simple wash-and-go. But Tippi Shorter advised me that these hair stylers work best when setting my hair with rod curlers -- which I leave up to my hair stylist.

Based on my experience, I would recommend the Curly Hair Series for women who are in search of hair care products that will smooth your cuticles, minimize frizz and damage, and define your curls. But if I ever get the urge to suds up again, I would reach for Pantene's Relaxed & Natural line because of its rich, intense hydration formula packed with coconut and jojoba oils that work best on my kinky curls.

Want to keep your highly textured and coarse hair from spiraling out of control? Click here for tips on how to tame your mane!