On 1/7/2014 glitzandglam said: I think there is also a variety pack of 6-ounce bottles? I'm sure I saw that on the Q, too. That's also a good way to try. I know it took me about three cleansings to actually get the process down and start seeing results, so I'm not sure I'd personally be able to figure out what I liked from the travel packs.
To the OP, don't feel bad about missing the Xmas sale. I'm fairly new to WEN. I bought the five-bottle seasonal package when it was on sale, but I haven't been using them much (and I'm sort of not really wanting to "love" something that is only available for a short period of time, since the seasonals will change on an annual basis). I think it's probably better to start with the core formulas, find what works for you, and work out from there. I've been using mostly Tea Tree and 613, both of which I LOVE! I believe the Q sells a variety of different groupings with the core formulas. (LOL, I'm not even sure if 613 is considered a core formula...)
I agree with the bottles. It's more expensive, true, but you can get more than one cleanse out of each bottle, and it's easier (IMO) to make sure you know how much you should be using and to make sure you're using the proper amount if you are pumping it out of the bottles vs squeezing it out of the packets. The packets are nice as a single-use option too, though, for most people (use about half for a first cleanse, almost all the rest for a 2nd, and save a bit to use as a leave-in conditioner). But that depends on how long your hair is, how thick, and what its texture is. I use the equivalent of about 1.5 packets each time I wash my hair, but I know I'm at the high end of the CC use spectrum because my hair is long, very thick and very coarse and dry.
I only need the CC (cleansing conditioner) to keep my hair lovely. I am using a few of the other treatment products because I like what they're adding, but they aren't necessary. I don't use any WEN styling products (I do use a non-WEN styling gel for curl definition and hold though). I would say the majority of people can get by with just the CC, and the only other product I might recommend is the Styling Creme (SC). I don't use it or need it, but a lot of people do, as a heat protectant and to smooth the hair and add shine.