Common Types
● Oils and Fats: These are divided into oil-soluble and water-soluble types. Oil-soluble oils are commonly used in hair masks and hair oils, while water-soluble ones are often found in shampoos and leave-in conditioners.
● Cationic Surfactants: Known for their excellent absorption and anti-static properties, they neutralize the negative charge on hair, providing anti-static, softening, and smoothing effects.
● Vitamins and Their Derivatives: These offer multiple benefits, including hydration, photoprotection, cell activation, enhanced hair strength, improved penetration, and scalp health maintenance.
● Protein-based Conditioners: Sourced from plants or animals, they provide nourishment, repair, and film-forming properties to protect and strengthen hair.
● Botanical Extracts: These help regulate excess scalp oil, offer antimicrobial benefits, support scalp anti-aging, and may aid in reducing hair loss and promoting hair growth.
Natural Ingredients and Biotechnology
With growing consumer demand for natural and safe products, the haircare industry is increasingly shifting toward natural ingredients. The application of biotechnology, such as microbial fermentation and plant cell culture, enables more efficient extraction and utilization of natural active ingredients like amino acids, peptides, and botanical extracts.
Cationic surfactants are positively charged molecules that bind to the negatively charged surface of hair. They smooth the cuticle, reduce static and frizz, and make hair feel softer and easier to comb.
Oils can benefit most hair types, but selection matters. Lightweight oils like argan or grapeseed work well for fine or oily hair, providing shine without heaviness. Thicker oils like castor or coconut are better for coarse, curly, or damaged hair needing deeper moisture. Focus application on mid-lengths to ends if your scalp tends to be oily.
Proteins (like keratin, silk, or wheat protein) temporarily fill in gaps in the hair cuticle, strengthening strands, adding elasticity, and reducing breakage. However, too much protein can make hair stiff, brittle, or straw-like, especially if it's already low in moisture.
Different plant extracts target specific concerns.
Peppermint or tea tree oil can soothe itchiness and support a balanced scalp;
Caffeine or ginseng may help promote circulation for healthier growth;
Aloe or chamomile calms irritation.
They’re often included in shampoos, scalp treatments, or tonics for their natural, targeted benefits.