Hair Care Ingredients Guide
Understanding what is in your hair products is the first step to healthier hair. Browse our comprehensive guide to the most important hair care ingredients, organized by category.
30
Ingredients
10
Categories
28
CGM Approved
Natural Oils
Oils penetrate the hair shaft or coat the surface to provide moisture, shine, and protection. Different oils have different molecular sizes, which determines whether they penetrate or seal.
Proteins
Proteins strengthen hair by filling gaps in the cuticle and cortex. They are essential for damaged hair but need to be balanced with moisture to avoid brittleness.
Humectants
Humectants attract and retain water molecules, drawing moisture into the hair. They work best in moderate humidity and should be combined with sealants.
Emollients
Emollients smooth and soften the hair by filling in gaps along the cuticle. They create a protective barrier that seals moisture in and environmental damage out.
Botanicals
Plant-derived ingredients that provide a range of benefits from scalp health to gentle conditioning. Many have been used in traditional hair care for centuries.
Active Ingredients
Targeted ingredients with specific mechanisms of action, such as exfoliation, oil control, or growth stimulation. They address particular concerns rather than providing general conditioning.
Vitamins
Vitamins support hair health from both topical application and internal supplementation. They provide antioxidant protection, support growth, and improve overall hair condition.
Surfactants
Cleansing agents that remove oil, dirt, and product buildup from hair and scalp. They vary in strength from gentle (cocamidopropyl betaine) to strong (sodium lauryl sulfate).
Silicones
Synthetic polymers that coat the hair to add shine, reduce frizz, and protect against heat. Controversial in the CGM community due to potential buildup concerns.
Clays & Minerals
Natural minerals that absorb excess oil, remove impurities, and provide gentle cleansing. Popular in scalp treatments and curl-defining masks.
How to Read Hair Product Ingredient Lists
Ingredient lists on hair products are required to be listed in descending order of concentration. The first few ingredients make up the bulk of the product, while those at the end are present in very small amounts.
What to Look For
- Water (aqua) as the first ingredient in most products
- Active ingredients in the first 5-6 positions
- Natural oils, proteins, and humectants for your concerns
- Preservatives near the end (necessary for product safety)
What to Watch For
- Marketed ingredients listed near the bottom (minimal concentration)
- Multiple drying alcohols high in the list
- Sulfates if you have dry, color-treated, or curly hair
- Non-water-soluble silicones if following CGM
Related Resources
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