Hair care ingredient glossary
Understand what goes into your hair care products. Our ingredient glossary breaks down the most common ingredients found across professional brands so you can make informed choices for your hair type and concerns.
A
Argan oil
A lightweight oil derived from the argan tree (Argania spinosa) native to Morocco. Rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, it deeply moisturizes hair without weighing it down. Excellent for taming frizz, adding shine, and protecting against heat damage.
Amino acids
Building blocks of protein (keratin) that make up hair structure. Applied topically, they penetrate the hair shaft to repair and strengthen from within. Common types include arginine, cysteine, and lysine.
Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis)
A soothing plant extract rich in vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. Provides lightweight moisture, calms irritated scalps, and promotes healthy hair growth. Acts as a natural conditioner without buildup.
B
Biotin (vitamin B7)
A B-complex vitamin essential for keratin production. In topical hair products, biotin helps strengthen hair strands, reduce breakage, and support thicker-looking hair over time.
Bis-aminopropyl diglycol dimaleate
The patented active ingredient in OLAPLEX. This bond-building molecule works at a molecular level to find and repair broken disulfide bonds in hair caused by chemical, thermal, and mechanical damage.
C
Ceramides
Lipid molecules naturally found in the hair cuticle that act as the "mortar" between cuticle cells. They seal moisture in, smooth the cuticle layer, and protect hair from environmental damage and humidity.
Coconut oil (Cocos nucifera)
A deeply penetrating oil rich in lauric acid. Unlike many oils, coconut oil can actually penetrate the hair shaft to reduce protein loss. Provides intense moisture but can be heavy on fine hair.
Collagen
A structural protein that coats the hair shaft to add body, thickness, and strength. Hydrolyzed collagen (broken into smaller peptides) penetrates more effectively and helps repair structural damage.
D
Dimethicone
A silicone-based polymer that forms a protective coating on hair strands. Provides exceptional smoothness, shine, and detangling. Water-insoluble dimethicone can build up over time; look for water-soluble alternatives if you prefer silicone-free routines.
G
Glycerin
A humectant that draws moisture from the environment into the hair. Provides lasting hydration and helps maintain hair elasticity. Works best in moderate humidity; can cause frizz in very humid or very dry climates.
H
Hyaluronic acid
A powerful humectant that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. In hair care, it provides lightweight, deep hydration without heaviness. Plumps hair strands for a fuller appearance.
Hemp seed oil (Cannabis sativa)
A nutrient-rich oil packed with omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 fatty acids. Deeply moisturizes without clogging pores or weighing hair down. Also soothes irritated, dry scalps.
J
Jojoba oil (Simmondsia chinensis)
Technically a liquid wax, jojoba oil closely mimics the natural sebum produced by the scalp. Balances oil production, provides lightweight moisture, and helps dissolve product buildup without stripping.
K
Keratin
The primary structural protein of hair. Hydrolyzed keratin in products fills gaps in damaged cuticles, restores strength, and reduces porosity. Essential for chemically treated hair that has lost its natural protein structure.
N
Niacinamide (vitamin B3)
A water-soluble vitamin that improves scalp circulation and strengthens the hair follicle. Helps reduce scalp inflammation, supports the moisture barrier, and may promote thicker hair growth over time.
P
Panthenol (pro-vitamin B5)
A provitamin that converts to vitamin B5 in the hair. Penetrates the hair shaft to provide deep moisture, improves elasticity, and adds volume and body. Also smooths the cuticle for enhanced shine.
Peptides
Short chains of amino acids that signal hair follicles to produce stronger, healthier hair. Different peptides target different concerns — some stimulate growth, others repair damage or protect against environmental stress.
S
Shea butter (Butyrospermum parkii)
A rich, emollient fat from the shea tree. Provides intense moisture and seals the hair cuticle to lock in hydration. High in vitamins A, E, and F. Especially beneficial for coarser textures that need deep nourishment.
Silk proteins (Hydrolyzed silk)
Proteins derived from silk fibers that coat the hair shaft to add smoothness, shine, and slip. They form a breathable film that protects against moisture loss and thermal damage while improving manageability.
Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) / Sodium laureth sulfate (SLES)
Common surfactants (cleansing agents) that create lather and remove oil and product buildup. SLS is stronger and can strip natural oils; SLES is gentler. Many professional brands now offer sulfate-free alternatives for color-treated or dry hair.
T
Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia)
A natural antiseptic and antifungal essential oil. Cleanses the scalp, helps control dandruff and flaking, and unclogs hair follicles. Provides a refreshing tingling sensation.
V
Vitamin E (tocopherol)
A powerful antioxidant that protects hair from environmental damage and free radicals. Improves scalp circulation, supports hair growth, and adds moisture and shine. Often used as a natural preservative in hair formulas.
Not sure which ingredients your hair needs?
Vi, our AI hair care assistant, can analyze your hair type and recommend products with the right ingredients for your specific concerns.