You don't always need a whole new product to fix a hair concern. Sometimes it's just a case of adding the right active ingredient to whatever you're already using, and letting it do the specific job a generic formula can't.
What are active ingredients exactly?
Active ingredients are concentrated, single-purpose formulas, designed to be mixed into a base product (a shampoo, conditioner or mask) rather than used on their own.
Unlike a finished product, which balances several benefits at once, an active ingredient does one thing, and does it in a more targeted, concentrated way.
What to use active ingredients for?
Weak, thinning hair
The Hair Growth Active Ingredient is formulated for hair strengthening and is our current bestseller in this range. For hair loss specifically, the Maca Vital Active Ingredient combines anti-hair-loss and strengthening properties.
Flat, lacklustre lengths
The Plant-Based Collagen Active Ingredient is formulated to help plump the hair fibre, useful if your hair's lost some of its body over time.
Dry, rough hair
The Keratin AA Active Ingredient is both moisturising and strengthening, a good all-rounder for hair that feels parched.
Hair exposed to heat, colour or sun
The Hair Protection Active Ingredient, Plant-Based Ceramides, Keratin'protect and Squalane Active Ingredient are all formulated with protective properties, useful for hair that's regularly styled, dyed or out in the sun.
How to use active ingredients for hair?
Add a few drops to your usual shampoo, conditioner or mask, rather than applying neat or on their own.
Mix it in well before applying, so the active is evenly distributed through the product.
Use as you normally would, there's no need to change your routine entirely, just top up what you're already using with the active that matches your concern.
Fancy trying a proper recipe instead? Our hair growth booster mask shows how these actives come together in practice.
Anything to watch out for?
Patch test:
Because these are concentrated formulas, it's worth patch testing a new active
before adding it to your full routine, a small amount mixed in, left for 24-48 hours, is enough to check your scalp doesn't react.
Quantity: Stick to the recommended amount, more isn't better here, and can end up unbalancing the base product you're mixing it into rather than improving it.
Not sure where to start? Discover your ideal hair routine with our 2-minute hair assessment.
