Natural vs Plant-based vs Synthetic
Curly, kinky, and coily hair types possess a distinct beauty and texture that require specialized care to maintain their health and vibrancy. A plethora of hair products flood the market, boasting numerous ingredients, both natural and synthetic, claiming to cater to the unique needs of these hair types. In this article, we’ll explore a selection of natural and synthetic hair product ingredients that are particularly beneficial for curly, kinky, and coily hair, helping you make informed choices to embrace and enhance your natural beauty.
Natural Hair Product Ingredients
Aloe Vera
Known for its soothing and healing properties, aloe vera is highly effective in calming an irritated scalp and reducing inflammation. Its hydrating nature helps retain moisture in the hair, preventing dryness and breakage. Aloe vera gel can be applied directly to the scalp or mixed with other ingredients in hair masks and leave-in conditioners for optimal results.
Shea Butter
Derived from the nuts of the African shea tree, shea butter is a powerhouse of moisturization. Its high concentration of essential fatty acids and vitamins (A, E, and F) deeply penetrate the hair shaft, providing much-needed hydration and nourishment. Shea butter helps reduce frizz, improve manageability, and enhance overall hair health.
Coconut Oil
A versatile natural ingredient widely recognized for its benefits for curly, kinky, and coily hair. Composed mainly of medium-chain fatty acids, coconut oil is easily absorbed by the hair shaft, sealing in moisture and promoting soft, supple curls. Its antimicrobial properties can also help combat scalp issues and maintain a healthy environment for hair growth.
Jojoba Oil
Derived from the jojoba plant’s seeds, jojoba oil closely resembles the sebum produced by our scalp. This makes it an ideal natural ingredient for moisturizing and balancing the hair’s natural oil production. Jojoba oil forms a protective layer around the hair shaft, guarding it against environmental damage and reducing moisture loss. It also aids in detangling, leaving curly, kinky, and coily hair more manageable and less prone to breakage. When shopping for pure jojoba oil, like any oils, ensure the ingredient list only contains the oil, like this one.
Argan Oil
Originating from the argan tree in Morocco, argan oil is a lightweight and non-greasy natural oil. Rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants, it helps repair damaged hair, improves elasticity, and reduces frizz. Argan oil adds a healthy shine to the hair, making it look lustrous and well-maintained.
Honey
A natural humectant, honey attracts and retains moisture from the environment, making it beneficial for curly, kinky, and coily hair. It helps lock in moisture, promoting softness and suppleness in the hair. Honey also contains vitamins and minerals that nourish the hair and scalp, aiding in overall hair health and growth. One of our favorite products containing honey is tgin’s Honey Miracle Mask.
Plant-based or Plant-derived Ingredients
Vegetable Glycerine
Vegetable glycerine offers several remarkable benefits for curly, kinky, and coily hair types. Its humectant properties enable it to attract and retain moisture from the surrounding environment, effectively combating dryness and promoting hydration in the hair strands. This moisture retention helps to prevent frizz, tangles, and breakage, leaving the curls looking more defined, soft, and manageable. Additionally, vegetable glycerine aids in improving the elasticity of the hair, reducing the risk of hair damage during styling and manipulation. Its natural composition makes it suitable for those with sensitive scalps or allergies, providing a gentle and nourishing option for maintaining healthy and lustrous curly hair.
Fatty alcohols (Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol)
Fatty alcohols, such as cetyl, cetearyl and stearyl alcohol, are a group of long-chain alcohols derived from plant-based sources like coconut, palm, or shea butter. Unlike drying alcohols like ethanol and isopropyl alcohol, fatty alcohols are non-drying and have emollient properties, making them highly beneficial in hair products, particularly for textured hair. These alcohols act as moisturizing agents, forming a protective barrier around the hair shaft, preventing moisture loss, and improving the hair’s ability to retain hydration. For curly hair, which tends to be more prone to dryness and frizz, incorporating hair products containing fatty alcohols can significantly enhance moisture levels, enhance curl definition, reduce tangles and breakage, and promote overall hair health. Furthermore, fatty alcohols’ lightweight nature ensures that they don’t weigh down curls, leaving them soft, bouncy, and manageable.v
Synthetic Hair Product Ingredients
Polyquaterniums
Polyquaterniums are synthetic polymers that act as conditioning agents in hair products. They provide moisture retention and enhance the hair’s texture, making it easier to manage and style. Polyquaterniums can be particularly helpful for reducing frizz and improving curl definition in curly, kinky, and coily hair.
Silicones
Silicones are synthetic compounds that form a protective coating around the hair shaft, providing shine and reducing frizz. They create a barrier against humidity, helping to maintain defined curls. However, some silicones can build up on the hair over time, leading to potential dryness and weighing down the hair.
Dimethicone
Dimethicone is a type of silicone often used in hair products to create a smooth and glossy appearance. Like other silicones, it helps to reduce frizz and protect the hair from environmental damage. However, some individuals may find that dimethicone can weigh down their curls and lead to product buildup.
Behentrimonium Chloride
Behentrimonium chloride is a synthetic quaternary ammonium compound used in hair conditioners for its detangling and conditioning properties. It helps to reduce static and improve the hair’s manageability, making it a useful ingredient for curly and textured hair.
Which one wins?
When it comes to selecting hair products for curly, kinky, and coily hair, both natural and synthetic ingredients can offer valuable benefits. Natural ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, aloe vera, jojoba oil, argan oil, and honey provide deep hydration, nourishment, and soothing effects. On the other hand, synthetic ingredients like silicones, polyquaterniums, dimethicone, cetearyl alcohol, and behentrimonium chloride can enhance the hair’s texture and manageability.
Ultimately, finding the right combination of ingredients that works best for your unique hair type is essential. By being mindful of the ingredients in your hair products and tailoring your hair care routine accordingly, you can embrace the natural beauty of your curly, kinky, or coily hair and keep it healthy, vibrant, and full of life.
Trying to find the right products for your hair? We can help! Simply take our short quiz and we’ll send you personalized hair care advice including product recommendations.
