Ingredients, explained

Every ingredient that goes into a Cosmixxology formula, what it does and who it suits. Natural-first: botanicals by default, a synthetic only where it is safer or works better, and we say which is which.

Argan oil

Botanical

Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil

Emollient oil for slip and shine

Best for: Medium and high porosity

Shea butter

Botanical

Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter

Occlusive butter that seals moisture in

Best for: Coily and kinky textures (3C–4C)

Aloe vera

Botanical

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice

Lightweight humectant and scalp soother

Best for: Low porosity

Jojoba oil

Botanical

Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil

Sebum-like liquid wax

Best for: Scalp oiling

Coconut oil

Botanical

Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil

Penetrating oil that limits protein loss

Best for: Pre-wash treatment on damaged or high-porosity hair

Hydrolyzed quinoa protein

Plant-derived

Hydrolyzed Quinoa

Film-forming protein for strength

Best for: High porosity

Panthenol

Synthetic

Panthenol

Pro-vitamin B5 humectant

Best for: All hair types

Glycerin

Plant-derived

Glycerin

Humectant that pulls water from the air

Best for: Dry hair in moderate climates

Flaxseed (linseed) gel

Botanical

Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Extract

Natural film-former for curl definition

Best for: Wavy and curly hair (2A–3C)

Rosehip oil

Botanical

Rosa Canina Fruit Oil

Light, linoleic-rich oil for scalp and ends

Best for: Fine or low-porosity hair

Decyl glucoside

Plant-derived

Decyl Glucoside

Mild sulfate-free cleanser

Best for: Sensitive or dry scalps

Phenoxyethanol

Synthetic

Phenoxyethanol

Preservative that keeps water-based formulas safe

Best for: Any product that contains water

Essential oils (fragrance)

Botanical

e.g. Lavandula Angustifolia Oil, Citrus Limon Peel Oil

Natural scent, and the most common natural allergens

Best for: People who want a scent and have no fragrance sensitivity

Looking for a problem rather than an ingredient?

Start from what your hair is doing: frizz, dryness, curl definition or scalp comfort.

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Educational only, not medical advice. Persistent scalp irritation, sudden hair loss or unexplained breakage warrant a visit to a dermatologist. Written by Cosmixxology R&D.