7 trending ingredients in scalp & hair care

With a wealth of information available at their fingertips, customers are becoming savvier about the wants and needs of their hair. From treatments prioritising scalp care, hair growth rituals, and anti-frizz solutions – there has been increasing focus on ingredients that holistically restore the hair and scalp.

We explore seven trending ingredients that are shaping the future based on social media trends, product innovation, and industry expert commentary.

Sea algae

Sea algae has long been heralded for its health benefits, but it’s recently been piquing the interest of hair care brands’ R&D teams due to its bioactive compounds that support hair growth and scalp care. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, sea algae is showing promise as an ingredient that is highly proficient at hydrating the scalp, strengthening weakened hair, and combating environmental damage.

Grant Northover, MD, Red Hot Salons, is the UK distributor of L’Alga, a haircare line that harnesses the healing powers of algae. Speaking on the special qualities of algae, Grant says: “Sea algae has already proven its efficacy in skincare, particularly in anti-ageing and hydration. As consumers become familiar with its benefits, the transition into mainstream haircare is a natural progression. We strongly believe that sea algae is not just a passing trend but a transformative ingredient that will become a mainstream staple in haircare. Its powerful benefits, combined with growing consumer demand for natural, sustainable, and high-performance beauty products, position sea algae as a key player in the future of haircare.”

Blue agave

When Yves Rocher describes blue agave as ‘the new star plant of hair care products’, it’s worth taking note. The plant, native to Mexico, is an active ingredient that owes its name to its distinctive blue-greenish leaves. Recognised for its ability to retain moisture in the hair, as well as its humectant properties that help to mitigate frizz and enhance softness, blue agave has recently been utilised in hair products by Yves Rocher. Additionally, textured haircare brand Cantu recently launched its WEIGHTLESS Range which is infused with blue agave extracts.

Tretinoin

A popular skincare ingredient known to treat acne and hyperpigmentation, tretinoin has emerged as an ingredient that also stimulates hair growth. A derivative of vitamin A, studies show that tretinoin when combined with minoxidil (medication for pattern hair loss), can enhance hair growth, which is exciting news for those experiencing hair loss. And yet. despite its increasing popularity, some experts advise that more research needs to be done to confirm true efficacy. But with Spate documenting over 300,000 searches per month on tretinoin, it’s clear to see that this ingredient is rapidly gaining traction for those looking to explore its potential or those who have personally experienced its benefits.

Black bean shampoo

Black bean is another ingredient renowned for its nutritional value, packed with high fibre, antioxidants, and protein. Recently we’ve seen a rise in its popularity as a haircare ingredient. With protein being a key dietary benefit of black beans, naturally, this translates into similar advantages for the hair, with research showing that it strengthens, reduces breakage, and improves the health of the scalp. Black beans has achieved viral status courtesy of platforms like TikTok, with Spate reporting an impressive 8.1 million per cent year-over-year growth for online searches. The brand, Nature Republic is the most popular producer of black bean shampoo achieving consistent 5-star reviews on Amazon.

Bioferments

Fermented ingredients in skincare products have been trending for some time, and now, a similar pattern is occurring in haircare. Bioferments, in particular, are stepping to the forefront as a rising ingredient featured in haircare products. Bioferments are produced when microorganisms such as yeast, and bacteria are used as a vehicle to break down large molecules, and thus, the process of fermentation occurs. Fermented ingredients are renowned for supercharging absorption and potency – providing powerful remedies for scalp health and hair loss.

Biomimetics

Technology continues to impact the beauty industry, and one of the most exciting trends in terms of ingredients is the use of biomimetic technology, which mimics natural components that exist in the skin and scalp. Nate Bigger, Founder and CEO of Monpure spoke to Cosmetics Design Europe, to share how incorporating biomimetic ingredients helps to improve the vitality of the hair. “We have a long history of harnessing biomimetic ingredients”, explains Nate. “This expertise has culminated in our latest innovation: the New Ceramide Complex Bond Repair Shampoo & Conditioner. For the haircare industry, biomimetic technology is a relatively recent innovation. But consumer awareness of biomimetic ingredients is rapidly growing, driven by demand for scientifically backed formulations. As these ingredients replicate the natural components of hair and scalp, they are among the most effective for delivering real, lasting results.”

DIY hair growth oils

Social media platforms like TikTok have fuelled a growing demand for natural homemade hair growth recipes. By now ingredients like rosemary oil and castor oil are firmly established as effective haircare ingredients. But we’re also seeing the emergence of newer ingredients such as the awapuhi wild ginger plant currently trending on TikTok as a hair growth and softening ingredient with roots in Hawaii. Other growth natural ingredients rising on TikTok include fenugreek, hibiscus, and moringa. These ingredients are gaining traction as a result of UGC depicting the concoctions being made as well as content outlining the effectiveness of said recipes.