Why Algae Oil for Hair Is A Stylist’s Best Kept Secret
If you’ve stepped foot in a health food store in, oh, the last decade, there’s a good chance you’ve come across algae in some form. From spirulina to chlorella, microalgae has become a wellness staple, so it was only a matter of time before it made the leap over to beauty. And although it’s used in skincare too, algae oil has become a star for hair and scalp care, too.
“Algae is a non-flowering sea plant that is full of vitamins and minerals,” explains celebrity hairstylist Clariss Rubenstein. And this plant has a whole host of benefits when it comes to hair health. Read on to find out why it’s so popular—plus, find out which algae hair products we’re using at the moment.
Meet the Expert
Clariss Rubenstein is a celebrity hairstylist based in Los Angeles.
What Are the Benefits of Algae Oil for Hair?
Algae is considered a superfood for the body thanks to its many health benefits, and the same goes for hair. Here are just a few of the reasons it’s so popular in products:
It’s packed with nutrients.
“It’s full of omega-3s and antioxidants,” says Rubenstein. In fact, microalgae has been studied as a potential alternative supplement for humans due to its nutrient mix, which contains calcium, iron, vitamin C, magnesium, and niacin, just to name a few. Plus, for those who can’t take fish oil supplements, algae oil is a good plant-based source of omega-3 fatty acids.
It’s strengthening.
Applying all those nutrients to your hair is like giving your hair a smoothie. “It can benefit hair by helping to strengthen and hydrate,” says Rubenstein.
It’s amazing for scalp inflammation.
Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp, and algae “has anti-inflammatory properties which are also great for the scalp,” says Rubenstein.
It can balance oil production.
On that same note, algae may help with excess oil production, which is a main cause of lead to dandruff.
It may help with hair growth.
The nourishing benefits of algae oil along with dandruff-preventing properties may help thinning hair appear thicker, although those with more advanced hair loss should talk to their physician about other treatments.
How to Use Algae Oil for Hair
Algae oil and extract is found in all kinds of products, from shampoo to deep treatments to styling products. “A number of product types can be used to deliver algae to the hair,” says Rubenstein, who adds that in order to get the most out of the ingredient, “One of the best ways is through a conditioner or mask.”
Topical algae oil has no side effects of note, and because it’s so naturally nourishing, it won’t strip away natural oils or hair color. “Algae is great for all hair types,” says Rubenstein. Still, as with any product or ingredient, she reminds that “it’s just about finding the right product for your hair type.”
The Best Algae Oil Hair Products to Try
1. Best Algae Shampoo:
DHC Scalp Care Shampoo
This cleanser has algae and licorice extracts to soothe stressed-out scalps and help prevent flakes, while collagen and olive oil add moisture so hair doesn’t feel overly stripped.
2. Best Algae Mask:
BRIOGEO Don’t Despair, Repair!™ Deep Conditioning Mask
In addition to algae, this super-nourishing mask contains B-vitamins, almond oil, and rosehip oil. Leave on for up to 10 minutes, then rinse to see unbelievable results. Even better, it’s safe for color-treated and chemically-treated hair.
3. Best Algae Leave-In:
MONAT Damage Repair Bond-Fortifying Hair Leave-In Crème
“I Love MONAT’s Damage Repair line,” says Rubenstein. “You can mix and match the products depending on what your hair needs and the entire line is made with red algae extract. You can see the effects immediately.”
4. Best Algae Hair Serum:
JOHN FRIEDA Frizz Ease Extra Strength 6 Effects+ Serum
Frizzy haired folks have long turned to FRIZZ EASE to help tame their strands, and turns out algae extract is part of the secret sauce. Use this turned-up formula to smooth, strengthen, and add major shine to even the frizziest of frizzy styles.
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