As unpleasant as it looks and smells, seaweed packs some seriously amazing hair benefits. It works such wonders on the hair, that it's about time I explored this sea-based saviour!
Natural or Synthetic: Natural
Origin: Seaweed is a multicellular marine algae that lives near the seabed. It can belong to one of several groups of multicellular algae: green algae, brown algae or red algae.
Location: Seaweeds are found throughout the world's oceans. However, when it comes to commercial cultivation, Indonesia and the Philippines produce most of the world's seaweed.
Beauty Benefits: Seaweed extract makes for a great haircare ingredient as it is rich in antioxidants, including vitamins A, B, C and E. It also contains high levels of minerals (iron, manganese, iodine, copper, zinc and selenium) and fatty acids omega-3 and omega-6. These work magic on the hair, as vitamins and minerals are essential for hair growth. Omega-3 fatty acids feed the hair follicles to stimulate growth (as does iodine) and zinc and iron maintain hair production. Vitamins A and C also produce sebum (which acts as a natural hair conditioner), while vitamins B and E help maintain healthy hair. In addition to stimulating hair growth, seaweed can increase hair mineralisation that leads to thicker and more lustrous hair.
Warnings: Seaweed extract is considered safe to use topically
Found in: Bumble and bumble Seaweed Mild Marine Shampoo 250ml (£17.00 Liberty / $23.00 Sephora) and Conditioner 250ml (£18.50 Liberty / $24.00 Sephora). These two are the perfect hair-washing duo. The shampoo is gentle; cleansing the hair to leave it fresh and bouncy. However its greatest benefit is its ability to de-tangle the hair (like a dream) - it does this better than any shampoo I've tried. Like the shampoo, the conditioner is gentle but also very lightweight, which is perfect for my fine hair. After every wash, my hair feels nourished and beautifully soft. Bliss.