Sebastian Potion 9

All hair and skin types.

Almost always the first ingredient listed in water-based products.

Dry or dehydrated hair, and many curl and moisture routines.

A very common, well-tolerated humectant used across countless products.

Those looking for softer, easier-to-detangle hair.

It is derived from guar gum and is commonly used to enhance conditioning in shampoos and conditioners. It can also reduce static and improve manageability.

Those seeking smoother, more manageable hair or added moisture without heaviness.

Jojoba oil is structurally similar to natural scalp oils, which makes it versatile in many haircare formulas. It is commonly used to enhance softness and shine.

Those wanting smoother, more manageable hair without a heavy or greasy feel.

Safflower seed oil is rich in linoleic acid, which can support softness and shine. It is commonly used in both hair and skin formulations due to its light texture.

Those who prefer products with a smooth, uniform texture or need easier application and distribution.

It is derived from cellulose and is widely used because it provides viscosity without weighing hair down. It also helps improve the feel and spreadability of many water-based products.

Anyone looking for longer-lasting hold, enhanced definition or improved style memory.

It is widely used in gels, mousses and sprays because it creates a flexible film on the hair shaft. Its performance can vary with humidity, so it is often blended with other polymers for stability.

People looking for smoother, more manageable hair or richer, creamier product textures.

Despite the name, fatty alcohols are moisturising and conditioning rather than drying. They also help stabilise and thicken many haircare formulas.

Those looking for added hydration without heaviness.

It is derived from glucose and is commonly used to enhance softness and manageability in haircare formulas.

Those looking for conditioning, slip, or richer textures in their haircare products.

Despite the name, fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol are non‑drying and are commonly used to add emollience and stability to formulations.

Hair wanting added body, smoothness or temporary strength.

A common protein in repair and volumising formulas.

People with weakened, chemically treated, or breakage-prone hair may appreciate its reinforcing effect.

Hydrolysed proteins are broken into smaller fragments so they can more easily interact with the hair’s surface. They are commonly used alongside conditioners and humectants for a balanced feel.

People who enjoy a scented product.

Fragrance preference is personal. Some people prefer fragrance-free formulas by choice.

Those who want products with reliable preservation, especially in water-rich formulas.

It is a widely used preservative that works by slowly releasing small amounts of formaldehyde to maintain product stability. This is common in many cosmetic preservatives and is regulated for safe use.

Most hair types, especially dry or dull hair.

A versatile, well-tolerated conditioning ingredient.

Anyone who wants products to stay fresh and stable over time.

Parabens like methylparaben are widely used because they are effective in very small amounts and have a long history of use in cosmetics. They help maintain product quality, especially in water-based formulas.

Damaged, frizz-prone or colour-treated hair wanting targeted smoothing.

Designed to deposit where hair needs it most. Some prefer silicone-free formulas by choice.

Those using creams or conditioners that rely on smooth, even textures.

It is widely used in haircare to ensure consistent texture and to help disperse ingredients evenly. It also offers mild surfactant properties that support product spreadability.

Anyone using products that benefit from a long, reliable shelf life.

Propylparaben is a widely used preservative that helps maintain product quality and freshness. It is used at very low levels and is well studied for its role in keeping formulations stable.

People looking for a light, non-greasy oil to support softness and shine.

It is known for absorbing quickly compared with heavier oils. Often used to enhance slip and manageability in conditioners and styling products.

Those looking to add softness, shine or protection to dry or coarse hair.

It is rich in fatty acids that help reduce moisture loss and improve manageability. Often used in both leave-in and rinse-off formulas for added nourishment.

Those looking to improve hair softness, support manageability or add light nourishment.

It is rich in fatty acids that can help support the feel and appearance of dry or coarse hair. Often included in blends to enhance overall conditioning benefits.

All products, especially in hard-water areas.

Used in tiny amounts to keep formulas performing reliably.

People looking for improved slip, reduced static and easier detangling, especially in dry or textured hair.

It is commonly used in conditioners because it bonds to the hair surface and provides long‑lasting conditioning benefits. It is often chosen for richer, creamy formulas.

Those seeking added smoothness, shine or scalp comfort.

Sesame seed oil is rich in fatty acids that support softness and manageability in many hair types. It is often used in treatments, masks and leave-ins for its lightweight conditioning feel.

Those who spend time outdoors or want to help maintain colour-treated hair.

It is widely used in suncare and some hair products to support protection against UV exposure. In haircare, it mainly helps reduce colour fade rather than providing full sunscreen performance.

Most hair types as part of a moisturising formula.

A widely used humectant and carrier ingredient.

Those looking to support softness, shine, or improve the feel of damaged or dry hair.

Silk proteins can temporarily coat the hair, helping it feel smoother and more manageable. They are commonly used alongside other conditioning and moisturising ingredients.

A fragrance component that must be listed separately on labels because a minority of people can be sensitive to it. Its presence is normal, required disclosure and is not a quality signal.

Those in hard-water areas who want shampoos and conditioners to rinse more cleanly.

Chelating agents can support formula consistency and help prevent minerals from depositing on the hair or interfering with product texture. They are widely used in many rinse-off and leave-in formulations.

Those seeking added softness, shine, or nourishment without a heavy feel.

Rice bran oil is rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, which can support a smooth, conditioned hair feel. It is commonly used in both leave‑in and rinse‑off formulas.

Most hair types as part of a balanced formula.

Usually present in small amounts to balance the formula.

All products that need protecting from spoilage.

A very common, well-studied preservative used at low levels.

Those who enjoy subtly scented haircare products.

It is one of the fragrance components that must be listed separately when present above certain levels. People with known fragrance sensitivities may choose to monitor for it.

People who use styling products that benefit from quick drying or a lightweight feel.

Its quick evaporation can help reduce residue and support a clean finish in styling formulas. Some may notice it can feel slightly drying in leave-in products depending on hair type.

All products that need a preservative system.

Often paired with other preservatives for broad protection.

Those who enjoy subtly sweet, complex fragrance profiles in their haircare products.

It is one of the fragrance components that must be listed individually when present above certain levels, as some people may prefer to monitor specific scent materials. Its presence does not indicate the overall strength of a product's fragrance.

A fragrance component that must be listed separately on labels because a minority of people can be sensitive to it. Its presence is normal, required disclosure and is not a quality signal.

Those who enjoy scented hair products or want a light floral note in their routine.

It is one of the fragrance allergens that must be listed on labels when present above certain thresholds. People who are monitoring fragrance components for sensitivity may find this information useful.

Those who enjoy lightly floral-scented haircare products.

It is one of the fragrance allergens that must be listed on labels when present above certain thresholds. Its presence does not indicate product quality, but can help those monitoring specific fragrance components.

Those who enjoy floral-scented hair products or are checking for specific fragrance components.

It is naturally found in essential oils such as rose and geranium and is commonly used to enhance scent profiles. It must be listed on labels when present above certain trace levels.

A fragrance component that must be listed separately on labels because a minority of people can be sensitive to it. Its presence is normal, required disclosure and is not a quality signal.

Those interested in soothing or antioxidant-rich botanical ingredients.

It is commonly used in haircare for its calming and conditioning properties. Its gentle nature makes it suitable for a wide range of formulations.

People who enjoy richer, spicy fragrance profiles may notice its contribution to a product’s scent.

It is one of the fragrance allergens that must be listed on product labels when present above certain levels. Its inclusion does not indicate a problem for most users, but those with known sensitivities may prefer to check for it.

Those who enjoy subtly spicy or warm fragrance tones in their haircare.

It is a naturally occurring fragrance component found in some essential oils and is used in very small amounts for scent balance. It is also one of the fragrance allergens that must be declared on labels when present above set thresholds.

A fragrance component that must be listed separately on labels because a minority of people can be sensitive to it. Its presence is normal, required disclosure and is not a quality signal.

People looking for gentle, plant-derived ingredients that can complement scalp‑care routines.

White willow bark naturally contains salicylates, which can contribute to mild exfoliating or soothing benefits depending on the formula. Its effect varies based on concentration and product type.

Those who want products with reliable preservation, including professionals who need consistent shelf stability.

Ethylparaben is part of the paraben family, which has been widely used for many years due to its effectiveness in small amounts. It is often combined with other preservatives to create a broad‑spectrum system.

Those who want products with a longer shelf life and consistent performance.

Parabens like butylparaben are widely used and well-studied preservatives that help keep products stable. They are typically present in very small amounts to maintain freshness and quality.

Anyone who uses water-based products that benefit from reliable preservation.

It is commonly used alongside other preservation systems to maintain product freshness and extend shelf life. It is generally well tolerated in rinse-off and leave-in products.

People using colour-depositing shampoos, conditioners or masks may find it relevant.

It is commonly used in purple and violet toning formulas to help reduce the appearance of brassy or yellow tones in lightened hair. It is present in very small amounts to achieve precise colour effects.

Anyone using products that benefit from extended shelf life and maintained performance.

It helps protect oils and other sensitive ingredients from breaking down when exposed to air and light. It is used in very small amounts to support product consistency.

Those looking for antioxidant support or colour maintenance may appreciate its inclusion.

It is commonly used to help stabilise cosmetic formulations and support the longevity of other ingredients. Its oil‑soluble nature allows it to work well in richer or emollient hair products.

Those wanting added nourishment or antioxidant support in their haircare routine.

Tocopherol is commonly included to help protect oils in a formula from oxidising and to offer light conditioning benefits. It is widely used in both skincare and haircare products.