I'm an ardent admirer of K-skincare, but what really surprised me on my trips to Korea was the wealth of beauty products dedicated to curating a healthy scalp: Hair ampoules, essences, tonics, protein oils, serums, you name it. Serendipitously, at the time of my last trip to see family, my mother was struggling with hair loss. I went into Olive Young, Korea’s premier beauty and wellness store, with a mission to bring back the best Korean hair care for her. Here’s what I learned.
The Best Korean Beauty Hair Care Products:
Unlike American hair care, which predominantly focuses on repairing the ends of strands, Korean hair care is primarily focused on scalp vitality, which can help with hair retention and stimulate new growth. Ampoules, essences, and tonics work as skincare for the scalp by helping create a more optimal environment for hair growth.
One common ingredient in K-beauty hair products is rosemary oil, which has been proven to be as effective as minoxidil in one study. Menthol and peppermint oil are often used to soothe the scalp and provide a luxurious, tingly experience. BHAs like salicylic acid, too: the acids remove excess sebum and reduce weight from the hair to create effortless volume. Here, my favorite and highly recommended scalp products to embrace the K-beauty way of building healthy hair from the root.
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Scalp Strengthening Spray
LABO-H Scalp Strengthening Spray for Hair Growth & Anti-Loss
Pros
Quick absorption- Refreshing
Cons
- May sting if you have irritation on your scalp
This scalp ampoule helps with hair loss and strengthens the scalp's moisture barrier. Biotin, five types of hyaluronic acid, peppermint oil, pesticide-free green tea, and a patented probiotic work together to soothe and moisturize the scalp, creating the ideal environment for hair growth. Intensely nourishing, it absorbs quickly without leaving the hair greasy. To use it, spray the tonic onto the scalp after showering, massage it in, and feel the tingling get to work.
Best for: Hair loss, dandruff, oily scalp, improved hair density.
Pros
- Protein-rich
Cons
- Can feel sticky if you use too much
A top-rated, award-winning bestseller through and through, this conditioning serum formula penetrates deeply into the hair follicle using wheat protein, silkworm cocoon extract, and milk protein to make hair soft and smooth. The various-sized protein particles allow for effective absorption, and you only need to use a little bit to get the frizz-fighting effects. This ampoule has your back against heat damage and summer humidity.
Best for: Damaged hair, dry hair, frizz
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Pros
- Helps hair dry faster
- Won't make hair oily
Cons
- Strong scent might be too much for some
A cult classic in Korea, the Mise-en-scène Perfect Serum has won a 2024 Olive Young Award and remains a consistent bestseller. The combination of argan, coconut, camellia seed, jojoba seed, olive, apricot, and birrea seed oils rejuvenates the hair without weighing it down. Not only does it provide heat protection up to 446 degrees, but it can also help hair dry faster, reduce breakage, and smooth tangles.
Best for: Dry hair, frizz, damaged hair
Pros
- Helps promote healthy hair growth
- Soothes itchy and dry scalps
Cons
- Menthol might be too tingly for sensitive scalps
- Strong scent
The hero ingredient in this product is rosemary, which has been proven effective in combating hair loss. Applied to wet hair post-shower or even dry hair between washes, this spray helps clean, moisturize, and reinvigorate the scalp with rosemary extract and seven different hair health vitamins. Try using it instead of dry shampoo if you're experiencing hair thinning or loss.
Best for: Hair loss, dandruff, improved hair density, oily scalp
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Minoxidil-Free Hair Growth Foam
Seapuri Scalpy Hair Growth Serum for Hair Loss & Thinning
Now 15% Off
Pros
- Great for all hair types
- Reduces shedding
- Lightweight and won't leave hair greasy
Cons
- Cooling sensation can be a bit tingly if you're sensitive
This hair serum is approved by Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety as an anti- hair loss functional product. It uses salicylic acid, dexpanthenol, L-menthol, and glacier water to stimulate hair follicles rather than Minoxidil. The triple roller equally disperses product along the scalp and hair lines while also providing a luxurious, cooling massage to the scalp.
Best for: Hair loss, dandruff, oily scalp, improved hair density
Pros
- Lightweight
- Absorbs quickly
- Great for all hair types and textures
Cons
- Strong scent
The ampoule injects an instant, intense shot of protein into the hair, filling out the cuticles, strengthening the hair, and adding touchable softness. The post-shampoo treatment is made up of 25 types of protein and amino acids, as well as five types of oil: olive oil, macadamia seed oil, argan kernel oil, sunflower seed oil, and camellia seed oil. It's a personal favorite of mine because it's never heavy on the hair and provides heat protection up to 230 degrees.
Best for: Dry hair, frizz, damaged hair
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Pros
- Precision applicator
- Lightweight and non-greasy
- Cooling without feeling too intense
Cons
This is among the easiest hair essences to apply, thanks to its long, precision nozzle with a rounded top. The herbal mixture of rosemary oil and ginseng extract helps alleviate scalp issues, including dandruff, oiliness, itchiness, and hair thinning. Best of all, it has a quick cooling effect on the scalp and leaves no residue.
Best for: Hair loss, dandruff, improved hair density, oily scalp
Pros
- Lightweight and deeply nourishing
- Great for all hair textures
Cons
- Perfume-y scent might be too strong for some
Unlike most hair oils, this one by UNOVE contains 28 proteins and five plant oils that deliver shine and strength to dull, damaged hair. The lightweight formula is best applied to dry or damp hair after the shower.
Best for: Damaged hair, dry hair, frizz
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Pros
- Built-in brush
- Contains exosomes
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Comb applicator may be difficult to use with denser hair
If you haven’t heard, exosomes are the latest buzzy ingredient in skincare technology. In this product, clinically studied exosomes enhance cellular communication to stimulate the hair growth cycle. Plus, the unique comb applicator allows for a more dynamic application, whether your hair is wet, dry, or damp.
Pros
- Boosts volume without crunch
- Exfoliates
Cons
- Some users don't like the scent
For those who struggle with volume, this hair ampoule is for you. Inside are 17 types of amino acids, which will help keep your hair strong and protected. Salicylic acid gently exfoliates the scalp and balances oil production, giving your roots a bounce.
Best for: Improved hair density, volume, hair loss, oily scalp
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Pros
- Great for all hair types and textures
- Packed with nourishing ingredients
Cons
- Some users don't love the scent
Scalp nutrition is absolutely packed into this tonic, thanks to a patented complex containing biotin, ceramides, and saw palmetto extract. The watery formula also features scalp-soothing panthenol and allantoin, along with deep-cleansing ingredients like apple cider vinegar, ginger, and mushroom extract. I love that it sprays with ease onto the scalp, even on protective styles. For those who struggle with hair density and require a hypoallergenic solution, look no further.
Best for: Hair loss, dandruff, improved hair density, oily scalp
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Shop more K-Beauty favorites:
- The 17 Best K-Beauty Products, According to a Korean Beauty Expert
- The 10 Best Korean Toners for Hydrated, Glowing Skin
- The 11 Best Korean Sunscreens for Ultimate UV Protection
- Medicube's Viral Collagen Jelly Cream Is My New Skincare Obsession
- Is The Viral Medicube Age-R Booster Pro Skincare Device Really Worth It?
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