Kérastase Decoded: Here’s Which Haircare Range Is Right for You
Chloe is the Content Specialist at Adore Beauty. She spends most of her time crafting scroll-stopping content, but outside of work, you'll find her building on her Glasshouse collection, hanging out with her fur babies and probably cleaning. Her all-time favourite products include the Alpha-H Liquid Gold and Kérastase Elixir Ultime Original Hair Oil.
Low on time? Check out our key takeaways below
Key Takeaways
- Kérastase products cater to all hair types and concerns, making it easy to find the right fit for your needs.
- Kérastase Resistance is ideal for repairing damaged hair, especially for those who frequently use heat styling tools.
- Kérastase Genesis effectively reduces hair fall and strengthens hair from the roots, making it suitable for thinning hair.
- Kérastase Curl Manifesto is perfect for enhancing and hydrating natural curls, ensuring they remain defined and frizz-free.
- Kérastase Nutritive provides deep nourishment for dry hair, utilising a patented Irisome complex to restore moisture.
- Kérastase Discipline is formulated to combat frizz, improving hair elasticity and smoothness with Pro-Keratin technology.
- Kérastase Chroma Absolu is a must for colour-treated hair, helping to maintain vibrancy and moisture while reducing damage.
- Kérastase Blonde Absolu targets brassiness and damage in blonde, grey, or white hair, ensuring hydration and shine.
- Kérastase Chronologiste serves as an anti-ageing line, revitalising hair with hyaluronic acid and essential nutrients.
- Kérastase Symbiose addresses scalp issues like dandruff and dryness while providing nourishment for healthier hair.
- Kérastase Densifique is designed to restore density and promote growth for thinning hair, suitable for both men and women.
- Kérastase Specifique focuses on scalp health, aiding those with excessive oiliness or dandruff with targeted treatments.
A warm welcome to the magical realm of Kerastase, where luscious locks become reality.
As a Kerastase stan and proud owner of multiple ranges, I understand the hype around this cult haircare brand.
Beyond the gorgeous aroma that lingers in your hair after each wash, one of the many things I love about Kerastase is its vast array of products for all hair types and concerns, meaning there really is something for everyone.
Having spent time as a Product Specialist in our Customer Experience department, I have seen first-hand just how popular and sought-after Kerastase products are, while also empathising with those who feel a little confused by the sheer number of choices available.
Fear not, for I am here to be your hairy godmother.
With my passion for all things Kerastase and knowledge of its extensive product line, I will help you decode the secrets, read: what Kerastase products should I use, behind this beloved brand, through an extensive guide and some reviews.
What Is Kérastase?
Since 1964, Kérastase has been a true pioneer in the world of professional luxury hair care, revolutionising the industry with its French origins (which is why they have fancy French names like Bain and Thermique).
Departing from the traditional hygiene-only hair care routines of its time, Kérastase introduced us to a new world of luxurious haircare products.
Kérastase brings the prestige of French hair goodness right to your doorstep, allowing you to indulge in the *ultimate* haircare experience from the comfort of your own home.
Embracing and celebrating the beauty of all hair types and textures, Kérastase offers a simple yet effective approach to hair care.
Their collections are designed to be used in three essential steps: from scalp care through serums and exfoliators, rejuvenating washes with their renowned shampoos, conditioners and masques, and, finally, perfecting the look with their expert serums and styling products.
Kérastase Resistance: For Damaged Hair.
Fast facts:
- Kérastase Resistance works to repair both over-processed and heat-damaged hair, leading to less breakage and longer, more robust locks.
- If you’re a frequent heat styler or have been noticing a bit more breakage or you’re just looking to grow your hair longer, this one is for you.
- Resistance Extentioniste Length, in the green-ish, blue-ish bottles is for those who are looking to grow out long, healthy hair.
- Resistance Strengthening, in the more blue bottles, is for weakened hair, so think of this as the ‘stronger’ option.
- The most popular products are Kerastase Resistance Extentioniste Length Strengthening Shampoo 250ml and the Kerastase Resistance Extentioniste Length Strengthening Blow-Dry Primer 150ml.
Here's what one AB customer said about Kérastase Resistance:
"After trying a new hairdresser who over-processed the foils in my hair, I was left with so much breakage and loss of length.
This shampoo is so gentle on my hair, it doesn't leave it feeling dry, and you only need the smallest amount.
I now use regularly with the masque treatment in Extentioniste, and my hair has honestly gotten so much stronger and is growing again, yay.” - Hannah
Kérastase Genesis: For Hair Loss.
Fast facts:
- Kérastase Genesis range helps to reduce hair fall at the scalp as well as through the lengths of your hair.
- If you’re noticing a bit more hair on the floor or your brush rather than your head, Genesis would be the pick for you.
- The range is formulated with ingredients like Aminexil 1.5%, to help secure the hair in its root, caffeine to stimulate the scalp, and arginine, an antioxidant to nourish the hair and support circulation at the scalp.
- This range has two branches: Kerastase Genesis in the pink bottle for women and Genesis Homme for men.
- When the Kerastase Genesis Fortifying Shampoo for Thin Hair 250ml first launched it was truly a struggle to keep on our shelves.
Here's what one AB customer said about Kérastase Genesis:
“I am a long-time user of Kérastase shampoo but this is my first time using the Genesis range.
I was worried it would not be as hydrating as other ranges, but this has become my fave shampoo.
It smells AMAZING and leaves my hair feeling super soft. I love that there is no build-up left and my hair can go a few days without a wash despite being super fine.
I have already noticed a reduction in hair fall. I will continue to use this and recommend it to any other thin-haired girls.” - Serena.
Kérastase Curl Manifesto: For Curly Hair.
Fast facts:
- Kérastase Curl Manifesto is expertly formulated and curly girl approved, so you can be confident that your curls are getting the TLC they need.
- The range has everything you need to hydrate, enhance, and smooth all types of natural curls, leaving you with less frizz and defined, flawless curl shape memory.
- Formulated with nourishing ingredients like manuka honey and ceramides to strengthen and define 2a to 4c curl types.
- The Kerastase Curl Manifesto Creme de Jour Anti-Frizz Cream 150 ml and Kerastase Curl Manifesto Hydrating Nutrition Mask 200ml are top picks from the range.
- For an in-depth review, check out this Beauty IQ article.
Here's what one AB customer said about Kérastase Manifesto:
“I have 2c wavy hair with some curls. My hair is usually dry and frizzy after washing, and I have tried many sulphate-free shampoos to find the one.
I saw an article on Adore Beauty about this range and gave it a try. I am so happy I did!
I used this shampoo and the conditioner and they made my hair feel so soft, frizz-free and my waves/curls look more defined.
It didn't really have a noticeable smell, and the bottle seems like good quality. Am excited to try the rest of the range.” - Ash Alexandra.
Kérastase Nutritive: For Dry Hair.
Fast facts:
- Kérastase Nutritive is a personalised haircare line for deep, long-lasting nourishment.
- Nutritive offers various solutions for dry, damaged, and undernourished hair, providing tons of antioxidant protection to reinforce the hair fibres.
- Nutritive line contains Kérastase’s patented Irisome complex, which contains several beneficial ingredients for the health of the hair.
- The range is formulated with Gluco-Active 2, a blend of glucose, proteins, and lipids that replenishes hair from within, providing it with everything it needs to resist damage.
- Nutritive has so many popular picks but theKerastase Nutritive 8HR Magic Night Hair Serum 90ml has got to be the top pick.
- For an in-depth review, check out this Beauty IQ article.
Here's what our resident makeup artist said about Kérastase Nutritive:
"The first thing I LOVED about this range is its ability to add silky soft hydration whilst ensuring that the hair isn’t weighed down or heavy.
The second is its ability to offer a detangling effect, increasing manageability and decreasing opportunities for hair breakage/damage.
The range when used together works to treat AND prevent dryness from the scalp down to lengths and ends.
It would be perfect for anyone that has a dry, dehydrated scalp/hair OR anyone that is feeling like their hair needs some TLC." - Megan.
Kérastase Discipline: For Frizzy Hair.
Fast facts:
- Kérastase Discipline is formulated with the highest concentration of Pro-Keratin of any Kérastase line.
- The range is designed to strengthen the hair, improve elasticity and smooth the surface to reduce frizz.
- If the word ‘frizz’ hasn’t been mentioned enough, this one is for the frizzy-haired folk.
- This line is pretty straightforward with a shampoo, conditioner and heat-protecting milk.
- For the ultimate frizz tamer, the Kerastase Discipline Smoothing Heat Protecting Blow-Dry Primer 150ml is a must.
Here's what one AB customer said about Kérastase Discipline:
“I’m currently on a healthy hair journey and this product is a must for that!
I add it to my damp hair before blow drying and it leaves the most gorgeous smell.
I find that it’s pretty lightweight, so you can afford to saturate your hair to ensure it’s all protected.
I then go in with the matching protected spray for that extra protection and they work together really well. Definitely recommend!” - Georgia.
Kérastase Chroma Absolu: For Coloured Treated Hair.
Fast facts:
- Kérastase Chroma Absolu is specifically formulated for those with dry, dehydrated, sensitised, colour-damaged hair.
- If you’re like me and like to hop on all the hair trends, or if you’re constantly jumping from blonde to brunette, this one is definitely for you.
- The colour-saviour range is formulated with tartaric acid, amino acids and lactic acid to de-frizz, smooth, calm and nourish hair.
- Centella Asiatica, the star of the show, soothes inflammation, strengthens hair and promotes growth.
- The Kerastase Chroma Absolu Riche Respect Shampoo for Thick Coloured Hair 250ml is so lush and absolutely delicious but if you haven’t tried a hair gloss, Kerastase Chroma Absolu Heat Protectant For Coloured Hair 150ml is so, SO good.
- I actually wrote the article for this range so if you want to find out more, have a read here.
Alternatively, here's my mini-review:
“If you think of bleaching or colouring your hair as like having a big night out, the Kérastase Chroma Absolu range is a top-tier hangover cure.
To all the serial colourers out there, or anyone with damaged hair chasing that Hollywood hair-flicking feeling, I highly, highly recommend you add this Kérastase Chroma range to cart.”
Kérastase Blonde Absolu: For Blonde Hair.
Fast facts:
- Kérastase Blond Absolu targets both damage and brassiness at once.
- It helps to maintain cool tones through deep ultra-violet neutralisers while hydrating the hair and fortifying hair fibre.
- This collection isn’t just for blondes, it also works gloriously on white or grey hairs to add shine and hydration.
- The Kerastase Blond Absolu Cicanuit Night Hair Serum 90ml and the Kérastase Blond Absolu Cicaplasme 150ml are the top picks.
Here's what one AB customer said about Kérastase Blond Absolu:
“This changed my hair from the first use.
My hair became noticeably softer and more flexible. I received several comments on the condition of my hair (I was asked if I had coloured, treated or cut my hair - NOPE IT WAS ALL THIS PRODUCT).
I recommend this to all blondes.” - Serena.
Kérastase Chronologiste: Anti-Aging for Hair.
Fast facts:
- Kérastase Chronologiste collection is their most luxurious line yet.
- I like to think of it as the ‘anti-ageing’ line as it helps to keep hair looking and feeling young, providing it with all the love and nutrients.
- Formulated with hyaluronic acid, abyssine, and vitamin E to provide intense moisture and nourishment deep into the hair.
- For a full review, read this article here.
Here's what one AB customer said about Kérastase Chronologiste:
“I bought this to try as my natural ageing hair is losing some lustre over time.
The gentle fragrance and soft lather leave my hair feeling cleansed but nourished.
I recommend it as a great quality product for those of us beyond 40+.” - Seedyem.
Kérastase Symbiose: For Flaky Scalps.
Fast facts:
- Kérastase Symbiose is the alliance between powerful nourishment and banishing dandruff.
- The range works by cleansing away dead skin cells, flaking and product build-up on the scalp, all while providing deep nourishment and hydration for dry, sensitive and dandruff-prone scalps.
- Formulated with ingredients like salicylic acid, menthol and glycerin to dissolve flaking and keep itchy scalps at bay.
- For a full review and more details, have a read of this article here.
Here's what our Head of Brands & Campaign Marketing said about Kérastase Symbiose:
“This range has quickly risen in the ranks as one of my favourite ranges from Kérastase, although it’s a tough decision between Nutritive and Genesis.
While it’s at a higher-end price point, I definitely have confidence in recommending it because of the different types of steps - exfoliate, shampoo, serum - it’s very similar to your skincare routine.
If you’re struggling with dandruff and tired of the supermarket options, it’s worth picking up these three as your next try - I really don’t think you’ll regret it.” - Gerard.
Kérastase Densifique: To Densify Hair.
Fast facts:
- Kérastase Densifique has been scientifically formulated to restore thinning hair, improve density and promote new growth for men and women.
- If you have thin, lifeless hair, this one is for you.
- Made to boost follicular activity, add body and nourish to breathe new life into tired hair.
- Densifique is best for thin hair that wants more body with a sprinkle of hair growth, whereas Kerastase Genesis is for those experiencing hair loss and hair thinning.
Here's what one AB customer said about Kérastase Densifique:
“I have super fine hair and a receding hairline due to endometriosis and my autoimmune conditions.
Over the years I have tried everything to give my hair the boost it needs. This is the only product that has worked for me.
I also love the packaging and smell, a little lux in your haircare routine!
Whilst this product may seem expensive, it isn't really as you need far less product.
Will continue to repurchase this product." - Kat.
Kérastase Specifique: For Scalp and Hair Thinning.
Fast facts:
- Kérastase Specifique is expertly formulated to help with dandruff, oiliness and hair loss.
- Is sensitive scalp-friendly and made for those with scalp concerns.
- Because these are Kérastase treatments and products for the scalp, not all of them have ‘matching’ conditioners, I would recommend figuring out your hair concerns (the strands) and using the conditioner from the collection that best fits.
- Kerastase Specifique Potentialiste Balacing Scalp Serum 90mL is an absolute stand-out product, it balances the scalp’s microbiome and pH level.
- For those with very, very oily hair, look into the Kerastase Specifique Balancing Shampoo for Oily Scalp, Dry Ends 250ml.
My mini-review of Kérastase Specifique:
"I’ve basically convinced everyone in my life to get on to the Kérastase Specifique Potentialiste Serum.
Not only does it smell like a sexy man but it's also the reason why I only have to wash my hair once a week, twice if I leave the house.
It’s lightweight, nourishing and a godsend for my oily scalp."
Final Summary:
If you’ve made it this far, I commend you, you have now been equipped with a wealth of Kérastase knowledge!
Or, if you scrolled all the way down for a quick cheat sheet, here it is...
- For Dry & Damaged hair - Kérastase Resistance.
- For bleached, blonde or grey hair - Blonde Absolou.
- For hair fall - Kérastase Genesis.
- For best Kérastase for fine hair and body - Kerastase Densifique.
- For best Kérastase for shine - Kérastase Chronologiste.
- Best Kérastase for curly hair - Kérastase Curl Manifesto.
- Got frizz for days? - Kérastase Discipline.
- For healthy scalps - Kérastase Symbiose is your go-to.
- For ultra oily or ultra dry hair - Kérastase Specifique or Kerastase Nutritive if your hair is aching for nourishment.
- For styling, adding shine, nourishing and taming frizz - We can't forget the iconic - Kerastase Elixir Ultime hair oil 75ml
