Kérastase Elixir Ultime Hydrating Shampoo
Published By Vivienne Blake
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Our Verdict
Kérastase Elixir Ultime Hydrating Shampoo delivers a luxurious lather and noticeable softness, but its high price point demands careful consideration. Usability is excellent, with a small amount producing ample lather that rinses cleanly, leaving hair manageable and fragrant. However, the hydration benefits, while present, aren't dramatically different from less expensive alternatives. For those prioritizing a premium sensory experience and willing to pay a premium, it’s a worthwhile indulgence. For budget-conscious consumers seeking pure hydration, exploring drugstore options offering similar results is recommended. Ultimately, the Elixir Ultime shines in its luxurious feel, but its value proposition hinges on individual budget and expectations.
Audience Score
Pros
- Cleanses hair gently while adding moisture.
- Leaves hair feeling soft, smooth, and shiny.
- Has a pleasant, luxurious fragrance.
- Helps to detangle hair and reduce frizz.
- Suitable for all hair types, especially dry or damaged hair.
Cons
- Can be expensive compared to drugstore shampoos.
- May weigh down fine hair, making it appear greasy.
- Strong fragrance that some may find overpowering or irritating.
- Contains sulfates, which can strip natural oils from some hair types.
- The hydrating effect might not be substantial enough for extremely dry or damaged hair.
Comparison
The most similar products compared
 Kérastase Elixir Ultime Hydrating Shampoo | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audience Score | 90 Excellent! | 84 Great! | 87 Great! | 90 Excellent! |
| Price | $44 | $28 | $39 | $42 |
| Size | 8.5 oz / 250 ml | 8.5 oz / 250 ml | 10.1 oz / 300 ml | 8.4 oz/ 248 mL |
| Good For Thinning Hair | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Good For Damage | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Volumizing | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Vegan | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Without Sulfates | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Without Parabens | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Increases Shine | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
Who Should Buy
This product is ideal for individuals with dry, dull, and unruly hair seeking a luxurious and deeply hydrating cleanse. If your hair feels rough, lacks shine, and is prone to frizz, this shampoo can be transformative. Those who frequently heat style or color treat their hair, leading to dryness and damage, will also benefit from the nourishing formula. This shampoo is suitable for all hair types, but particularly beneficial for those with thicker, coarser hair that requires extra moisture. It's a great choice for anyone looking to elevate their hair care routine with a high-quality, salon-grade product that delivers visible results.
Who Should Not Buy
If you have very fine or oily hair, this shampoo might be too rich and could weigh your hair down, leaving it feeling greasy. Individuals who are sensitive to fragrance might find the scent overpowering. Those looking for a very budget-friendly option might want to consider alternatives, as this product is a premium offering. If you prefer a shampoo with a strong lather, this one has a more creamy, less foaming texture. Finally, if you simply need a basic cleansing shampoo and don't have dryness concerns, a less intensive formula may be more suitable.
Hydrating Benefits
The Kérastase Elixir Ultime Hydrating Shampoo is renowned for its exceptional hydrating properties. Its formula, enriched with a blend of precious oils including Marula, Camellia, and Argan, deeply nourishes and replenishes moisture to dry, parched strands. These oils work synergistically to smooth the hair cuticle, reducing frizz and enhancing shine. The shampoo also helps to detangle hair, making it easier to manage and style. With regular use, hair feels softer, silkier, and more manageable, regaining its natural vitality and bounce.
Scent
The Kérastase Elixir Ultime Hydrating Shampoo boasts a captivating and luxurious fragrance. The scent is a sophisticated blend of floral and woody notes, with a hint of vanilla. It's both invigorating and comforting, creating a spa-like experience in the shower. The fragrance lingers subtly in the hair throughout the day, leaving a delicate and alluring aroma. While some find the scent delightful, others may find it a bit strong. It's always recommended to test a small amount first if you are sensitive to fragrances.
Ingredients
The Kérastase Elixir Ultime Hydrating Shampoo is formulated with a carefully selected blend of high-quality ingredients. Key ingredients include Marula oil, rich in antioxidants and oleic acid, which hydrates and protects the hair. Camellia oil adds shine and smoothness, while Argan oil strengthens and repairs damage. The formula also contains a blend of other nourishing oils and protective agents to help maintain hair health. It's free from sulfates and parabens, making it gentle on the scalp and suitable for color-treated hair. The carefully chosen ingredients contribute to the shampoo's effectiveness in restoring moisture and shine.
Texture and Application
The Kérastase Elixir Ultime Hydrating Shampoo has a luxurious, creamy texture that feels rich and emollient. It spreads easily through the hair, creating a gentle lather that effectively cleanses without stripping away natural oils. A small amount is sufficient for a thorough wash, making the product long-lasting. The rich texture helps to detangle hair, making the washing process smoother and less prone to breakage. After rinsing, hair feels soft, smooth, and hydrated, ready for conditioning.
Results and Longevity
With regular use, the Kérastase Elixir Ultime Hydrating Shampoo delivers noticeable results. Hair becomes visibly softer, smoother, and more manageable. Dryness and frizz are reduced, and shine is enhanced. The hydrating effects last throughout the day, leaving hair feeling healthy and revitalized. The shampoo also helps to protect hair from environmental stressors, contributing to long-term hair health. While individual results may vary, many users report seeing significant improvements in the overall condition and appearance of their hair.
Price and Value
The Kérastase Elixir Ultime Hydrating Shampoo is a premium product and comes with a higher price tag than most drugstore shampoos. However, the quality of the ingredients, the luxurious experience, and the noticeable results justify the investment for many. The concentrated formula means a little goes a long way, making the product last longer than other shampoos. The long-term benefits for hair health and appearance, combined with the indulgent sensory experience, contribute to the overall value of this high-quality shampoo.