CeraVe Gentle Hydrating Conditioner

A fragrance-free, restorative conditioner formulated with 3 essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide to detangle hair and support the scalp barrier.

Performance Rating: 4.5

This formula offers a sophisticated balance of conditioning and restoration. It utilizes Behentrimonium Chloride and Amodimethicone to provide excellent slip, detangling, and frizz control. Unlike basic conditioners, this product incorporates high-performance skincare ingredients including Ceramides (NP, AP, EOP), Cholesterol, and Phytosphingosine, which help reinforce the hair’s natural barrier. The addition of Niacinamide and Sodium Hyaluronate provides scalp soothing and deep hydration properties rarely seen in standard hair products.

Safety Rating: 4.6

The safety profile is exceptional, particularly for sensitive skin and scalps. It is notably Fragrance-Free, eliminating the most common source of allergic reactions in cosmetic products. The formula avoids harsh preservatives like Methylisothiazolinone and parabens, relying instead on Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride and Benzoic Acid. While Isopropyl Alcohol is present, it is likely in low concentrations as a solvent for the conditioning agents and evaporates quickly.

Final Rating: 4.6

This is a top-tier formulation that effectively treats both the hair fiber and the scalp. It combines the mechanical efficacy of Amodimethicone for smoothing damaged hair with the restorative power of Ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid. Its Fragrance-Free nature makes it a holy grail product for those with sensitivities, without sacrificing performance.

Verdict

This formulation is a standout example of skincare science applied to haircare, prioritizing barrier health and deep hydration over superficial cosmetic effects. The base utilizes Behentrimonium Chloride and Cetearyl Alcohol, a reliable and effective conditioning duo that provides excellent slip and detangling properties without leaving a heavy, greasy residue. Unlike standard conditioners that simply coat the hair, this product integrates a sophisticated lipid complex featuring Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, and Ceramide EOP, alongside Cholesterol and Phytosphingosine. These ingredients mimic the natural lipids found in skin and hair, making this formula exceptional for reinforcing the hair shaft and repairing damage.

Hydration is another major strength of this product. The inclusion of Sodium Hyaluronate—a form of Hyaluronic Acid—works with Glycerin to draw and retain moisture within the hair fiber. Additionally, Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is included to offer soothing benefits, which is particularly advantageous for individuals prone to scalp irritation or inflammation. The formula employs Amodimethicone, a smart silicone that targets damaged areas of the cuticle to smooth frizz and protect against breakage. While effective, it is not water-soluble, so it may require a clarifying wash occasionally to prevent build-up.

Significantly, the product is fragrance-free and utilizes gentle preservatives like Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride, avoiding common irritants found in many salon brands. This makes it a top-tier option for those with sensitive skin, eczema, or fragrance allergies. It is a scientifically sound, robust conditioner that delivers essential nutrients to dry, brittle hair while maintaining a gentle profile suitable for daily use on compromised scalps.

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Ingredient Evaluation

📁 Base & Solvents / 基质与溶剂

🧪 AQUA / WATER / EAU / 水

Purpose: Solvent

Concerns: None

Notes: The primary carrier for all other ingredients.

🧪 ISOPROPYL ALCOHOL / 异丙醇

Purpose: Solvent

Concerns: Can be drying in high concentrations.

Notes: Often present as a solvent for Behentrimonium Chloride; usually evaporates or is in low enough concentration to not damage hair.

📁 Conditioning Agents & Emollients / 调理剂与润肤剂

🧪 CETEARYL ALCOHOL / 鲸蜡硬脂醇

Purpose: Emollient / Emulsifier

Concerns: None

Notes: A fatty alcohol that softens hair and stabilizes the formula; not drying like simple alcohols.

🧪 BEHENTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE / 山嵛基三甲基氯化铵

Purpose: Antistatic / Detangler

Concerns: Potential irritant in high concentrations (rare in rinse-off).

Notes: A potent cationic surfactant that smooths the cuticle and reduces frizz.

🧪 AMODIMETHICONE / 氨端聚二甲基硅氧烷

Purpose: Conditioning Agent

Concerns: Silicone buildup (though less than dimethicone).

Notes: Selectively binds to damaged areas of the hair; provides slip and shine.

🧪 CETYL ESTERS / 鲸蜡醇酯

Purpose: Emollient

Concerns: None

Notes: Synthetic wax that provides a rich texture and lubrication.

🧪 CETRIMONIUM CHLORIDE / 鲸蜡基三甲基氯化铵

Purpose: Antistatic / Preservative Booster

Concerns: None in regulated concentrations.

Notes: Prevents static electricity and flyaways.

📁 Barrier Repair & Active Ingredients / 屏障修复与活性成分

🧪 CERAMIDE NP / 神经酰胺 NP

Purpose: Skin/Hair Conditioning

Concerns: None

Notes: Part of a complex to restore the protective barrier.

🧪 CERAMIDE AP / 神经酰胺 AP

Purpose: Skin/Hair Conditioning

Concerns: None

Notes: Helps retain moisture and repair damage.

🧪 CERAMIDE EOP / 神经酰胺 EOP

Purpose: Skin/Hair Conditioning

Concerns: None

Notes: Works synergistically with other ceramides.

🧪 NIACINAMIDE / 烟酰胺

Purpose: Active Ingredient

Concerns: None

Notes: Vitamin B3; helps with scalp health and soothing.

🧪 SODIUM HYALURONATE / 透明质酸钠

Purpose: Humectant

Concerns: None

Notes: A powerful moisturizer that draws water into the hair/scalp.

🧪 PHYTOSPHINGOSINE / 植物鞘氨醇

Purpose: Skin Conditioning

Concerns: None

Notes: A lipid typically found in the skin barrier; has antimicrobial properties.

🧪 CHOLESTEROL / 胆甾醇

Purpose: Emollient / Stabilizer

Concerns: None

Notes: Works with ceramides and fatty acids to restore barrier function.

🧪 GLYCERIN / 甘油

Purpose: Humectant

Concerns: None

Notes: Attracts moisture to the hair.

📁 Thickeners, Emulsifiers & Texture Enhancers / 增稠剂、乳化剂与质地改良剂

🧪 PEG-180 / PEG-180

Purpose: Humectant / Solvent

Concerns: PEG contamination (minimal risk in reputable brands).

Notes: High molecular weight polyethylene glycol.

🧪 CARBOMER / 卡波姆

Purpose: Thickener

Concerns: None

Notes: Creates a gel-like consistency.

🧪 TRIDECETH-6 / 十三烷醇聚醚-6

Purpose: Emulsifier

Concerns: None

Notes: Often helps disperse silicones like Amodimethicone.

🧪 SODIUM LAUROYL LACTYLATE / 月桂酰乳酰乳酸钠

Purpose: Emulsifier

Concerns: None

Notes: Specifically used to help deliver ceramides into the skin/hair structure.

🧪 HYDROXYETHYLCELLULOSE / 羟乙基纤维素

Purpose: Thickener

Concerns: None

Notes: Plant-derived thickening agent.

🧪 XANTHAN GUM / 黄原胶

Purpose: Thickener / Stabilizer

Concerns: None

Notes: Natural sugar-derived thickener.

🧪 POLYSORBATE 60 / 聚山梨醇酯-60

Purpose: Emulsifier

Concerns: None

Notes: Helps mix oil and water components.

📁 Preservatives, Buffers & Stabilizers / 防腐剂、缓冲剂与稳定剂

🧪 TRIETHYL CITRATE / 柠檬酸三乙酯

Purpose: Fragrance Stabilizer / Solvent

Concerns: None

Notes: Also inhibits esterase activity.

🧪 SODIUM PHOSPHATE / 磷酸钠

Purpose: pH Adjuster

Concerns: None

Notes: Maintains product acidity/alkalinity.

🧪 DISODIUM PHOSPHATE / 磷酸氢二钠

Purpose: pH Adjuster

Concerns: None

Notes: Buffering agent.

🧪 CHLORHEXIDINE DIHYDROCHLORIDE / 氯己定二盐酸盐

Purpose: Preservative / Antimicrobial

Concerns: None in cosmetic concentrations.

Notes: A broad-spectrum antimicrobial often used in medical-grade cleansers.

🧪 CAPRYLYL GLYCOL / 辛甘醇

Purpose: Humectant / Preservative Booster

Concerns: None

Notes: Conditions hair while helping preservation.

🧪 BENZOIC ACID / 苯甲酸

Purpose: Preservative

Concerns: None

Notes: Prevents fungal and bacterial growth.