Kristin Ess Signature Conditioner - Sulfate Free and Color Safe - 33.8 fl oz: Moisturizing, All Hair Types, Cream

Common questions

Is Kristin Ess Signature Conditioner - Sulfate Free and Color Safe - 33.8 fl oz: Moisturizing, All Hair Types, Cream healthy?

Kristin Ess Signature Conditioner - Sulfate Free and Color Safe - 33.8 fl oz: Moisturizing, All Hair Types, Cream scores 65/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This conditioner contains beneficial ingredients like panthenol, hydrolyzed keratin, and coco-glucoside, which support hair health and moisture retention.

How processed is Kristin Ess Signature Conditioner - Sulfate Free and Color Safe - 33.8 fl oz: Moisturizing, All Hair Types, Cream?

Kristin Ess Signature Conditioner - Sulfate Free and Color Safe - 33.8 fl oz: Moisturizing, All Hair Types, Cream is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Kristin Ess Signature Conditioner - Sulfate Free and Color Safe - 33.8 fl oz: Moisturizing, All Hair Types, Cream's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Behentrimonium Chloride, Panthenol, Salvia Hispanica Seed Oil count in its favor; Fragrance, Carrageenan, Cetrimonium Chloride are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Kristin Ess Signature Conditioner - Sulfate Free and Color Safe - 33.8 fl oz: Moisturizing, All Hair Types, Cream

Kristin Ess
65 Fair

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

$23.97 · 33.8 fl oz · $0.71 / fluid ounce
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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 11
Harmful ingredients 5
Owned by Maesa
Category Conditioner
Summary

This conditioner contains beneficial ingredients like panthenol, hydrolyzed keratin, and coco-glucoside, which support hair health and moisture retention. However, the presence of synthetic fragrance, drying alcohol, and preservatives like methylchloroisothiazolinone and methylisothiazolinone, which can cause irritation and dryness, negatively impact its overall safety profile. The product is processed, which further limits its score despite the inclusion of some nourishing components.

Key ingredients 38

Salvia Hispanica Seed Oil
Very Good

Salvia Hispanica Seed Oil, derived from chia seeds, is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. It helps to nourish and protect the hair from environmental damage. It is considered highly beneficial for maintaining healthy hair.

Risks

There are minimal risks, though it may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

It provides deep nourishment and protection, enhancing hair health and shine.

Coco-Glucoside
Very Good

Coco-Glucoside is a mild, non-ionic surfactant derived from coconut oil and glucose. It is used for its gentle cleansing and foaming properties. It is considered very beneficial for sensitive skin and hair.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with coco-glucoside.

Benefits

It provides gentle cleansing without stripping natural oils, making it suitable for sensitive hair and scalp.

See more about Coco-Glucoside →
Behentrimonium Chloride
Good

Behentrimonium Chloride is a conditioning agent that helps to detangle hair and reduce static. It is effective in improving hair manageability and softness. It is considered safe and beneficial for hair care.

Risks

In rare cases, it may cause mild irritation if it comes into contact with the eyes.

Benefits

It provides excellent conditioning properties, making hair smooth and easy to comb.

See more about Behentrimonium Chloride →
Panthenol
Good

Panthenol, also known as provitamin B5, is a moisturizing agent that helps to improve hair elasticity and moisture retention. It penetrates the hair shaft, providing long-lasting hydration. It is widely recognized for its beneficial effects on hair health.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with Panthenol, though overuse may lead to buildup.

Benefits

It enhances hair moisture, shine, and strength, reducing breakage.

See more about Panthenol →
Hypnea Musciformis Extract
Good

Hypnea Musciformis Extract is a type of red algae known for its moisturizing properties. It helps to hydrate and condition the hair, improving its texture and appearance. It is considered a beneficial ingredient in hair care formulations.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this extract.

Benefits

It provides hydration and conditioning, enhancing hair softness and manageability.

Sargassum Filipendula Extract
Good

Sargassum Filipendula Extract is a type of brown algae that offers moisturizing and antioxidant benefits. It helps to protect the hair from environmental stressors and improve its overall health. It is considered a beneficial ingredient in hair care products.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this extract.

Benefits

It provides antioxidant protection and hydration, enhancing hair health.

Litchi Chinensis Pericarp Extract
Good

Litchi Chinensis Pericarp Extract is derived from lychee fruit and is rich in antioxidants. It helps to protect the hair from oxidative stress and environmental damage. It is considered beneficial for maintaining healthy hair.

Risks

There are minimal risks, though it may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

It provides antioxidant protection, enhancing hair health and resilience.

Gelidiella Acerosa Extract
Good

Gelidiella Acerosa Extract is a type of red algae known for its moisturizing and conditioning properties. It helps to improve hair texture and manageability. It is considered a beneficial ingredient in hair care formulations.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this extract.

Benefits

It provides hydration and conditioning, enhancing hair softness and manageability.

Hydrolyzed Keratin
Good

Hydrolyzed Keratin is a protein that helps to strengthen and repair damaged hair. It penetrates the hair shaft, improving elasticity and reducing breakage. It is considered beneficial for enhancing hair strength and resilience.

Risks

There are minimal risks, though overuse may lead to protein buildup.

Benefits

It strengthens and repairs hair, reducing breakage and improving elasticity.

See more about Hydrolyzed Keratin →
Cetearamidoethyldiethonium Succinoyl Hydrolyzed Pea Protein
Good

This ingredient is a hydrolyzed protein derived from peas, known for its strengthening and conditioning properties. It helps to repair and protect the hair from damage. It is considered beneficial for enhancing hair strength and resilience.

Risks

There are minimal risks, though overuse may lead to protein buildup.

Benefits

It strengthens and conditions hair, reducing breakage and improving resilience.

Glycerin
Good

Glycerin is a humectant that helps to attract and retain moisture in the hair. It is widely used in hair care products for its hydrating properties. It is considered beneficial for maintaining hair moisture and preventing dryness.

Risks

There are minimal risks, though it may cause buildup with excessive use.

Benefits

It provides hydration and moisture retention, enhancing hair softness and preventing dryness.

See more about Glycerin →
Water
Neutral

Water is a common solvent used in cosmetic formulations. It helps to dissolve other ingredients and provides a base for the conditioner. It does not have any direct benefits or risks associated with its use in hair care products.

Risks

There are no known risks associated with water in hair care products.

Benefits

Water helps to hydrate the hair and scalp by providing moisture.

See more about Water →
Cetearyl Alcohol
Neutral

Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with Cetearyl Alcohol, though some individuals may experience mild irritation.

Benefits

It provides conditioning and moisturizing benefits, improving hair texture and manageability.

See more about Cetearyl Alcohol →
Algin
Neutral

Algin is a natural polysaccharide derived from brown algae, used as a thickening agent in cosmetics. It helps to stabilize formulations and improve texture. It does not have any direct benefits or risks associated with its use in hair care products.

Risks

There are no known risks associated with algin in hair care products.

Benefits

It helps to improve the texture and stability of the product.

See more about Algin →
Sorbitol
Neutral

Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol used as a humectant in cosmetic formulations. It helps to retain moisture in the hair and improve product texture. It does not have any direct benefits or risks associated with its use in hair care products.

Risks

There are no known risks associated with sorbitol in hair care products.

Benefits

It helps to retain moisture, improving hair hydration.

See more about Sorbitol →
Chitosan
Neutral

Chitosan is a natural polymer derived from chitin, used as a film-forming agent in cosmetics. It helps to improve hair texture and manageability. It does not have any direct benefits or risks associated with its use in hair care products.

Risks

There are no known risks associated with chitosan in hair care products.

Benefits

It helps to improve hair texture and manageability.

Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride
Neutral

Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride is a conditioning agent derived from guar gum. It helps to improve hair texture and reduce static. It does not have any direct benefits or risks associated with its use in hair care products.

Risks

There are no known risks associated with this ingredient in hair care products.

Benefits

It helps to improve hair texture and reduce static, enhancing manageability.

See more about Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride →
Dihydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride
Neutral

Dihydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride is a conditioning agent used to improve hair texture and manageability. It helps to reduce static and enhance the feel of the hair. It does not have any direct benefits or risks associated with its use in hair care products.

Risks

There are no known risks associated with this ingredient in hair care products.

Benefits

It helps to improve hair texture and reduce static, enhancing manageability.

Silicone Quaternium-3
Neutral

Silicone Quaternium-3 is a silicone-based conditioning agent that helps to smooth and protect the hair. It provides a silky feel and enhances shine. It does not have any direct benefits or risks associated with its use in hair care products.

Risks

There are minimal risks, though it may cause buildup with excessive use.

Benefits

It provides a silky feel and enhances hair shine.

PEG-14
Neutral

PEG-14 is a polyethylene glycol used as an emulsifier and thickener in cosmetic formulations. It helps to stabilize the product and improve texture. It does not have any direct benefits or risks associated with its use in hair care products.

Risks

There are no known risks associated with PEG-14 in hair care products.

Benefits

It helps to stabilize the product and improve texture.

PEG-33
Neutral

PEG-33 is a polyethylene glycol used as an emulsifier and thickener in cosmetic formulations. It helps to stabilize the product and improve texture. It does not have any direct benefits or risks associated with its use in hair care products.

Risks

There are no known risks associated with PEG-33 in hair care products.

Benefits

It helps to stabilize the product and improve texture.

PPG-1 Trideceth-6
Neutral

PPG-1 Trideceth-6 is a surfactant and emulsifier used in cosmetic formulations. It helps to improve the texture and stability of the product. It does not have any direct benefits or risks associated with its use in hair care products.

Risks

There are no known risks associated with PPG-1 Trideceth-6 in hair care products.

Benefits

It helps to improve the texture and stability of the product.

Polyquaternium-37
Neutral

Polyquaternium-37 is a conditioning polymer used to improve hair texture and manageability. It helps to reduce static and enhance the feel of the hair. It does not have any direct benefits or risks associated with its use in hair care products.

Risks

There are no known risks associated with Polyquaternium-37 in hair care products.

Benefits

It helps to improve hair texture and reduce static, enhancing manageability.

See more about Polyquaternium-37 →
PEG-8 Dimethicone
Neutral

PEG-8 Dimethicone is a water-soluble silicone used as a conditioning agent in hair care products. It helps to smooth and protect the hair, providing a silky feel. It does not have any direct benefits or risks associated with its use in hair care products.

Risks

There are minimal risks, though it may cause buildup with excessive use.

Benefits

It provides a silky feel and enhances hair shine.

Trideceth-12
Neutral

Trideceth-12 is a surfactant and emulsifier used in cosmetic formulations. It helps to improve the texture and stability of the product. It does not have any direct benefits or risks associated with its use in hair care products.

Risks

There are no known risks associated with Trideceth-12 in hair care products.

Benefits

It helps to improve the texture and stability of the product.

Cetyl Alcohol
Neutral

Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with Cetyl Alcohol, though some individuals may experience mild irritation.

Benefits

It provides conditioning and moisturizing benefits, improving hair texture and manageability.

See more about Cetyl Alcohol →
Xanthan Gum
Neutral

Xanthan Gum is a natural thickening agent used in cosmetic formulations. It helps to stabilize the product and improve texture. It does not have any direct benefits or risks associated with its use in hair care products.

Risks

There are no known risks associated with Xanthan Gum in hair care products.

Benefits

It helps to stabilize the product and improve texture.

See more about Xanthan Gum →
Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane
Neutral

Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane is a silicone-based conditioning agent used to smooth and protect the hair. It provides a silky feel and enhances shine. It does not have any direct benefits or risks associated with its use in hair care products.

Risks

There are minimal risks, though it may cause buildup with excessive use.

Benefits

It provides a silky feel and enhances hair shine.

Propylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate
Neutral

Propylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate is an emollient used to improve the texture and feel of cosmetic formulations. It helps to enhance the spreadability of the product. It does not have any direct benefits or risks associated with its use in hair care products.

Risks

There are no known risks associated with this ingredient in hair care products.

Benefits

It helps to improve the texture and spreadability of the product.

See more about Propylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate →
Isopropyl Alcohol
Neutral

Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.

Risks

It can cause dryness and irritation, especially with prolonged use.

Benefits

It helps to dissolve other ingredients and improve product texture.

See more about Isopropyl Alcohol →
Isopropyl Palmitate
Neutral

Isopropyl Palmitate is an emollient used to improve the texture and feel of cosmetic formulations. It helps to enhance the spreadability of the product. It does not have any direct benefits or risks associated with its use in hair care products.

Risks

There are no known risks associated with this ingredient in hair care products.

Benefits

It helps to improve the texture and spreadability of the product.

See more about Isopropyl Palmitate →
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Neutral

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is an emollient derived from coconut oil and glycerin. It helps to improve the texture and feel of cosmetic formulations. It does not have any direct benefits or risks associated with its use in hair care products.

Risks

There are no known risks associated with this ingredient in hair care products.

Benefits

It helps to improve the texture and spreadability of the product.

See more about Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride →
Citric Acid
Neutral

Citric Acid is used to adjust the pH of cosmetic formulations. It helps to maintain the stability and effectiveness of the product. It does not have any direct benefits or risks associated with its use in hair care products.

Risks

There are no known risks associated with citric acid in hair care products.

Benefits

It helps to maintain the stability and effectiveness of the product.

See more about Citric Acid →
Carrageenan
Bad

Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.

Risks

There are no known risks associated with carrageenan in hair care products.

Benefits

It helps to improve the texture and stability of the product.

See more about Carrageenan →
Cetrimonium Chloride
Bad

Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.

Risks

There are minimal risks, though it may cause mild irritation if it comes into contact with the eyes.

Benefits

It helps to detangle hair and reduce static, improving manageability.

See more about Cetrimonium Chloride →
Methylchloroisothiazolinone
Bad

Methylchloroisothiazolinone is a preservative used to prevent microbial growth in cosmetic formulations. It is known to cause allergic reactions and skin irritation in some individuals. It is generally considered a negative ingredient in hair care products.

Risks

It can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, especially in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

It helps to preserve the product and prevent microbial growth.

Fragrance
Very Bad

Fragrance is used to impart a pleasant scent to the product. However, synthetic fragrances can cause allergic reactions and irritation in sensitive individuals. They are often criticized for lacking transparency in ingredient disclosure.

Risks

Potential risks include skin irritation and allergic reactions, especially for sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Fragrance enhances the sensory experience of using the product.

See more about Fragrance →
Methylisothiazolinone
Very Bad

Methylisothiazolinone is a preservative used to prevent microbial growth in cosmetic formulations. It is known to cause allergic reactions and skin irritation in some individuals. It is generally considered a negative ingredient in hair care products.

Risks

It can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, especially in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

It helps to preserve the product and prevent microbial growth.

See more about Methylisothiazolinone →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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