In the search for smooth, shiny hair, one term pops up over and over again: keratin. While most people are referring to keratin treatments (popularly referred to as Brazilian blowouts), keratin itself is a fibrous protein that makes up about 90% of the hair strand. In lieu of the harsh chemicals found in salon keratin treatments, many seek out at-home and natural treatments that repair and boost the keratin in hair. Enter: nasturtium extract.
Meet the Expert
Found in gardens across the globe, nasturtiums are an annual plant with bright flowers that range in color from yellow to red, including many in a striking orange hue. The extract is typically taken from the stems and leaves of the plant and is rich in many nutrients, including sulfur. Nasturtium extract is reported to have benefits for the skin, scalp, and especially hair. Could the solution to brittle hair be growing in your garden? We turned to two hair experts for the full scoop.
Nasturtium Extract for Hair
Type of ingredient: Strengthener and potent antioxidant
Main benefits: Strengthens hair, protects the scalp and hair, and boosts scalp health
Who should use it: In general, anyone with thinning hair or those with dull and difficult-to-manage hair can benefit from nasturtium extract. It may also serve as a natural clarifier, making it beneficial for oily scalps.
How often can you use it: Nasturtium extract can be safely used one or two times per week. More frequent use may depend on application method and your personal tolerance for this ingredient.
Works well with: In combination with watercress, the extract has been shown to keep hair strong and protected.
Don’t use with: There are no known ingredients that interfere with nasturtium extract.
Nasturtium extract contains important plant compounds for hair strength and skin and scalp health, particularly minerals, vitamins A, C, and E, flavonoids, and sulfur, dermatologic surgeon Dendy Engelman, MD, explains. "These superhero compounds work to protect and strengthen the hair," she says. Trichologist Gretchen Friese agrees, adding that its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may be helpful with hair-thinning issues.
The sulfur content of nasturtium extract is particularly beneficial to keratin in hair and skin, as keratin is a fibrous protein rich in sulfur proteins, minerals, and oligo-elements. Engelman explains that hair strength depends on its structure, which is defined by bonds formed between sulfur atoms. Nasturtium extract is loaded with sulfur and, when combined with minerals like zinc and magnesium, the extract works to reinforce keratin and make sure that each strand is resilient and healthy, making hair stronger.
Our experts agree that nasturtium extract is safe for all hair types, especially for damaged, colored, or thin hair, as these types would likely see the biggest benefit. In general, anyone experiencing breakage can benefit from the strengthening factors found in the extract. Friese also mentions that this naturally clarifying extract may provide added benefit to those with oily scalps or dandruff.
Nasturtium extract is not recommended for pregnant or nursing women, or children. If you are experiencing hair loss, both experts recommend seeking help from a medical professional to determine the cause before starting a treatment. Friese further cautions those prone to allergic reactions or those who are allergic to certain plants/herbs that nasturtium extract may cause irritation.
Nasturtium extract can be applied to the hair in a few different methodologies, including adding it to shampoo and using it as a treatment. If you are looking to target both the hair and the scalp, it should be applied from roots to ends. Though nasturtium extract is a natural ingredient, it does have the potential to cause sensitivity or an allergic reaction, so Friese recommends always rinsing it out following use to avoid possible irritation. Frequency of use will depend on your application method, as shampoos that contain nasturtium extract can be used daily, while masks should be used only once or twice a week.