Horsetail Extract
HORSE-tail EX-trakt
What Is Horsetail Extract?
An extract from the horsetail plant, one of the richest natural sources of silica. Silica is a key mineral for hair strength, thickness, and overall structural integrity.
Source: Horsetail plant (Equisetum arvense)
Origin: Natural
Also known as: Equisetum Arvense Extract, Shavegrass
What Does Horsetail Extract Do to Your Hair?
Provides bioavailable silica that strengthens hair from within by supporting keratin production. Improves hair elasticity, thickness, and resistance to breakage. Also has mild astringent properties that help control oily scalps.
Best For
Thinning hair, fine hair, breaking hair, oily scalp, all hair types
Not Recommended For
None known at cosmetic concentrations
Concentration Matters
0.5-5% in hair products
Hair Type Compatibility
Method Compatibility
Safety & Regulation
Generally safe for topical cosmetic use. Oral supplements of horsetail should be used with caution due to thiaminase content (can deplete vitamin B1). Topical application does not carry this concern.
FDA Status: Generally Recognized As Safe
FDA considers safe for cosmetic use. Oral supplement safety varies.
EWG Score: 2/10
HairAide Verdict
One of nature's best sources of hair-strengthening silica. Worth seeking out in products targeting thinning or fragile hair. The silica support for keratin production is well-established science.
Products That Contain Horsetail Extract
Hair growth treatments, strengthening products, scalp tonics, volumizing products
Alternatives to Horsetail Extract
If you want to avoid Horsetail Extract, look for products with these ingredients instead:
Nettle Extract, Biotin, Bamboo Extract (silica)
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Horsetail Extract has a safety rating of 8/10 and is generally considered safe for use in hair products. Generally safe for topical cosmetic use. Oral supplements of horsetail should be used with caution due to thiaminase content (can deplete vitamin B1). Topical application does not carry this concern.
Horsetail Extract is CG-method approved and is generally considered safe for curly hair.
Yes, Horsetail Extract is approved for the Curly Girl method.
Some alternatives to Horsetail Extract include: Nettle Extract, Biotin, Bamboo Extract (silica)
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