Finding haircare that not only delivers gorgeous locks but also supports clear, healthy skin can be a challenge. For years, I struggled with hair products that contributed to breakouts and scalp irritation. Enter SEEN Haircare, a brand designed with dermatology in mind to offer haircare solutions that support both hair and skin health. SEEN products are carefully formulated without pore-clogging ingredients, making them a game-changer for anyone who deals with acne, sensitive skin, or other skin concerns. After exploring their range of haircare products and testing them for myself, I’m excited to share a detailed review of what SEEN offers.
SEEN’s Unique Dermatologist-Driven Approach
Haircare That Supports Clear Skin
What sets SEEN apart from most haircare brands is its dermatologist-driven approach. Founded by Dr. Iris Rubin, a Harvard-trained dermatologist, SEEN is the result of her firsthand experience with how haircare products can affect the skin. Many shampoos, conditioners, and styling products contain ingredients that clog pores or trigger breakouts, leading to issues like “pomade acne,” which appears along the hairline, neck, or back.
SEEN’s entire range is formulated without the usual culprits, such as heavy oils and pore-clogging silicones, making their products a perfect choice for anyone dealing with acne-prone or sensitive skin. I appreciated this aspect immediately since finding skin-friendly haircare can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.
Non-Comedogenic and Free from Harmful Chemicals
SEEN’s formulas are free from sulfates, silicones, phthalates, parabens, and dyes. These ingredients are commonly found in haircare but can irritate the skin or strip hair of its natural oils. SEEN focuses on delivering haircare that is gentle on both hair and skin without sacrificing performance.
I started using their Fragrance-Free Shampoo and Conditioner and immediately noticed that my scalp felt less irritated. The lightweight, non-greasy formula didn’t weigh down my hair, and I appreciated that the ingredients list was clean and free from pore-clogging agents.
SEEN’s Best-Selling Products
1. SEEN Shampoo
SEEN’s Shampoo is gentle, sulfate-free, and suitable for all hair types. The shampoo works into a rich lather, cleaning hair thoroughly without stripping it of natural oils. This balance is essential for maintaining healthy hair while ensuring that the scalp and surrounding skin remain clear of breakouts. For those with sensitive skin or who prefer unscented products, SEEN offers a Fragrance-Free version, which is the one I opted for.
After switching to SEEN’s shampoo, I noticed a marked improvement in the clarity of my skin along the hairline and back. The shampoo left my hair feeling clean without any residue, which is often a problem with thicker, oil-based formulas.
2. SEEN Conditioner
Paired with the shampoo, the SEEN Conditioner works wonders for detangling and nourishing hair without clogging pores. It’s lightweight yet deeply hydrating, leaving hair smooth and soft. What I loved most was that it didn’t leave any greasy buildup—something that often leads to breakouts around the neck and back.
SEEN’s conditioner is also safe for color-treated hair and works on a variety of hair textures, from fine to curly. I found that it kept my hair moisturized and manageable, and I didn’t have to deal with the unwanted side effects of heavier conditioners.
3. SEEN Styling Cream
For anyone who regularly styles their hair, SEEN’s Styling Cream offers the perfect solution. It’s a lightweight cream designed to reduce frizz, add shine, and define curls without clogging pores. Whether you have straight or curly hair, this cream is easy to use and doesn’t leave a sticky or greasy residue.
What really sets this styling cream apart is that it also protects hair from heat damage, which is great if you frequently blow-dry or use flat irons. My hair stayed smooth and sleek throughout the day, and I appreciated that my skin didn’t break out along my forehead or neck from using it.
SEEN’s Commitment to Ethical and Sustainable Practices
Cruelty-Free and Vegan
In addition to being dermatologist-formulated, SEEN is also committed to ethical practices. All of their products are cruelty-free and vegan, meaning they are not tested on animals and do not contain any animal-derived ingredients. This was a huge plus for me, as I try to choose brands that align with my values regarding sustainability and animal welfare.
Eco-Conscious Packaging
SEEN also takes care to reduce their environmental footprint through eco-conscious packaging. They use recyclable materials wherever possible, and their commitment to transparency and sustainability is apparent in every aspect of their brand.
Price Point: Is SEEN Worth the Investment?
One of the main considerations with SEEN Haircare is the premium pricing. While the products are not the cheapest on the market, they deliver quality that justifies the investment. The fact that SEEN products are not only good for your hair but also for your skin makes them worth considering, especially if you’ve struggled with haircare products that contribute to breakouts or irritation.
Additionally, SEEN frequently offers promotions and discounts, making it easier to try their products without paying full price. Signing up for their newsletter can provide access to coupon codes and early access to sales, which is an excellent way to make their haircare more affordable.
What Could Be Improved
Limited Availability and Fragrance Sensitivity
While SEEN excels in many areas, there are a couple of things that could be improved. The products are currently available primarily through their website, so if you’re someone who prefers to shop in stores, this might be a downside. However, they offer convenient shipping options and frequently offer discounts.
Additionally, although SEEN does offer fragrance-free versions of their shampoo and conditioner, some users might find even their lightly fragranced products a bit too strong. It’s always great to see a wider range of fragrance options or the ability to choose more subtle scents for those with sensitivity.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Dermatologist-Formulated: SEEN products are developed by dermatologists, ensuring they are skin-friendly and won’t clog pores or cause irritation.
- Non-Comedogenic and Non-Irritating: All SEEN products are free from oils, silicones, sulfates, and other ingredients that can trigger breakouts or sensitivities, which is ideal for those with acne-prone skin.
- Sulfate-Free and Safe for All Hair Types: Whether your hair is fine, curly, or color-treated, SEEN offers formulations that work for every hair type without harsh chemicals.
- Cruelty-Free and Vegan: SEEN is committed to ethical practices, with all products being cruelty-free and vegan-friendly, making them an excellent choice for conscious consumers.
- Fragrance-Free Options Available: SEEN offers both fragrance-free and lightly fragranced versions of their products, catering to those with sensitive skin or a preference for fragrance-free formulations.
Cons
- Premium Price Point: SEEN products are positioned as premium haircare, which might be a stretch for some budgets. However, the quality and benefits make it worth the investment for many.
- Limited Availability in Stores: While SEEN is available online, it’s not as widely stocked in physical retail stores, meaning you’ll often need to rely on online ordering.
- Fragrance Sensitivity: Though they offer fragrance-free options, some users may still find even the lightly fragranced versions too strong, depending on personal preferences.
Product Reviews
SEEN SHAMPOO, FRAGRANCE FREE
The SEEN Fragrance-Free Shampoo is designed for those with sensitive scalps or who prefer a minimalist hair care routine. Formulated without fragrances, sulfates, or silicones, this shampoo effectively cleanses the hair while being gentle on the scalp. It’s dermatologically tested and non-comedogenic, making it safe for acne-prone skin. Ideal for anyone looking for a clean, lightweight, and gentle shampoo.
Pros: Gentle, dermatologist-tested formula, perfect for sensitive scalps and acne-prone skin.
Cons: May not produce as much lather as traditional shampoos.
SEEN MAGIC SERUM, FRAGRANCE FREE
The SEEN Magic Serum, Fragrance-Free, is a lightweight serum that provides frizz control and shine without weighing hair down. Its non-comedogenic and dermatologist-tested formula makes it ideal for acne-prone skin and sensitive scalps. The serum helps improve the hair’s overall smoothness and manageability while maintaining a light, airy feel.
Pros: Provides excellent frizz control without weighing down the hair.
Cons: Results may vary depending on hair texture.
SEEN RESTORE SCALP SERUM, FRAGRANCE FREE
SEEN Restore Scalp Serum, Fragrance-Free, is a soothing treatment designed to restore scalp health by reducing irritation and dryness. The lightweight, non-greasy formula helps maintain a balanced scalp environment, which is crucial for healthy hair growth. It is fragrance-free and gentle, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin or who are prone to breakouts.
Pros: Soothes and balances the scalp without causing breakouts.
Cons: Requires consistent use for noticeable results.
SEEN LEAVE-IN CONDITIONER, FRAGRANCE FREE
The SEEN Fragrance-Free Leave-In Conditioner offers hydration, detangling, and frizz control while being gentle on sensitive scalps and skin. This lightweight formula is non-comedogenic, making it ideal for acne-prone individuals. It helps to strengthen and protect hair from damage, leaving it soft and manageable.
Pros: Lightweight, non-comedogenic formula that hydrates and detangles.
Cons: May not provide deep conditioning for very dry hair types.
Final Thoughts
Overall, SEEN has exceeded my expectations. As someone who has struggled to find haircare products that don’t exacerbate skin issues, SEEN’s dermatologist-formulated, non-comedogenic line has been a breath of fresh air. Their products cleanse, hydrate, and style hair beautifully, without the pore-clogging ingredients often found in other haircare lines.
Whether you’re someone who deals with acne, has sensitive skin, or simply wants haircare products that are kind to both your skin and the environment, SEEN is a brand I highly recommend trying.