Cetyl alcohol is a non-drying, gentle fatty alcohol used as an emollient (moisturising ingredient), thickener, emulsifier and carrying agent for other ingredients. It can be derived naturally, as in coconut fatty alcohol, or made synthetically.

Cetearyl alcohol is a non-drying fatty alcohol that is a mixture of cetyl and stearyl alcohols. It is used as an emulsifier, thickener and stabilizer. Cetearyl alcohol can be derived naturally (from natural oils and fats, as in coconut fatty alcohol), or made synthetically.

Benzyl alcohol is a naturally derived alcohol that occurs naturally in some fruits (such as peaches, apricots, and cranberries) as well as teas. Due to its antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, Benzyl alcohol works well as a preservative . It's among the least sensitising & popular preservatives used in cosmetics and haircare products.

Shea butter is byproduct of shea nuts that are harvested from the Vitellaria paradoxa tree in West Africa. Shea Butter is an occulisve and is made up of fatty acids that create a barrier around the hair to lock in moisture.

Shea butter is a core ingredient in Cantu products and we are proud to be a member of Global Shea Alliance.

Avocado is a fruit rich in vitamins A, B-5, and E, fatty acids, biotin, antioxidants and minerals.

Guava extract contains vitamin B, which can work as a thickening agent, as well as vitamin C, which helps promote stronger hair, by nourishing the root of the hair.

Ginger root comes from the Zingiber officinale plant and is known for its soothing properties that may support a healhty scalp environment

Turmeric is a spice that comes from the root of Curcuma longa. Tumeric is known for its soothing properties that may support a healthy scalp environment.

Salicylic acid was originally discovered and extracted from willow bark and is a Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA). Salicylic acid exfoliates dead skin and is known to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits.

Agave syrup consists of fructose and some glucose, along with water, as well as small amounts of other carbohydrates, fat, polyols and vitamins and minerals. Agave nectar used topically helps to moisturise skin and soothe inflammation. It may also help support hair strength and moisture retention.

Vitamin B plays a key role in helping to keep hair healthy.
The cantu Vitamin B complex contains all 8 vitamin B's:
B1 (thiamin)
B2 (riboflavin)
B3 (niacin)
B5 (pantothenic acid)
B6 (pyridoxine)
B7 (biotin)
B9 (folate [folic acid])
B12 (cobalamin)
Vitamin B has moisturising benefits for the hair and may support hair growth.

Caffeine is a natural stimulant most commonly found in tea, coffee, and cacao plants. Caffeine may help stimulate hair follicles and contribute to healthier-looking hair.

Hemp is a plant in the botanical class of Cannabis sativa cultivars. Hemp seeds are the fruit of the hemp plant and contain fats and protein.

Almond oil is made from pressing the seeds if the almond tree (almond nuts) and extracting the oil. Almond oil contains high levels of omega-9, protein, vitamin E and fatty acids.

Saw palmetto is a supplement made from the fruit of the Serenoa repens tree.

Coconut oil (or coconut fat) is derived from the kernels and milk of the coconut palm fruit.
With its short-chain fatty acid triglycerides, coconut oil is considered to have a low molecular weight and a straight-chained structure, allowing it to penetrate the hair shaft effectively.

Linear silicones are synthetic, non-volatile ingredients that form a durable film on the hair shaft. They help smooth the cuticle, seal in moisture, and protect against heat damage and mechanical stress.

Jojoba oil is a liquid wax extracted from the seeds of the jojoba plant, with high molecular lightweight conditioning agents, mimicking sebum. Functions as a sealing oil, locking in moisture and being easily absorbed.

Flaxseed oil comes from the seed of the flax plant. Flaxseed is a source of vitamins B & E and contains 50 to 60% omega-3 fatty acids in the form of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).

Green tea comes from unoxidized leaves of the Camellia sinensis bush. It contains many antioxidants and beneficial polyphenols.

Pea protein is the protein found in peas (Pisum sativum) and is rich in essential amino acids.

PARFUM (FRAGRANCE) can be a mixture of natural essential oils and synthetic fragrance. It's substances that emit and diffuse a pleasant and fragrant odor.

All Cantu fragrances are formulated to meet global safety standards and are free from phthalates and other restricted additives.

Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil is an emollient, non-fragrant plant oil, derived from the seeds of grapes.

Mango seed butter is a plant-based emollient, due to its rich source of fatty acids.

Rosemary essential oil is steam-distilled from the flowering tops, leaves and stalks of the rosemary plant. 

Derived from the castor bean, Ricinus communis_ (castor) seed oil is a vegetable oil, known for its rich source of fatty acids

Biotin is also know as vitamin B7

Peppermint oil is the essential oil taken from the flowering parts and leaves of the peppermint plant.

MELALEUCA ALTERNIFOLIA (TEA TREE) LEAF OIL is derived from the leaves of the tea tree Melaleuca alternifolia.

A popular wide range preservative that prevents harmful microbial growth in cosmetic products.
There is no risk of irriation at levels <1%. Cantu products are formulated below 1%.

Lonicera Japonica Flower Extract ( Honey suckle) is extracted from the flowers of the Japanese honeysuckle plant. It contains a rich concentration of antioxidants in the form of flavonoids, saponins and phenolic acids.

A widely available plant, Nettle leafr (Urtica dioica) is a member of the mint family and produces an extract with many minerals and vitamins.

Commonly known as Olive oil, Olea europaea fruit oil is extracted from olives and is the traditional crop of the Medierranean region.

Argan oil (also known as the 'liquid gold of Morocco'), is a naturally occurring plant oil, derived from the kernels of the argan tree (Argania spinosa L.).

Argan oil contains a significant amount of unsaturated fatty acids, like oleic, linoleic, and palmitic acid. The smaller molecular size allows it to be more easily absorbed into the hair shaft, providing moisture and nourishment from within.

Tocopherol (Vitamin E), occurs in plant materials and is a pale yellow liquid. It is found in vegetable oils and fats, such as sunflower, walnut, and olive oils and has natural antioxdiant effects.

Aloe barbadensis is derived from the leaves of the aloe vera plant and is rich in vitamin A, B12, C and E. It also contains fatty acids and amino acids.

Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. These molecules come together to form proteins. Our body uses amino acids for many important functions, such as making hormones, building muscle, and repairing tissue.

Eucalyptus oil is oil distilled from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree (Eucalyptus globulus).

Rice bran oil is derived from the bran of the rice cereal. Bran comes from husk, or the brown outer layer of the rice kernel.

Known for its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, Salvia Officinalis Leaf Extract is a medicinal extract widely used for its healing skin benefits.

Safflower oil comes from the seeds of the safflower plant and is rich in unsaturated fatty acids such as oleic acid.

Mineral oil is a transparent, colorless oil obtained from refining crude oil

Sulfates are cleansing agents that break down oil and grease. Sodium Lauryl/ Laureth Suphates (SLS) are common sulphates used in haircare, particularly shampoos.

Most Cantu products are free from SLS and SLES Sulfates.

Petrolatum is a protectant and moisturising agent that has a waxy, rich texture and a jelly-like, semi-solid consistency. It is found within many moisturising products.and available in its concentrated form, known as petroleum jelly.

A water-soluble vitamin that helps the body convert carbohydrates into energy. Essential for cellular function.

Important for energy production and cellular metabolism. Involved in tissue repair and growth.

Helps improve blood circulation and aids in the conversion of food to energy.

Involved in synthesizing coenzyme A and metabolizing fats. Often used in hair products as “panthenol.”

A coenzyme in many metabolic processes, including protein metabolism. Supports red blood cell production.

A key vitamin for keratin infrastructure. Plays a major role in hair, skin, and nail health.

Aids in the formation of red blood cells and DNA synthesis. Critical for cellular regeneration.

Vital for red blood cell formation and DNA synthesis. Only found in animal-based foods or supplements.

Batana oil is made from Elaeis oleifera kernel oilis, extracted from the American palm tree nut. Batana oil is rich in essential fatty acids (Omega-6 and Omega-9) and antioxidants like vitamin E.

Jamaican Black Castor Oil (often abbreviated JBCO) is a traditional oil made from the seeds of the Ricinus communis (castor) plant. Unlike regular castor oil, which is cold-pressed, JBCO is produced using a roasted and boiled process:

The castor beans are roasted, giving the oil its signature dark colour and smoky, nutty aroma.

The ashes from roasting are included during extraction, making the oil alkaline, which affects its texture and absorption.

This method results in an oil that is thicker and richer.

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is a humectant, meaning it attracts and retains moisture. It is a naturally occurring molecule found in the skin, joints, and connective tissues.

Amino acids in haircare are essential for building strong hair, as they are the building blocks of keratin, the protein that makes up hair. They work by reinforcing the hair shaft, improving moisture retention, and helping to repair damage.