Elixir Ultime Hydrating Hair Oil Serum
Elixir Ultime Hydrating Hair Oil Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A luxurious, multi-purpose hair oil serum infused with wild camellia, argan, and marula oils that delivers instant shine, frizz control for up to 96 hours, and heat protection up to 450°F. This award-winning formula transforms dull, dry hair into silky, luminous strands without weighing them down.
92% More Shine
Instantly transforms dull, lifeless hair into brilliantly shiny, luminous strands that catch the light beautifully.
Texture & feel
SENSORY92% More Shine
Instantly transforms dull, lifeless hair into brilliantly shiny, luminous strands that catch the light beautifully.
450°F Heat Protection
Shields hair from damage caused by blow dryers, flat irons, and curling wands up to 450°F/230°C.
96-Hour Frizz Control
Tames flyaways and controls frizz for up to 4 days, even in humid conditions.
10x Stronger Hair
Nourishing oils strengthen hair fibers, reducing breakage and split ends for healthier-looking hair.
Wild Camellia Infused
Hand-harvested wild camellia from Brittany, France delivers powerful antioxidants and deep nourishment.
Sustainable Packaging
Refillable glass bottle made with 30% recycled glass and 95% recycled plastic for eco-conscious beauty.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree from retinoids, salicylic acid, and other pregnancy-restricted ingredients. Safe for use during pregnancy and nursing.
Silicone-based formula evaporates quickly and doesn't feed malassezia yeast. Safe for those prone to fungal acne on scalp.
Lightweight silicones evaporate from hair and skin without clogging pores. Won't cause breakouts on forehead or hairline.
Features a luxurious scent with mandarin, cedarwood, and sandalwood musk. Patch test if you have fragrance sensitivities.
Contains cyclopentasiloxane and dimethicone for instant smoothing. Use a clarifying shampoo weekly to prevent buildup.
Safe for color-treated, highlighted, and chemically processed hair. Helps protect and extend color vibrancy.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWild Camellia OilStar Ingredient
Hand-harvested from Brittany, France, this resilient flower contains a high concentration of antioxidants including oleic acid and vitamin E. Cold-pressed extraction preserves its nourishing properties for deep hair conditioning.
- Source: Camellia Oleifera seeds from wild plants in Brittany, France
- Benefits: Rich in omega-9 fatty acids for intense moisture and shine
- Research: Studies show camellia oil penetrates hair shaft to repair damage from within
Argan Oil HighProven
Known as "liquid gold of Morocco," this precious oil contains 80% unsaturated fatty acids (oleic and linoleic) plus antioxidant vitamin E and phenols. Deeply nourishes while restoring hair strength and elasticity.
- Source: Argania Spinosa kernels from Morocco
- Benefits: Restores hair elasticity, provides UV protection, neutralizes free radicals
- Research: Clinical studies confirm argan oil significantly improves hair softness and shine
Marula Oil MediumProven
This African superfood oil is exceptionally rich in antioxidants and omega fatty acids. Contains 73% oleic acid for intense hydration that maintains the hair's natural moisture balance.
- Source: Sclerocarya Birrea seeds from Africa
- Benefits: Intense hydration, softness, and lightweight manageability
- Research: High in vitamin E for environmental protection
Corn Germ Oil MediumSupporting
Extracted from corn germs, this oil delivers emollient and antioxidant properties for ultimate shine. Rich in vitamins A, B, D, and E for comprehensive hair nourishment.
- Source: Zea Mays germ from Central America
- Benefits: Delivers ultimate shine and antioxidant protection
Pracaxi Oil LowSupporting
Native to the Amazon rainforest, this rare oil brings shine, nourishment, and deep conditioning. Its unique fatty acid profile helps seal the hair cuticle for long-lasting smoothness.
- Source: Pentaclethra Macroloba seeds from the Amazon
- Benefits: Seals cuticle, adds shine, deep conditioning
Vitamin E (Tocopherol)Antioxidant
A powerful antioxidant that protects hair from environmental damage and oxidative stress. Helps preserve the formula's efficacy and extends the benefits of other oils.
- Benefits: Antioxidant protection, preserves formula integrity
- Research: Proven to protect hair from UV and pollution damage
19 ingredients
Isododecane, Dimethicone, C11-13 Isoalkane, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Dimethiconol, Amodimethicone, Camellia Oleifera Seed Oil, Zea Mays Germ Oil / Corn Germ Oil, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil, Pentaclethra Macroloba Seed Oil, Camelina Sativa Seed Oil, Linalool, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Limonene, Coumarin, Benzyl Alcohol, Camellia Japonica Flower Extract, Phyllanthus Emblica Fruit Extract, Tocopherol, Parfum / Fragrance
Where it fits in your hair routine
ROUTINEMulti-use: Apply before blow-drying for heat protection, after styling for shine, or as a pre-shampoo treatment for deep nourishment. Can be used on wet or dry hair.
How to use
HOW TO USEDispense 1-2 Pumps
Start with 1-2 pumps depending on hair length and thickness. You can always add more if needed.
Warm Between Palms
Rub the oil between your palms to warm it and distribute evenly before applying to hair.
Apply to Mid-Lengths & Ends
Focus on the mid-lengths and ends of your hair. Avoid applying directly to roots to prevent greasiness.
Style as Desired
Blow-dry, flat iron, or air dry. The oil provides heat protection up to 450°F and instant frizz control.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want instant shine and a salon-finish look
- Your hair is dry, damaged, or over-processed
- You frequently use heat styling tools
- Frizz is a constant battle, especially in humidity
- You have thick, coarse, or curly hair that needs taming
- You appreciate a luxurious fragrance experience
- You want multi-purpose styling flexibility
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very fine, thin hair that weighs down easily
- You prefer completely silicone-free formulas
- You are sensitive to fragrances
- You're on a strict budget (premium price point)
- You have an oily scalp and apply products near roots
- You prefer unscented hair products
Hair type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe heavyweight champion for thick hair. Smooths stubborn strands, tames frizz, and adds incredible shine without weighing down.
Intensely nourishing blend of oils repairs and restores moisture to parched, over-processed strands.
Defines curls, eliminates frizz, and adds beautiful shine to textured hair. Enhances natural curl pattern.
Safe for all color-treated hair. Helps protect color vibrancy while adding shine and softness.
Adds beautiful shine and smoothness. Use sparingly (1 pump) to avoid over-conditioning.
Use very sparingly on ends only. May weigh down if over-applied. Better suited for occasional use.
Results timeline
4+ WEEKSInstant Shine & Smoothness
Hair immediately appears shinier, smoother, and more polished. Frizz is visibly reduced and hair feels silkier to touch.
95% noticed instant shineLong-Lasting Frizz Control
Frizz control continues even in humid conditions. Hair maintains its styled look with minimal flyaways.
89% reported lasting smoothnessImproved Hair Health
With regular use, hair feels stronger and more resilient. Split ends appear sealed and hair breaks less during styling.
82% noticed healthier-looking hairTransformed Hair Quality
Cumulative nourishing effects result in visibly healthier, more manageable hair. Styling becomes easier and faster.
78% reported transformative resultsRatings by platform
4K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Instant, salon-quality shine that lasts
- Luxurious, addictive fragrance
- Lightweight formula doesn't weigh hair down
- Excellent heat protection up to 450°F
- Multi-purpose: pre-wash, styling, finishing
- Sustainable refillable packaging
- Tames even the most stubborn frizz
- Award-winning formula trusted by professionals
Criticized
- Premium price point ($62 for 75ml)
- May be too heavy for very fine hair
- Contains silicones (not suitable for all)
- Fragrance may be strong for sensitive noses
- Requires clarifying shampoo to prevent buildup
- Glass bottle is heavy for travel
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESThe original argan oil pioneer. Slightly heavier formula with similar shine-boosting properties. Stronger signature scent. Better for thick, curly hair types.
Focuses on bond repair rather than just shine. Lighter formula, less fragrance. Better for chemically damaged, color-treated hair needing structural repair.
From Kérastase's parent company (L'Oréal). Similar oil blend concept at a fraction of the price. Less luxurious texture and fragrance, but effective for basic shine.
Lightweight blend with argan and moringa oils. Good heat protection and shine. Less sophisticated fragrance and texture, but solid drugstore alternative.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEKérastase Elixir Ultime
Shu Uemura Essence Absolue
Storage & shelf life
18 MONTHS18 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep bottle upright to prevent leakage.
Refillable glass bottle with pump dispenser. Made with 30% recycled glass and 95% recycled plastic.
30ml travel size available (under 100ml TSA limit). Full-size glass bottle is heavier for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, Kérastase Elixir Ultime is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other ingredients typically restricted during pregnancy. The formula uses gentle silicones and nourishing plant oils that are safe for external use. However, as with any product, if you have specific concerns, consult your healthcare provider.
Yes, this product is generally considered fungal acne safe. The main ingredients are silicones (cyclopentasiloxane, dimethicone) which evaporate quickly and do not feed the malassezia yeast that causes fungal acne. The oils used are in small concentrations and primarily applied to hair lengths, not directly on the scalp. If you're prone to scalp fungal acne, simply avoid applying near the scalp.
Yes! Since this is a hair product applied to hair strands (not skin), it does not interact with skincare actives like retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs that you use on your face. Just be careful not to let the oil touch your facial skin if you're using potent actives, as the fragrance and oils may cause irritation on sensitized skin.
Elixir Ultime works best for thick, coarse, dry, damaged, curly, or frizzy hair types. It's excellent for color-treated and chemically processed hair. While it can be used on all hair types, those with very fine or thin hair should use sparingly (half a pump on ends only) to avoid weighing down the hair.
You'll see instant results! Immediately after application, hair appears shinier, smoother, and more polished. Frizz control lasts up to 96 hours. With regular use over 2-4 weeks, you'll notice cumulative benefits including stronger, healthier-looking hair with reduced breakage and split ends.
This multi-use oil is flexible: Apply to towel-dried hair before blow-drying for heat protection, use on dry hair as a finishing oil for shine, or apply as a pre-shampoo treatment for deep nourishment. Always focus on mid-lengths and ends, avoiding the roots to prevent greasiness.
No, this product is non-comedogenic with a rating of 1/5. The primary ingredients are volatile silicones that evaporate quickly without penetrating pores. Since you apply it to hair (not skin), and avoid the scalp, it's unlikely to cause breakouts. However, be mindful of hair touching your face if you're acne-prone.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 18 months. Once opened, use within 18 months for best results. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. A 75ml bottle typically lasts 3-6 months with regular use (1-2 pumps per application).
Verdict: Kérastase Elixir Ultime is the gold standard in luxury hair oils, delivering instant salon-quality shine, exceptional frizz control, and powerful heat protection. The blend of wild camellia, argan, and marula oils genuinely transforms dull, damaged hair into silky, luminous strands. The addictive fragrance and sustainable refillable packaging add to the premium experience. While the price point is high, a little goes a long way, and the results justify the investment for those seeking professional-quality results at home. Best suited for normal to thick hair types; fine-haired users should apply sparingly.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 |
Cyclopentasiloxane
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Dimethiconol
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antifoaming Agent, Moisturising
|
|
|
| 0 |
Zea Mays Germ Oil
Emollient, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil
Skin Conditioning, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil
Humectant, Hair Conditioning
|
|