Hair treatment is a broad category — and that’s intentional.

Unlike shampoo or conditioner, treatments target specific concerns. Some focus on scalp health. Others strengthen weakened strands. Some aim to smooth, repair, or protect. And a few are designed for very targeted growth areas, like lashes or brows.

Because of this range, choosing the wrong product can feel especially disappointing. A heavy oil might overwhelm fine hair. A protein treatment might leave strands stiff. A scalp formula might feel stimulating but show little visible change. And treatments often require patience — meaning the opportunity cost is real.

In 2026, the Hair Treatment category saw 23 products entered as part of the 11th annual Clean Beauty Awards — spanning conditioners, scalp treatments, bond-support formulas, oils, and targeted serums.

How This Category Was Assessed

Because this category includes multiple treatment types, products were evaluated based on how effectively they delivered on their stated purpose — not against a single uniform benchmark.

Over a three-month testing period, clean beauty advocates and industry experts assessed products comparatively within their function using structured ranking. The formulas recognized below represent the highest-performing clean hair treatments of 2026 — those that consistently met or exceeded expectations within their intended use.

Judges considered:

• Visible improvement aligned with product claims
• Texture and manageability changes over time
• Scalp comfort (where applicable)
• Absorption and residue level
• Consistency of results with repeated use

Rather than rewarding temporary smoothing or surface-level effects, the evaluation focused on sustained performance and reliability.

The winner and finalists below stood out when tested head-to-head within this diverse category.

The Top Performing Hair Treatments of 2026

#1. SUDTANA - BERGAMOT MINT & TURMERIC SCALP REVIVAL TREATMENT - $44
 

A revitalising scalp treatment rooted in ancient Thai herbal remedies with two years of scientific trials for a meticulously formulated hair and scalp rejuvenating experience. 

SUDTANA’s antioxidant-rich Bergamot Mint & Turmeric Scalp Revival Treatment is handcrafted in small batches with organic and sustainably farmed ingredients that are scientifically proven to promote scalp and hair health from the inside-out. The formula gently detoxifies, cleanses, protects and nurtures a healthy scalp environment to promote strong, thick and healthy hair while moisturising and repairing hair from deep within.

Bergamot and Turmeric’s potent antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties reduce hair loss and greying while soothing conditions that hinder hair growth. Peppermint detoxifies, moisturises and invigorates follicles and roots. This combination lends this lightweight oil a refreshing herbal scent.

Expert Notes:

"This scalp revival treatment is fantastic. It has only organic, natural ingredients that are sustainably sourced from Thailand. This treatment feels refreshing on the scalp and helps reduce scalp buildup. I noticed my scalp feeling calmer and less itchy. My hair looks and feels healthier since using this treatment a few times per week." - Svetta Gorbatyy, @prettypolishreviews

"I was happy to try the Sudtana Bergamot Mint & Turmeric Scalp Revival Treatment as a Cert Clean judge for the 2026 Clean Beauty Awards. Sudtana combines ancient herbal Thai remedies with modern science. Manusanun “Mew” Leelahongjudha went to MIT on a Fulbright Scholarship to scientifically advance the herbal remedies used by her grandfather, a Thai village doctor. She founded Sudtana in 2019 with her brothers.  Suut-tha-na [ Thai ] translates to “Dreams come true" or “Aspire to Be”.  The 100% natural Sudtana hair treatment is chemical-free, paraben-free, sulphate-free, silicone-free, and phthalate-free. Key ingredients bergamot, turmeric, peppermint, and sesame seed work together to detoxify scalp buildup, strengthen roots, and hydrate the scalp to promote overall hair health. All Sudtana ingredients are locally sourced from small, organic farms in Thailand.I used the nourishing scalp treatment twice weekly for 3 weeks. I decided to use it as a pre-wash treatment for 15 minutes instead of the option to leave it on my hair overnight. The peppermint scent is relaxing but I was happy to finish the treatment in just a few minutes. My hair felt clean, looked glossy, and was less frizzy after each treatment. I plan to continue using the Sudtana Bergamot Mint & Turmeric Scalp Revival Treatment long after my judging journey for the hair growth benefits.  Sudtana states that Bergamot is believed to “protect against premature greying”. However, I like my natural greys and wouldn’t mind more." - Kathleen Payne,@kmp4444

"This smells incredible, works amazing in my hair, and just leaves my hair with a lightweight shine.  It's a must-have, no-fuss treatment.  Great ingredients, nice viscosity, great smell, easy to use, nice, simple packaging. I'm a fan!" - Angella Sprauve, @thecleanbeautyatelier

#2. Source Vital Apothecary - Hair & Scalp Elixir -  $24.99

Hair & Scalp Elixir is a 100% pure oil blend crafted to support the appearance of healthy hair by caring for the scalp. Featuring nutrient-rich oils like Argan, Avocado, Jojoba, and Marula, along with essential oils of Tea Tree, Lavender, Peppermint, and Rosemary, it nourishes roots, balances oil production, and helps reduce visible dryness and flaking. With regular use, the scalp feels refreshed and hair appears shinier, fuller, and more manageable. Lightweight and versatile, it can be massaged directly into the scalp, smoothed over dry ends, or added to shampoo and conditioner. Antioxidants, vitamins, and omega fatty acids protect against breakage while supporting strong-looking follicles. This revitalizing formula is ideal for those seeking healthier-looking hair without synthetic ingredients, heavy residue, or buildup.

Expert Notes:

"Just, EXCELLENCE. Love the thoughtful carrier oils and essential oils chosen. Pure hair food." - Jesica Williams, @feelmoregooder

"One of my new favorite hair treatments. I liked that the packaging of the product was very detailed and showed what the product is & how to use it, plus ingredients. The scent of the product is light has smells like lavender. I like the dispenser and like you can measure out how much to use. I like that this product had my hair feeling great. Overall, I liked this product." - Sydney Cohen, @labels_or_love3

"I love the packaging and the ingredients. This oil works really well and my scalp feels amazing when I use it. It smells like tea tree oil and feels so cooling on the scalp. I love leaving it on my scalp for a few hours before taking a shower and not only my scalp feels so clean and calm but my hair feels softer too." - Svetta Gorbatyy, @prettypolishreviews

#3. Pevonia Natural Skincare - Hair Energize Extra-Strength Conditioner - $46

Support healthy hair growth and scalp wellness with this revitalizing, botanical-rich conditioner. Infused with marine-derived ingredients, it nourishes and balances while improving hair texture, strength, and manageability. Moisturizing Panthenol, Rosemary, and Celery help soothe the scalp and reduce hair stress, while Saw Palmetto, Pumpkin, and Nettle support healthy hair growth and minimize shedding. Strengthening Keratin—clinically shown to reduce breakage by up to 50% and boost elasticity by up to 30%—works alongside Biotin, a key ingredient in thickening formulas, to help reduce hair loss. This advanced blend promotes optimal scalp microbiome health and delivers silky, fuller-looking strands with every use. Ideal for daily care and long-term hair vitality.

Expert Notes:

"This was a great conditioner! It’s very hydrating and made my hair soft!" - Lindsay Fuller, @cleanlivingwithlindsay

"The Pevonia Hair Energize Extra Strength Conditioner gives me consistently good hair. After rinsing, my hair feels noticeably silkier, thicker, and smoother, with real slip and gloss. Not artificial shine, but actual healthy-looking shine. My lengths feel nourished without being weighed down, which is rare for an “extra strength” formula." - Evangeline sarney, @evangelinesarney

" I really like the Pevonia Hair Energize Extra-Strength Conditioner — it’s a rich, nourishing conditioner that leaves my hair feeling softer and easier to manage after each wash. The blend of biotin, keratin, and rosemary helps strengthen strands and improve overall texture, while ingredients like pumpkin and nettle add moisture without weighing hair down.  

The formula also feels soothing to the scalp and encourages a healthier feel overall, and it’s great that it’s free from sulfates, silicones, and parabens. It detangles instantly and adds shine, making daily styling simpler. While results for hair thinning are gradual, consistent use gives hair a fuller, more resilient look and softer touch. This conditioner is a solid choice if you want clean-inspired hair care that combines hydration with strength and manageability." - Nataliia Naklitska, @naklitskaya_natasha

#4. Dr Orga - Vegan Nourishing Argan & Sunflower Treatment Pack - $29

Not a mask. A transformation.
This creamy, rinse-off pack goes beyond surface shine—reviving brittle, overworked hair with plant-powered nutrition. Argan oil delivers deep, weightless repair, while sunflower seed oil seals in softness and glow. Aloe and macadamia nourish scalp to ends, restoring elasticity and strength in one luxurious step.
The formula is pH-balanced, free of 20 harsh chemicals, 26 allergens, and synthetic fragrance—vegan, CertClean, and dermatologist-tested.
Hair feels instantly smoother. Weekly use builds bounce, silkiness, and resilience that styling damage can’t erase.
For hair that doesn't just look healthy—but is.

Expert Notes:

"This treatment pack has a lightweight and creamy consistency and it has a nice herbal scent. It acts like a hair conditioner and I love that it’s 93% natural. It definitely hydrates my hair and allows me to brush my wavy hair easily." - Svetta Gorbatyy, @prettypolishreviews

"As a Cert Clean judge for the 2026 Clean Beauty Awards, I had the pleasure of trying the Dr. Orga Argan & Sunflower Hair Mask. With 93.95% naturally derived ingredients and a pH of 5.0-5.5, this silicone-free, vegan hair mask is designed for sensitive scalps. While the Korean clean beauty hair mask delivered shiny, voluminous results, I found myself using more product than expected for adequate moisturizing and detangling. As a result, the product went quickly. Although Dr. Orga recommends using it daily in place of conditioner, I had better results using it as a deep treatment for 10 minutes post shampoo and conditioner. The Dr. Orga  Argan & Sunflower Hair Mask effectively reduced frizz and dryness, but be prepared for generous usage." - Kathleen Payne,@kmp4444

"This deep conditioner was easy to use and makes my hair feel more hydrated and soft.  It runs through my curly hair very nicely and stays in until I wash it (i.e. it's not runny at al).  My only are of improvement is taht I feel that it could be a bit richer / more luxurious, but overall, it's a great product." - Angella Sprauve, @thecleanbeautyatelier

#5. Hairstory - Bond Serum - $44

This leave-in treatment boasts a gel-cream texture that provides intense repair but with a lightweight formula. The result is healthier hair that isn’t weighed down and can be styled just minutes after application. Bond Serum also protects against heat up to 450°F.

How to use: Apply a small amount to clean, damp hair and focus on the most damaged areas, before working through roots to tips. Add more product as needed and wait a few minutes for the product to penetrate before adding additional styling products/finishing your routine. 

The ProTarget Technology™

Bond Serum works via two pathways to DOUBLE repair in ONE STEP. This double repair system zeroes in on compromised areas, restoring the cuticle’s smoothness, softness & shine while strengthening hair from within. 

1.     Unique encapsulation technology, repairing nutrients and nourishing oils adheres to the hair cuticle, delivering actives where they are most needed to effectively moisturize the hair, while replenishing smoothness, softness, shine and manageability. This addresses the classic signs of hair damage, generally caused by external aggressions like heat and friction resulting in split ends, brittle hair and excessive tangling.
 
2.    A 100% naturally derived blend of plants, organic compounds, and amino acid repairs damaged bonds within the hair shaft. By reacting with damaged keratin, the complex allows chemically damaged bonds to be reconnected, fortifying the hair from within. This new complex works deep within the hair to repair specific damage caused by chemical treatments which result in dry, brittle and fragile hair.

Expert Notes:

"A cleaner hair styling/care product that the hair industry desperately needs." -  Jesica Williams, @feelmoregooder

"A new favorite leave-in hair treatment. I used this after a beach day where my hair needed a repair from the sun. This hair treatment left my hair feeling restored & nourished. It has a hair salon shampoo like smell, it is quite strong smelling. Overall, I liked this product." Sydney Cohen, @labels_or_love3

"This damage repairing leave in treatment works really well for my damaged, long, wavy hair. It has a lightweight consistency and definitely helps repair my damaged hair. My hair looks and feels healthier whenever I use this leave in treatment and I definitely recommend it." Svetta Gorbatyy, @prettypolishreviews

#6. Aralia cosmétiques - Leave-in - $28.90

Aralia's leave-in conditioner is a haircare product, applied to hair that is not rinsed out. It is used for detangling, moisturizing, smoothing frizz and adding softness and manageability to all  hair types. It can be used after washing your hair and towel-drying it until it is damp and on days between washes to refresh your hair.
Aralia's ingredients : plant-based like Baobab Seed Oil, Rosemary Leaf Oil.

Expert Notes:

"This leave in hair mask has a nice thick, creamy consistency and definitely smells like rosemary. It feels hydrating and leaves my hair feeling soft. It does weigh down my fine hair and I have to be careful about how much I use. Overall, this is a nice leave in mask and great for dry, damaged hair." - Svetta Gorbatyy, @prettypolishreviews

"As a judge for the 2026 Clean Beauty Awards by Cert Clean, I had the pleasure of trying the Aralia Leave-in Hair Mask. This natural hair product draws inspiration from traditional Haitian recipes and is produced in Canada by founder Farah d’Aralia. Key ingredients are rosemary and Africa’s Baobab fruit. Rosemary invigorates the scalp and promotes hair growth, while Baobab’s essential fatty acids deeply hydrate and nourish hair. Other natural ingredients include Jojoba, sunflower seed wax, Aloe leaf extract, citrus bergamot, and honeysuckle flower extract. I was pleased with how my wavy hair texture was enhanced from the first use, leaving my dry hair soft and supple. With continued use, my curl pattern became stronger. It’s easy to apply to both wet and dry hair, and a little goes a long way. The scent is also wonderfully aromatic." - Kathleen Payne, @kmp4444

#7 Lashgro - Eyelash Growth Serum - $61

Lashgro's lash serum formula blends the power of triple peptides with nourishing natural botanicals to awaken your lashes from the root. Each drop works to strengthen, lengthen, and protect, giving you the kind of lashes you once thought only extensions could achieve. With consistent use, you’ll watch your lashes transform week by week becoming fuller, healthier, and more confident than ever.

Expert Notes:

"I’ve been using the LASHgro Eyelash Growth Serum from LASHgro Australia, and I like how it feels gentle and nourishing on my lash line. The formula is vegan, natural, hormone-free and safe for sensitive eyes, so it fits well into a daily routine without irritation. 

What stands out is the blend of peptides, vitamins, and antioxidant-rich extracts — these ingredients help support lash strength and can encourage a fuller, healthier appearance with regular use. Many users report seeing noticeable changes in lash fullness and length within 4–8 weeks, which matches what I’ve experienced with consistent application.

The serum absorbs easily and doesn’t feel heavy or greasy, so it works well under makeup or alone at night. It’s a good option for anyone who wants to enhance the look of their natural lashes without harsh chemicals or prostaglandin-based ingredients, and prefer a more clean, sensitive-friendly lash care solution." - Nataliia Naklitska, @naklitskaya_natasha

"My lashes are so much longer and fuller after just 7 weeks of use. 3 months after I started using the serum I’m happy to see those changes in my lashes. My lower lashes have never been so long. I’ve stopped using mascara on the lower lashes because they’d be too long for my liking. I used the product during peak Ragwood pollen season so my eyelids got irritated. I stopped treatment a handful of times so I could recover, However, I’d recommend this product to anyone wanting a clean serum to thicken and dramatically grow lashes." - Kathleen Payne, @kmp4444

"I love that this lash serum is clean and actually feels very soothing on my lashes.  I've tried other lash serums that become irritating after some time.  But this lash growth serum coats my lashes nicely and I do see a difference after using for 2 weeks." - Angella Sprauve, @thecleanbeautyatelier

#8 Kanuni Brown - Avocado & Quinoa Protein Repair Conditioner Smoothie - $18.99

This powerhouse repair conditioner by Kanuni Brown® is a nurse-formulated, ultra-light, unscented conditioner designed to restore, protect, hydrate, and soften all hair types without weighing strands down. Its whipped, “smoothie” texture provides deep moisture, curl definition, and effective detangling for both thick and fine hair. Crafted by an RN for wellness, this pH-balanced formula harnesses the power of Avocado Oil and Hydrolyzed Quinoa Protein to combat dryness, reduce breakage, and protect against heat damage and color fade. This versatile hero conditioner can be used five different ways: as a leave-in protector, pre-poo detangler, deep conditioner mask, protective style prep, or a co-wash moisturizer, fitting seamlessly into any clean beauty routine. Vegan and cruelty-free, it is free from sulfates, parabens, formaldehyde, and other harmful ingredients.|

Expert Notes:

"The Kanuni Avocado and Quinoa Protein Repair Conditioner Smoothie is so very hydrating without weighing my hair down. I have medium wavy hair. I also love the beautiful shine it gives, my hair looks and feels healthy. I appreciate the formula is  fragrance free and uses only clean ingredients!" - Shauna Gholson, @hippie79

"One of the best haircare products I have tried!" - Lindsay Fuller, @labels_or_love3

"From the first use, it’s obvious this is a rich, mask-like treatment designed to deeply hydrate, soften, and define hair that actually needs it. The texture is thick and nourishing, and the slip is excellent. Hair feels immediately softer and easier to detangle, whether you rinse it out or use it as a leave-in. What stands out most is how well it supports curl definition and longevity. Curls look bouncy, soft, and hydrated, not coated or over-styled. There’s shine, but it’s the kind that comes from moisture, not silicone overload. Even days later, hair still feels supple and holds its shape. Ingredient-wise, this formula makes sense for textured hair. Avocado is a well-known powerhouse for curls: deeply nourishing, smoothing, and supportive of elasticity. The formula is also protein-free, which is a huge plus for anyone whose hair is protein-sensitive or prone to stiffness from overuse." - Evangeline sarney, @evangelinesarney

#9 VARA - Ayurvedic Hair Oil - $67

VARA’s Ayurvedic Hair Oil is a potent treatment crafted with a blend of Amla, Bhringraj, Brahmi, and Hibiscus to help nourish the scalp, strengthen strands, and support natural hair growth. Inspired by ancient rituals, this multi-benefit oil helps restore shine, softness, and resilience without weighing hair down. Each bottle is made in small batches with sustainably sourced herbs and oils to ensure purity and potency. Designed as a pre-wash ritual, VARA’s hair oil invites people to slow down and reconnect with the timeless wisdom of nature.

Expert Notes:

"This product is one of the best hair oils I have tried. I like that the packaging has clear instructions on how to do hair oiling rituals. the scent is pleasant & light from the plant oils. I like that this hair treatment nourishes my hair. Overall, I’m impressed with this product." - Sydney Cohen, @labels_or_love3

"I love that I can use this oil as a pre-wash treatment before a shower by applying and massaging it into the scalp or use it to add shine, hydration and control frizz by applying it to the ends of my hair—I love multi-purpose product! I've tried it both ways, and loved both results! After shower/hair wash day I noticed my hair much more shinier after the first wash, and if I'm just applying it to the ends of my hair (dry) I noticed it effectively helped with my frizz and gave it an extra shine! I love that it has key ingredients like: hibiscus, coconut + sesame oils—it also had other key ingredients that I've never heard of as well: amla, bhringraj, and brahmi! Which supports hair growth, strengthening and nourishment. Also the scent! It's soft and natural. I've never smelt anything like this before, but I love it!" - Kamalei Kanoa, @k.reviews_428

#10 Kanuni Brown - D’Remedy™ Oil - $18

D’Remedy™ Oil by Kanuni Brown® is a nurse-formulated, ultra-lightweight, multi-use hair, beard, and scalp oil that nourishes, hydrates, restores, and provides essential protection for your hair and scalp. This unscented clean beauty blend features Karanja Oil for soothing, Jojoba Oil for deep hydration, and Vitamin E for antioxidant defense. As a powerful protectant, D’Remedy™ Oil shields both hair and scalp from everyday stressors and heat styling, while treating dryness, breakage, itchiness, and flyaways. Its non-greasy, fast drying formula leaves no residue—only softness and shine—and is suitable and effective for all hair types. Vegan and cruelty-free, D’Remedy™ Oil is crafted without parabens, sulfates, silicones, or other harmful ingredients. Developed by a Registered Nurse, D’Remedy™ Oil is ethically-source and consciously crafted, blending tradition with modern science to deliver complete hair and scalp wellness.

Expert Notes:

"I thought this product was ok. My hair didn’t seem any improvements from using this product" - Sydney Cohen, @labels_or_love3

"I've been using this on both myself and my little one's hair whenever our hair looks dry—it's provided so much hydration and moisture! Also, whenever my scalp starts to get itchy after some days due to my hair type since I don't wash it daily (I wash my hair once a week cuz it's very thick, long, full and wavy/curly), it's relieved a lot of the itchiness on my scalp!❤️" - Kamalei Kanoa, @k.reviews_428

Hair treatments aren’t casual purchases — they’re deliberate investments in repair, resilience, and long-term hair health.

As part of the 11th annual Clean Beauty Awards, this category was evaluated alongside 386 products from 185 brands across 24+ countries, tested over three months by 117 clean beauty advocates and industry experts. Because treatments vary in purpose — from scalp-focused formulas to strand-strengthening serums and oils — products were assessed comparatively within their intended function to determine the top performers of 2026.

The formulas recognized above represent this year’s definitive clean hair treatment shortlist.

If you’re planning your next purchase, download the latest Clean Beauty Awards Ultimate Guide to access every winner and finalist across all 20 categories — plus exclusive coupon codes from participating brands.

To build a complete routine, explore this year’s top-performing Hair Washes, Hair Treatments, and complementary categories like Face Washes and Body Care, all available in the full 2026 Clean Beauty Awards Winners & Finalists hub.