Shu Uemura Essence Absolue Review: Does It Deliver Results?

Overview of Shu Uemura Essence Absolue

Are you on the lookout for a hair care solution that can tackle the everyday challenges of dryness, damage, and dullness? Shu Uemura Essence Absolue might have caught your eye with its promise of nourishing and protecting hair through a variety of products infused with Red Camellia Oil.

You might be wondering, “Does this brand deliver on its claims?” that’s what we are here to find out!

Our team of experts conducted thorough research to provide you with a detailed overview of this hair care line.

In this review, we will examine the different offerings from Essence Absolue, from their popular nourishing protective hair oil to the overnight hair serum and more. We aim to give you a clear understanding of what each product claims to do, the active ingredients involved, and how to integrate them into your hair care regimen.

Ready to find out if Shu Uemura Essence Absolue could be the secret to unlocking the full potential of your hair? Let’s dive into the details.

How Does It Rate?

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About the Brand

Shu Uemura Art of Hair, the company behind Essence Absolue, merges natural ingredients with scientific advancements to create hair care products. Established by Japanese makeup artist Shu Uemura, the brand advocates for holistic beauty, proposing that beautiful hair is essential to overall aesthetics.

Beyond Essence Absolue, Shu Uemura offers a range of specialized products designed for various hair needs, including Ultimate Reset for intense repair and Color Lustre for color-treated hair. This commitment reflects the brand’s dedication to combining artistry with innovation in the development of its hair care solutions.

Shu Uemura Essence Absolue Featured Products

Essence Absolue Nourishing Protective Hair Oil

Designed for everyday hair care, the Essence Absolue Nourishing Protective Hair Oil offers several functional benefits. Infused with Japanese Red Camellia Oil, it is designed to absorb quickly, protecting hair from UV and heat up to 450°F, while aiming to reduce frizz and breakage. The product claims to leave hair hydrated, shinier, and more manageable.

Pricing: The Essence Absolue Nourishing Protective Hair Oil is available in three sizes, each priced accordingly:

• 30 ml for $30.00
• 50 ml for $42.00
• 150 ml for $72.00

How to Use: Apply 1-2 pumps to towel-dried hair before styling for heat protection. For added shine and smoothness, apply similarly to dry hair, particularly focusing on the lengths and ends. The product can also be mixed with other styling aids for enhanced effects.

Full Ingredient List: Red camellia oil, isododecane, dimethicone, dimethicone, camellia japonica seed oil, hexyl cinnamal, hydroxycitronellal, parfum / fragrance

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Essence Absolue Nourishing Overnight Hair Serum

This product is designed to nourish hair overnight, incorporating Japanese Red Camellia Oil for rapid absorption without leaving residues on bedding. It is marketed towards those seeking to smooth, soften, and tame frizz in their sleep, with no requirement for morning washing.

Pricing: The Nourishing Overnight Hair Serum is offered in two sizes:

• 30 ml for $30.00
• 150 ml for $69.00

How to Use: At night, distribute 1-2 pumps, depending on hair length and thickness, from palms through hair tips using hands or a comb. The serum’s light texture means it requires no morning rinse, allowing for straightforward morning styling.

Full Ingredient List: Red camellia oil, aqua/water / eau, dimethicone, c13-16 isoalkane, glycerin, polyacrylamide, phenoxyethanol, c13-14 isoalkane, laureth-7, camellia japonica seed oil, hexyl cinnamal, hydroxycitronellal, isoeugenol, ci 19140 / yellow 5, ci 15985 / yellow 6, parfum / fragrance

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Essence Absolue Pre-Shampoo & Nourishing Treatment Scalp Oil

This pre-shampoo treatment is created to address scalp dryness and irritation. It blends Japanese Red Camellia Oil with other natural oils such as jojoba, argan, avocado, and sweet orange oil. It is intended to soothe and moisturize the scalp, leaving both scalp and hair feeling nourished and looking shiny.

Pricing: Available in a 50 ml bottle priced at $52.00.

How to Use: Apply 1-3 droppers of oil directly to the scalp in sections. The amount can be adjusted based on scalp dryness. Massage the oil into the scalp and through to the ends of the hair, then follow with shampoo. For an intensive treatment, apply overnight and shampoo the next morning.

Full Ingredient List: Red camellia oil, Simmondsia Chinensis seed oil/jojoba seed oil, argania spinosa kernel oil, persea gratissima oil/avocado oil, cocos nucifera oil/coconut oil, camellia japonica seed oil, hexyl cinnamal, hydroxycitronellal, tocopherol, helianthus annuus seed oil/sunflower seed oil, Rosmarinus officinalis leaf extract/rosemary leaf extract, isoeugenol, parfum / fragrance

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Essence Absolue Rich Nourishing Hair Cream

Designed for very dry hair, this hair cream uses Japanese Red Camellia Oil to provide instant hydration. It claims to help protect hair from dryness and damage caused by UV rays and heat styling tools up to 450°F. The cream is suggested to smooth frizz and enhance hair’s radiance and smoothness.

Pricing: Offered in a 150 ml size for $49.00.

How to Use: Apply 1-2 pumps to towel-dried hair as a pre-styling heat protectant. A small amount can be used after styling to nourish and add shine. For additional hydration, apply directly to dry lengths and ends.

Full Ingredient List: Red camellia oil, aqua/water / eau, paraffinum liquidum / mineral oil / huile minerale, Cetearyl alcohol, cetyl esters, amodimethicone, behentrimonium chloride, phenoxyethanol, isopropyl alcohol, camellia japonica seed oil, trideceth-6, glycine soja oil/soybean oil, tocopherol, hexyl cinnamal, hydroxycitronellal, cetrimonium chloride, isoeugenol, ci 19140 / yellow 5, ci 15985 / yellow 6, parfum / fragrance

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Essence Absolue Nourishing Universal Hair & Skin Balm

This multi-use balm is formulated for both hair and skin, providing hydration and shine. Enriched with Japanese Red Camellia Oil, it is designed to quickly absorb and deliver 24-hour hydration. The balm is versatile, and suitable for use on dry hair, skin, and facial hair, as well as other areas prone to dryness.

Pricing: Available in a 150 ml container for $49.00.

How to Use: For hair, work a small amount through damp or dry hair to lock in moisture and shine. On the skin, apply to dry areas such as hands, nails, and cuticles to hydrate and protect. It can also be used to tame and moisturize eyebrows and facial hair.

Full Ingredient List: Red camellia oil, aqua/water / eau glycerin, Cetearyl alcohol, cocos nucifera oil/coconut oil, cetyl esters, cetyl alcohol, amodimethicone, behentrimonium methosulfate, phenoxyethanol, camellia japonica seed oil, trideceth-6, dilauryl thiodipropionate, chlorhexidine digluconate, hexyl cinnamal, hydroxycitronellal, cetrimonium chloride, lactic acid, isoeugenol, parfum / fragrance.

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Shu Uemura Essence Absolue Ingredients – Are they Safe & Effective?

Shu Uemura Essence Absolue products are created with selected natural oils, each aimed at contributing unique benefits to hair health.

Here’s a closer look at the major ingredients:

Red Camellia Oil

Red Camellia Oil, derived from camellia flower seeds on Japan’s Toshima island, is central to the Essence Absolue line. Renowned for its ability to rapidly absorb hair, this oil is rich in essential lipids. It nourishes the hair, enhances shine, and helps maintain the skin’s lipid barrier for longer hydration. An article from the MDPI Molecules Journal^[1] discusses the emollient properties of camellia oil, which support its hydrating effects.

Dr. Jessica Hsu, a dermatologist with a focus on botanical skin care treatments, states,

Red Camellia Oil is exceptional for its fast absorption and deep moisturizing properties, making it ideal for hair products intended to enhance shine and overall hair health.

Camellia Japonica Seed Oil

Another key component is Camellia Japonica Seed Oil, closely related to Red Camellia Oil but often sourced from different regions. It shares similar moisturizing and nourishing properties, helping to protect hair from environmental damage and improve its elasticity. The Journal, Food Chemistry X^[2], highlights its use in traditional medicine and skin and hair health due to its antioxidative properties.

Dr. Karen Robinson, a trichologist, notes,

Camellia Japonica Seed Oil is notable for its ability to enhance hair’s elasticity and moisture content, significantly reducing the likelihood of breakage.

Coconut Oil

Coconut Oil is widely used in hair care for its rich conditioning and reparative benefits. As noted in our Veganic Hair Oil Review, It penetrates the hair shaft to reduce protein loss and strengthen hair. This oil is particularly effective in taming frizz and adding luster to dry or damaged hair. Research supported by the International Journal of Cosmetic Science^[3] outlines coconut oil’s effectiveness in nourishing and protecting hair.

Dr. Mark Thompson, a cosmetic scientist, remarks,

The molecular structure of Coconut Oil allows it to penetrate deeply into the hair shaft, surpassing many other oils in terms of its conditioning and protective capabilities.

Verdict: These ingredients are chosen for their proven ability to support hair health, aligning with the claims of Shu Uemura Essence Absolue products to nourish, protect, and beautify hair.

Benefits of Shu Uemura Essence Absolue

Shu Uemura Essence Absolue offers a range of benefits designed to enhance the health and appearance of hair.

Here are some of the key advantages users might experience with regular use:

• Protects Against Hair Breakage: Regular application may reduce hair breakage, due to the nourishing properties of ingredients like Red Camellia Oil.
• Tames Frizz: The oils in these products help to smooth hair cuticles, reducing frizz and leaving hair sleeker and more manageable.
• Instant Hydration: Applying these products might provide instant hydration to the hair, enhancing its shine and softness without weighing it down.
• Heat Protection: The formula claims to offer protection from heat up to 450°F, making it safer to use styling tools without damaging the hair.
• UV Protection: Users may benefit from ingredients that protect against UV-induced damage, which can lead to color fading and weakening of hair structure.
• Enhances Manageability: With improved hydration and reduction in frizz, hair becomes easier to style and maintain throughout the day.

Drawbacks of Shu Uemura Essence Absolue

While Shu Uemura Essence Absolue products offer several benefits for hair care, potential users should also consider a few drawbacks before making a purchase:

• Cost: The products are relatively expensive, and may not fit within everyone’s budget. Regular use, especially for those with long or thick hair, can become a significant expense.
• Oiliness: For some hair types, particularly fine or oily hair, the high concentration of oils like Camellia and Coconut might lead to an overly greasy appearance or feel.
• Scent: The fragrance of the products, though pleasant to many, could be overpowering for those sensitive to strong scents.
• Specific Hair Type Suitability: Although designed for most hair types, the results can vary greatly depending on individual hair characteristics and conditions.

Shu Uemura Essence Absolue Review – FAQs

Q: Where can I buy Shu Uemura Essence Absolue products?

A: You can purchase Shu Uemura Essence Absolue products from their official website, and select online retailers. Buying from official sources ensures authenticity and access to the latest product offerings.

Q: Who should use Shu Uemura Essence Absolue products?

A: These products are suitable for individuals looking to nourish and protect their hair, particularly those dealing with dryness, frizz, or exposure to heat and UV rays. They are designed for all hair types but are especially beneficial for those with dry or damaged hair.

Q: How do I use Shu Uemura Essence Absolue Nourishing Protective Hair Oil?

A: Apply 1-2 pumps of the oil to towel-dried hair as a pre-styling heat protectant or to dry hair to add shine and manage frizz. It can also be mixed with other styling products for added nourishment.

Q: Are Shu Uemura Essence Absolue products suitable for all hair types?

A: Yes, these products are formulated to be suitable for most hair types. However, results can vary based on individual hair characteristics and conditions.

Q: What are the main benefits of using Shu Uemura Essence Absolue products?

A: Benefits include enhanced hair hydration, protection against breakage, heat, and UV damage, frizz reduction, and added shine and softness.

Q: Can I use Shu Uemura Essence Absolue products on colored hair?

A: Yes, these products are safe for colored hair. Ingredients like Red Camellia Oil help protect hair color from fading due to UV exposure and provide nourishment to color-treated hair.

Q: How often should I use Shu Uemura Essence Absolue products?

A: Usage can vary depending on your hair needs. For daily protection and nourishment, products like hair oil and overnight serum can be used regularly.

Q: What makes Shu Uemura Essence Absolue different from other hair care products?

A: Shu Uemura Essence Absolue products stand out due to their use of high-quality Japanese Red Camellia Oil, which aims to provide rapid absorption and deep nourishment, making them effective in both the protection and beautification of hair.

Q: Are there any known side effects of using Shu Uemura Essence Absolue products?

A: Typically, these products are well-tolerated, but as with any hair care product, some individuals may experience sensitivity to certain ingredients. If you have sensitive skin or scalp, it’s advisable to perform a patch test before regular use.

What Do the Shu Uemura Essence Absolue Customer Reviews Say?

Shu Uemura Essence Absolue has received diverse feedback from its users, reflecting a range of experiences with the product.

Here are some customer reviews that highlight varying opinions:

Great for Dry Hair

This oil is wonderful. I’ve got very dry hair and it’s just what I need. –Wahine

Ineffective

I have noticed no difference from using this product. –Katie

Not the Same as the Original Product

Essence Absolue Oil-in-Cream has been my go-to styler for the last 7 years. It styles my natural curl perfectly without the stickiness of a gel. This new formula is not the same. I tried it and my hair didn’t react well to it at all. Heartbroken that I had found the perfect product and now it’s discontinued. –Medina

Verdict: The customer reviews of Shu Uemura Essence Absolue suggest mixed results. While some users find it highly effective, others have experienced no noticeable benefits or dissatisfaction with formula changes. Based on these varying experiences potential buyers should consider these factors and possibly consider alternatives that better align with their goals.

Shu Uemura Essence Absolue Review – Conclusion

Navigating hair care can be complex, and Shu Uemura Essence Absolue offers a range of products aimed at enhancing hair health with natural ingredients like Red Camellia Oil. These products are designed to nourish, protect, and improve hair manageability, addressing common issues like dryness, frizz, and damage from heat and UV exposure.

While some users report significant benefits, others find the products less effective or are disappointed by changes in formulas. Given these mixed reviews, it might be worth exploring other options that better meet your specific hair care needs.

Ultimately, finding the right hair care regimen may involve some trial and error, but with informed choices, you can discover products that truly work for your hair type and lifestyle.