Innersense Beauty Review: My Honest Take After 2+ Years

Thinking about making the switch to Innersense? Here’s my honest Innersense Beauty review, including an in-depth look at the ingredients, before and after results, and what’s worth trying based on your hair type.

In the last decade, clean beauty has gone from niche to mainstream. Consumers care less about fragrance and fancy packaging, and more about ingredient quality and transparency. As a result, clean beauty has become a multibillion dollar industry, with major retailers dedicating more space to safer skincare to meet growing demand.

But when it comes to haircare, the options thin out fast. It’s shockingly hard to find hair care products without known harmful ingredients or undisclosed fragrance, let alone products that actually work.

This has been a major struggle of mine over the last fifteen years. When I first started paying attention to cosmetic ingredients, there were virtually no clean haircare options. I tried making my own products (a terrible idea), and tested dozens of brands that left my hair an absolute dry, frizzy mess. I would always go back to the conventional stuff—because if you know me, you know I really love my hair.

One company that has led the charge in clean haircare is Innersense Beauty. While the brand was founded in 2005, it gained significant momentum around 2018 as demand for high performing, transparent haircare started to grow. And that’s when I found them.

As someone who’s tested and reviewed hundreds of products over the years, I find myself using Innersense Beauty products the most. They have incredibly strict standards when it comes to ingredient safety and transparency, but most importantly, the products work just like conventional ones.

To help you cut through the noise, I put together a comprehensive review of Innersense Beauty. This is my 100% honest take, so I’m giving it to you straight. I’ve also included tips for how to identify your hair type, along with some before and after photos.

If you’re in search of a promotion code (me, always!), just use code Noelle15 for 15% off your first order.

What is Innersense Beauty?

Innersense Beauty is a clean haircare brand best known for creating high-performance products made with certified organic ingredients. The brand focuses on supporting hair and scalp health while delivering effective results for a wide range of hair types and textures.

Innersense Beauty was founded in 2005 by professional salon stylists Greg and Joanne Starkman. After spending many years behind the chair, they both recognized the limitations in traditional haircare and set out to create cleaner, more effective alternatives.

Their mission became deeply personal when their daughter was diagnosed with a genetic condition at 22 months old, leading them to closely examine ingredient quality and transparency in everyday personal care products. That experience shaped the foundation of the brand and its commitment to purity, safety, and efficacy.

Innersense Beauty is based in Concord, California and uses certified organic plant ingredients, ethical sourcing, and sustainable manufacturing practices. Innersense is a Certified B Corp, Leaping Bunny Certified, and 100% cruelty free. Their mission is to empower, inform, and inspire beauty and wellness, helping customers and salon professionals make healthier, safer choices.

Is Innersense Beauty a Clean Hair Brand?

After reviewing all of the product ingredients, Innersense Beauty exceeds typical clean beauty standards. The company focuses on creating haircare products made with thoughtfully sourced ingredients, and prioritizes certified organic components whenever possible.

Innersense has a strict Never Any List. Their products are free of known harmful ingredients, including endocrine disruptors, carcinogens, phthalates, sulfates, parabens, silicones or petro compounds, ethoxylates, PEGs, EDTA, and undisclosed fragrances. This is important since the FDA currently only regulates 11 chemicals for use in cosmetics. 

The company also puts strong emphasizes on how ingredients are processed, not just which ingredients are included. Their formulations are designed to preserve the efficacy of botanical ingredients, which improves the performance and overall integrity of the products.

Transparency

Innersense Beauty places a strong emphasis on ingredient transparency and sourcing practices. All ingredients are fully disclosed on each product page, and the brand does not use undisclosed fragrance.

Fragrance blends used in cosmetics are often sourced from third party fragrance houses. Because they’re proprietary, the exact ingredients aren’t disclosed to brands or consumers. Since fragrance can contain potentially harmful or sensitizing compounds, a cosmetic product cannot be considered truly “clean” without full ingredient disclosure.

Innersense also publishes all reviews and allows customers to sort by both highest and lowest ratings. Certified organic ingredients are clearly identified, and there are no unsubstantiated claims or badges on product pages that could give consumers a false sense of safety or efficacy.

Innersense requires its suppliers to vet and test all raw materials for heavy metals. While they don’t currently test finished formulas for contaminants, they plan to incorporate this testing in the future.

Overall, Innersense Beauty demonstrates a higher-than-average level of transparency through their ingredient disclosure, Never Any list, mission, and supplier accountability.

How Innersense Compares to Conventional Haircare

The biggest difference between Innersense and conventional haircare is how the products are formulated. Many traditional shampoos rely on harsh sulfates, silicones, and synthetic fragrance to create instant softness and shine. Innersense uses gentler cleansing agents and plant based ingredients that support the scalp and hair fiber, so you may notice less instant “slip” at first. Over time, this supports better moisture balance and overall hair health.

Despite these differences, Innersense products are salon quality and deliver results comparable to conventional haircare. Because the formulas don’t rely on silicones to artificially smooth the hair, there may be a short adjustment period as buildup is removed. With continued use, hair often feels lighter, more balanced, and easier to manage.

My Hair Type (and what I use)

My hair has always been naturally thick and stick straight, but it tends to fall flat. After having kids, I experienced noticeable thinning along with increased dryness. I highlight my hair, which adds a small but real amount of damage over time. Just like my hair, my scalp is typically pretty dry, so when I’m working out consistently, sweat and mineral buildup can leave it itchy and slightly flaky.

My ultimate goal is to grow my hair longer and stronger. I look for products that help repair damage and improve moisture without weighing my hair down.

With my hair type, several Innersense products have become staples in my routine. The first product I ever tried was I Create Lift Volumizing Foam, and it was a game changer for adding lift to my roots. I also regularly use the Scalp Scrub (my personal favorite), and the Color Awakening Hair Bath and Conditioner. I use other Innersense Beauty products intermittently, which I’ve reviewed in detail below.

Does Innersense Work For Curly Hair?

Yes, Innersense is great for curly hair. It works for various curl types (wavy to coily) and textures, and largely focuses on hydration to improve health and shine. Because the formulas avoid silicones and sulfates, they cleanse without stripping or weighing your hair down, which helps your natural curl pattern show up.

Some people see more defined, softer curls with less frizz once they ditch heavy coatings and let their hair adjust, while others mix in a cream or gel for extra hold. The key is layering the right products based on your curl type, and giving your curls a little time to respond.

Hair Types 101: How to Identify Yours

Understanding your hair type starts with a few key factors: texture, density, and porosity. Texture refers to whether your hair is straight, wavy, curly, or coily, and density describes how much hair you have overall (fine, medium, or thick).

Porosity is how easily your hair absorbs and retains moisture. High porosity hair tends to absorb water quickly but lose it just as fast, while low porosity hair resists moisture and often needs lighter products applied to damp hair. Knowing where you fall in these categories helps explain why certain products work, and others don’t.

A simple way to identify your hair type is to look at how your hair behaves without product. How does it dry naturally? Does it feel frizzy? Are the ends prone to becoming dry and damaged? Does your scalp get oily, dry, or itchy between washes? Your curl pattern, how quickly your hair gets greasy, and how it responds to moisture are all clues. Once you understand these basics, choosing products becomes much easier, and far less trial and error.

Honest Innersense Beauty Review

Innersense Beauty has set itself apart in the haircare industry as a brand that prioritizes ingredient transparency, certified organic sourcing, and salon level performance. The product line is thoughtfully curated to support a wide range of hair types and textures. From my experience, the formulas perform well and stand out as one of the rare clean haircare brands that doesn’t sacrifice performance. The scents are light and dissipate quickly, and the products feel intentional and balanced rather than overpowering.

Here is a comprehensive review of Innersense Beauty products and the ones I’ve personally tested:

True Enlightenment Scalp Scrub

The Scalp Scrub is an exfoliating scalp treatment designed to gently remove buildup from sweat, minerals, and styling products. It uses fine particles and balancing ingredients to help clarify the scalp without stripping natural oils.

The good:

• This is my can’t-live-without product. I have struggled with an itchy scalp for years. I visited many dermatologists and never got any relief. The Scalp Scrub worked instantly. No flaking, no sensitivity, no itchiness! In the summer when I’m sweating more during my workouts, I typically use it 2x a week to help remove buildup.
• I love the scent. It tingles and brings instant relief!
• Great for sensitive skin
• I always follow up with the Hair Renew Serum, which has totally changed my scalp and hair.

The bad:

• There’s a bit of a learning curve. You need to take small amounts and massage it into different sections of your scalp, which takes practice if you have long hair.
• You need to leave this on for 3-5 minutes. I do this pre shampoo in the shower on shave days.

Sweet Spirit Leave In Conditioner

The Leave in Conditioner is a lightweight spray that helps add moisture and reduce tangles. It’s formulated to strengthen and soften strands without weighing hair down.

The good:

• Lightweight and great for all hair types
• Smells amazing, not too strong or overpowering.
• Works at making hair slightly more smooth without the extra weight

The bad:

• My daughter and I both use this. It works great for my hair, but I have to use a bit more on my daughter’s hair because it’s fine, wavy, long, and more prone to tangles.

I Create Hold Hair Gel

The I Create Hold Hair Gel provides flexible hold and curl definition without stiffness or crunch. It helps enhance natural texture and maintain movement and shine.

The good:

• All day hold! I use this for slick low buns and it stays for 8+ hours.
• Flexible and not crunchy. I can brush and readjust if needed.
• Smells great!

The bad:

• When I brush this out at the end of the day, it does get a little flaky.

I Create Lift Volumizing Foam

The Lift Volumizing Foam is designed to boost volume and body without heaviness or buildup. It helps lift roots and add lasting fullness while supporting softness and natural movement.

The good:

• My holy grail product! I add a small amount of this to my roots, and it adds the perfect amount of lift and texture.
• Doesn’t make hair feel heavy or sticky (if you know, you know)
• Easy to use and lasts a long time

The bad:

• I honestly have nothing to say here!

Color Awakening Hairbath (Shampoo)

The Color Awakening Shampoo is formulated to cleanse hair without stripping color. It uses safe ingredients that help preserve vibrancy and moisture balance. It removes buildup while supporting hair softness and scalp health.

The good:

• Smells amazing and feels great on hair.
• Gets your hair clean and has the right amount of suds!
• I’ve been using this since getting my hair colored regularly, and I’ve never had a problem with my color fading or changing tone.

The bad:

• This is definitely great at cleansing without striping hair, but you’ll want to incorporate a clarifying shampoo OR use the Scalp Scrub once a week to remove excessive buildup.

Color Radiance Daily Conditioner

The Color Radiance Conditioner is designed to hydrate and detangle hair. It helps maintain color vibrancy and strengthen hair that’s been through the ringer.

The good:

• This is a great thicker conditioner that’s easy to apply.
• It leaves hair feeling super smooth and soft afterwards, which is a huge win!
• Great for dry and/or damaged hair, which can be hard to find.

The bad:

• If you’re rushing in the shower, this won’t be as effective. Comb it through, focus on the ends, and leave it on for at least 3-5 minutes.

Repair Mask

The Repair Mask is the big guns when it comes to repairing damage. It helps restore moisture, strength, and elasticity. You use it as a one-off treatment every 2-4 washes in place of your conditioner.

The good:

• This definitely works on the most dry and damaged hair. My ends were a mess and this transforms my hair when I use it consistently.
• The texture is luxurious and thick. I love putting it on my hair!
• Smells amazing.

The bad:

• The first time I used it, I left it in for 2-3 minutes and didn’t see results. The next time I really worked it in and left it on for 5 minutes, and the difference was incredible. So, you definitely need to let it sit!
• I need to use this every 2 washes, which does get a bit pricey.

What Misses the Mark

• Detox Hair Mask: I know this works great for so many people, but it was too much for my dry and damaged hair. I much prefer to use the Scalp Scrub to remove buildup.
• Refresh Dry Shampoo: I just couldn’t get used to a foam dry shampoo. It provides a little too much shine, which is what I’m typically trying to avoid.
• I Create Finish Hairspray: While I don’t personally use hairspray, I’ve used this for my daughter’s hair during gymnastics competitions. It didn’t provide the strong hold or texture needed for competition styling, but it works well for everyday use when you want light hold without stiffness or heaviness.

Hair Before and After

Here’s a before and after of using Innersense hair products on my dry, straight hair. In the before photo, my hair was air-dried naturally. The after photo was taken after using the Innersense Repair Mask in the shower and Innersense styling products. I use this T3 Ceramic Curling Iron on setting 3 to lightly curl the ends.

Products used: Scalp Scrub, Color Awakening Hairbath, Repair Mask, Hair Renew Serum, I Create Lift Volumizing Foam on my roots, Air Dry Styling Cream on wet hair right before styling.

Innersense FAQs

Is Innersense Worth It?

After years of testing and reviewing the products, I believe Innersense is definitely worth it. Here’s what sets it apart from most:

• Easy swaps: Innersense makes it easy to swap out products you’re already using without sacrificing performance. I originally started using Innersense because I needed a safe volumizing foam, and I was able to get the same lift and hold I was used to from conventional products.
• Clean formulations: Innersense avoids sulfates, silicones, and undisclosed fragrance. Instead of masking damage with heavy coatings, the formulas are designed to support scalp health and the hair fiber over time.
• Transparency: The brand is incredibly transparent with ingredients. They clearly communicate their safety standards so there are no secrets about what you’re using. They have a clear Never Any List and avoid over 3,000 known harmful ingredients.
• No fragrance: I love that Innersense avoids artificial fragrance. Many products are either fragrance free or lightly scented with plant based ingredients, which makes them much easier to tolerate if you’re sensitive or prone to scalp irritation.
• Product variety: There’s a wide range of products designed to support all hair types and textures, from fine and straight to curly and coily.
• Responsible sourcing: Innersense requires suppliers to vet and test all raw ingredients for heavy metals and provide verification.

Where to Buy

Innersense sells all of their products directly on their website. Because purchasing products online can be difficult, they allow you to return product within 21 days of receiving it. If you don’t love what you got or it’s not a match, you can send it back even if it’s opened and used. They rotate free gifts with purchase, and you can use code Noelle15 for 15% off your first order.

You can also find select Innersense products at professional salons and online clean beauty retailers like Credo Beauty and The Detox Market. Some products are available through third party retailers such as Amazon, but quality control and product age can be harder to verify, so I recommend purchasing directly from the brand.

Final Thoughts

My in-depth review of Innersense Beauty comes after years of use and ongoing research into clean haircare. I was genuinely surprised by how well the products performed, especially given my high standards when it comes to hair texture and styling. Before finding Innersense, I was holding onto a number of conventional products because I couldn’t find clean replacements that worked. Innersense was the first clean brand I tried that offered full ingredient transparency and delivered results for my dry, postpartum hair.

I love that there’s a wide variety of products for both daily use and targeted treatments, and several are now staples in my routine. If you choose from the list above and select products based on your hair type and goals, you’ll likely see positive results over time.

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