Key points 

• Hot spring algae shampoo is formulated with algae extract cultivated in Beppu hot spring water and adds moisture to the scalp.
• Pre-rinse, lather, massage, then rinse thoroughly is the sequence that works.
• The balance of cleansing and moisture is what reviewers singled out. Ranked #1 in the Scalp Care category of the @cosme user review ranking (survey period: 1 September – 30 November 2019; iStyle Inc.). The ranking reflects the number of user reviews.

In brief: ONSENSOU's hot spring algae shampoo is formulated with algae extract cultivated in Beppu hot spring water. The key steps are pre-rinsing, lathering, massaging and thorough rinsing, and its balance of cleansing and moisture is what reviewers singled out. Ranked #1 in the Scalp Care category of the @cosme user review ranking (survey period: 1 September – 30 November 2019; iStyle Inc.). The ranking reflects the number of user reviews.

QWhat sort of ingredient is hot spring algae?

AHot spring algae is a rare algae cultivated in the hot spring water of Beppu. It is rich in the minerals of the hot spring and adds moisture to hair and scalp. ONSENSOU puts algae grown on the bounty of Beppu's hot springs to use in its own way, in a shampoo made to improve how hair looks. As a naturally derived ingredient, it helps keep the scalp environment clean.

QWhat cosmetic ingredients does it contain?

AThe ONSENSOU hot spring algae shampoo contains hot spring algae extract, amino-acid based cleansing agents that add moisture to the hair, and plant-derived moisturising ingredients. Together they keep the scalp clean while adding shine and smoothness to the hair. The formulation is balanced between cleansing and moisture, so hair looks well kept once washed.

QCan it be used on a sensitive scalp?

AThe hot spring algae shampoo uses gentle cleansing agents and is formulated with the scalp in mind. Skin differs from person to person, though, so we suggest trying a small amount the first time. If it does not suit your skin, stop using it.

QHow should it be used to best effect?

AStart by rinsing the hair thoroughly, then take a suitable amount into your hands and work up a lather. Wash the scalp with the pads of your fingers, as though massaging it, and spread the lather through the whole of the hair. Leave it for 2~3 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Taking this much care keeps the scalp clean and helps hair look its best.

QHow many times a day should it be used?

AOnce a day is generally enough. You can adjust to suit the state of your scalp and your routine, but washing too often can leave the scalp dry. The balance that matters is washing enough to keep the scalp clean while leaving the moisture it needs.

QWhat should I do when it does not lather well?

AMore often than not the cause is too short a pre-rinse. Rinsing the hair properly with lukewarm water for 1~2 minutes before shampooing makes a marked difference to the lather. If your hair is long or thick, using a little at a time over several applications keeps the scalp clean more effectively.

QWhy was ONSENSOU ranked #1 in the Scalp Care category of the @cosme user review ranking (survey period: 1 September – 30 November 2019; iStyle Inc.)? The ranking reflects the number of user reviews.

AReviewers pointed to the use of algae drawn from the rare resource that is Beppu's hot springs, to a well-balanced formulation that keeps the scalp clean while adding moisture to the hair, and to the sense that hair looks better kept with continued use. The commitment to naturally derived ingredients and the feel of the product in use are what won people over.

QHow does it differ from other shampoos?

AThe main difference is the Beppu hot spring algae, an ingredient of our own. An algae extract carrying the minerals of the hot spring offers care an ordinary shampoo does not. The approach is distinctive: keep the scalp environment clean, add moisture and shine to the hair, and bring out how well it looks.

QWhat hair types is it suited to?

AThe hot spring algae shampoo suits a wide range of hair types. It is worth considering in particular if you want to keep the scalp environment in good condition, if your hair feels dry, or if you prefer naturally derived ingredients. The formulation balances moisture with cleanliness, so it suits a great many people whatever their age or gender.

QRoughly how long does one bottle last?

AIt depends on the length and thickness of your hair, but as a guide, roughly 1~2 months for short to medium hair and roughly 3 weeks to 1 month for long hair. Keeping to the right amount makes a bottle go further.

QDo I need a conditioner or treatment as well?

AThe hot spring algae shampoo contains moisturising ingredients, but if your hair is long or you are concerned about damage, using it alongside a conditioner or treatment is worth doing. Hair looks better kept and combs through more easily.

QIs there anything to watch for in how it is stored?

AKeep it out of direct sunlight and away from heat and damp, and in the bathroom put it somewhere water will not reach it. Closing the cap firmly and keeping the bottle clean maintains the quality. Once opened, use it reasonably promptly.

QCan the whole family share it?

AYes. It can be used whatever your age or gender. Gentle cleansing agents keep the scalp clean and the formulation adds moisture to the hair, so the whole household can use it. If children are using it, take care to keep it out of their eyes.